For our previous digest of daily incidents from July to September, compiled by Seth J. Frantzman, click this link. We have begun to include more details about Turkey tensions as well because we assess that Turkey's relations are more entwined with the wider regional tensions. This includes Turkey-Qatar relations and Israel-UAE-Bahrain-Saudi Arabia-Cyprus-Greece-Egypt relations and Iran and its allies.
September 22
Explosion in Ain Qana Lebanon.
Abrams interview with al-Arabiya.
Trump: We will not allow Iran to endanger world with ballistic missiles
Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Cyprus, Italy, Greece and PA sign East med Gas Forum Deal.
China opposes US snapback. Lavrov says the same at Fars News.
Bradley vehicles in Syria.
Israel's Gantz goes to DC to discuss F-35, KC-46s and other equipment.
Head of #IRGC's Aerospace Force Amir-Ali Haji-zadeh: #Iran is already self-sufficient in arms manufacturing, if arms embargo/restrictions lifted Iran can export weapons.
Inherent Resolve shows off patrols in eastern Syria.
September 24
Shelly Kittleson: My latest for Al-Monitor on #Iranian influence in the southeastern part of the #Kurdistan Region of #Iraq. I travelled to the border area days after a cross-border smuggling network was discovered and spoke to locals and security forces for this.
Saudi Arabia King slams Iran at UN.
The meeting of Fatah and Hamas in #Turkey "positive, fruitful and constructive."
US 5th Fleet: Yesterday, Sept. 23: The first time in nearly 2 1/2 years that U.S. aircraft launched from an aircraft carrier conducted kinetic operations in support of Inherent Resolve.
Petti: Senator Bob Menendez asks Elliott Abrams whether Iranian-backed militia attacks against U.S. troops have gone up Then he goes into grilling Undersecretary David Hale over selling F-35s to the UAE because it will erode Israel's qualitative military edge.
U.S. Special Envoy for Iran Elliott Abrams announces to U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee that U.S. will announce new sanctions on #Iran today.
Abrams: "The U.S. is committed to holding accountable those who are denying freedom and justice to the people of Iran."
For the 1st time almost all Iraqi leadership including Iraqi PM, Iraqi President, Muqtada al-Sadr, Kataib Hezbollah commander & Fatih bloc condemned the recent IED attack on British diplomatic convoy & rocket attacks against sites hosting US troops & diplomats.
September 25
Esper, Meeting With Gantz, Reaffirms Israel’s Regional Military Edge.
Turkey slams Pelosi and may be recruiting Syrian rebels to fight Armenia.
UAE didn’t need peace with Israel to counter Iran, Anwar Gargash said today, but he said Iran’s aggressive policies over three decades alarmed many Arab countries and made them look at their relationship with Israel “with fresh eyes.
Al-Monitor: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reportedly told Iraqi President Barham Salih that the U.S. would shut the U.S. Embassy and Baghdad and target Iraqi Shia militia groups “without distinction” if the Iraqi government didn’t step up its own actions.
September 26
Egypt condemns Turkey's interference in Middle East.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein met tonight (Saturday, October 26) with the Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and discussed the bilateral relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Iraq on bilateral. Qalibaf said "The sovereignty, security, independence and integrity of Iraq are always emphasized by Iran." We believe that the current Iraq has a positive, important and influential role in the region. Qalibaf went on to describe US intervention in the region and the presence of US-backed ISIS terrorists as a threat to peace, stability and prosperity in Iraq and the region.
He added: "Some countries in the region, under pressure from the United States, normalized relations with the Zionist regime. Undoubtedly, the Islamic world should not be silent on this issue, and it is necessary because the issue of Palestine is the first priority of the Islamic Ummah." Emphasizing that Iran has always supported Iraq.
Rouhani met Iraq's President: Discussed the unity of Shiites and interaction between different groups including Shiites, Sunnis and Kurds in this country as an important principle. "We are with the government and people of Iraq to help the unity and cohesion of Iraq," he said. "We have always made our views clear and unequivocal in our political positions," he said. We know the stability of the region. Emphasizing that trying to get the United States out of the region is not our job, it's the duty of any country where Americans are present, Rouhani said: The Iraqi people and our support. "We have never believed in interfering in the internal affairs of Iraq and the relations between Iraqi groups."
Hezbollah and Amal obstruct new government in Lebanon: Lebanese analysts and politicians have confirmed that Hezbollah is leading Lebanon into chaos and abyss, after it, along with the "Amal Movement," obstructed the formation of the new Lebanese government. The experts explained, in separate interviews to Al-Ain Al-Akhbariya, that France was referring to Hezbollah, when President Emmanuel Macron accused political parties in Lebanon of having committed "collective treason.
The Greek government confirmed today, Saturday, that it has deployed its forces in the Aegean islands, in response to Turkey's deployment of forces to the coast.
Saudi airstrikes target Houthi air defense system.
Press TV reports on cyber attacks on UK.
Iraq’s foreign minister arrived in Tehran on Saturday morning for a two-day visit of wide-ranging talks in the wake of the US warning it might close its Baghdad embassy due to threats, including from Iranian-backed militias.
Video appears to show IRGC's Ghaani visiting Karbala. Mehr news also posted it.
Pompeo warns that US could close embassy in Iraq. Details.
September 27
Iran shows off new weapons: AF exhibition, Artesh's Ground Forces unveiled a Caracal intelligent robot, Gahar 4x4 tactical vehicle, Chabok fast frequency hopping system, UAV piston engines, Masih rescue robot, an upgraded 26x40 vehicle, and Hadaf-2 twin-arm missile. Iran launcher disguised in shipping container. Seven achievements. Photos of the missiles.
US sources in Baghdad: we have information that there are plans to storm our embassy & take hostages. Sadr: Form a committee to investigate rocket attacks Kadhimi & Halboussi: yeah that's a good idea Fayyadh (to Nujaba and others): Dont attack US Forces while they withdraw Khazali: Don't form the committee because it suggests that Iraq can be made safe again for US. Witty: In Iraq, leader of Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq militia says it is not in the national interests to investigate who has been firing rockets at US embassy. Second attack on convoy of Iraqi contractor companies transporting equipment for US-led coalition in #Iraq today, as Iraqi security media cell confirms an IED targeted a convoy of Iraqi contractor company transporting US-led coalition equipment in Babil province this evening. The first was this one on Hillah highway IRGC linked telegram channels are highlighting an Mayadeen report about US threatening to close down its embassy in #Iraq. A senior #Iran military delegation is in Baghdad.
Secretary General of Harakat al-Nuajba'a, Akram al-Kaabi says that their developed missiles are active now and ready to launch, but the armed group is waiting for a decision to be made by all the Islamic resistance forces to target the US embassy inside #Baghdad's Green Zone. Macron: "Hezbollah can't be a wild militia against the civilians in #Syria" (minute 4:37). Iran calls for end to fighting Azerbaijan-Armenia: "Iran is closely monitoring the alarming violence in Nagorno-Karabakh. We call for an immediate end to hostilities and urge dialogue to resolve differences. Our neighbors are our priority and we are ready to provide good offices to enable talks."
September 28
FarsNews: Turkey sent 4,000 to Armenia to fight. Zarif organizes restraint.
Pompeo meets Greek Foreign Minister, Strategic Dialogue, strengthening coop, regional dvpts,Eastern Mediterranean in focus.
Iran displays captured US drones and new missiles.
IED attack on convoy for US in southern Baghdad.
Ghafuri: "Iraqi PM Mustafa al-Kadhimi is rushing to establish a committee that will investigate the attacks." Iraq signs energy deal with Jordan for electricity. Iran may sign deal with Iran. US ambassador says US still supports Baghdad in fight on ISIS.
Family killed by katyusha in Iraq. Photos. The Iraqi Security Media Cell confirmed today a Katyusha rocket fell inside a civilian house & killed 2 women & 3 children. Iraqi PM says outlaw group who conducted crime must be brought to justice.
September 29
Iran tankers arrive in Venezuela.
The Turkish president said on Monday the OSCE Minsk Group had been unable to solve the conflict over the disputed Karabakh region. "In 30 years, they have been unable to solve this issue. And they have done everything so that it would not be solved. And now they are teaching us, and sometimes threatening us. They ask us if there are Turkish military there [in Karabakh]. If Turkey is supplying weapons. Those who ask this have sent thousands of trucks with weapons to the north of Syria," Erdogan said, referring to the US support of the Syrian Kurds, who are considered an offshoot of a terrorist organization by Ankara.
Netanyau addresses UN and points out Hezbollah missile sites in Beirut. Hezbollah does a tour of the sites to show nothing is there.
Nascent Iraqi Shiite insurgent group "Ulul Azmi" has released video that allegedly shows its first operation, a Sept. 10 IED attack targeting a convoy supplying U.S. military forces as it passed through Iraq's Diwaniyah Province.
September 30
Rockets fired at Erbil from Sheikh Amir in Nineveh plains. Kurdistan region strongly condemns attack of six rockets, four of which fell in KRG. Coalition: "Initial reports that Indirect Fire did not land on Coalition Forces in Erbil tonight. There was no damage or casualties. Incident is under investigation." Lawk Ghafuri "Tonight's rocket attacks near Erbil international airport is more like a message than an attack, as none of the rockets targeted the airport, but the message has been heard, as it was to tell everyone that no area or place in all over #Iraq can be safe for the foreign forces." Bongo truck with 107mm rockets found. Alex Mello: "Quick workup on the Erbil rocket strike. POO of the rocket fire IVO Sheikh Amir village a good 40km NW of Erbil airport. Other reports place the POO on the Zartak ridge, suggesting the rocket cell may have taken advantage of an elevated launch point to increase range out to Erbil." This area is controlled by the Hashd al-Shebek, 30th Brigade of PMU. "An Iraqi group calling itself Kurdistan Freedom takes a slogan similar to the slogan of the Kurdish Change Movement. It adopts the process of targeting the Silk Base in Erbil and confirms that it will carry out operations inside the Kurdistan Region again on goals it called 'global imperialism.'"
25 Ambassadors meet with Kadhimi to express concern over IED attacks.
October 1
UAE, Israel and US discuss joint energy strategy.
Syria rejects normalization with Israel.
Berri opposes demarcating waters and border with Israel.
Macron and Putin push ceasefire in Armenia and say Turkey sent mercenaries.
Azeris protest in Iran. Iran concerned.
Greece and Turkey agree NATO de-confliction in med.
US announces it has reached agreement to demarcate water for Israel and Lebanon. Some oppose the agreement as potentially aiding Hezbollah. FM Ashkenazi " would like to thank US Secretary of State Pompeo and his staff for their dedicated efforts that have led to the beginning of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon on the demarcation of the maritime boundary. This is an important step."
Erbil condemned the PMU attack from near Bartella against Erbil by 122mm rockets (6 of them) on September 30. Masrour Barzani: “I have spoken to PM Mustafa al-Kadhimi on the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable,” Barzani tweeted late Wednesday about a phone call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi. “I strongly condemn tonight’s rocket attack in Erbil. The KRG will not tolerate any attempt to undermine Kurdistan’s stability and our response will be robust.” Details here and here and here. Map.
U.S. says won't hesitate to act against threats to personnel in #Iraq: “We can’t tolerate the threats to our people, our men and women serving abroad.” Unspecified Iraqi Shiite insurgents have allegedly launched a new attack on a convoy supplying U.S. military forces as it passed through Al-Diwaniyah--with claims from Shiite insurgent sources that the attackers employed anti-tank guided missiles...According to a message from Iraqi Shiite militia Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, "The operation was carried out with an ATGM heat-seeking missile, indicating a new phase of confrontation, namely the precision weapons phase." Iraqi security media cell confirms that a convoy of Iraqi contractor company transporting equipment for US-led coalition troops inside #Iraq has been struck with a rocket in Shomeli area in Diwanyah province. The attack resulted in burning one of the containers within the convoy.
US SecDef in Algeria. Fast Boats spotted off Iran coast in formation. Israel's head of Mossad goes to Bahrain.
October 2
IDF shows video of Hezbollah touring its facilities after IDF earlier in week showed sites of missile production.
October 3
Kata'ib Hezbollah-affiliated Rab’a Allah (God’s fellows) threatens AlhurraIraq because the TV channel 'offended' Abu Fakad, KH leader and acting chief of the PMF staff. A week ago I talked about the group and why it has been created, in this thread.
Iraq FM concerned as US indicates it will close embassy, Kadhimi says it will harm Iraq's economy.
“#Russia will sell arms to #Iran once UN embargo ends on Oct18. We are not afraid of US threats. S-400 missile system would be up for sales,” Russian ambassador to Tehran tells conservative daily Resalat.
Iran concerned about fighting in Azerbaijan and Armenia. Iran says it's ready to face enemy threats, shows off more missiles.
Protests continue in Iraq.
October 4
Aftermath of Erbil rocket attack: Iraqi Joint Operations Command orders Hashd al-Shaabi in Ninawa Plain to pulls back 5 kilometers from Peshmerga lines, the area will be turned over to the Iraqi army. Shia militias oppose the decision.
A group of #Iranian lawmakers paid a visit to country’s border areas near Nagorno-Karabakh region, where fighting has broken out between Armenia and Republic of Azerbaijan since last week
October 5
New info on rocket attack on Erbil.
October 7
Iran, Syria, Russia, Turkey watch operations closely in Nagorna-Karabakh.
Iran says Arab nations oppose normalization.
The chairman of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), also known as Hashd al-Sha’abi, says the anti-terror resistance group will continue to defend Iraqi territory and sovereignty.
Rouhani concerned Azerbaijan-Armenia war could become regional conflict, Iran warns of "terrorists" near border sent by Turkey, as Assad also condemns Turkey sending "takfiri" terrorists to fight.
Iran has new Ghadir radar with up to 1,000 km range.
October 8
Iraqi Prime Minister asked Iran for 40 day truce to halt pro-Iran groups attacking US targets to try to lesson tension after US threatened to hit 80 sites in Iraq and close its embassy if attacks continued. More details. Middle East Eye: "The United States has drawn up a list of 80 sites in Iraq linked to Iranian-backed groups that it plans to target if it follows through with a threat to close its embassy in Baghdad, Middle East Eye has learned.
The sites include secret headquarters and shelters used by Hadi al-Amiri and Qais Khazali, the respective leaders of the Badr Organisation and Asaib Ahl al-Haq (AAH), as well as sites associated with Kataeb Hezbollah (KH).' US sanctions target Iran's financial system.
Iran announces new 700km range for anti-ship ballistic missile Basir Zulfiqar. More details on new Iraq Ghadir radar. Lizzie Porter: My piece for Prospect Magazine on shifting attitudes to Hezbollah as it has fought on the side of the Assad regime in Syria. Out in print as below in this month’s magazine, or read online. Lora missile used by Azerbaijan. Turkish F-16s in Azerbaijan. US concerns over Turkish S-400 practice. New Lines Magazine on Hashimi. Baalbek clashes in Lebanon. Omar Abu Layla: A bad news, my uncle did not survive the assassination last night in the town of Ash-Shaheil,eastern Deir Ezzor. He died!!
October 9
High alert in Baghdad, rumors of tank deployment, threats against Al-Hurra. 9th armored unit involved.
Map of Turkey's recent moves.
In Iraq Ulul Azm militia clams attack on convoy but may not be accurate. Video of S-300 radar hit in Nagorna-Karabakh.
MEMRI: Iranian Expert Dr. Masoud Asadollahi: If Israel Attacks Iran, We Will Target Civilian Installations in the UAE As Part of Our Retaliation; Quds Force Is Present in Palestine. US renews opposition to Turkish invasion of Syria, from a year earlier.
October 10
North Korea missile display may have ramifications for Iran.
Anwar Gargash, the UAE’s state minister for foreign affairs: “Turkey’s army in Qatar is an element of instability in the Gulf region” United Arab Emirates state minister for foreign affairs has tweeted, adding that it contributed to negative polarisation.
KRG - Iraq agreement on Sinjar. Could impact Iran-backed PMU units. More details. US statement on Sinjar. However other groups oppose it. Video of Turkish mercenaries near Iran border. More video. Geolocation.
"Iran-backed Shia armed groups say they will stop attacking US & other western forces in Iraq. A statement by a newly formed council of “Iraqi resistance”says the ceasefire is temporary & with a condition that there will be a timetable for a US withdrawal." Qatar may transfer $100 million to Gaza. Some PMU units in Nineveh may move. Not locals though. Alex Mello on a tour KH posted of Jurf al-Sakhar"Prob lots of old munitions igloos and underground bunkers to store the Iranian tactical ballistic missiles KH is supposed to be caching in this area." Full video. "Falih Al-Fayyadh, head of PMF commission visits Al-Bohairat district in Jurf al-Sakhar. Al-Bohairat district, south of Iskandariya is under Ali Akbar brigade, affiliated with Imam Hossein shrine. Let's see if he is allowed to visit the main Jurf area under Kata'ib Hezballah."
Iran-backed Rabu Allah militia call people to participate in a protest against #US-funded Al Hurra channel and storm the channel’s office in #Baghdad over reports about Abu Fadak and Al Sadr. US seizes website of Iranian-backed Nujaba in Iraq. Hashd recruits graduate in Iraq.
October 11
Israel opposes sale of F-35 to Qatar. Clinton emails reveal Qatari Muslim Brotherhood channel and Iran threatening Bahrain.
Video of destruction of S-300s by drones in Nagorna-Karabakh.
"Group of #Iran-backed militias has agreed to a "conditional" cease-fire against U.S.-linked interests in #Iraq on the condition that #Washington present a timetable for the withdrawal of its troops."
Photos of Turkish-backed mercenaries in Azerbaijan. Destruction of Armenian armor.
Rise of Shia militias in Iraq-Guardian.
Iran backs Azerbaijan "Islamic" claim.
October 12
Yazidis protest new Sinjar agreement. More details. Netanyahu speaks with UAE's MBZ. Lebanese NGO was front for Hezbollah - Alma Report.
Saudi Arabia Prince Bandar bin Sultan tells all in the final part of his exclusive interview with Al Arabiya. He says the Kingdom must pay attention to its own national security interests, and calls out #Palestine’s leaders.
October 13
Turkey NAVTEX condemned by US and Germany, tensions.
Israel-UAE women's forum takes place and first UAE ship arrives in Israel.
Iran's next president could be from IRGC. Alleged Israeli drone that was sold to Azerbaijan crashes inside Iran border. Witty: Iraqi PMF (Hashd) announces it has foiled an Israeli Mossad plot to destroy the mausoleum of Abu Mahdi Mohandis in Najaf Province. 10 mortar shells found near the mausoleum, which Mossad intended to use to construct improvised explosive device. Israel and US work on laser air defense system.
Russia paying fighters $200. Influence contest in Deir Ezzor area with Iranian-backed forces.
October 14
David Witty: "Iraqi MP from Kata’ib Sayyid ash-Shuhada militia in letter to PM: what are you doing to end presence of International Coalition? What are you doing about assassination of Soleimani & Muhandis? What are you doing about Turkish presence?"
Iran was reportedly hit by a major cyber-attack on Wednesday, which disrupted one of its largest ports and shut down government services. Second in six months. Pompeo: “We are happy that the Iraqis are doing more to provide increased security for our team on the ground there." US helps Hajin hospital Syria. IDF says it raided SAA position near Golan.
Saudi Arabia in DC for strategic dialogue. "The United States deplores Turkey’s October 11 announcement of renewed Turkish survey activity in areas over which Greece asserts jurisdiction in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey’s announcement unilaterally raises tensions in the region..."
Omar Abu Layla: News of the International Coalition building a miltary base near al-Baghouz is not new as @DeirEzzor24 Network and I confirmed the news 20 days ago
New mural of Muhandis and Soleimani at Baghdad airport.
Witty: In Iraq, reporter says fighting has occurred between security forces & Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq militia in Balad.
Iran admits cyber attack targeted it.
October 16 Turkey tests S-400.
UAE concerned about Turkish base in Qatar "destabilizing."
Deputy Commander of Iran IRGC-QF Mohammad Hejazi spoke today, he claims U.S. has sent messages about its presence in #Iraq.
October 17
Kalbasi: IRGC associated telegram channels are circulating a photo of Quds Force chief Qaani in #Syria allegedly “during Khan Tuman, liberation operation in Feb 2020.” KDP party HQ attacked in Baghdad by PMU supporters. Video.
Iraqi Joint Operations Command forces PMF (Hashd) 30th Brigade to withdraw from line opposite Peshmerga on Erbil-Ninawa border. 30th Brigade replaced by Army commandos.
Brig.-Gen. Dror Shalom, head of the #IDF's Military Intelligence's Research Division...calls for a joint defense coalition in the Middle East, similar to NATO.
October 18
Israel-Bahrain agreement signed, video. El Al first flight to UAE. UN arms embargo expires on Iran. Frantzman's report. Hatami predicts sales.
Calls to rein in militias after massacre near Balad in Salahaddin. Michael Knights: This is the new KH/Fasa’il/QF formula: anonymized slayings, rioters, rocket and IED attacks.
October 19
IRGC recruits men in Al-Mayadeen, Assad regime cell detained east of Euphrates.
Military Security recruitment in Al-Bukamal "Russia opens the door for recruitment, Iran opens the door for recruitment, Assad regime opens the door for recruitment and arrests people for forced conscription."
US calls for Iraq to control militias.
Assad Regime has asked for leaving al-Tanf during the negotiations of Austin Tice. Abbas Ibrahim, Lebanon security chief, went to DC recently. Brodsky: Head of #Iran's Passive Defense Org. confirms recent cyberattack not only on Shahid Rajaee port but also on Sarcheshmeh Copper Complex.
Trump announces Sudan off terror list. Israel visa free travel to UAE.
October 20
UAE delegation heads to Israel
Swedish delegation in northeast Syria.
Reported Israeli airstrikes on building near Quneitra in Hurriya (الحرية), alleged to be a former school or vehicle nearby. Ynet: 'Three Iran-backed paramilitary fighters were killed in an alleged Israeli strike overnight that hit Syria’s southern province of Quneitra, a war monitor said'
Iran pushes trade after end of arms embargo. Egypt, Greece, Cyprus trilateral summit.
October 21
Benny Gantz: "We will not allow Hezbollah or Iran to entrench on Golan."IDF Chief of Staff Kochavi: "We have many challenges besides the coronavirus, aside from the tunnel in Gaza, on all front." Apparent referncee to the IDF destroying Hezbollah or Iranian posts in the Syrian Golan."
Report: Israel had a secret legation in Bahrain for 11 year.
Reuters: During a June call, a senior Iraq leader with strong ties to #Iran, instructed the security chief for Baghdad’s fortified Green Zone...not to stand in the way of militiamen who were storming the area, two Iraqi security officials said. al-Kadhimi fired the Green Zone security chief, Shihab al-Khiqani, who was threatened by "a senior Iraqi leader with strong ties to Iran,"
Witty: In Iraq, Fatah Coalition: we have heard PM Kadhimi will discuss normalization of relations with Israel in London. Iraqi Parliament rejects this. This decision is up to Iraqi Parliament, not the PM.
Details on UAE-Israel pipeline. IRGC moves militias from Albukmal to Deir Ezzor.
UAE Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed during inaugural UAE-US Strategic Dialogue: The UAE will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021, but it will also be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the relations between our two nations
October 22
Reports on Iran's "Quicksand" hacking attack on Israel by "Muddy Water" Hariri named again as Lebanon PM.
October 23
Iran's Bavar 373 tested successfully, with radar up to ranges of 400km.
Iraq's Kadhimi compares himself to riding a bike on a tightrope.
October 24
Reactions to Sudan-Israel normalization. Trump announces historic deal. UAE welcomes Sudan decision. Al-Ain report.
Ynet: Saudi relations are a long way off.
Calcalist; Israel-UAE ties must be based on trust.
Al-Jazeera; Israel won't oppose US weapon sales to Gulf. "Israel will not oppose the sale of F-35s to the United Arab Emirates, Jerusalem announced on Friday night.The joint announcement by the offices of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz came after Gantz returned from Washington where he met with his US counterpart Mark Esper and signed a deal that ensures Israel’s qualitative military edge in the region."
Pentagon outraged at Turkey's use of S-400. "(The tests) have been and are being conducted,” Erdogan told reporters. “The United States' stance absolutely does not concern us.” The U.S. Defense Department responded hours later Friday, with a harshly worded statement, stopping short of accusing Turkey of betraying the alliance. "The U.S. Department of Defense condemns in the strongest possible terms Turkey’s October 16 test," Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Jonathan Rath Hoffman said, warning the testing “risks serious consequences for our security relationship.”
October 25
TRT: US may use more drones in Iraq aid Iran threats
Al Ain praises Israel-UAE peace deal.
Israel will not oppose F-35 deal. Netanyahu says he and Gantz agreed on F-35 sales to UAE while Gantz says they didn't. "The first was put out jointly by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz in which the two said they would not object to the American sale of advanced fifth-generation stealth F-35 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates.The second statement came from Gantz alone in which he claimed Netanyahu knew about the sale of the F-35s to Abu Dhabi during the peace negotiations that were mediated by the Trump administration but the prime minister had kept the news a secret, even from the defense establishment."
Fars News highlights Palestinian Islamic Jihad threats to Israel. Hamas and PIJ slam Israel-Sudan relations and also France cartoons. LWJ: Israel increases activity southern Syria. Trump holds conversation with Netanyahu on Sudan deal, slams Biden. Saudi role in Sudan peace deal alleged.
Mossad chief told sources: "If US President Donald Trump wins reelection, there could be an almost immediate announcement" of Saudi ties w Israel, if Biden wins, Saudi would still be interested in ties w Israel, but would wait. - Jerusalem Post. US Coalition says Tanf important after Syria rumors. Alma: Hezbollah continues to violate Israel border.
October 27
Sinjar deal pushed by KRG and Baghdad could affect PMU and PKK
US signs defense deal with Iran, India statement.
October 28
"Interesting marks on the Saudi Arabia map at Akram al-Kaabi (al-Nujaba leader) and Yahya Rahim-Safvi meeting. I think the map markings (inside my red circles) include Afif, Al Duwadimi, Abha, and Jazan. All have been attacked in recent years by Houthis missiles and drones."
October 30
International Crisis Group publishes article on how Europe can help Lebanon
Nasrallah gives speech
Social media speculates that cyber attack was behind power outages in Israel.
ALMA reports on Golan file pointed to last week's tension and Gantz comments against Iran and Hezbollah entrenchment.
Shelly Kittleson looks at Anbar developments.
October 31
Iran weighs Biden possible win and says it won't bring change, says Iran should look to China.
Priest shot in France as condemnations, pushed by Turkey, continue. Indonesia condemns France. Protests in Syria's Idlib, Raqqa, Deir Ezzor and Serekaniye.
November 1
Israel's Ghost Unit for next war with Hezbollah
Asaib Ahl al Haq has an app.
November 3
David Witty: Iraqi MP from Badr Organization: Iraq needs to reconsider its agreements with some Arab countries. We get nothing from these agreements with Jordan & Egypt. They are weak. We should move towards China.
November 4
Iran train mobile missile TEL launcher.
Hamas fired 4 test rockets into the Mediterranean Sea. Iran role in 2006 war revealed.
November 5
Israel's new Sa'ar 6 corvette unveiled for protection of EEZ
November 6
Lebanese politician Gebran Bassil has been sanctioned under Global Magnitsky.
Iran presence in Syria grows.
Iran rockets shown off.
November 7
Joe Biden is US President-elect.
Iran’s VP Jahangiri with the highest level response from Tehran to Biden’s election: “I hope we will see a change in the destructive policies of the United States, a return to the rule of law and international obligations and respect for nations.”
November 8
Iran conservative right expects same from Biden as Trump.
November 9
In a ceremony held in Tehran on Monday morning, Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami inaugurated a geospatial unit developing small-scale digital maps. The minister also unveiled a location data management system called ‘Samam’
November 10
Hudson: Trump administration just gave Congress formal notification for a massive arms transfer to the United Arab Emirates: 50 F-35s, 18 MQ-9 Reapers with munitions; a $10 billion munitions package including thousands of Mk 82 dumb bombs, guided bombs, missiles & more, per source.
Mideast reacts to Biden win.
Saudi MBS speaks to Iraqi leader.
Iraqi militia tests Russian missiiles
Iraq-China deak.
Drawing of Iran underground missile facilty.
November 11
New Nasrallah speech against peace
November 12
Houthi drone downed
Rumors of Austin Tice deal.
IRGC Aerospace Forces Deputy Commander Seyyed Majid Mousavi says Iran possesses intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capability, original footage below was censored by Iran’s State TV
November 13
As Jeffrey leaves, US troop levels in Syria questioned.
Novermber 14
Al Qaeda deputy killed in Tehran, allegedly by Israel. Brodsky: What makes the story about Abu Muhammad al-Masri's death in #Iran even wilder is that media reports in August suggested that Habib Daoud (AKA al-Masri) was killed outside the home of Abu Mahdi Al-Muhandis in Tehran.
November 16
Warning of terror plot against Jews in Argentina with Ammonium nitrate from Paraguay.
Iran's Tasnim boasts of Iran space program.
November 17
US troop withdrawals by January, Pentagon says.
Ashab al-Kahf's rocket fire on the Green Zone in Iraq. Images.
King of Bahrain and Jordan fly to Abu Dhabi as Bahrain Foreign Minister flies to Israel for meeting with US and Israel.
NYT: President Trump asked senior advisers in an Oval Office meeting on Thursday whether he had options to take action against #Iran’s main nuclear site in the coming weeks
November 18
IDF: Overnight, in response to IEDs placed against Israeli troops on the Golan Heights, IDF fighter jets struck military targets, storage facilities, headquarters and military compounds belonging to the Iranian Quds force and the Syrian Armed Forces. Conricus: We just struck various Iranian Quds Force and SAF military targets in Syria, in response to IEDs placed against our troops (discovered earlier today).
Elijah Magnier: "When I say this is not an anti-US attack, I mean the Iraqi resistance agreed on a truce until end November. That was the deal with PM Kadhemi. In December and January 2021, expect a large escalation unless Biden's team intervene convincingly (I doubt)." It was then "over' when Trump said 2,500 troops would remain.
Pro-Iran militias in Iraq form Shariah youth groups.
Barak Ravid: Biden must consult Gulf states before new Iran deal, Bahrain foreign minister tell me in an interview in Jerusalem. UAE-Greece sign agreement.
November 19
Discussion about Pompeo's arrival in Israel.
UN vote on Iran human rights.
Iraq's Harakat Hizballah al-Nujaba's (HHN) TV network's (Nujaba TV) website was seized by US.
Footage of Iran's new ship the Shahid Roudaki.
November 20
AP: Commander of #Iran's #IRGC-QF was in #Iraq this week where he delivered a request to #Iran-backed factions to stand down on attacks against U.S. in Trump's final weeks in office. But there may be some disagreements here.
Iran drone Mohajer 6 seen in Venezuela.
Missile interceptor launched from a Navy destroyer successfully brought down a test ICBM for the first time.
November 21
Feras Kilani: two sources from Al-Fatah alliance and an armed faction told the BBC that Ismail Qaani, the commander of the Quds Force in the #Iran-ian Revolutionary Guard, visited #Baghdad last Wednesday.
US pushes F-35 deal for UAE, some opposition in Congress emerges.
Jason Brodsky: New BBC report that commander of #Iran’s #IRGC-QF Esmail Ghaani had visited Beirut and Damascus before his trip to Baghdad this week.
Rocket fire from Gaza targeted Ashkelon and Holon in recent days, with claims it may have been accidental.
November 22
USCIRF Nadine Maenza says US should stay in eastern Syria.
Netanyahu flies to Saudi Arabia around seven in the evening.
Iran unveiled a new #ship over the weekend called the Shahid Roudaki, equipped with a deck crowded with all sorts of #weapons to show off what it can do.
US sanctions Khamenei-linked foundation.
November 23
Netanyahu meeting with Saudis in Neom reported. Saudi Arabia denies meeting with Netanyahu. See tweet.
Yossi Mansharof; The IRGC Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani: The U.S. Government was behind the September 11 attacks. It sought to use it as a pretext to undermine the stability worldwide. The Americans thought they can occupy the whole world through this pretext. Blinken and others named as key Biden picks.
Reports circulating at this time that the Houthis have targeted a Saudi Armaco facility in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Houthis claim they used a Quds-2 missile.
Henry Rome: “Domestic politics in both countries — and regional considerations — will make an immediate return to the deal harder than it looks.”
Iran's Quds Force reports on Hakan Fidan, head of Turkey's MIT intelligence agency, that he "wants to wipe the US & Israel from the face of the earth & he loves [Iran's] revolution.”
Israeli PM Netanyahu: “We will not allow Iran to get nuclear weapons. There can be no going back to the previous nuclear agreement. We must stick to an uncompromising policy of ensuring that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons."
November 24
Report: Iran strengthens presence in eastern Syria. US brokered Israel-Saudi meeting, but agreement didn't work.
November 25
Eight killed in Syria airstrike, likely those killed were linked to Iran. The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Wednesday that at least eight pro-Iranian foreign fighters were killed in an air strike near Damascus on Tuesday night that Syria attributed to Israel.
November 26
Iran IRGC conducted a naval exercise with the participation of around 1,000 boats for Mobilization Week. IRGC also appears to be trying to get in a demonstration of its own naval power before Navy Day.
Netanyahu welcomes first FlyDubai flight. Bahrain delegation meets Chief Rabbi, Israel President.
US sanctions Chinese, Russian firms over Iran dealings.
19 pro-Iranian members killed in Syria airstrikes.
November 27
Mohsen Fakhrizadeh assassinated in Iran near Absard, a key nuclear scientist, general in IRGC, defense ministry nuclear specialist whose had been sanctioned in 2008, noted in 2011 by the UN, in 2018 by Netanyahu. His assassination is condemned by EU, John Brennan, Ben Rhodes and others. Analysis.
Iran-backed militia Rab'Allah attack massage center in Baghdad.
Israel reveals details of Hezbollah entrenchment in Golan's Quneitra.
November 28
Hamas's Haniyeh "consoles Iran on assassination of nuclear scientist." He "offered on Saturday evening condolences, on behalf of the Palestinian people and the Hamas leadership, to the Iranian leadership and people on the assassination of nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh."
Iran's supreme leader has posted a message on his website, calling #Fakhrizadeh a martyr and ordering "all relevant administrators to investigate and firmly prosecute [the] perpetrators and commanders" of his assassination.
"Three terrorists who were involved in a botched bomb plot" exchanged with a researcher Dr. Kylie M. Gilbert. Details.
Toll in clashes between rival protests in Nasiriyah now 6 dead -Protesters already back in Habboubi to rebuild camp, AFP correspondent there says.
Iran discusses retaliation. Tasnim cover. Flares in northern Israel near Lebanon border, Meis al-Jabal.
Fakrizadeh laid to rest.
December 3
The US has drawn down diplomats in Baghdad. There was chatter about a total pullout a few weeks ago, but this seems tied to the Iran tensions. Thing is: each time they draw down for security reasons, they don’t go back & the footprint shrinks some more
December 5
'Israel has tape of slain Iran nuke chief talking about building five warheads'
Trump announces withdrawal from Somalia.
Witty: Iraqi PM orders investigation of PMF (Hashd) commander after he threatened Anbar Operations Commander, who allegedly ordered pictures of Abu Mahdi Muhandis be removed from the province.
GCC reconciliation discussions underway.
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