Azerbaijan’s state oil company signs gas supply MoU with Syria – Middle East Monitor

Former Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani has been appointed as the head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) by President Masoud Pezeshkian, tasked with overseeing national security issues, especially emerging threats. This leadership change follows a recent war with Israel that resulted in over 1,000 Iranian casualties, and Larijani replaces Ali-Akbar Ahmadian, who will become Pezeshkian's deputy. Want More Context? 🔎

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi condemned the Israeli war on Gaza as a systematic genocide aimed at starving Palestinians and erasing their cause, emphasizing that Egypt will not facilitate their displacement. With over 5,000 aid trucks ready to enter Gaza, he criticized the inadequate aid response and highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis, including the deaths of over 188 individuals from starvation since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

UN special rapporteurs urged the immediate dismantling of the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, claiming it exploits aid for military agendas and violates international law. They highlighted the urgent need for oversight, citing over 1,000 Palestinian deaths linked to GHF operations and calling for experienced humanitarian actors to manage aid instead. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir with dismissal if he rejects a plan for full military occupation of Gaza, reflecting escalating internal disputes over the war's management. Concurrently, the Israeli army announced measures to alleviate troop pressure, including ending a state of emergency and withdrawing platoons from active duty for rest after prolonged service. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to propose the full reoccupation of the Gaza Strip amid opposition from military leaders, with fears that this could endanger hostages. As international pressure mounts for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, critics warn that such actions could exacerbate the conflict and undermine efforts for a two-state solution. Want More Context? 🔎

Lebanon's cabinet will convene to discuss disarming Hezbollah amid U.S. pressure and concerns over potential Israeli strikes. The meeting follows a proposal from U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack for a national defense strategy, while Lebanese officials fear that a lack of a clear decision could escalate tensions, particularly given Hezbollah's significant support within the Shi'ite community. Want More Context? 🔎