Central Command News | CENTCOM Or USCENTCOM Alerts For Middle East

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March 25th, 2023 - SYRIA - The death toll resulting from US airstrikes on Iranian-backed militias in Syria has risen to 19, according to the UK-based war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Read more

March 24th, 2023 - Department of Defense: "The U.S. response to the attack on a coalition base in Syria that killed a U.S. contractor and wounded six others highlighted that the U.S. military will do what it must to protect its personnel. Read more

March 24th, 2023 - Central Command: On the morning of March 24th, at approximately 8:05 a.m. Syrian local time, 10 rockets targeted coalition forces at the Green Village in northeast Syria. Read more

March 24th, 2023 - AL-OMAR - A second U.S. base, Green Village in Syria located in the Al-Omar gas field in northeastern Syria was targeted by rockets after retaliatory strikes were carried out by the United States in response to another attack that killed an American contractor and wounded another contractor and four other service members. Read more

March 24th, 2023 - Central Command: "This evening, we responded to an attack on our forces that killed an American contractor and wounded our troops and another American contractor by striking facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. Read more

February 20, 2023 - International nuclear inspectors have detected 84% enriched uranium in Iran, "just below" the level needed to manufacture a nuclear weapon. Read more

February 18, 2023 - CENTCOM: TAMPA, Fla. - "Last night, during a partnered U.S. and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four U.S. servicemembers and one working dog wounded". Read more

February 15, 2023 - Central Command (CENTCOM) has released a statement regarding a "D-ISIS" raid that was carried out on February 10th, 2023 in which an ISIS leader was killed. Read more

February 15, 2023 - United States Central Command reports shooting down Iranian-man unmanned aerial vehicle conducting a reconnaissance of Mission Support Site Conoco in Northeast Syria. Read more

February 06, 2023 - There has been another 7.5 magnitude earthquake, this time in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey. Many aftershocks also reported, along with internet outages in the country. Read more

February 01, 2023 - BAGHDAD - At least 8, some reports say 20 rockets were fired at a Turkish Zilkan military base in northern Iraq Wednesday. Two of the rockets that were fired landed on the inside of the base, wounding an Iraqi contractor. Read more

February 01, 2023 - A U.S. drone strike using blade-based AGM-114 R9X Hellfire missile is suspected to have killed three suspected al-Qaeda militants in Yemen’s Marib province. Read more

January 30, 2023 - A suicide bombing that occurred in a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan killed at least 59 people on Monday, and injured at least 150 people, many in critical condition. Read more

January 30, 2023 - An airstrike targeted a truck convoy on the Syria-Iraq border that consisted of 25 trucks crossing over the border from Iraq into Syria via a crossing that the Hezbollah currently controls. Read more

January 29, 2023 - Israel reported to be behind the attack on the Iranian weapons factory. The Pentagon has stated that no U.S. military forces were involved in strikes, despite claims by Saudi media that the United States Air Force was involved. Read more

January 29, 2023 - Netblocks Internet Observatory: "Confirmed: Network data show a disruption to internet connectivity in Iran with high impact to Mazandaran Province; authorities are attributing the incident to fiber optic cuts on the path between Babol and Sari". Read more

January 27, 2023 - JERUSALEM - A terrorist attack in a synagogue in Jerusalem resulted in the deaths of 7 people, along with multiple injured. Three of the injured are in "severe condition" according to the Israeli Foreign Ministry. Read more

January 27, 2023 - ISRAEL - Two rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip into Israel. Both were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system. Israel has carried out an airstrike within Gaza following the rocket launches. Read more

January 27, 2023 - DOD: "Today marks the conclusion of exercise Juniper Oak 23.2. This exercise was the largest U.S-Israel partnered exercise in history, said Deputy Pentagon Spokesperson Sabrina Singh, who held a news conference today. Read more

January 27, 2023 - The aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN-77) carrier strike group joined the joint US/Israel Juniper Oak drills in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea as the exercise wrapped up. Read more

January 26, 2023 - US Army: "ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Almost 400 New York Army National Guard Soldiers will soon leave for a deployment to Kuwait. Read more

January 26, 2023 - CENTRAL COMMAND: U.S. Central Command and the Israel Defense Forces carry out live-fire exercise Juniper Oak 23.2 in Israel and the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Read more

January 23, 2023 - Israel's state-owned IAI Aerospace Industries has announced its new "Point Blank" electro-optically guided missile, capable of being stored in a soldier's backpack. It can take off and land back into the operator's hand. Read more

January 22, 2023 - Central Command forces conducted a partnered helicopter and ground assault raid in eastern Syria. Read more

January 21, 2023 - TAMPA, Fla. – This morning, three one-way attack drones attacked the At Tanf Garrison in Syria. Two of the drones were shot down by Coalition Forces while one struck the compound, injuring two members of the Syrian Free Army partner force who received medical treatment. No US forces were injured. Read more

January 20, 2023 - Forces TAMPA, Fla. - U.S. Central Command forces partnered with Syrian Democratic Forces to conduct a partnered helicopter assault in eastern Syria on Jan. 18 capturing an ISIS Syrian provincial media and security operative. Read more

January 19, 2023 - Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan says that Saudi Arabia is "open to settling trade in other currencies" other than the US dollar. Read more

January 16, 2023 - Israel: Iran has enough enriched uranium to produce four nuclear bombers, according to the Israeli military's outgoing Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi. Read more

January 14, 2023 - DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - "Last year, U.S. Central Command conducted 313 operations in Iraq and Syria as part of the mission to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, also known as ISIS. Read more

January 09, 2023 - A drone was shot down over the Ain al-Asad Air Base that hosts U.S. Forces, according to Iraqi military sources on Sunday, after which the US-led military coalition said it had carried out "an operational exercise", contradicting reports by the Iraqi military that it may have been hostile. Read more

January 07, 2023 - After Israeli Prime Minister said that efforts were underway to revive the JCPOA nuclear deal, the Biden Administration put out a statement saying that claims that it was engaged in talks were "false". Read more

January 05, 2023 - The British MI5 Security Service addressed threats to the UK posed by Iran, Russia, and China and is expected to declare the Iranian IRGC a terrorist organization in the coming weeks. Read more

January 04, 2023 - CENTCOM: "Two rockets targeted coalition forces at Mission Support Site Conoco, northeast Syria, today at approximately 9am local time in Syria (1 am Eastern Standard Time). Read more

January 04, 2023 - The Iranian state-run news agency IRNA has reported that an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Copse officer has been assassinated in front of his residential home in Tehran after being hit by four bullets. Read more

January 03, 2023 - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has reported a rocket launch, but the rocket failed. No alert was activated "in accordance with standard operating procedures". Read more

January 03, 2023 - Israel carried out a missile strike on the Damascus International Airport, killing four people while boosting cooperation with the US, and preparing for an attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. Read more

January 03, 2023 - The Hamas terrorist organization has threatened explosive violence and said that if Israeli National Security Minister Ben Gvir visits the Temple Mount, the visit would lead to violence and a declaration of war. Read more

January 1, 2023 - *UPDATE (2)* Syrian state news agency SANA, has reported that explosions were heard near Damascus, and reported that there were "separate indications" of Syrian air defense systems having been activated. Read more

December 31, 2022 - Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Israel after previously holding the office from 1996 to 1999 and 2009 to 2021. He says the new government's first task will be to prevent Iran from destroying Israel with an atomic bomb. Read more

December 26, 2022 - The U.S. government is aware of information that unknown individuals are possibly plotting to attack Americans at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad sometime during the holidays. Read more

December 21, 2022 - "Over the past 48 hours, US Central Command forces conducted three helicopter raids in eastern #Syria resulting in the detention of six ISIS operatives". Read more

December 11, 2022 - U.S. Central Command has reported that it has conducted a successful helicopter raid against ISIS at 2:57 a.m. on December 11th, which killed two ISIS officials. Read more

December 10, 2022 - Turkey has carried out airstrikes in the Duhok province in northern Iraq, according Lebanese news agency Al-Mayadeen, targeting Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) elements in the region. Read more

December 06, 2022 - USCENTCOM - TAMPA, Fla. – "An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy patrol boat interacted in an unsafe and unprofessional manner as U.S. Navy ships transited the Strait of Hormuz, the evening of Dec. 5. Read more

December 05, 2022 - RAYTHEON - The United States is currently working with countries in the Middle East to move some of the U.S. air defense systems to Ukraine. Read more

November 25, 2022 - Two rockets targeted coalition forces at the US patrol base in al-Shaddadi, Syria, today at approximately 10:31 p.m. local time in Syria (4:31 p.m. EST). Read more

November 25, 2022 - Turkey has told Russia that it will be continuing to respond to attacks coming from northern Syria, after Russia requested that Turkey not upgrade the conflict in Syria into a full-scale offensive. Read more

November 23, 2022 - US DEPARTMENT OF STATE - "The United States expresses its sincere condolences for the loss of civilian life in Syria and Turkey. Read more

November 23, 2022 - Iran has claimed that Israel killed an Iranian military officer with a roadside bomb in Damascus, Syria according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) on Wednesday. Read more

November 23, 2022 - Iran has reached 60 percent uranium enrichment purity at its Fordow nuclear plant, according to the United Nations nuclear watchdog, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday. Read more

November 23, 2022 - Two explosions hit the entrance to the city of Jerusalem, Israel on Wednesday injuring at least 10 people in the vicinity of the blasts, one of which has since died of their injuries and another is considered in serious condition. Read more

November 21, 2022 - KURDISTAN - The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched more missiles and drones against the Iranian Kurdish group Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan PDKI in Erbil, Iraq. Read more

November 20, 2022 - Turkish air raids targeted 89 locations in Iraq and Syria, including the Iraqi locations of: Asos, Qandil, Hakurk, and Northern Syria locations of: Cizire, Tal Rifat, Kobani and Derik, according to the Turkish Defense Ministry. Read more

November 19, 2022 - Syrian state news agency SANA is reporting that Israel carried out airstrikes on military positions after flying over the Mediterranean and targeting some military positions in the "central" and "coastal" regions of Syria, killing 4 soldiers. Read more

November 18, 2022 - Event: U.S. Consulate General Erbil is monitoring credible open-source reports of potential Turkish military action in northern Syria and northern Iraq in the coming days. The U.S. government continues to strongly advise U.S. citizens to avoid these areas. Read more

November 17, 2022 - Pakistan has shut down its southwestern border with Afghanistan for an indefinite period, according to both officials and local media on Monday. Read more

November 15, 2022 - CENTCOM: "On Nov 8, CENTCOM forces intercepted a stateless dhow [sailing vessels used in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean] in the Gulf of Oman originating from Iran smuggling a massive volume of explosive material to Yemen. Read more

November 14, 2022 - 11 countries have been placed on the travel advisory page in the last 30 days, including Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Ecuador, Moldova, Nigeria, China, Taiwan, Samoa, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. Read more

November 09, 2022 - Syria/Iraq - Airstrikes have been reported on the border between Syria and Iraq. Iranian-backed militia has reportedly blamed the United States for the attacks, but U.S. officials rejected the claims, saying that it wasn't them, but has confirmed that airstrikes were carried out. Al-Mayadeen has claimed that Israel carried out the drone strike. Read more

November 07, 2022 - On Saturday, November 5th the Iranian Revolutionary Guard tested a satellite launch vehicle that Washington has speculated could also launch nuclear warheads. Read more

November 03, 2022 - Israel Defense Forces (IDF) put out an alert regarding a rocket attack in southern Israel. Rocket sirens sounded in Israel. Palestinian News Agency: "Intense flight of Israeli aircraft in the skies of the Gaza Strip". Read more

November 01, 2022 - Saudi Arabia has reportedly shared intelligence with the United States and warned of an impending imminent Iranian attack targeting both Saudi Arabia and Iraq, including Erbil, Iraq where US forces are stationed. Read more

October 30, 2022 - The Pentagon said that although Russia is an "acute threat", China "is the only competitor out there with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly the power to do so". Read more

October 25, 2022 - Iran claims that it has arrested 10 agents allegedly working for Israel in West Azerbaijan province as part of an espionage network, according to Iranian state news agency Fars. Israeli officials claim to have struck 90% of Iran's military operations in Syria, targeting a drone assembly factory near Damascus. Read more

October 25, 2022 - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has put out a statement saying that emergency preparedness exercises of the Home Front Command will be taking place during the coming week. "alerts will be heard as part of practicing the emergency system in the localities and practicing behavior guidelines". Read more

October 22, 2022 - Iran has released an advisory to all of its citizens strongly advising them not to travel to Ukraine, and told Iranians currently living in the country to leave the country "for their own safety". Read more

October 21, 2022 - Syrian state media has claimed that Syria has shot down missiles fired by Israel at Damascus late on Friday. It said that they were intercepted and shot down in an area over Damascus close to Syria's shared border with Israel. Read more

October 21, 2022 - According to the White House, Iranian troops were sent to Ukraine to help assist Russia in operating Iranian-made drones that Russia had reportedly purchased from the country. Read more

October 20, 2022 - "On October 19th, General Michael "Erik” Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM, conducted a visit aboard the USS West Virginia, a U.S. Navy Ohio-class nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine at an undisclosed location at sea in international waters in the Arabian Sea. Read more

October 16, 2022 - On Thursday NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance will be giving Ukraine "hundreds of drone jammers" to counter the Iranian Shahed-136 kamikaze drones that Russia is using. Read more

October 14, 2022 - DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - "I am pleased that the Governments of Israel and Lebanon have agreed to establish a permanent maritime boundary between their two countries." Read more

October 12, 2022 - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that Russia has ordered 2,400 Iranian-made Shahed drones from the Islamic Republic, and asked leaders of the G7 countries to give medium and long-range missile defense systems to protect against the them. Read more

October 12, 2022 - U.S. Department Of State: "Following years of mediation by the United States, the Governments of Israel and Lebanon today announced consensus on an historic agreement to establish a permanent maritime boundary between the two countries". Read more

October 12, 2022 - The United States has begun restricting visas from being issued to both current, and former members of the Taliban, as well as others over the repression of women and girls in Afghanistan, according to a statement by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday." Read more

October 12, 2022 - Israel Defense Forces (IDF) statement earlier: "Our soldiers spotted a Hamas terrorist drone attempting to cross into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip a short while ago. Read more

October 12, 2022 - Statement by Ukrainian intelligence regarding the current situation at the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant (translated). "All six units are disconnected at the ZNPP, the occupiers are forcing employees to sign contracts with Rosatom. Read more

October 12, 2022 - Ukraine claims that Russia has been transferring Shahed-136 kamikaze drones to Belarus territory Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reported. Read more

October 11, 2022 - A drone strike in northeastern Syria led by the U.S.-led coalition was carried out on Monday, according to The Associated Press, which cited a Syrian official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Read more

October 09, 2022 - TEHRAN - Two Iranian hackers from a group called "al-Tahara" hacked into the websites for two natural gas companies: Energean, and Israel Natural Gas Lines. Read more

October 06, 2022 - U.S. special forces have reportedly carried out a helicopter raid in Assad-controlled territory in Syria, south of Qamishli in Northeast Syria overnight. Read more

September 28, 2022 - ERBIL, IRAQ - The United States has shot down an Iranian Mojer-6 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) headed in the direction of U.S. forces in Erbil, Iraq. Read more

September 22, 2022 - Statement from Colonel Joe Buccino, CENTCOM communications director: "At approximately 12:25 am on Sept. 20th, seven ISIS fighters in two vehicles headed in the direction of the Internally Displaced Persons camp at al-Hol were interdicted by U.S. partnered Syrian Democratic Forces. Read more

September 19, 2022 - CENTCOM - TAMPA, Fla. – "At approximately 7:05 pm in Syria on September 18th, a rocket attack targeting the Green Village base in northeast Syria failed to strike US or Coalition forces or equipment. Read more

September 16, 2022 - SYRIA - The Syrian Ministry of Defense has reported an airstrike "with missile bursts" from the northeastern direction of Lake Tiberias, targeting Damascus International Airport, and some points south of Damascus, with "some material losses". Read more

August 31, 2022 - The crude oil tanker "Affinity V", which is 826 feet long, and 147 feet wide ran aground in the Suez Canal, backing up Maritime traffic, according to local media and analysis of the ship's location in vessel tracking software. It has been released and is now back on course. Read more

August 31, 2022 - Israel has allegedly fired several missiles at the Aleppo International Airport, with "several missiles, causing material damage". This, on the same day that U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, in order to "consult on global and regional security challenges, including threats posed by Iran". Read more

August 30, 2022 - The U.S. Navy prevented a support ship from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) from capturing an unmanned surface vessel operated by the U.S. 5th Fleet in the Arabian Gulf, Aug. 29-30. Read more

August 30, 2022 - BAGHDAD - Following the resignation of the Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on Monday, August 29th, followers who supported him, stormed the green zone with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and automatic rifle fire as Iraqi security forces fought back, sparking a major escalation in the political deadlock that has gripped the nation. Read more

August 30, 2022 - Location: Iraq (countrywide). Event: Ongoing demonstrations within and around the International Zone in Baghdad have turned violent and resulted in deaths and injuries. Read more

August 25, 2022 - Israel is reportedly striking targets located in Syria. Explosions have been reported in Tartus, and Syrian state media says that its air defenses are engaging "hostile targets" over the Masyaf region in northwestern Syria. Read more

August 25, 2022 - CENTCOM: forces respond to attempted coordinated rocket attacks at Conoco, Green Village bases in northeast Syria. "U.S. forces responded today to rocket attacks at two sites in Syria, destroying three vehicles and equipment used to launch some of the rockets. Read more

August 24, 2022 - At U.S. President Biden’s direction, U.S. military forces conducted precision airstrikes in Deir ez-Zor Syria today. These precision strikes are intended to defend and protect U.S. forces from attacks like the ones on August 15 against U.S. personnel by Iran-backed groups. Read more

August 22, 2022 - The U.S. State Department said on Thursday that they are deeply concerned about increasing tensions in Northeastern Syria regarding a suspected Turkish drone attack that killed four teenage girls and injured 11 other people who were playing volleyball at a girl's center in Hasakah, Syria. Read more

August 18, 2022 - The Chinese Ministry of Defense has reported that their military is carrying out joint military exercises that are co-hosted by 12 countries, with 37 countries in total participating. Read more

August 07, 2022 - According to multiple Israeli sources around 935 rockets have been fired into Israel from the Gaza Strip. Rockets were also fired into Israel just minutes after the ceasefire deadline had been reached. Read more

August 07, 2022 - GAZA - Another airstrike has claimed the life of another PIJ Top Commander, Khaled Mansour, targeted at an apartment building in the crowded Rafah refugee camp in southern Gaza, as the Israeli Defense Force continues their offensive against the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Read more

August 05, 2022 - Rockets are now firing at Israel from Gaza. The IDF stated, "More sirens are now sounding in cities across central Israel. Read more

August 05, 2022 - *NEW UPDATES* Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced that they are currently carrying out strikes on the Gaza Strip after "direct threats" posed by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Gaza. Read more

August 04, 2022 - The U.S. Department of State has put out a worldwide travel alert, advising against traveling abroad after Sunday's drone strike where two R9X Hellfire missiles killed al-Qaeda leader, and Osama bin Laden successor, Ayman al-Zawahri. Read more

August 04, 2022 - The Syrian rights group, Syrian Network For Human Rights (SNHR) has reported that in the month of July there were 86 civilian deaths, including 21 children and eight women, of whom died from torture. Read more

August 02, 2022 - The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, which is being built near Mersin, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is being constructed by the Russian state-owned nuclear power company, Rosatom, and is set to come online with its first two reactors in 2023. Even though Russia has invaded Ukraine in a special military operation, and NATO is the official nation group to stand against Russia for its actions, Turkey is still on track with its Russian collaborated nuclear energy contract. Read more

August 02, 2022 - The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has carried out a successful drone strike in Afghanistan against al Qaeda leader al-Zawahiri. Read more

August 01, 2022 - An Iranian IRGC-affiliated Telegram channel has posted a video openly declaring that Iran can move its peaceful nuclear program to a nuclear weapons program very quickly, and said that Iran's ballistic missiles are capable of turning New York into ruins. Read more

July 28, 2022 - The Turkish consulate in Mosul, Iraq was targeted by missiles on Wednesday, after the Iraqi government claimed that Turkey had carried out artillery strikes in the Zakho District, in the Duhok Governorate that killed eight people, which Turkey has denied involvement in. Read more

July 26, 2022 - SYRIA/IRAQ - IRAQ - An ongoing military operation by the Turkish Armed Forces in northern Iraq, against the Kurdistan Workers' Party ( PKK ) in the Duhok Governorate, is the next phase of many operations utilizing the code word 'claw' aimed at the PKK. Other operations, beginning in 2019, prior to Claw-Lock include the following: Claw-Eagle, Claw-Tiger, Claw-Lightening, & Claw-Thunderbolt. Read more

July 23, 2022 - Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister is setting out on a trip to Egypt where he will meet with officials and solidify their relationship with Russia. Rosatom, a Russian state-owned energy corporation began construction on Egypt's first nuclear power plant. Read more

July 20, 2022 - TEHRAN - Today there was a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayhip Erdogan, and the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei. The topics of discussion were Ukrainian grain exports as well as peace in Syria. Read more

July 17, 2022 - Capital police in Islamabad, Pakistan have put security on high alert for the next 48 hours across the district, with "no unnecessary movement" allowed. Read more

July 16, 2022 - Saudi Arabia on Friday made an announcement that it is lifting restrictions on all [Israeli] carriers, allowing them to use airspace over the country after a decades-long ban. Read more

July 15, 2022 - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out airstrikes in Gaza after rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel on Saturday. The IDF reported four rockets being fired into Israel from Gaza, two of which fell in "open areas" according to the IDF. Read more

July 14, 2022 - In light of global disputes, regarding the nuclear capacity of Iran, a decision was made, and on Thursday, United States President Joe Biden will sign a joint agreement with the Israeli Prime Minister, Yair Lapid, denying nuclear weapons capabilities to Iran. Read more

July 13, 2022 - U.S. Central Command has put out a release saying that they carried out a "UAS strike" outside of Jindayris, in northwest Syria that targeted "two senior ISIS officials" on July 12th, 2022. Read more

July 12, 2022 - The White House has said that the U.S. has "information" that indicates Iran is preparing, or already has given Russia "hundreds" unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and said that Iran plans to train Russian forces on using the drones as early as this month. Read more

July 10, 2022 - ISRAEL - Creating its 5th Election in 3 years, the newly formed coalition in the Israeli government has chosen to dissolve parliament, which will paralyze the country and allow for assistance from Benjamin Netanyahu, the former conservative prime minister, who left office approximately 1 year ago after the new government was formed, according to The New York Times. Read more

July 08, 2022 - TURKEY - After a cabinet meeting on Monday, the President of Turkey announced that a new military operation would be underway in Syria, to stabilize logistics between 2 already Turkish-controlled areas. The operation will target Turkish efforts at resuming a 20-mile (30km) safe zone along the Turkish-Syrian border. Read more

July 07, 2022 - A militant, who was reportedly affiliated with both the Syrian military and the Hezbollah terrorist organization has been killed by an alleged Israeli drone strike in Quneitra. Read more

July 07, 2022 - The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced that they arrested several foreigners, including the British deputy ambassador to Iran Giles Whitaker for spying. The UK says that the reports are "completely false". Read more

July 04, 2022 - Kurdistan 24 news has reported that the Erbil International Airport (EIA) in Iraq has "prevented an unauthorized Iranian Pouya Air Cargo plane from landing, citing the EIA Director Ahmed Hoshyar. Read more

July 04, 2022 - Multiple explosions have been reported at a U.S. base on the Syrian-Iraqi border in the Al-Omar oil field in Deir Ez-Zur in Eastern Syria. Read more

July 04, 2022 - Russian and Syrian vessels have been turning off their transponders and have been accused of deceptive shipping practices in order to sell crude oil and stolen Ukrainian grain while evading the heavy sanctions placed on Russia due to its war on Ukraine. Read more

July 3, 2022 - The Iranian Sponsored, Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah stated that it had flown 3 drones, which were unarmed, towards a natural gas rig operated by Israel in the Mediterranean, and the Israeli military has intercepted them. Read more

July 2, 2022 - The Syrian military on Saturday accused Israel of carrying out daytime airstrikes near Tartus, Syria that they say wounded two civilians. Read more

June 28, 2022 - Iran has applied to become a member of the BRICS, a group of emerging world economies that include: Russia, China, South Africa, Brazil and India. Read more

June 27, 2022 - CENTCOM Statement Regarding Strike Carried Out In Syria. "CENTCOM Forces conducted a kinetic strike in Idlib province, Syria, June 27, targeting Abu Hamzah al Yemeni, a senior leader of Hurras al-Din, an Al Qaeda-aligned terrorist organization. Read more

June 27, 2022 - The US Military has carried out a strike on a vehicle on the Idlib-Binnish road in the Idlib province in Syria on Monday, targeting a senior leader of the Al-Qaeda aligned militant group, Hurras al-Din. Read more

June 27, 2022 - Poisonous gas explosion in Aqaba, Jordon Monday killed at least 13 and injured around 250 other people. The Jordanian government to Al-Arabiya says that the tank contained chlorine gas. Read more

June 26, 2022 - Iran Expanding Nuclear Program While Expanding Cooperation With Russia. Iran’s top security official Ali Shamkhani stated during a meeting with a top diplomat from the European Union that Iran will continue developing its nuclear program until the West changes what it calls "illegal behavior" according to Iranian state news IRNA. Read more

June 26, 2022 - Iran has carried out its second test of the Zuljanah satellite launcher, according to an Iranian state TV spokesperson. Read more

June 25, 2022 - There have been three rocket attacks on gas complexes in northern Iraq owned by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the last four days. The last attack was on a gas complex owned by the Dana Gas Energy Company. Read more

June 25, 2022 - List of travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State from June 1st, 2022 to June 24th, 2022. KEY: Level 1: Normal Precautions | Level 2: Increased Caution | Level 3: Reconsider Travel | Level 4: Do Not Travel. For a clickable list visit the OSLINT Advisories post. Read more

June 22, 2022 - An airman, who has not yet been identified has been arrested in connection with the explosives attack that had been carried out on a United States military base in Syria on April 7th, 2022, according to the Air Force. Read more

June 22, 2022 - A 6.1 magnitude earthquake has killed at least 950 people in Afghanistan on Wednesday and injured over 600 other people. The death toll is likely to rise as news about the earthquake's toll come in from remote villages in the mountains. Read more

June 21, 2022 - In the Persian Gulf, three Iranian IRGC warships came within 50 yards of the United States patrol vessel USS Sirocco and fast transport vessel USNS Choctaw County at high speeds and nearly collided, only diverting when the Sirocco gave an audible warning and deployed a warning flare. Read more

June 20, 2022 - Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz stated during an interview with Channel 12 News that Israel is preparing for offensive options against Iran "if and when" they are needed and warned Iran "I suggest that the Iranians not test these capabilities". Read more

June 20, 2022 - Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Qabs put out a report Sunday saying that there was a mysterious explosion in western Tehran on Saturday night after a drone attack on an Iranian military ballistic development base. Read more

June 19, 2022 - Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has said that Iran will pay a painful price for hunting down Israeli citizens in Turkey to capture and kill them. Read more

June 19, 2022 - Israel has carried out strikes with aircraft and tanks on Gaza with aircraft and tanks after a two-month calm after a rocket was fired into Israel from the Gaza Strip. Thousands of Gazan entry permits have been suspended. Read more

June 18, 2022 - Iranian terror cells have been activated in Turkey and are roaming the streets of Istanbul "looking for Israelis" after having been given an order to carry out attacks against Israelis located in the country, according to an Israeli official who spoke to Ynet on Friday. Read more

June 18, 2022 - U.S. Satellite images have spotted Russian-flagged vessels carrying grain from Ukraine to Syria, according to the satellite imagery company Maxar. Read more

June 18, 2022 - According to both U.S. and Israeli intelligence, Iran is building a vast underground nuclear facility underneath a mountain located south of the Natanz nuclear complex, a report by the New York Times stated on Friday. Read more

June 18, 2022 - A blast has been reported in a Sikh temple in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan on Saturday morning, according to a temple official. Read more

June 18, 2022 - A mourning poster posted on social media has revealed that a lieutenant in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has died in Iran on June 15th, making it the third officer in Iran's IRGC having died in the last week. Read more

June 18, 2022 - Russia carried out airstrikes at the al-Tanf garrison U.S. military base on Wednesday after first notifying the United States of their intentions. The base is located near Syria's border with Jordan in southeast Syria. Read more

June 17, 2022 - The U.S. military captured a senior Islamic State leader during the night raid in northern Syria on Wednesday night who the coalition stated was an experienced bomb maker and operational facilitator. Read more

June 17, 2022 - A Spokesperson for the Iranian Defense Ministry stated on Wednesday that Iran is preparing to test-launch a Zuljanah solid-fuel satellite carrier rocket just days after satellite photos were revealed showing possible preparations for a launch at Imam Khomeini. Read more

June 16, 2022 - Coalition forces detained a senior Daesh leader during an operation in Syria June 16. The detained individual was assessed to be an experienced bomb maker and facilitator who became one of the group’s top leaders in Syria. Read more

June 16, 2022 - The U.S. Apache and Chinook helicopters that were spotted flying over Jarablus, Northern Aleppo, Syria were reportedly a part of a night raid by U.S. Led coalition forces to capture a 'Senior Daesh [ISIS] leader'. Read more

June 14, 2022 - According to the Iranian state's shipping company, Iran has commenced its first shipment of Russian goods to India using a new trade route that uses Iran to link Russia to Asian export markets. Read more

June 11, 2022 - After Russia withdrew a large number of troops from Syria in order to re-focus them on its war in Ukraine, Turkey has announced that it will be carrying out a military operation in northern Syria. Read more

June 10, 2022 - According to Syrian state media, a Syrian military official claimed that Israel targeted locations south of the Syrian capital of Damascus on Friday. Read more

June 9, 2022 - Iran notified the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that it has plans to disconnect 27 IAEA surveillance cameras as well as other equipment used to monitor their nuclear activity according to IAEA chief Rafael Grossi. Read more

June 7, 2022 - U.S. President Joe Biden says that he has no direct plans on visiting Saudi Arabia. He did say however, that there is a possibility that he would be visiting both Israel and other Arab countries and said Saudi Arabia is a possibility. Read more

June 6, 2022 - There have been reports that air defenses have been activated over Damascus, Syria with reports that Israel has carried out airstrikes in the region. Read more

June 6, 2022 - Thailand's Royal Thai Police (RTP) issued a 'secret order' to police the country's police force on the lookout for spies from Iran, after an Iranian spy was arrested in Indonesia, according to the country's police force, who spoke to Bangkok Post. Read more

June 4, 2022 - A U.S. drone strike carried out on Friday has killed five members of the Al-Shabaab terrorist organization. The drone strike was coordinated with the Somali government according to a press release from the Somali Ministry of Information. Read more

June 3, 2022 - According to a report by the Persian Iran International news agency there has been another death of an Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) Quds Force unit 840 commander, who has died under 'suspicious circumstances' on Monday, May 30th. Read more

May 30, 2022 - Explosions are reported to have been heard near the village of Al-Sahel, around Ain Al-Assad Air Base in Anbar, western Iraq housing U.S. led coalition troops. Read more

May 27, 2022 - Iran has seized two Greek oil tankers in the Persian Gulf over what Iran alleges to be "violations" Friday, according to the IRGC news site Sepah News in a statement. What the violations were exactly was not specified. Read more

May 26, 2022 - Israel has informed the United States that it was in fact responsible for the killing of the Iranian IRGC Colonel Sayad Khodayee, who was involved in the abduction and killing of Israelis, as well as other foreigners globally. Read more

May 25, 2022 - Assassination Attempt On George W. Bush In Dallas Texas Thwarted. Alleged plotter plans to smuggle assassins into the United States through the Mexican border and assassinate the former president. Read more

May 24, 2022 - Iraqi air defenses have shot down an unmanned drone near Martyr Mohammad Alaa Air Base that hosts US forces at dawn on Tuesday, according to the Iraqi military. Read more

May 23, 2022 - Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday that he has 'no doubt' that Iran will avenge the death of Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officer Colonel Hassan Sayyad Khodaei, who was a member of the IRGC Quds Force in Syria, which he said was an act of 'terrorism'. Read more

May 22, 2022 - Colonel Hassan Sayad Khodayari, senior Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Quds Force member who had taken part in plotting the attacks of Jews and Israelis around the world has been assassinated by two gunmen on motorcycles in broad daylight in Tehran, the capital of Iran outside of his home. Read more

May 22, 2022 - The Pentagon and CENTCOM have both stated that media reports that had reported that U.S. refueling aircraft participated in Israel's "Chariots Of Fire" exercises were inaccurate, according to a CENTCOM spokesperson. Read more

May 21, 2022 - There have been multiple reports by the Syrian media that three Syrian soldiers were killed after alleged Israeli Strikes near Damascus. Read more

May 18, 2022 - Event: The U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe is closely monitoring the situation in Khorugh and Rushan, including reports of roadblocks along the Pamir highway and throughout Khorugh, large demonstrations, and several casualties. Mobile phone networks may become inoperable without notice. Read more

May 18, 2022 - Researchers believe that they have finally found the cause of Gulf War illness that made around 250,000 U.S. troops sick after almost 30 years of attempting to find the answer. Read more

May 17, 2022 - SYRIA - Syria, Channel 13 news has reported that Russia, for the first time fired on Israeli aircraft in Syria using S-300 anti-aircraft missiles last week citing 'foreign publications'. Read more

May 15, 2022 - Shireen Abu Akleh, a well known journalist for Al-Jazeera news was shot in the head during an Israeli counterterror raid in the West Bank by a live bullet. The Al-Jazeera broadcaster and the two reporters that were with her at the time have blamed Israeli forces for the death. Read more

May 14, 2022 - ISIS fighters in Nigeria have murdered 20 Christians in retaliation for the deaths of several of the group's leaders that occurred in the Middle East. Read more

May 14, 2022 - Syrian state news agency SANA claims that Israeli missiles fired from Masyaf, in Hama targeted Syria, killing five people and injuring one person. IT also alleges that one of the people killed was a civilian. Read more

May 8, 2022 - Russia is redirecting its troops located in Syria, in the Middle East to eastern and southern Ukraine. Read more

May 2, 2022 - Message from the U.S. Embassy Baghdad and U.S. Consulate General Erbil regarding the attack on the oil refinery in the Iraqi Kurdistan region. "The United States condemns last night's attack on Iraq which resulted in damage to an oil refinery in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region". Read more

May 1, 2022 - Six missiles were fired at Erbil, Iraq. The rockets were reportedly fired from the Al-Hamdaniya district of the Nineveh Governorate in Northern Iraq. Read more

Retaliatory Strikes In Syria Against Iranian-Backed Militias Result In 19 Deaths - SYRIA - The death toll resulting from US airstrikes on Iranian-backed militias in Syria has risen to 19, according to the UK-based war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Read More Alerts

The SOHR said that air raids killed three Syrian soldiers and 11 Syrians working for Iran-backed militias, five non-Syrian fighters aligned with the government.

Four of the killed are reported by the war monitor as having identities that "remain unknown".

The war monitor reported that the airstrikes "Were executed by US fighter jets and unidentified aircraft on positions of Iranian-backed militias in Deir Ezzor in the early hours of Friday".

After the first response to the attack that killed a U.S. contractor and wounded six others, a series of retaliatory strikes occurred which resulted in another United States service member being wounded, officials said.

The SOHR said that after the attacks, Iranian-backed militias in "Al-Mayadeen, Al-Bokamal and Deir Ezzor cities amassed their troops and were put on high alert, in preparation for new attacks".

U.S. Responds to Attack That Killed U.S. Contractor in Syria - DOD: "The U.S. response to the attack on a coalition base in Syria that killed a U.S. contractor and wounded six others highlighted that the U.S. military will do what it must to protect its personnel. Read More Alerts

Iranian-backed militias in Syria were responsible for the drone attack on the coalition base near Hasakah in northeastern Syria. The coalition base houses personnel working to ensure the lasting defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, at the direction of President Joe Biden, authorized U.S. Central Command forces to conduct precision strikes into eastern Syria against facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder during a news conference today. "The airstrikes were conducted in response to yesterday's attack, as well as a series of recent attacks against coalition forces in Syria by groups affiliated with the IRGC," he said.

F-15E fighters assigned in Centcom launched the attack at approximately 2:40 a.m. local time. "We're continuing to assess the outcome of the strikes," Ryder said. "Initial indications are that the facilities were destroyed. These precision strikes were intended to protect and defend U.S. personnel, and the U.S. took proportionate and deliberate action intended to limit the risk of escalation and minimize casualties."

This morning, Iranian-backed groups launched 10 rockets that targeted coalition forces at the Green Village in northeast Syria. The attack resulted in no injuries to U.S. or coalition personnel and no damage to U.S. equipment or facilities, Ryder said.

"Our current assessment is that this these rocket attacks were conducted by IRGC-affiliated groups, that this rocket attack was done in an effort to retaliate for last night's attacks," the press secretary said. "Again, they did not cause any damage at the coalition facility. As far as any type of future action, I'm not going to talk about or preview potential future operations other than to say we will always reserve the right to respond appropriately if our forces are threatened."

Iran is a source of instability all around the region. Ryder noted Iranian proxies operate in Yemen, the Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf, and Lebanon. The Iranians have been supplying the drones that Russia is using to attack innocents in Ukraine, he said.

"The United States and our coalition allies and partners … are focused on trying to ensure stability, security in these regions," Ryder said. "And that will continue to be our focus. We do not seek a wider conflict. With that said, if our people are threatened, we will continue to respond appropriately and proportionately."

CENTCOM Statement On Rocket Attack on Green Village, Northeast Syria - TAMPA, Fla. – On the morning of March 24th, at approximately 8:05 a.m. Syrian local time, 10 rockets targeted coalition forces at the Green Village in northeast Syria. Read More Alerts

The attack resulted in no injuries to U.S. or coalition personnel and no damage to U.S. equipment or facilities.

One of the rockets missed the facility by almost five kilometers, striking a civilian house, causing significant damage and causing minor injuries to two women and two children.

“This kind of indiscriminate rocket attack places not only our forces and coalition forces at risk, but also jeopardizes the local civilian population as well as the security and stability of Syria and the entire region,” said Col. Joe Buccino, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command.

“As President Biden has made clear, we will take all necessary measures to defend our people and will always respond at a time and place of our choosing,” continued Buccino.

Second US Base Hit In Syria After US Retaliatory Strikes - AL-OMAR - A second U.S. base, Green Village in Syria located in the Al-Omar gas field in northeastern Syria was targeted by rockets after retaliatory strikes were carried out by the United States in response to another attack that killed an American contractor and wounded another contractor and four other service members. Read More Alerts

In the latest attack, the rockets were fired at the Green Village base but did not result in any casualties according to Major John Moore, who is a spokesperson for the United States Central Command (CENTCOM).

ABC News reporter Luis Martinez reported that 10 rockets were fired at the Green Village base.

The retaliatory strikes by the United States before the second attack on a US base were carried out after a drone strike by militant groups affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to a statement by the Pentagon.

The drone strike occurred at a US coalition base coalition base near Hasakah in northeast Syria at about 1:38 p.m. local time Thursday.

The statement by Central Command said "Our troops remain in Syria to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS, which benefits the security and stability of not only Syria, but the entire region".

CENTCOM: Attack On Forces Killed American Contractor In Syria, Wounded Troops And Another Contractor - Central Command: "This evening, we responded to an attack on our forces that killed an American contractor and wounded our troops and another American contractor by striking facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. Read More Alerts

"We will always take all necessary measures to defend our people and will always respond at a time and place of our choosing. We are postured for scalable options in the face of any additional Iranian attacks.

"The thoughts and prayers of US Central Command are with the Family of our contractor killed and with our wounded servicemembers and contractor.

"Our troops remain in Syria to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS, which benefits the security and stability of not only Syria, but the entire region."

DOD: Attack On Forces Killed American Contractor In Syria, Wounded Troops And Another Contractor - Department of Defense:" Earlier today, a U.S. contractor was killed and five U.S. service members and one additional U.S. contractor were wounded after a one-way unmanned aerial vehicle struck a maintenance facility on a Coalition base near Hasakah in northeast Syria at approximately 1:38 p.m. local time. Read More Alerts

The intelligence community assess the UAV to be of Iranian origin.

"At the direction of President Biden, I authorized U.S. Central Command forces to conduct precision airstrikes tonight in eastern Syria against facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC)," said Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III. "The airstrikes were conducted in response to today’s attack as well as a series of recent attacks against Coalition forces in Syria by groups affiliated with the IRGC."

These precision strikes are intended to protect and defend U.S. personnel. The United States took proportionate and deliberate action intended to limit the risk of escalation and minimize casualties.

"As President Biden has made clear, we will take all necessary measures to defend our people and will always respond at a time and place of our choosing," said Secretary Austin. "No group will strike our troops with impunity."

"Our thoughts are with the family and colleagues of the contractor who was killed and with those who were wounded in the attack earlier today," said the Secretary.

Two of the wounded service members were treated on site, while three additional service members and the U.S. contractor were medically evacuated to Coalition medical facilities in Iraq."

Nuclear Inspectors Detect 84% Purity Enriched Uranium In Iran - TEHRAN - International nuclear inspectors have detected 84% enriched uranium in Iran, "just below" the level needed to manufacture a nuclear weapon. Get All Alerts

Iran had told the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that its centrifuges were only configured to reach a purity of 60%, conflicting with the recent findings.

The level of enriched uranium needed to manufacture a nuclear warhead is around 90% enrichment purity.

In January of 2023, Israeli military's outgoing Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi had said that Iran had enough enriched uranium to produce four nuclear bombs.

In November of 2022, the IAEA said that Iran had reached 60% uranium enrichment purity at its Fordow nuclear plant.

In July of 2022, an IRGC affiliated Telegram channel had posted a video declaring that Iran can move its "peaceful nuclear program to a nuclear weapons program" very quickly, and said that Iran's ballistic missiles are capable of "turning New York into hellish ruins".

CENTCOM: ISIS Senior Leader Killed and Four U.S. Servicemembers Wounded in Helicopter Raid in Northeastern Syria - CENTRAL COMMAND: "TAMPA, Fla. - Last night, during a partnered U.S. and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four U.S. servicemembers and one working dog wounded. The targeted ISIS senior leader, Hamza al- Homsi, was killed. The U.S. servicemembers and working dog are receiving treatment in a U.S. medical facility in Iraq."Get All Alerts & News

A second statement said, "ISIS Senior Leader Killed and Four U.S. Servicemembers Wounded in Helicopter Raid in Northeastern Syria".

Central Command Carries Out D-ISIS Raid On February 10th, 2023 - Central Command (CENTCOM) has released a statement regarding a "D-ISIS" raid that was carried out on February 10th, 2023 in which an ISIS leader was killed. Get Alerts Early

CENTCOM Statement: "A partnered D-ISIS raid on Feb 10th resulted in the seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt. We can confirm Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks, was killed in the raid. 10,000+ ISIS detainees are held in Syria".

Central Command: US Forces Shoot Down Iranian-Manufactured UAV In Syria - US CENTRAL COMMAND: "On February 14th, at approximately 2:30 PM local time, US forces in Syria engaged and shot down an Iranian-manufactured UAV attempting to conduct reconnaissance of Mission Support Site Conoco, a patrol base in northeast Syria." See Photos & Get All Alerts

Another 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake In Turkey Hits, Along With Aftershocks - TURKEY - There has been another 7.5 magnitude earthquake, this time in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey. Many aftershocks also reported, along with internet outages in the country. 7.5 Magnitude Quake | Aftershocks & Internet Outages

A number of aftershock quakes have hit Turkey after the two big ones hit earlier. The death toll in Turkey and Syria continues to rise and the destruction that it has caused is widespread.

I won't give an estimate yet, it will be a while before a solid number is reached, but it looks to be quite substantial.

NetBlocks internet observatory is reporting that the 7.8 magnitude earthquake knocked out power in parts of southern Turkey, which may impact the country's ability to seek out assistance.

7.8 and 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake In Central Turkey - TURKEY - There has been a 7.8 and a 6.7 magnitude earthquake in Turkey, the 6.7 magnitude earthquake looks to be an aftershock of the first 7.8 magnitude quake.

7.8 Magnitude Details: Timestamp: 2023-02-06 09:17:35 (UTC+08:00), Epicenter location: 37.174°N 37.032°E, Depth: 17.9 miles.

6.7 Magnitude Details: Timestamp: 2023-02-06 09:28:17 (UTC+08:00), Location: 37.414°N 36.831°E, Depth: 6.15 miles

At Least 8 Rockets Fired At Turkish Base In Northern Iraq - BAGHDAD - At least eight, some reports say 20 rockets were fired at a Turkish Zilkan military base in northern Iraq Wednesday. Two of the rockets that were fired landed on the inside of the base, wounding an Iraqi contractor.

The Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service, a security organization in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdish region reported the attack. Some sources, such as Al Mayadeen say that the base was targeted with up to 20 rockets.

A Turkish security source said that that were no damages or casualties in the base as a result of the rocket attack.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, and it is not yet known who carried it out. The base hosts Turkish troops and is located in the Ninevah province.

Suspected US Drone Strike In Yemen Kills 3 Suspected al-Qaeda Militants - (Based on translations) - A U.S. drone strike is suspected to have killed three suspected al-Qaeda militants in Yemen’s Marib province, according to Yemeni media. See Photos Here

Yemeni media reported that Hassan al-Hadrami was one of the men killed in the suspected drone strike, which "was believed to be" carried out by the United States, according to a report by al Arabiya.

The Arabic news channel said that Hassan al-Hadrami was said to be with two of his companions who were with him in the vehicle that was allegedly hit by the airstrike, citing "tribal sources".

The report also says that it is noteworthy, because Hassan al-Hadrami's house was targeted by a raid in November of 2022, and is "one of the most prominent military leaders of al-Qaeda in Yemen," possessing great experience in "making mines and explosives," which reportedly put him "at the top of the list of targets" for American forces.

The report said that activists from Ma'rib governorate published a photo of al-Hadrami's vehicle which was "completely destroyed" by the strike, and had traces of blood on it.

All three men who were in the vehicle at the time of the alleged drone strike were killed.

A local government official reportedly told AFP news that “Three al-Qaeda members were killed in a strike by a drone that is believed to be American".

“The three were in a car in Wadi Obeida when they were targeted by the suspected US strike that killed them immediately," the report cited the officials as saying.

The photo of the aftermath indicates that a U.S. drone carried out the strike using an AGM-114 R9X Hellfire missile in which the explosives in the missile are replaced with metal blades to minimize collateral damage.

This type of missile is sometimes nicknamed “knife bomb” or the “flying Ginsu" due to the blades that are released at the target.

Suicide Bombing In Pakistan Kills At Least 59 People - PAKISTAN - A suicide bombing that occurred in a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan killed at least 59 people on Monday, and injured at least 150 people, many in critical condition.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif said that the blast at the mosque with around 260 people inside during noon-time prayers was a suicide attack.

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif spoke to Geo TV and said, "We're getting that the terrorist was standing in the first row".

A commander for the Pakistani Taliban group has claimed responsibility for the suicide attack.

Airstrike Targets Truck Convoy On Syria-Iraq Border - SYRIA/IRAQ - An airstrike targeted a truck convoy on the Syria-Iraq border that consisted of 25 trucks crossing over the border from Iraq into Syria via a crossing that Hezbollah currently controls.

Al-Arabiya and Israel National News have reported the airstrike on the convoy, which it says belonged to a pro-Iranian militia and likely was transporting weapons.

Israel National News cited former IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi as saying, "We couldn’t have been aware of the Syrian convoy a few weeks ago".

“We couldn’t have known that it was heading from Iraq to Syria, we couldn’t have known what’s in it and we couldn’t have known that out of the 25 trucks, truck number eight was the one carrying weapons," he continued.

“We needed to send pilots to the right place and they had to evade surface-to-air missiles fired at them. They needed to attack, they needed to hit their targets and come back safely and not kill people who shouldn’t be killed. These are very advanced capabilities,” he added.

The Israeli news agency said that the strike followed the attack on the city of Isfahan, Iran, which it says that Iran "downplayed" as an "unsuccessful" drone attack.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) refused to either deny or confirm the attacks were carried out by Israel.

Israel Reportedly Behind Attack On Iranian Weapons Factory - Israel reported to be behind the attack on the Iranian weapons factory. The Pentagon has stated that no U.S. military forces were involved in strikes, despite claims by Saudi media that the United States Air Force was involved. Read Full Article

Netblocks: Iranian Internet Network Cut, Disruption In Connectivity - Netblocks Internet Observatory: "Confirmed: Network data show a disruption to internet connectivity in #Iran with high impact to Mazandaran Province; authorities are attributing the incident to fiber optic cuts on the path between Babol and Sari". Read Notice

7 Killed, Multiple Injured In Jerusalem Synagogue Attack - JERUSALEM - A terrorist attack in a synagogue in Jerusalem resulted in the deaths of 7 people, along with multiple injured. Three of the injured are in "severe condition" according to the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

The gunman was shot dead by police after carrying out the attack at the synagogue. The HAMAS terrorist organization has claimed responsibility for the attack according to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz.

Israel Carries Out Airstrikes In Gaza After 2 Rockets Launched From Gaza Into Israel - ISRAEL - Two rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip into Israel. Both were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system. Israel has carried out an airstrike within Gaza following the rocket launches.

Statements by Israel Defense Forces: "Two rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip. The rockets were intercepted by the IDF Aerial Defense Array".

Earlier report (before the rocket attacks): "IDF & Israeli security forces operated in Jenin to apprehend an Islamic Jihad terrorist squad planning imminent terrorist attacks earlier today. Armed gunmen fired heavily at our soldiers from civilian rooftops as they carried out their critical mission".

Largest U.S.-Israeli Exercise in History Concludes - DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE: "Today marks the conclusion of exercise Juniper Oak 23.2. This exercise was the largest U.S-Israel partnered exercise in history, said Deputy Pentagon Spokesperson Sabrina Singh, who held a news conference today.

Juniper Oak integrated U.S. and Israeli fifth-generation fighter assets, which are the most advanced and capable, she said.

The USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, which participated in the exercise, involved command and control elements, rescue and refueling aircraft and live fire exercises with more than 140 aircraft, and roughly 6,400 U.S. troops alongside more than 1,500 Israeli troops.

Today, the U.S.-Israel military partnership is stronger than it ever has been, and it continues to grow, stated Army Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command in a news release, while aboard the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier today.

"I've observed our forces alongside Israeli troops firing HIMARS and MLRS rockets, conducting maritime operations, executing highly complex flight operations, coordinating close air support, operating together on land, at sea and in the air," Kurilla said, referring to the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and Multiple Launch Rocket System.

Juniper Oak 23.2 integrated unmanned aerial vehicles, strategic bombers, jet fighters and precision fires. U.S. and Israeli forces conducted long-range strikes, suppression of enemy air defense, electronic attacks, offensive counter and air interdiction, and air operations in the maritime domain. In four days, these troops dropped more than 180,000 pounds of live munitions, Kurilla said.

Logistical support and the command nodes involving the two nations were superb, he added.

"It's remarkable that Israel's transition to and partnership with U.S. Central Command is less than 18 months old. Our shared achievement is a testament to the leadership of the Israel Defense Forces and the enduring commitment of the Department of Defense's most senior leaders to increase military cooperation. Only through a firm commitment to this partnership are we able to plan and organize such an incredibly complex high-end operation across such a large geographic area integrating all aspects of warfighting, some of which are seen and some of which are not," Kurilla said.

Separately, Singh said that this week, the Marine Corps will reactivate Camp Blaz in Guam, part of an agreement with the Japanese government to reposition Marines from Okinawa, as well as contribute to the overall integrity of integrated deterrence and bolster U.S. operational security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Camp Blaz will serve as a strategic hub and training area for joint forces, allies and partners in the region. "The Marine Corps has a deep history in Guam, and we are committed to continuing that strong relationship," she added."

USS George H. W. Bush Carrier Group Joins Completion Of US/Israel Juniper Oak Exercises - MEDITERRANEAN SEA - The aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN-77) carrier strike group joined the joint US/Israel Juniper Oak drills in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea as the exercise wrapped up.

CENTCOM Statement On The Strike Group Joining Exercise Juniper Oak 2023-2

CENTCOM: "MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Jan. 24, 2023) The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group sails in formation with the Israeli Navy during exercise Juniper Oak 2023-2, Jan. 24, 2023. Juniper Oak 23-2 is a bilateral military exercise, led by U.S. Central Command and the Israeli Defense Force, designed to enhance interoperability between the U.S. and Israel militaries. Juniper Oak 23-2 joins the long-standing “Juniper” series that the U.S. and Israel have conducted for more than 20-years. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Novalee Manzella)".

Completion of Juniper Oak 23.2 Exercise

CENTCOM: "TAMPA, Fla. – Today, U.S. Central Command and the Israel Defense Forces concluded Juniper Oak 23.2, the largest U.S.-Israel partnered exercise in history. Juniper Oak 23.2 integrated U.S. and Israeli 5th generation fighter assets, the USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, command and control elements, rescue and refueling aircraft during a long-range large force exercise that included a live fire exercise with more than 140 aircraft including B52s, F35s, F15s, F16s, FA-18s, AC-130, AH64s, 12 naval assets, High Mobility Rocket Artillery Systems, Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, a mix of jet fighters, and long-range bombers.

Juniper Oak 23.2 enhanced interoperability and the ability of CENTCOM forces to rapidly move combat power into the region. “Today the partnership between CENTCOM and the IDF is stronger and continues to grow,” said Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, CENTCOM commander. “Our partnership is a key pillar of our commitment to expanding regional security cooperation.”

“We at CENTCOM will take the lessons learned from Exercise Juniper Oak and share and incorporate them with all our partners across the CENTCOM region,” Kurilla concluded.

Roughly 6,400 U.S. troops alongside more than 1,500 Israeli troops participated in the exercise. CENTCOM remains committed to strengthening partnerships and enhancing interoperability in support of a more stable, more secure region."

NY Army Guard aviation Soldiers mobilize for Mideast mission - US Army: "ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Almost 400 New York Army National Guard Soldiers will soon leave for a deployment to Kuwait.

The Soldiers from Rochester, Dunkirk and Long Island will train in Pennsylvania and Texas before heading to the Middle East for 10 months.

Some 350 Soldiers are assigned to the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion, trained to provide logistics and maintenance support to the helicopter units of an Army combat aviation brigade.

Forty-five Soldiers are members of Detachment 1, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 126th General Support Aviation Battalion, and fly CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters.

The 642nd Aviation has elements in Rochester and Dunkirk in western New York and in Farmingdale and Ronkonkoma on Long Island. The battalion is part of the New York Army National Guard’s 42nd Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade.

The 642nd will conduct farewell ceremonies at the Army Aviation Support Facilities in Rochester and Ronkonkoma. The Soldiers from Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 126th General Support Aviation Battalion, will participate in the Rochester ceremony.

The 642nd will train for two weeks at Fort Indiantown Gap near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and for about two months in Fort Hood, Texas, before deploying to Kuwait.

The Soldiers from Bravo Company will also train at Fort Indiantown Gap and Fort Hood. They will be under the control of their battalion at Fort Hood and in Kuwait while they fly missions to support Army forces in the region.

The 642nd will support the Mississippi Army National Guard’s 185th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade during operations throughout the region.

The 642nd Aviation Support Battalion deployed to Kuwait in 2013 and 2014 as part of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, conducting support operations across the Middle East.

In 2005, the battalion, then known as the 642nd Divisional Aviation Support Battalion, deployed to Tikrit, Iraq, as part of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade and the 42nd Infantry Division.

During that deployment, the battalion conducted 180 combat logistics patrols covering nearly 60,000 miles while repelling multiple attacks by insurgent forces. The unit also recovered three downed aircraft.

During the deployment, two Purple Hearts were awarded and six vehicles were lost to enemy fire, but no Soldiers were killed.

In New York, Soldiers of the battalion responded to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and supported operations after Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 126th General Support Aviation Battalion is a New York Army National Guard aviation company that is part of an aviation battalion headquartered in Massachusetts.

The Soldiers fly the CH-47F helicopter, the largest in the Army’s inventory.

The company deployed to Afghanistan, where the heavy lift and high-altitude capabilities of the CH-47 were vital. The unit served in Afghanistan from 2007 to 2008, 2012 and 2013, and 2018.

Soldiers from the company participated in state responses to Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and the “Snowvember” Storm in 2014. Last fall, the unit deployed an aircraft and crew to Florida to help respond to Hurricane Ian.

In May, a Bravo Company CH-47 recovered a pontoon in danger of sweeping over Niagara Falls.

Currently, 1,800 New York Army National Guard Soldiers are deployed overseas.

The 369th Sustainment Brigade has deployed 260 Soldiers in Kuwait, supporting the 10,000 Army Soldiers of Task Force Spartan.

The 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation, a UH-60 helicopter unit based in Latham and Ronkonkoma, has 250 troops deployed in Kuwait.

The 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry, along with companies from the 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry, and the 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry — 1,130 Soldiers — are operating in the Horn of Africa, securing U.S. military facilities in the area.

And in Germany, 140 Soldiers of Task Force Orion, from the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, are training Ukrainian soldiers as part of the U.S. support for that nation’s war effort."

CENTCOM and Israel Defense Forces Conduct Exercise Juniper Oak 23.2 - CENTRAL COMMAND: U.S. Central Command and the Israel Defense Forces carry out live-fire exercise Juniper Oak 23.2 in Israel and the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

"This exercise strengthens collective U.S.-Israeli readiness and improves the interoperability of both forces, thereby contributing to regional stability. Exercises like Juniper Oak show that interoperability and integration represent the improved security in the region.

“Consistent with CENTCOM’s strategic approach of People, Partners, and Innovation, we are committed to strengthening military-to-military relations throughout the region,” said Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM. “Juniper Oak is a Combined Joint All-Domain exercise which improves our interoperability on land, in the air, at sea, in space, and in cyberspace with our partners, enhances our ability to respond to contingencies, and underscores our commitment to the Middle East.”

Juniper Oak 23.2 integrates many military assets and missions, including:

Assets And Missions: Strategic bombers, U.S. and Israeli command and control, Fighter aircraft, Air operations in maritime surface warfare, Rescue aircraft, Combat search and rescue, Refueling aircraft, Electronic attack, Naval forces, Suppression of enemy air defenses, Ground long-range precision fires, Strike coordination and reconnaissance, Air long-range precision fires, Air interdiction, Rotary wing aircraft, Space Force assets, Special Operations Forces, Infantry forces.

This exercise will include a large-scale live fire event with over 140 aircraft including B52s, F35s, F15s, F16s, FA-18s, AC-130, AH64s, 12 naval vessels, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, and Multiple Launch Rocket Systems.

“These kinds of exercises – which CENTCOM routinely conducts with our partners – develop interoperability between military forces, increase military capabilities, and are important to the security and stability of the region. The lessons learned during these exercises are exportable to our partners across the region,” Kurilla concluded."

Israel Unveils "Point Blank" Missile/Suicide Backpack Drone - JERUSALEM - Israel's state-owned IAI Aerospace Industries has announced its new "Point Blank" electro-optically guided missile, capable of being stored in a soldier's backpack. It can take off and land back into the operator's hand. Read Full Article

The IAI has been awarded a multi-million-dollar contract to develop the "ROC-X" version of the POINT BLANK system for the U.S. Department of Defense. The first prototype, as well as the accompanying training to use the device is expected to be released next year, according to an IAI statement.

The missile is a hand-launched loitering missile, also called an attack drone which can land back in a soldiers hand without exploding if it is not used against a target.

The 'loitering' missile/drone are also known as 'suicide' or 'kamikaze' drone can be both launched and operated by a single soldier alone.

The Point Blank missile weighs around 15 pounds and is 3 feet in length. The device is capable of flying at an altitude of 1,500 feet at a max speed of 178 miles per hour.

It's also capable of hovering over the target while the soldier analyzes what kind of target it is, as well as its position. It can be retracted and re-stored if the soldier decides against carrying out an attack on the target in question.

In a statement, the IAI said, “The system answers the battlefield requirement to provide tactical units ranging in size from small tactical teams to battalion level, with an independent and organic capability to increase their lethality".

CENTCOM Conducts Ground Assault Raid In Eastern Syria - Central Command forces conducted a partnered helicopter and ground assault raid in eastern Syria.

CENTRAL COMMAND STATEMENT: "CENTCOM Conducts Partnered Helicopter and Ground Assault Raid in Syria TAMPA, Fla. - U.S. Central Command forces conducted a partnered helicopter and ground assault raid in eastern Syria, Jan. 21, capturing two ISIS-Syria members, Abdallah Hamid Muslih al-Maddad AKA Abu Hamza al-Suri, an ISIS facilitator, and Husam Hamid al-Muslih al-Maddad, al-Khayr, ISIS facilitator and logistician, and one associate.

One civilian received minor injuries. "The injured civilian was escorted by our partner forces to a nearby medical care facility along with an accompanying family member," said Colonel Joe Buccino, a CENTCOM spokesperson.

"He received care and was released back to his family." "This operation reaffirms CENTCOM's steadfast commitment to the region and the enduring defeat of ISIS," said Buccino.

"The capture will disrupt the terrorist organization's ability to further plot and carry out attacks that threaten regional security and stability."

"ISIS represents a threat to our partners and to the people of Iraq and Syria and beyond," he added. "Our mission to defeat ISIS alongside our Syrian Democratic Forces partners continues."

Multiple Drone Attack on Coalition Outpost in Syria - TAMPA, Fla. – This morning, three one-way attack drones attacked the At Tanf Garrison in Syria. Two of the drones were shot down by Coalition Forces while one struck the compound, injuring two members of the Syrian Free Army partner force who received medical treatment. No US forces were injured.

“Attacks of this kind are unacceptable – they place our troops and our partners at risk and jeopardize the fight against ISIS,” said Joe Buccino CENTCOM spokesperson.

CENTCOM Conducts Partnered D-ISIS Operation With Syrian Democratic Forces - CENTRAL COMMAND - "CENTCOM Conducts a Partnered D-ISIS Operation with the Syrian Democratic Forces TAMPA, Fla. - U.S. Central Command forces partnered with Syrian Democratic Forces to conduct a partnered helicopter assault in eastern Syria on Jan. 18 capturing an ISIS Syrian provincial media and security operative.

The individual was involved in the planning and facilitation of ISIS operations in and outside of the region as well as global recruiting efforts. Extensive planning went into this operation to ensure its successful execution. Initial assessments indicate no civilians were killed or injured.

"This operation reaffirms CENTCOM's steadfast commitment to the region and the enduring defeat of ISIS," said Col. Joe Buccino, CENTCOM spokesperson.

"The capture of this ISIS operative will disrupt the terrorist organization's ability to further the plot and carry out global attacks threatening U.S. citizens, our partners, and innocent civilians. "ISIS continues to represent a threat to the U.S. and partners in the region.

CENTCOM maintains a sufficient and sustainable presence in the region and will continue to counter threats against regional security."

Saudi Arabia: "Open To Trade In Other Currencies" Other Than The Dollar - Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan says that Saudi Arabia is "open to settling trade in other currencies" other than the US dollar. 

Al-Jadaan told Bloomberg TV from the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland., “There are no issues with discussing how we settle our trade arrangements, whether it is in the US dollar, whether it is the euro, whether it is the Saudi riyal". 

He added, “I don’t think we are waving away or ruling out any discussion that will help improve the trade around the world". 

Egypt, Iran, India and Russia are also planning on dropping the US dollar, with China quietly trying to dethrone the US dollar, according to a Report by Foreign Policy last year. 

Israel: Iran Has Enough Enriched Uranium To Make 4 Nuclear Bombs - JERUSALEM - Iran has enough enriched uranium to produce four nuclear bombers, according to the Israeli military's outgoing Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi. 

"Iran today has enough enriched material to produce four nuclear bombs, three at 20 per cent and one at 60 per cent," he said. 

He said that Iran has an "active weapons team," and "“has been working at a very slow pace, and this is in violation of the nuclear deal.”

He also addressed what will be targeted in Iran if Israel decides to strike the country, "If it comes to entering a major battle, military sites and additional sites will be included in the list of targets."

He added, "We have been engaged in accelerating preparations to attack Iran's nuclear facilities in recent years and many other types of targets". 

The Israeli Chief of Staff spoke to Israel Hayom and addressed plans to prevent Iran from successfully obtaining nuclear weapons. 

“These extend from a retaliatory strike on Iran that would be unrelated to the nuclear issue, to the taking out of the Iranian nuclear installations and auxiliary sites in that project, and if the situation eventually escalates into a full-fledged campaign then these plans also include the targeting of military sites and other assets,” he said. 

DOD: U.S., Partners Find Success in Mission to Defeat ISIS - DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - "Last year, U.S. Central Command conducted 313 operations in Iraq and Syria as part of the mission to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, also known as ISIS.

More than 95% of those operations were in partnership with either the Iraqi Security Force or the Syrian Democratic Forces.

As a result, nearly 700 ISIS fighters were killed and another 374 were detained. No U.S. service members were killed as part of the efforts.

"This really speaks to the professionalism of our men and women in uniform and also the enduring commitment of the United States—from the strategic all the way down to the tactical level—to completing this fight," said Dana Stroul, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Middle East.

During a conference call Wednesday, Stroul told journalists the mission to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria remains a key priority of the national defense strategy, and it's one senior leaders in Washington follow closely. She also said that, despite successes, ISIS remains a threat, and there is still more work to be done.

One advantage the U.S. has against ISIS is the relationships it has, not just with Iraq and the Syrian Democratic Forces, but also with partners around the world. Stroul said a recent trip to Finland to discuss the state of the fight against ISIS, demonstrated this.

"What was striking to me is the enduring commitment not only of the United States, but` of our European partners, as well as New Zealand, Australia and others," she said. "Our partners across the world recognize the importance of this mission, recognize that ISIS still remains a threat, and are committed to this coalition."

Also of value are the advancements made by Iraq since the U.S. transitioned a year ago to an advise, assist, enable and intelligence-sharing mission there, said Army Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve. He said the U.S. continues to retain a presence in Iraq, at the invitation of the Iraqi government.

"In Iraq, things continue to improve in terms of their ability to demonstrate and actually execute independent operations as they're building capabilities, capacity and competence towards gaining an independent ability to conduct enduring operations, sustainable, enduring operations against ISIS," he said.

The general said much has changed in Iraq since the last time he was in the country in 2005. Baghdad, he said, is "alive and awake and illuminated at night," and the Iraqi military is engaged in operations that are part of the “Defeat ISIS” mission in Iraq, as well as providing security for the Arabian Gulf Cup soccer tournament being held Jan. 6-19 in Iraq for the first time in 44 years.

"So, [there is] progress and continued room to grow and build the capacity and capability, but [ also a] very capable force," he said.

Stroul said the U.S. also remains committed to the D-ISIS mission in Syria, in partnership with the Syrian Democratic Forces.

"Not only are U.S. forces continuing to prosecute unilateral operations against ISIS, but we maintain a robust pace of partnered operations with the SDF, who are the only combat-credible, capable and committed partner present in northeast Syria today willing to join us in this fight," she said.

Of importance are the number of ISIS detainees—as many as 10,000—who are in the custody of Syrian Democratic Forces in northeast Syria.

"We know that ISIS continues to have its eyes on these detainees and sees them as the path to reconstituting and resurging across the Middle East, which is why we must stay the course [and] continue to work with the coalition in supporting the SDF to maintain custody of these detainees in a secure and humane manner."

Drone Shot Down Over Ain al-Asad Air Base Hosting US Forces - IRAQ - A drone was shot down over the Ain al-Asad Air Base that hosts U.S. Forces, according to Iraqi military sources on Sunday, after which the US-led military coalition said it had carried out "an operational exercise", contradicting reports by the Iraqi military that it may have been hostile. 

The Iraqi military said that the drone might have had hostile intent, and said it wasn't clear whether it was on a surveillance mission, or if it was carrying explosives.

The US-led coalition, in a contradicting statement said that it had carried out “an operational exercise...that involved engaging an Unmanned Aerial System”. 

There were no damages reported as a result of the shootdown, and no casualties reported. 

The attack comes as the United States marks the third anniversary of Iran's missile strike on the al-Asad Air Base in which the IRGC fired 13 ballistic missiles at the base. 

The attack three years ago marks the first time any country has directly attacked the United States since World War 2. 

Washington: Claims That US In Talks To Revive Iranian Nuclear deal Are False - WASHINGTON - After Israeli Prime Minister said that efforts were underway to revive the JCPOA nuclear deal, the Biden Administration put out a statement saying that claims that it was engaged in talks were "false".

The U.S. State Department said on Wednesday that it is not in talks to revive the JCPOA nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, and said that it "hasn't been on the agenda for some months now". 

U.S. State Department Spokesman Ned Price said that the administration is currently focused on "doing everything we can to support the universal rights of the people of Iran".

"Since September especially our focus has been on standing up, … for the fundamental freedoms of the Iranian people," he told reporters Wednesday. 

He added, "and now what it is doing to its own people — the repression, the violence that it's perpetrating against the brave Iranians who are taking to the streets; and the military support, the security assistance that it's providing to Russia — all of these are compounded and represent what is undeniably one of the most difficult challenges we face". 

British MI5 Addresses Threats From Iran, Russia, And China - The British MI5 Security Service addressed threats to the UK posed by Iran, Russia, and China and is expected to declare the Iranian IRGC a terrorist organization in the coming weeks. Read Full Article

Two Rockets Target US Base In Syria - CENTCOM - TAMPA, Fla. – "Two rockets targeted coalition forces at Mission Support Site Conoco, northeast Syria, today at approximately 9am local time in Syria (1 am Eastern Standard Time). 

The attack resulted in no injuries or damage to the base or coalition property. Syrian Democratic Forces visited the rocket origin site and found a third unfired rocket.

"Attacks of this kind place coalition forces and the civilian populace at risk and undermine the hard-earned stability and security of Syria and the region," said Col. Joe Buccino, CENTCOM spokesman."

Iran Reports IRGC Officer Assassinated In Tehran On Anniversary Of Soleimani Assassination - IRAN - The Iranian state-run news agency IRNA has reported that an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps officer has been assassinated in front of his residential home in Tehran after being hit by four bullets, according to IRC-affiliated Tasnim News Agency. 

IRNA reported that Qasim Fathullahi, who was commander of Basij mobilization forces under the IRGC's Tharallah Headquarters command near the Imam Sajjad Mosque in Tehran was targeted in front of his home in the Mokhtari district in Tehran. 

The assassination comes as Iran remembers the assassination of IRGC Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani which was carried out by a U.S. drone strike aided by Israeli intelligence on January 3rd, 2020 at the Baghdad International Airport in Iraq. 

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was cited by IRNA as saying that "taking revenge on the blood" of Soleimani "is certain", calling him a Martyr. 

Raisi was cited as saying that the "enemy has used all its power with various kinds of facilities, including military, cyber, media, political and economic war" and that Iran has defeated its enemies "in all wars by following insightful guidance from the revolution leader". 

The Iranian news agency said that "US terrorists assassinated General Soleimani, the commander of the Qods Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis,the former commander of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), along with their companions by targeting their vehicles outside Baghdad International Airport on January 3 on a direct order from US President Donald Trump". 

Soleimani led the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's elite Quads Force and aided in orchestrating paramilitary groups outside of Iran. The IRGC is considered a terrorist organization in the United States.

Israel Reports A Failed Rocket Launch In Northern Gaza Strip - ISRAEL - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has reported a rocket launch, but the rocket failed. No alert was activated "in accordance with standard operating procedures". 

Full Statement By The Israel Defense Forces: "A failed rocket launch that fell in the northern Gaza Strip was identified tonight. In accordance with standard operating procedures, an alert was not activated. Full routine continues on the Israeli home front."

Israel Strikes Damascus, Increases Cooperation With US, Prepares For Attack On Iran - Israel carried out a missile strike on the Damascus International Airport, killing four people while boosting cooperation with the US, and preparing for an attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. Read Full Article

Hamas And PIJ Threaten War In Response To Israeli Official Announcing Temple Mount Visit - The Hamas terrorist organization has threatened explosive violence and said that if Israeli National Security Minister Ben Gvir visits the Temple Mount, the visit would lead to violence and a declaration of war. Read Full Article

Syrian State-Media Reports Syrian Air Defense Systems Activated Over Damascus - SYRIA - Syrian state news agency SANA, has reported that explosions were heard near Damascus, and reported that there were "separate indications" of Syrian air defense systems having been activated.

The reports come as Benjamin Netanyahu re-gains the Israeli Prime Minister's office. 

Usually reports of Syrian air defense systems being activated over Damascus indicates that Israeli airstrikes, usually on Iranian or Iranian-backed proxy targets, are taking place. This report will be updated after more information is released. 

UPDATE: Israeli based i24NEWS cited Syrian State media as saying that Israel allegedly carried out a strike on Damascus early Monday, and that Syrian air defenses responded to the alleged Israeli attack. 

*UPDATE* SANA news agency reported that two Syrian soldiers were killed and two others were wounded in the alleged Israeli strikes on the Damascus International Airport which they said brought the airport temporarily out of service. 

The Syrian news agency tweeted: "Military source: The Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression at dawn today with bursts of missiles from the direction of the northeast of Lake Tiberias, targeting Damascus International Airport and its surroundings". 

Reuters cited regional intelligence sources as saying that the alleged airstrikes hit an outpost controlled by the Iranian Quds Force and militias associated with the Quds force. 

Netanyahu Sworn In As Israeli Prime Minister, Vows To Prevent Iran From Nuking Israel - ISRAEL - Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Israel after previously holding the office from 1996 to 1999 and 2009 to 2021. He says the new government's first task will be to prevent Iran from destroying Israel with an atomic bomb. 

Netanyahu said "The first task is to make sure that Iran does not destroy us with an atom bomb". 

Outgoing Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid said, "Netanyahu just said that the first task is to halt Iran from growing stronger and I agree with that".

He continued, "Contrary to all the forecasts and prophecies of doom, our government managed to stop the resigning of the deal with Iran. It involved complex diplomatic efforts, some under the radar with the American government and Europe, the result is well known". 

"The sanctions on Iran remained enforced and were expanded," he added. 

Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Islamabad, Pakistan - The U.S. government is aware of information that unknown individuals are possibly plotting to attack Americans at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad sometime during the holidays. Read Embassy Alert

Effective immediately, the Embassy in Islamabad is prohibiting all American staff from visiting Islamabad’s Marriott Hotel. Furthermore, as Islamabad has been placed on a Red Alert citing security concerns while banning all public gatherings, the embassy is urging all Mission personnel to refrain from non-essential, unofficial travel in Islamabad throughout the holiday season.

Actions to Take: Exercise vigilance at events, places of worship, and avoid locations with large crowds. Review your personal security plans. Carry identification and follow requests from law enforcement. Be aware of your surroundings. Monitor local media for updates.

-USCENTCOM conducts three raids in eastern Syria CENTCOM - TAMPA, Fla. – "Over the past 48 hours, US Central Command forces conducted three helicopter raids in eastern Syria resulting in the detention of six ISIS operatives, including al-Zubaydi, an Islamic State Syria Province Senior Official involved in the planning and facilitation of ISIS attacks in Syria. 

Extensive planning went into these operations to ensure their successful execution. Initial assessments indicate no civilians were killed or injured. 

“These partnered operations reaffirm CENTCOM’s steadfast commitment to the region and the enduring defeat of ISIS,” said Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, CENTCOM Commander. “The capture of these ISIS operatives will disrupt the terrorist organization’s ability to further plot and carry out destabilizing attacks.”

CENTCOM: Helicopter Raid In Syria Kills 2 ISIS Officials - CENTCOM - U.S. Central Command has reported that it has conducted a successful helicopter raid against ISIS at 2:57 a.m. on December 11th, which killed two ISIS officials. 

Of the two ISIS officials, one was Anas, which was a Province Official in Syria involved in "the group's deadly plotting and facilitation operations in eastern Syria". 

Central Command reported that "initial assessments" indicated that no civilians were killed or injured as a result of the raid. 

The press release said that "The United States remains committed to countering the global threat from ISIS in partnership with local forces. ISIS continues to pursue an aggressive operational agenda, including external attacks that threaten US allies and partners in the region and beyond."

“ISIS continues to represent a threat to the security and stability of the region. This operation reaffirms CENTCOM’s steadfast commitment to ensuring the group’s enduring defeat,” said Joe Buccino, a CENTCOM spokesperson. “The death of these ISIS officials will disrupt the terrorist organization’s ability to further plot and carry out destabilizing attacks in the Middle East.”

Turkey Carries Out Airstrikes In Duhok, Iraq - IRAQ - Turkey has carried out airstrikes in the Duhok province in northern Iraq, according Lebanese news agency Al-Mayadeen, targeting Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) elements in the region. 

News sources of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) report that Turkey has established 58 military bases in the mountains within the region over the last couple of years. 

Unsafe and Unprofessional Action by IRGCN Vessel in the Strait of Hormuz - USCENTCOM - TAMPA, Fla. – "An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy patrol boat interacted in an unsafe and unprofessional manner as U.S. Navy ships transited the Strait of Hormuz, the evening of Dec. 5.

Expeditionary sea base platform ship USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3) and guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) were conducting a routine transit in international waters when the patrol boat approached.

The Iranian vessel attempted to blind the bridge by shining a spotlight and crossed within 150 yards of the U.S. ships – dangerously close, particularly at night.

The U.S. ships safely deescalated the situation through the employment of audible warnings and non-lethal lasers. U.S. Navy ships continued their transit without further incident.

The IRGCN’s actions violated international standards of professional and safe maritime behavior, increasing the risk of miscalculation and collision.

“This dangerous action in international waters is indicative of Iran’s destabilizing activity across the Middle East,” said Col. Joe Buccino, CENTCOM spokesman."

U.S. Moving Air Defense Systems From Middle East To Ukraine - RAYTHEON - The United States is currently working with countries in the Middle East to move some of the U.S. air defense systems to Ukraine, according to a Report by POLITICO. 

Raytheon Technologies CEO Greg Hayes said in an interview that the goal is to move National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems to Ukraine within three to six months from now, and then backfill the air defense systems with new NASAMS in the Middle East over the next 24 months time. 

“There are NASAMS deployed across the Middle East, and some of our NATO allies and we [the U.S.] are actually working with a couple of Middle Eastern countries that currently employ NASAMS and trying to direct those back up to Ukraine,” he was cited by POLITICO as saying. 

He said that moving them from the Middle East instead of building the systems in the United States is much faster, "“Just because it takes 24 months to build, it doesn’t mean it’s going to take 24 months to get in [the] country."

The newspaper said that it takes two years to build NASAMS due to the time it takes to purchase the components and motors for the rockets. 

CENTCOM Spokeman statement on rocket attacks near al-Shaddadi, Syria - Two rockets targeted coalition forces at the US patrol base in al-Shaddadi, Syria, today at approximately 10:31 p.m. local time in Syria (4:31 p.m. EST). 

Syrian Democratic Forces visited the rocket origin site and found a third unfired rocket.

"Attacks of this kind place coalition forces and the civilian populace at risk and undermine the hard-earned stability and security of Syria and the region," said Col. Joe Buccino, CENTCOM spokesman.

Turkey: We Will Continue To Respond To Attacks From Northern Syria - ANKARA - Turkey has told Russia that it will be continuing to respond to attacks coming from northern Syria, after Russia requested that Turkey not upgrade the conflict in Syria into a full-scale offensive. 

Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar told Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in a statement that "Turkey’s priority is to prevent the terrorism threat (from northern Syria) permanently,” and said that agreements that had been agreed to prior to the conflict should be adhered to. 

On Wednesday Senior Russian negotiator Alexander Lavrentyev said that the reason that Turkey should refrain from a full fledged offensive in Syria is because it could escalate the level of violence in the region. 

Violence in Northern Syria, Northern Iraq, and Southern Turkey - US DEPARTMENT OF STATE - "The United States expresses its sincere condolences for the loss of civilian life in Syria and Turkey. We urge de-escalation in Syria to protect civilian life and support the common goal of defeating ISIS. We continue to oppose any uncoordinated military action in Iraq that violates Iraq’s sovereignty."  

Additional statement by department spokesman Ned Price: "The U.S. expresses sincere condolences for the loss of civilian life in Syria & Turkey. We urge de-escalation in Syria to protect civilian life and support the common goal of defeating ISIS. We continue to oppose any uncoordinated military action in Iraq."

Iran Claims Israel Killed Iranian Military Officer In Syria - TEHRAN - Iran has claimed that Israel killed an Iranian military officer with a roadside bomb in Damascus, Syria according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) on Wednesday.   

The officer who was killed was named Colonel Davoud Jafari and was an adviser of the IRGC Aerospace Force operating in Syria, according to the Tasnim News Agency. 

On November 8th Israel is alleged to have carried out strikes on Iranian fuel shipments that were on their way to Lebanon, according to Lebanese news agencies, who said that the attack killed 25 Iranian-backed militants and wounded 10 others. 

The Jerusalem Post reports that the IDF have been carrying out a 'continued campaign' against Iranian-backed militants in order to disrupt Iran's activities in Syria and prevent the country from creating proxies within Syria. 

Iran Reaches 60 Percent Enrichment Purity, One Step From Weapons Grade (90%) - TEHRAN - Iran has reached 60 percent uranium enrichment purity at its Fordow nuclear plant, according to the United Nations nuclear watchdog, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday.  

The United States however, has refused to confirm the findings for Fordow, wanting instead to turn to diplomacy efforts to diffuse the situation. 

Iran had already reached 60 percent enrichment at another nuclear facility, but the fact that this particular location is based inside of a mountain makes it particularly difficult to target and destroy. 

Weapons-grade levels of uranium would require 90 to 93 percent enrichment, but 60% is just one step behind weapons-grade refinement level. 

The JCPOA agreement in 2015 restricts Iran's nuclear enrichment to just 3.67 percent. 60 percent greatly exceeds the numbers agreed upon in the deal. 

The IAEA put out a statement that said, “Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi today said Iran had started producing high enriched uranium – UF6 (uranium hexafluoride) enriched up to 60 per cent – using the existing two cascades of IR-6 centrifuges in the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, in addition to such production that has taken place at Natanz since April 2021."

“Iran continues to advance its enrichment activities at the Fuel Enrichment Plant in Natanz and now plans to install a second production building, capable of housing over 100 centrifuge cascades," it added. 

2 Explosions Hit Jerusalem Bus Station, 1 Killed, 9 Injured - ISRAEL - Two explosions hit the entrance to the city of Jerusalem, Israel on Wednesday injuring at least 10 people in the vicinity of the blasts, one of which has since died of their injuries and another is considered in serious condition. 

Israeli police say that the explosion near the Central Bus Station looks to have been caused by a bomb that was concealed in a bag next to the bus, which is full of holes from shrapnel. 

The second explosion went off after the first at the Ramon Intersection in northern Jerusalem.

Iran Hits PDKI Positions In Kurdistan With Missiles - KURDISTAN - The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched more missiles and drones against the Iranian Kurdish group Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan PDKI in Erbil, Iraq.

Iran International has reported that at least three missiles hit positions in Erbil, Iraq where the party is located, including a hospital which reportedly resulted in casualties. 

Kurdistan 24 reported that a drone had hit one of the PDKI bases in Jejnikan, near Baharka just outside of Erbil, Iraq. 

The Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan is an Iranian group that was exiled in Iraq, and has reported that Iranian surface-to-surface missiles and drones targeted its bases and refugee camps in Koya and Jejnikan. 

The group also claimed that a hospital was targeted in Koya. 

Iran says that the new round of attacks in Iraq are meant to protect its border, but has said that the group, as well as other groups are fueling the recent protests against the Iranian government. 

Turkey Carries Out Airstrikes In Syria/Iraq, Strikes 89 Targets - SYRIA/IRAQ - Turkish air raids targeting Kobane, Syria, and two other villages in the region are reported by Kurdish-led forces as having killed multiple people, causing "deaths and injuries" after striking 89 targets just days after Turkey blamed the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) for a bombing in central Istanbul last Sunday.

Among the locations targeted by the Turkish airstrikes were ammo depots and shelters on Kurdish military bases in both northern Iraq and Syria.  

The locations where targets were hit in Iraq: Asos, Qandil, Hakurk, and the locations where targets were hit in Northern Syria were Cizire, Tal Rifat, Kobani and Derik, according to the Turkish Defense Ministry. 

The Defense Ministry also said that "so-called directors of the terrorist organization were among those neutralized".

The airstrikes were called "Operation Claw-Sword" and targeted People's Protection Units (YPG), the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK), according to the Jerusalem Post. 

Farhad Shami, who is a spokesperson for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) put out a statement saying, “Kobane, the city that defeated Isis, is subjected to bombardment by the aircraft of the Turkish occupation."

Shami also said that there were Turkish airstrikes on two heavily populated villages in Aleppo, as well as Hasakeh.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that Turkey blanketed the two provinces with over 20 airstrikes in total.

The Turkish Defense Ministry had put out a tweet earlier Sunday saying that "“The hour of reckoning has come. The treacherous attacks of the scoundrels are being held accountable!"

Turkey's Defense Ministry said that the strikes that it carried out was in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations charter that allows attacks for self-defense purposes. 

The Turkish Defense Ministry put out a tweet saying, "A PENÇE KILIÇ AIR OPERATION was carried out in the regions in the north of Iraq and Syria that were used as a base by terrorists in their attacks on our country."

Statement By Turkey's Ministry of Defense

"By neutralizing the PKK/KCK/YPG and other terrorist elements; In order to prevent terrorist attacks against our people and security forces from the north of Iraq and Syria, to ensure border security and to destroy terrorism at its source;

In line with our self-defense rights arising from Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, the PENCE KILIÇ AIR OPERATION was carried out in the regions in the north of Iraq and Syria, which are used as a base by terrorists in their attacks on our country."

Syria Claims Israeli Airstrikes Targeted Military Positions, Killing 4 Soldiers - SYRIA - Syrian state news agency SANA is reporting that Israel carried out airstrikes on military positions after flying over the Mediterranean and targeting some military positions in the "central" and "coastal" regions of Syria, killing 4 soldiers.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has not commented on the matter, and don't usually disclose information on military operations going on within Syria, but are known to target Iranian proxies and military assets and Hezbollah convoys in the region. 

SANA cited a "military source" as saying, “Nearly at 6.30 Saturday morning, the Israeli enemy carried out an aggression over the Mediterranean from the direction of Banyas, targeting some points in the central and coastal regions as the Syrian air defenses intercepted the missile aggression."

The source said that four soldiers were "martyred" and another wounded. In addition, material damages were reported. 

The news agency also reported that two soldiers were killed, and three others wounded on November 13th in another strike on the al-Sha’ayrat airport in the Homs countryside. 

Security Alert: U.S. Consulate General Erbil, Iraq - Nov 18th - Event: U.S. Consulate General Erbil is monitoring credible open-source reports of potential Turkish military action in northern Syria and northern Iraq in the coming days. The U.S. government continues to strongly advise U.S. citizens to avoid these areas. Read Security Alert

Actions to Take: Avoid border areas. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Keep a low profile. Monitor local media for updates.

The State Department’s Travel Advisory for Iraq remains at Level 4: Do Not Travel due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. For more information, please visit the Iraq Country Information page on travel.state.gov. Please also review what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas.

Message to U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Baghdad, Iraq – U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Resumes Consular Services for U.S. Citizens (Nov 3rd)

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad has resumed offering routine consular services for U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens in Iraq can now schedule appointments for passport and notary services, or to register their children with a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad or at the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil.

To request an appointment in Baghdad, please send an email to [email protected] To request an appointment in Erbil, visit the Consulate General’s website. If your passport has expired or will expire in the next six months, we urge you to renew it in Baghdad or Erbil as soon as possible.

The State Department’s Travel Advisory for Iraq remains at Level 4: Do Not Travel due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the U.S. government’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens in Iraq. For more information, please visit the Iraq Country Information page on travel.state.gov. Please also review what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas. Read Security Alert

Pakistan Shuts Down Border Crossing With Afghanistan After Both Sides Exchange Fire - Pakistan has shut down its southwestern border with Afghanistan for an indefinite period, according to both officials and local media on Monday. Read Full Article

Central Command Intercepts Vessels In Gulf Of Oman Carrying "Massive" Volume Of Explosive Material To Yemen - CENTCOM: "On Nov 8, CENTCOM forces intercepted a stateless dhow [sailing vessels used in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean] in the Gulf of Oman originating from Iran smuggling a massive volume of explosive material to Yemen, including 360k+ lbs of urea fertilizer (used in explosives) + ammonium perchlorate (used in ballistic missile fuel) What Is A Dhow?

Our naval forces searched the vessel. Our forces sank the vessel and transferred its Yemeni crew to civil authorities.

General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, CENTCOM commander: "Alongside our partner forces, CENTCOM is committed to security and stability of the region and to deterring the illegal and destabilizing flow of explosive material into the region over land, in the air, and at sea."

US 5th Fleet: "On Nov. 8, U.S. 5th Fleet intercepted a fishing vessel in the Gulf of Oman smuggling lethal aid, including a large quantity of explosive material, from Iran to Yemen."

"In a first, U.S. 5th Fleet discovered more than 70 tons of ammonium perchlorate, a powerful oxidizer commonly used to make rocket and missile fuel as well as explosives."

"The unlawful transfer of lethal aid from Iran does not go unnoticed. It is irresponsible, dangerous and leads to violence and instability across the Middle East." - VADM Brad Cooper

11 Countries Placed On Travel Advisory Page In Last 30 Days - 11 countries have been placed on the travel advisory page in the last 30 days, including Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Ecuador, Moldova, Nigeria, China, Taiwan, Samoa, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.

China

Reconsider travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the Macau SAR, due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and COVID-19-related restrictions. See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction below. Exercise increased caution in the PRC due to wrongful detentions.

Taiwan

Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

Trinidad and Tobago

Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime. Exercise increased caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to terrorism and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Tonga

Reissued with updates to health information and removal of natural disaster risk indicator. Exercise normal precautions in Tonga. Read the Country Information page.

Moldova

Exercise increased caution while traveling to Moldova due to unresolved conflict between the breakaway region of Transnistria and the central government. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Nigeria

Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Samoa

Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Samoa.

Ukraine

Reissued from October 4, 2022 with updates to security information. Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s full-scale invasion.

The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Those U.S citizens in Ukraine should depart if it is safe to do so using commercial or other privately available ground transportation options. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Afghanistan

Reissued with updates to relocation, citizen services, and safety and security information. Do not travel to Afghanistan due to armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Travel to all areas of Afghanistan is unsafe and the risk of kidnapping or violence against U.S. citizens in Afghanistan is high. Given the serious risks, U.S. citizens should not travel to Afghanistan to accompany eligible family members for relocation.

Israel

Summary: Terrorist groups, lone-wolf terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza without warning. There has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning.

Camerroon

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Cameroon due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Level 4 Do Not Travel List

The Level 4: Do Not Travel list includes: Afghanistan, Belarus, Faso, Burma, CAR, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tonga, Ukraine, and Venezuela.

The month of October saw a large number of travel advisory alerts being released. View Travel Advisories

Air Strikes Reported On Syria/Iraq Border, Civilians Reported Dead - Syria/Iraq - Airstrikes have been reported on the border between Syria and Iraq. Iranian-backed militia has reportedly blamed the United States for the attacks, but U.S. officials rejected the claims, saying that it wasn't them, but has confirmed that airstrikes were carried out. Al-Mayadeen has claimed that Israel carried out the drone strike.

BBC reporter Nafiseh Kohnavard reported that CENTCOM is currently investigating the attacks, and there are reports of civilian casualties.

Sabereen News claimed that "multiple fuel tankers carrying Iranian gasoline for Lebanon” have been targeted in airstrikes. the news agency also reports 25 people were killed and 10 others wounded in the strikes and that tankers carrying Iranian gasoline headed for Lebanon were targeted.

Iran Tests Satellite Launch Vehicle That Could Be Used For Nuclear Warheads - TEHRAN - On Saturday, November 5th the Iranian Revolutionary Guard tested a satellite launch vehicle that Washington has speculated could also launch nuclear warheads. Read Full Article

Iran Tests Satellite Launch Vehicle That Could Be Used For Nuclear Warheads - TEHRAN - On Saturday, November 5th the Iranian Revolutionary Guard tested a satellite launch vehicle that Washington has speculated could also launch nuclear warheads. Read Full Article

Rockets Fired At Israel, Intercepted By Iron Dome Defense System - Israel Defense Forces (IDF) put out an alert regarding a rocket attack in southern Israel. Rocket sirens sounded in Israel. Palestinian News Agency: "Intense flight of Israeli aircraft in the skies of the Gaza Strip".

(translated) "Initial report: An alert has been activated in the area of the settlements of Nirim, Ein Hasholsha and Kisofim. The details are under review".

"Three failed launches from the Gaza Strip were identified and fell in the Gaza Strip. As a result of the launches, an alert was activated in an application in an open area only".

"One launch was detected from the territory of the Gaza Strip to the territory of Israel. Sugar intercepts Iron Dome. The launch was apparently intercepted".

US And Saudi Arabia On High Alert Over Saudi Intel Of Impending Attack By Iran - Saudi Arabia has reportedly shared intelligence with the United States and warned of an impending imminent Iranian attack targeting both Saudi Arabia and Iraq, including Erbil, Iraq where US forces are stationed according to a report by the Wall Street Journal.

Both the United States and Saudi Arabia are reported to be on high alert. One of the locations under alert is Erbil, Iraq where U.S. troops are currently based.

The report says that Saudi officials stated that Iran desires to carry out attacks in order to distract attention away from the protests currently going on within Iran over the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini allegedly by the hands of Iran's morality police.

The Wall Street Journal cited the White House National Security Council as saying that it was concerned about the warnings and is ready to response if Iran does carry out an attack.

“We are concerned about the threat picture, and we remain in constant contact through military and intelligence channels with the Saudis,” a National Security Council spokesperson was cited as saying. “We will not hesitate to act in the defense of our interests and partners in the region.”

A month ago the commander of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps put out a warning to Saudi Arabia regarding its coverage of the Iranian protests by its media, which included Iran International.

The IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami said, "This is our last warning, because you are interfering in our internal affairs through these media. You are involved in this matter and know that you are vulnerable.”

Iran's own state news agency claimed that Iran International is “a network formed by Saudi Arabia in 2017 in London” which “adopts a completely anti-Iran approach.”

The Iranian protests have seen over 200 people killed, and over a thousand people arrested so far as the government continues to crack down on the protests.

2022 National Defense Strategy Of The United States Of America - WASHINGTON - The Pentagon said that although Russia is an "acute threat", China "is the only competitor out there with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly the power to do so". Read Full Article

Iran Claims It Arrested 10 Israeli Agents, Israel Destroys Iranian Drone Factory - TEHRAN - Iran claims that it has arrested 10 agents allegedly working for Israel in West Azerbaijan province as part of an espionage network, according to Iranian state news agency Fars. Israeli officials claim to have struck 90% of Iran's military operations in Syria, targeting a drone assembly factory near Damascus on Friday. Read Full Article

Israeli Drills And Test Of Alert Systems To Begin In The Coming Week - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has put out a statement saying that emergency preparedness exercises of the Home Front Command will be taking place during the coming week, practicing 'several threats' from 'rocket and missile fire', as well as earthquakes.

The IDF has informed the public that as a result of the aforementioned military exercises and drills, "alerts will be heard as part of practicing the emergency system in the localities and practicing behavior guidelines".

The statements by the IDF regarding the military exercises and drills are as follows (The statements have been translated to English):

"Emergency preparedness exercises of the Home Front Command will take place during the coming week. As part of the civilian space exercise for an emergency, the Home Front Command will practice several threats in the coming week, among them: rocket and missile fire and an earthquake. The dates on which the horn warning will be activated and in the Home Front Command application".

"The alerts will be heard as part of practicing the emergency system in the localities and practicing the behavior guidelines. In the case of a true scenario, an additional alert will be activated and a true event will be reported in the Home Command application. More information can be found at the home front command center by phone 104, via WhatsApp messages to phone 052-9104104".

"On the national portal at: https://www.oref.org.il/ and on social networks. For complete information on the new earthquake alert".

Complete Information Here (You may need an Israeli proxy or VPN to access this page if you are located outside of Israel).

IDF Telegram Post Regarding The Drills - IDF spokesperson: "Emergency preparedness exercises of the Home Front Command will take place during the coming week.

As part of the civilian space exercise for an emergency, the Home Front Command will practice several threats in the coming week, among them: rocket and missile fire and an earthquake.

The dates on which the horn warning will be activated and in the Home Front Command application:

Monday, October 24: At 10:05 an earthquake warning will be activated in Holon.

Tuesday (Tuesday) October 25: At 10:05 an earthquake warning will be activated in the settlements of the Ramat Negev Regional Council. At 10:15 a warning will be activated about the firing of rockets and missiles in Kauchab Abu Elhijah. At 10:25 an earthquake warning will be activated in Ma'ale Adumim.

Wednesday (Wed) October 26: At 10:05 a warning will be activated about firing rockets and missiles in the cloud.

Thursday (Thursday) October 27: At 10:05 an earthquake warning will be activated in the settlements of the Gush Etzion Regional Council.

The alerts will be heard as part of practicing the emergency system in the localities and practicing the behavior guidelines. In the case of a true scenario, an additional alert will be activated and a true event will be reported in the Home Command application.

More information can be found at the home front command center at 104, via WhatsApp messages at 052-9104104, at the national portal at: oref.org.il and on social networks.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Advisory Advises Citizens To Leave Ukraine - TEHRAN - Iran has released an advisory to all of its citizens strongly advising them not to travel to Ukraine, and told Iranians currently living in the country to leave the country "for their own safety".

The Iranian Foreign Ministry statement read, "Due to the military escalation in Ukraine, all Iranians are strongly advised to refrain from traveling to Ukraine. Also, Iranians living in Ukraine are advised to leave the country for their own safety".

The statement from the Iranian Foreign Ministry comes just one day after the United States claimed that Iranians were sent to Ukraine to instruct Russian soldiers how to target Ukrainian locations with the Iranian-made drones Russia has reportedly acquired from the country.

Advisory From Iranian Foreign Ministry (Translated): Travel advice of the General Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding Ukraine

"Public Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a notice on the travel advice of the General Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding Ukraine.

It is emphasized in the travel advice of the General Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: due to the escalation of military conflicts and the increase in insecurity in Ukraine, all Iranian citizens are strongly advised to refrain from traveling to this country.

Also, in this announcement, all Iranian nationals living in Ukraine are advised to leave this country in order to save their lives and safety.

In the final part of this travel advice, compatriots living in Ukraine are asked to remain calm and, if needed, contact the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Kyiv at 00380630449029

Syria Claims It Shot Down Israeli Missiles Targeting Damascus - Syrian state media has claimed that Syria has shot down missiles fired by Israel at Damascus late on Friday. It said that they were intercepted and shot down in an area over Damascus close to Syria's shared border with Israel.

Syrian state news agency SANA said, "Our air defenses intercepted Israeli missile strikes in the airspace of Damascus and the southern region".

If the alleged Israeli strike is true, it would be the first time since September 17th that Israel has reportedly targeted since September 17th, when Syria reported that an Israeli strike on Damascus killed five soldiers.

Israel rarely acknowledges strikes Syria, but has admitted to carrying out hundreds of strikes in the past, usually striking Iranian backed militia groups located in the region.

White House: Iranian Troops Were Sent To Ukraine Help Russia Use Iranian Drones - According to the White House, Iranian troops were sent to Ukraine to help assist Russia in operating Iranian-made drones that Russia had reportedly purchased from the country. Read Full Article

CENTCOM Commander Embarks USS West Virginia Ballistic Missile Submarine - "On October 19th, General Michael "Erik” Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM, conducted a visit aboard the USS West Virginia, a U.S. Navy Ohio-class nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine at an undisclosed location at sea in international waters in the Arabian Sea.

Kurilla was joined on the USS West Virginia by Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet and NAVCENT. During his visit on board the submarine, General Kurilla received a hands-on demonstration of the capabilities of the vessel, which operates globally under U.S. Strategic Command.

“I was thoroughly impressed with the crew of the USS West Virginia; these sailors represent the highest level of professionalism, expertise, and discipline across the U.S. military," said Kurilla. "These submarines are the crown jewel of the nuclear triad, and the West Virginia demonstrates the flexibility, survivability, readiness, and capability of USCENTCOM and USSTRATCOM forces at sea."

USSTRATCOM forces are on watch 24/7 globally, operating in all domains, while supporting other commands, to defend the nation and our allies.

West Virginia is one of six ballistic-missile submarines stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia, and is capable of carrying up to 20 submarine launched ballistic missiles with multiple warheads."

NATO To Ship Jammers To Ukraine To Counter Iranian Drones Used By Russia - On Thursday NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance will be giving Ukraine "hundreds of drone jammers" to counter the Iranian Shahed-136 kamikaze drones that Russia is using to target Ukrainian cities with.

During a press conference Stoltenberg said, "Nato will deliver counter-drone equipment to Ukraine with hundreds of drone jammers which can help render ineffective Russian and Iranian-made drones".

Ukrainian officials have claimed that they have shot down Iranian kamikaze drones, and that the drones detonate themselves upon impact with their targets.

The Shahed-136 drones are capable of carrying an 80 pound warhead and have reportedly eliminated an M777 howitzer given to Ukraine by the United States, the New York Times reported.

On Thursday Ukrainian officials said that Russia had used Shahed-136 drones to attack the regions of Kyiv and Odesa. The drones are capable of air-to-surface attacks, as well as electronic warfare and targeting, according to AP news.

UK Government: British Air Strikes Against Daesh - UK Government: British Air Strikes Against Daesh: "The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria. From: Ministry of Defense and The Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP Published 29 January 2016 Last updated - 13 October 2022.

Summary - Monday 10 October – a Reaper engaged a Daesh terrorist in northern Syria.

Detail: Royal Air Force aircraft have continued to conduct armed reconnaissance patrols against Daesh terrorists. On Monday 10 October, a Reaper remotely piloted aircraft, armed with Hellfire missiles, tracked and, when it was safe to do so without posing a risk to civilians, successfully engaged one such terrorist who was on a motorcycle in northern Syria, near Hamman At Turkumen.

Previous updates:

Iraqi security forces identified a number of Daesh terrorists attempting to re-establish a presence in an area to the north of Tikrit. A Royal Air Force Reaper remotely piloted aircraft joined coalition aircraft in supporting the Iraqi operation by tracking the group on Tuesday 14 June, and at an appropriate opportunity, when the terrorists were exposed in the open away from any civilians, conducted a successful attack alongside the other coalition aircraft; the RAF Reaper employed Hellfire missiles. The group was reported to be destroyed as a result of this Iraqi-led operation, and the terrorists eliminated before they could mount an active threat to the Iraqi people.

Royal Air Force aircraft have continued to fly missions over Iraq and Syria in support of the global coalition against the Daesh terrorist movement. On Tuesday 14 December 2021, hostile drone activity was detected around the At Tanf coalition base in Syria. A pair of Typhoon FGR4s from Royal Air Force Akrotiri were conducting one of their regular patrols over Syria and Iraq as part of the global coalition against Daesh, and were tasked to investigate. On arrival in the At Tanf area, the pilots were able to identify a small hostile drone, and despite the diminutive size of the target, succeeded in conducting an air to air engagement with an ASRAAM (Advanced Short Range Air to Air Missile) which eliminated the threat it posed to coalition forces."

DOD: Breakthrough on the Israel-Lebanon Maritime Boundary - DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - "I am pleased that the Governments of Israel and Lebanon have agreed to establish a permanent maritime boundary between their two countries. Prosperity and security go hand-in-hand and this deal will deliver important benefits to the Lebanese and Israeli people for years to come.

Now, it is critical that all parties quickly finalize the agreement and uphold their commitments to work toward implementation. And, I thank the leaders of Israel and Lebanon, and particularly Israeli Defense Minister Gantz, for their willingness to negotiate in the best interests of their people.

I congratulate everyone involved in achieving this important breakthrough and commend their commitment to preserving peace."

Ukraine: Russia Ordered 2,400 Iranian Drones - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that Russia has ordered 2,400 Iranian-made Shahed drones from the Islamic Republic, and asked leaders of the G7 countries to give medium and long-range missile defense systems to protect against the them.

"For the second day now, Ukraine has been suffering from massive [Russian] missile strikes. And every 10 minutes I receive a message about the enemy's use of [Iranian] Shaheds," Zelensky said.

"An air shield for Ukraine. This is part of the security guarantees that are an element of our formula for peace. When Ukraine receives a sufficient number of modern and effective air defense systems, the key element of Russian terror – missile strikes – will stop working."

Zelensky also thanked countries that already gave air defense systems, and said that it "makes it possible to neutralize some of the Russian missiles and drones. But Russia has ordered 2,400 Shaheds in Iran alone, according to our intelligence."

"We are very much looking forward to the delivery of SAMP-T systems. And if possible, they are needed in the coming months." he said.

The new Iranian drones will be replacing Russia's diminishing stockpile. Zelensky said that Russia has been using up 20 to 30 drones per day.

"Every ten minutes I receive a message about the enemy’s use of Shaheds," Zelensky stated.

US Department Of State: Historic Breakthrough on the Israel-Lebanon Maritime Boundary - U.S. Department Of State: "Following years of mediation by the United States, the Governments of Israel and Lebanon today announced consensus on an historic agreement to establish a permanent maritime boundary between the two countries.

This breakthrough promises to usher in a new era of prosperity and stability in the Middle East and will provide vital energy to the people of the region and to the world. Beyond delivering tremendous benefits to the Lebanese and Israeli people, today’s announcement demonstrates the power of regional cooperation to meet shared challenges in the Middle East and beyond. It also underscores the transformative power of American diplomacy.

This agreement protects the economic and security interests of Israel and Lebanon and marks a new chapter for the people in the region. I thank the leaders of Israel and Lebanon for their willingness to negotiate in the best interests of their people, and I thank Special Presidential Coordinator Amos Hochstein and his team for their tireless diplomatic work in bringing the parties together to accomplish this deal. It is now critical that all parties rapidly finalize the agreement and uphold their commitments to work toward implementation to the benefit of the region and world." Read Statement

US Department Of State: Announcement of Visa Restrictions in Response to the Repression of Women and Girls in Afghanistan - The United States has begun restricting visas from being issued to both current, and former members of the Taliban, as well as others over the repression of women and girls in Afghanistan, according to a statement by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday."

US Department Of State Press Release On Visa Restrictions: "Today I am announcing a visa restriction policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to restrict the issuance of visas for current or former Taliban members, members of non-state security groups, and other individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, repressing women and girls in Afghanistan through restrictive policies and violence."

This includes discontinuing and/or restricting access to secondary or higher education for girls and women; preventing women’s full participation in the workforce and their ability to choose their careers; restricting women’s movement, expression, or privacy; as well as engaging in violence and harassment including unjust arrest and detention of women, girls, or their family members for noncompliance with discriminatory policies. Immediate family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions.

Despite public assurances that it would respect the human rights of all Afghans, the Taliban has issued and enforced a series of policies or edicts that effectively bar women and girls in Afghanistan from full participation in public life, including access to secondary education and work in most industries. As a grim example, for more than a year, Afghanistan remains the only country in the world where girls are systemically barred from attending school beyond the sixth grade, with no return date in sight.

We call on other governments to join us in taking similar actions and to continue to underscore a collective message that only a government in Afghanistan that represents all its people and protects and promotes the human rights of every individual could be considered legitimate.

The United States strongly supports the Afghan people and remains committed to doing all we can to protect and promote the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Afghans, including women and girls. Read Announcement

IDF Shoots Down Hamas Drone Before Entering Israeli Airspace - Israel Defense Forces (IDF) statement earlier: "Our soldiers spotted a Hamas terrorist drone attempting to cross into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip a short while ago. The drone was monitored throughout the incident & did not cross into Israel. IDF soldiers downed & collected the drone adjacent to the security fence."

Ukrainian Intelligence Statement: Situation At Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant - Statement by Ukrainian intelligence regarding the current situation at the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant (translated). "All six units are disconnected at the ZNPP, the occupiers are forcing employees to sign contracts with Rosatom.

The occupiers continue to keep all six units of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in a "cold state". Currently, the power supply of the station, including security systems, is provided by the overhead line PL-750 kV "Dniprovska". Today, during the day, an attempt is planned to supply voltage to the ZaTES open switchgear.

It was also possible to maintain the supply of electricity to the city of Energodar. But the VRP 150/330 kV remains without voltage.

At the same time, representatives of the Soviet Union and the occupation administration continue to put pressure on the employees of the station. The movement of auxiliary units on the territory of the ZNPP is significantly limited. The occupiers apply so-called "filtering measures" to some of the personnel and their families. Workers are required to officially issue Russian passports and sign contracts with Rosatom."

Ukraine Intelligence: Russia Transferring Kamikaze Drones To Belarus, Says Belarus Supplying Russia - KYIV - Ukraine claims that Russia has been transferring Shahed-136 kamikaze drones to Belarus territory Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reported.

The GUR MO posted a message in Telegram on Tuesday that said, "Iranian kamikaze drones Shahed-136 (renamed Geran-2 in the Russian army) are coming to Belarus. As of October 10, 32 UAVs were brought into the country, and 8 more are planned to be imported by October 14".

The Ukrainian intelligence agency has also reported that Belarus is providing Russia with "material and technical means," as well as ammunition from its warehouses, particularly, using the railway as a means of transporting ammunition to Kirovskaya, in Crimea.

The agency says that 12 wagons weighing 492 tons was sent from the 43rd missile and ammunition storage arsenal from the territory of Belarus (Dobrobush, Gomel region), according to Interfax.

The Ukrainian Intelligence Agency Statement (translated) said: "The occupiers continue to drop the "Shahed-136" kamikaze drones into the territory of Belarus".

Iranian kamikaze drones "Shahed-136" (renamed "Geran-2" in the Russian army) arrive in Belarus. As of October 10, 32 of the specified UAVs were imported into the country, and 8 more are planned to be imported by October 14.

Belarus also provides the occupying army with material and technical means and ammunition from its warehouses. In particular, a railway echelon with ammunition arrived at the "Kirovskaya" railway station in Crimea - 12 wagons/492 tons, which was sent from the 43rd missile and ammunition storage arsenal of Belarus (DOBRUSH, Gomel region).

In the near future, it is planned to move 13 echelons with weapons and military equipment (219 platforms), ammunition (28 wagons) and military-technical property from arsenals and storage bases of the Armed Forces of Belarus.

The main "suppliers" are: - 46 missile and ammunition storage arsenal (Bronna Gora, Brest Region); 43 missile and ammunition storage arsenal (Dubetsk, Gomel region); 391 artillery ammunition base (Beaver, Minsk Region); 969 tank reserve base (Uryche, Minsk Region); 288 car reserve base (Stari Dorogy, Minsk region).

Cargo must arrive at the railway stations "Kamenska" (Kamensk-Shakhtynsky) and "Marchevo" (Taganrog) of the Rostov region."

U.S. Led Coalition Drone Strike In Northern Syria On Monday - A drone strike in northeastern Syria led by the U.S.-led coalition was carried out on Monday, according to The Associated Press, which cited a Syrian official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The report cited the official as saying that the strike targeted a member of IS who was driving a motorcycle in the village of Hamam al-Turkman, which is currently controlled by Turkish-backed Syrian opposition forces near the northern Syrian town of Tel Abyad. The city borders Akçakale, Turkey.

No other casualties except the target was reported as a result of the strike.

Two Iranian Hackers Break Into Websites For Two Natural Gas Companies Linked To Israel - TEHRAN - Two Iranian hackers from a group called "al-Tahara" hacked into the websites for two natural gas companies: Energean, and Israel Natural Gas Lines.

Energean is an international gas company that The Jerusalem Post reports has done "extensive business with Israel," and had acquired the Karish and Tanin natural gas fields from Delek Drilling, and Avner oil in 2016, according to the JP.

Israel Natural Gas Lines is a gas corporation that is owned by the Israeli government.

CENTCOM Statement On Syrian Airstrike October 6th, 2022 - TAMPA, Fla. – Today, at approximately 6:32 PM local time in Syria, U.S. forces conducted a successful airstrike in northern Syria, killing both Abu-Hashum al-Umawi, a deputy Wali of Syria, and another senior ISIS official associated with him.

Initial assessments indicate no civilians were killed or wounded during this operation.

No U.S. forces were injured or killed and there was no loss or damage to U.S. equipment in the execution of this operation.

"This strike will degrade ISIS' ability to destabilize the region and strike at our forces and partners," said General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, CENTCOM Commander. "Our forces remain in the region to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS."

U.S. Forces Carry Out Helicopter Raid In Assad-Controlled Territory In Syria - SYRIA - U.S. special forces have reportedly carried out a helicopter raid in Assad-controlled territory in Syria, south of Qamishli in Northeast Syria overnight.

Reuters reported that after the U.S. helicopters landed in the village after midnight, the soldiers told residents to stay indoors and keep their lights off over loudspeakers.

The raid is reported to have killed a senior ISIS leader, and captured several other militants alive after landing in Muluk Saray village in the Hassakeh province.

Syria's state media said, "US occupation forces carried out a landing operation using several helicopters in the village of Muluk Saray in the southern countryside of Qamishli and killed one person,"

Statement By Inherent Resolve: U.S. Shoots Down Iranian Mojer-6 Drone With F-16 Headed To Erbil, Iraq - At 10:54 a.m. indirect fire struck several locations within the Erbil Governorate in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.

No CJTF-OIR forces were killed or wounded by the indirect fire, and the strikes caused no damage to U.S. or Coalition infrastructure or equipment. However, the attacks did injure and kill dozens of people within the Erbil Governorate.

An assessment of the event is ongoing.

CJTF-OIR personnel are stationed in Iraq at the invitation of the Government of Iraq to advise, assist and enable Partner Forces at the operational level in ensuring the lasting defeat of ISIS.

Statement By CENTCOM: U.S. Shoots Down Iranian Mojer-6 Drone With F-16 Headed To Erbil, Iraq - ERBIL, IRAQ - The United States has shot down an Iranian Mojer-6 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) headed in the direction of U.S. forces in Erbil, Iraq.

“US Central Command condemns the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ unprovoked attack in Iraq’s Erbil Governorate this morning. Such indiscriminate attacks threaten innocent civilians and risk the hard-fought stability of the region.

“No US forces were wounded or killed as a result of the strikes and there is no damage to US equipment.

“At approximately 2:10 PM local time, US forces brought down an Iranian Mojer-6 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle headed in the direction of Erbil as it appeared as a threat to CENTCOM forces in the area.

“CENTCOM personnel operate in Iraq at the invitation of the Government of Iraq to advise, assist, and enable partner forces in the ensuring the lasting defeat of ISIS.

“CENTCOM forces, in support of partnered forces in Iraq, are assessing the situation.”

U.S. Shoots Down Iranian Mojer-6 Drone With F-16 Headed To Erbil, Iraq - ERBIL, IRAQ - The United States has shot down an Iranian Mojer-6 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) headed in the direction of U.S. forces in Erbil, Iraq.

Colonel Joe Buccino, CENTCOM (US Central Command) communications director put out a statement saying, "At approximately 2:10 PM local time, US forces brought down an Iranian Mojer-6 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle headed in the direction of Erbil as it appeared as a threat to CENTCOM forces in the area".

"CENTCOM personnel operate in Iraq at the invitation of the Government of Iraq to advise, assist, and enable partner forces in the ensuring the lasting defeat of ISIS," his statement added.

He said that "Such indiscriminate attacks threaten innocent civilians and risk the hard-fought stability of the region," and said that "No US forces were wounded or killed as a result of the strikes and there is no damage to US equipment".

The US State Department and the White House have also condemned the attacks. Kurdistan Region's Ministry of Health, and Kurdistan24 news the Iranian drone, and missile attacks on the Kurdish opposition had killed nine people.

U.S. Central Command statement on Thwarted Suicide Bomber Attack near Um Fakik Village, Syria - Statement from Colonel Joe Buccino, CENTCOM communications director: "At approximately 12:25 am on Sept. 20th, seven ISIS fighters in two vehicles headed in the direction of the Internally Displaced Persons camp at al-Hol were interdicted by U.S. partnered Syrian Democratic Forces.

"One vehicle - rigged with explosives and personnel wearing explosive suicide vests - prematurely exploded near the Um Fakik village, approximately 12 miles northeast of the intended target at al-Hol. This explosion alerted Syrian Democratic Forces operating in the area who then arrived within minutes and surrounded the second vehicle.

"Two men exited the second vehicle wearing suicide vests. One detonated his vest. Syrian Democratic Forces shot and killed the second man. The second vehicle was rigged with at least 50 kilograms of explosives.

"No Syrian Democratic Forces were killed or wounded. One ISIS fighter is now in Syrian Democratic Forces custody. Four ISIS fighters were killed in the engagement.

"By taking immediate action, and showing disregard for their own safety, the Syrian Democratic Forces demonstrated their professionalism and commitment to creating and maintaining a safe and prosperous region for the people who make it their home. The response of our partnered forces highlights not only dedication to their people, but also their tenacity and commitment to the enduring defeat of ISIS."

Three 107mm rockets targeted the base. A fourth rocket along with rocket tubes was found at the launch point, approximately 5 kilometers away.

US forces in northeast Syria are investigating the incident."

Rocket Attack Targets Green Village Base, Northeast Syria - CENTCOM - TAMPA, Fla. – "At approximately 7:05 pm in Syria on September 18th, a rocket attack targeting the Green Village base in northeast Syria failed to strike US or Coalition forces or equipment.

Three 107mm rockets targeted the base. A fourth rocket along with rocket tubes was found at the launch point, approximately 5 kilometers away.

US forces in northeast Syria are investigating the incident."

Syria Reports Israeli Airstrike On Damascus Airport - SYRIA - The Syrian Ministry of Defense has reported an airstrike "with missile bursts" from the northeastern direction of Lake Tiberias, targeting Damascus International Airport, and some points south of Damascus, with "some material losses".

The Syrian Ministry of Defense statement (translated): "Military source: Around 0:45 a.m. today, the Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression with missile bursts from the northeastern direction of Lake Tiberias, targeting Damascus International Airport and some points south of Damascus. soldiers and some material loss".

Syrian state news agnecy SANA reported that air defenses were activated, and claiming that a number of the alleged Israeli missiles were shot down by Syrian air defenses.

Affinity V Has Run Aground In Suez Canal, Halting Maritime Traffic - The crude oil tanker "Affinity V", which is 826 feet long, and 147 feet wide ran aground in the Suez Canal, backing up Maritime traffic, according to local media and analysis of the ship's location in vessel tracking software. It has been released and is now back on course.

Local media reports had said that they were undergoing the process of attempting to float the tanker, in order to free it so that Maritime traffic can continue through the canal.

The Suez Canal Authority has stated that they have successfully floated the oil tanker, about five hours after it ran aground in the Suez canal. It has been moved and now back on course.

Readout of President Joe Biden's Call with Prime Minister Yair Lapid of Israel - "President Joseph R. Biden Jr. spoke today with Prime Minister Yair Lapid of Israel to consult on global and regional security challenges, including threats posed by Iran. The President underscored U.S. commitment to never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon".

"The President expressed appreciation for the warm reception during his July trip to Israel, a visit that illustrated the unbreakable bonds and friendship between our two countries. The President also emphasized the importance of concluding the maritime boundary negotiations between Israel and Lebanon in the coming weeks."

Israel Allegedly Targets Allepo International Airport - Israel has allegedly fired several missiles at the Aleppo International Airport, with "several missiles, causing material damage", according to Syrian state news SANA.

This, on the same day that U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, in order to "consult on global and regional security challenges, including threats posed by Iran".

SANA claimed that a military source spoke to them and said that (translated), "At about eight o'clock this evening, the Israeli enemy targeted Aleppo International Airport with a missile strike, which caused material damage to the airport".

Syrian state news has reported that air defense systems around Latakia, which is located southwest of Aleppo, were activated in order to intercept the alleged Israeli missiles traveling to Aleppo, according to the Jerusalem Post.

The JP also reported Syrian sources stated shortly after the strikes in Aleppo, several alleged Israeli strikes were carried out near Damascus, and that Syrian air defenses were activated to intercept the strikes.

Lebanese Al-Mayadeen TV said that the strikes targeted locations near the Damascus International Airport, al-Kiswah, and the Damascus-Daraa highway.

According to the Jerusalem Post, this would be the first time Israel had struck Allepo since 2019.

U.S. Navy Foils Iranian Attempt to Capture Unmanned Vessel in Arabian Gulf - The U.S. Navy prevented a support ship from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) from capturing an unmanned surface vessel operated by the U.S. 5th Fleet in the Arabian Gulf, Aug. 29-30. Read Full Article

Baghdad's Green Zone Erupts Into War Zone Following Resignation Of Al-Sadr - BAGHDAD - Following the resignation of the Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on Monday, August 29th, followers who supported him, stormed the green zone with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and automatic rifle fire as Iraqi security forces fought back, sparking a major escalation in the political deadlock that has gripped the nation. Read Full Article

Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Baghdad, Iraq - Location: Iraq (countrywide). Event: Ongoing demonstrations within and around the International Zone in Baghdad have turned violent and resulted in deaths and injuries. There are also reports of violent protests throughout Iraq, including in Basrah, Maysan, and Muthanna provinces. A nationwide comprehensive curfew has been announced for all persons and vehicles starting at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 29.

The State Department’s Travel Advisory for Iraq remains at Level 4: Do Not Travel due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. For more information, please visit the Iraq Country Information page on travel.state.gov.

Routine public consular services at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad remain suspended as a result of an attack on the Embassy compound in 2019. Emergency services for U.S. citizens are available at the Embassy using the contact information below. The U.S. Consulate General in Erbil remains open for routine and emergency services to American citizens.

Actions to Take: Avoid the International Zone in Baghdad and other areas where demonstrations are occurring, Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests, Keep a low profile, Monitor local media for updates.

View U.S. Embassy Alert

Israel Reportedly Striking Targets In Syria, Explosions Reported In Tartus - Israel is reportedly striking targets located in Syria. Explosions have been reported in Tartus, and Syrian state media says that its air defenses are engaging "hostile targets" over the Masyaf region in northwestern Syria.

Reports state that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are currently carrying out airstrikes in the region.

This comes after the U.S. Military carried out a second barrage of airstrikes in the region within the last 24 hours, which CENTCOM says is a direct response to a rocket attack by militants that injured three service members.

The injuries sustained by the service members were reported to be 'minor'. The U.S. Military had responded to the rocket attacks by targeting a convoy of vehicles that were equipped with launchers reportedly used in the attack with Apache helicopters.

The attack on the convoy of vehicles by U.S. forces were reported to have killed two of the three suspected militia members who were thought to have taken part in the attacks on U.S. forces.

USCENTCOM Commander General Michael Kurilla released a statement Wednesday that said, "The strike in eastern Syria was in response to attacks by Iran-backed groups against US forces in Syria on August 15th and demonstrates our resolve to defend US forces and equipment".

State Department spokesman Ned Price had addressed the strikes, saying that "If Iran were able to obtain a nuclear weapon, every single challenge we face with the Iranian regime would become more difficult."

"If we are able to take…the specter of Iranian nuclear weapon off the table, we'll be able to address more effectively everything else that we face from Iran and from its proxies and the groups it supports in the region," he continued.

CENTCOM forces respond to attempted coordinated rocket attacks at Conoco, Green Village bases in northeast Syria. - CENTCOM: forces respond to attempted coordinated rocket attacks at Conoco, Green Village bases in northeast Syria. "U.S. forces responded today to rocket attacks at two sites in Syria, destroying three vehicles and equipment used to launch some of the rockets. Read Full Article

*UPDATED* CENTCOM: US Military Carries Out Precision Strikes in Syria - *UPDATED* U.S. military forces conducted precision airstrikes in Deir ez-Zor Syria today. Sources have reported that multiple rockets have been fired at a US base in Conoco, located in east Deir Ezzor, Syria. There have also been reports that the U.S. Military responded to rocket fire by combatants with airstrikes on Iranian-linked targets in eastern Syria. Read Full Article

US State Department Deeply Concerned About Turkish Military Activity In Syria - The U.S. State Department said on Thursday that they are deeply concerned about increasing tensions in Northeastern Syria regarding a suspected Turkish drone attack that killed four teenage girls and injured 11 other people who were playing volleyball at a girl's center in Hasakah, Syria. Read Full Article

China Holds Joint 2022 International Military Exercises Co-Hosted By 12 Countries - The Chinese Ministry of Defense has reported that their military is carrying out joint military exercises that are co-hosted by 12 countries, with 37 countries in total participating. Read Full Article

935 Rockets Fired Into Israel From Gaza, No Ceasefire In Effect - According to multiple Israeli sources around 935 rockets have been fired into Israel from the Gaza Strip. Rockets were also fired into Israel just minutes after the ceasefire deadline had been reached.

Sky News Arabia says that the ceasefire agreement "did not obtain Palestinian approval in the Gaza Strip". Rockets continue to be fired into Israel.

Another Day Of Aistrikes In Gaza Kills 2nd PIJ Top Commander - GAZA - Another airstrike has claimed the life of another PIJ Top Commander, Khaled Mansour, targeted at an apartment building in the crowded Rafah refugee camp in southern Gaza, as the Israeli Defense Force continues their offensive against the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Read Full Article

Israel Currently Carrying Out Strikes On Gaza Strip, Approves Calling On 25,000 Reservists - Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced that they are currently carrying out strikes on the Gaza Strip after "direct threats" posed by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Gaza.

In what is called "Operation "Dawn", Israel has also called on the recruitment of up to 25,000 military reservists. Israeli television Reshet 13 reported (translation) that after the assassination of the commander of the northern region of the Gaza Strip Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Taysir al-Jabari, the Israeli Defense Forces are continuing to attack targets of the terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip, along with a large-scale mobilization of reserves.

Reshet 13 also said that several other attacks were carried out against other targets of the "terrorist organization" and that an IDF spokesperson said that there were at least 15 other deaths as a result of the attacks. It said that the IDF is prepared for rocket fire into Gush Dan and that air traffic in the Gaza Strip has been diverted to the north.

The news channel reported that an IDF aircraft destroyed a rocket launch site of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist organization in Khan Yunis and that a short while ago a failed launch attempt was detected from the site. It also said that the IDF is continuing to attack terrorist targets of the Palestinian Authority throughout the Gaza Strip and that there are also reports of an IDF attack in Shejajia, in the northeast of the Gaza Strip.

A statement posted by the IDF said, "Following the direct threats posed by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Gaza, the IDF is currently striking in the Gaza Strip. A special situation has been declared on the Israeli home front. Details to follow."

The IDF later posted another statement saying, "We just targeted a senior commander of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist group in Gaza. Tayseer Jabari was responsible for multiple terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians. The IDF will continue to defend Israel against the threat of terrorism."

In a later statement, they said, "The IDF continues to strike terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip, including 6 Islamic Jihad military posts. A number of Islamic Jihad operatives were neutralized during the strikes. LTG Aviv Kohavi has instructed the IDF to enter emergency mode, opening the High Command Post."

Rockets are now firing at Israel from Gaza. The IDF stated, "More sirens are now sounding in cities across central Israel.

U.S. Department Of State: Worldwide Travel Alert - The U.S. Department of State has put out a worldwide travel alert, advising against traveling abroad after Sunday's drone strike where two R9X Hellfire missiles killed al-Qaeda leader, and Osama bin Laden successor, Ayman al-Zawahri.

R9X Hellfire are "kinetic kill" missiles, meaning rather than cause an explosion that kills the target, these missiles deploy six metal blades that do the job.

"Following al-Zawahri's death, supporters of al- Qa'ida, or its affiliated terrorist organizations, may seek to attack U.S. facilities, personnel, or citizens," the State Department said.

A second worldwide travel alert was also put out for a "Global Level 3 Health Advisory" that said that citizens should "reconsider travel" abroad due to COVID-19.

The statement put out by the State Department was as follows:

Caution: August 2nd, 2022 - Worldwide Caution: Worldwide Cautions provide U.S. citizens with general information regarding terrorist activities, political violence, and criminal activity that occur abroad, as well as specific recommendations on how to prepare for possible contingencies, receive information on breaking security events and ensure that travelers can be contacted in an emergency. This version replaces the Worldwide Caution dated January 15, 2019.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. The Department of State believes there is a higher potential for anti-American violence given the death of Ayman al-Zawahiri on July 31, 2022. Current information suggests that terrorist organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions across the globe. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.

As terrorist attacks, political violence (including demonstrations), criminal activities, and other security incidents often take place without any warning, U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness when traveling abroad. U.S. government facilities worldwide actively monitor potential security threats and may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

When planning a trip and prior to departing the United States, U.S. citizens should consult country specific Travel Advisories and information pages on travel.state.gov. Travelers are also urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and to make it easier to locate them in an emergency. The Department uses these security messages to convey information about terrorist threats, security incidents, planned demonstrations, natural disasters, etc. In an emergency, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate or call the following numbers: 1 (888) 407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1 (202) 501-4444 from other countries.

Private U.S. citizens should not travel to any country to participate in armed conflict. U.S. citizens are reminded that fighting on behalf of, or providing other forms of support to, designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a serious crime that can result in penalties, including prison time and large fines.

New Nuclear Power Plant Being Built in Turkey, Financed By Russia - The Syrian rights group, Syrian Network For Human Rights (SNHR) has reported that in the month of July there were 86 civilian deaths, including 21 children and eight women, of whom died from torture. Read Full Article

New Nuclear Power Plant Being Built in Turkey, Financed By Russia - The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, which is being built near Mersin, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is being constructed by the Russian state-owned nuclear power company, Rosatom, and is set to come online with its first two reactors in 2023. Even though Russia has invaded Ukraine in a special military operation, and NATO is the official nation group to stand against Russia for its actions, Turkey is still on track with its Russian collaborated nuclear energy contract. Read Full Article

CIA Carries Out Successful Drone Strike Against al Qaeda Leader - The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has carried out a successful drone strike in Afghanistan against al Qaeda leader al-Zawahiri. Read Full Article

IRGC Posts Video Saying It will Build Nuclear Warheads And Turn NY Into Ruins - An Iranian IRGC-affiliated Telegram channel has posted a video openly declaring that Iran can move its peaceful nuclear program to a nuclear weapons program very quickly, and said that Iran's ballistic missiles are capable of turning New York into ruins. Read Full Article

Turkish Consulate In Mosul, Iraq Targeted By Missiles - The Turkish consulate in Mosul, Iraq was targeted by missiles on Wednesday, after the Iraqi government claimed that Turkey had carried out artillery strikes in the Zakho District, in the Duhok Governorate that killed eight people, which Turkey has denied involvement in.

Four mortar missiles were reported to have been used in the attack. There were no casualties reported from the missile attack on the Turkish consulate, but damages to cars that were parked on the street near the consulate were reported by lawmaker Shirwan Dobardani, who spoke to AFP.

Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) reported that a group who calls itself "Ababil Brigades" claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said, "We condemn this attack, in which no casualties were reported, in the strongest terms. We firmly request from the Iraqi authorities to fulfill their responsibilities in protecting diplomatic and consular missions."

It was a "grave and noteworthy development that this attack was carried out during the UN Security Council meeting, which was held upon the call of the Iraqi authorities," the ministry added.

- Alert Put Out By Donald Standeford

The Ongoing Turkish Operation: Claw-Lock, In Syria & Iraq - SYRIA/IRAQ - IRAQ - An ongoing military operation by the Turkish Armed Forces in northern Iraq, against the Kurdistan Workers' Party ( PKK ) in the Duhok Governorate, is the next phase of many operations utilizing the code word 'claw' aimed at the PKK. Other operations, beginning in 2019, prior to Claw-Lock include the following: Claw-Eagle, Claw-Tiger, Claw-Lightening, & Claw-Thunderbolt. Read Full Article

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov Off To Africa Seeking Non-Western Allies - Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister is setting out on a trip to Egypt where he will meet with officials and solidify their relationship with Russia. Rosatom, a Russian state-owned energy corporation began construction on Egypt's first nuclear power plant. Read Full Article

Presidents Putin, Erdogan, & Supreme Leader Khamenei, Meeting in Iran - TEHRAN - Today there was a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayhip Erdogan, and the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei. The topics of discussion were Ukrainian grain exports as well as peace in Syria. Read Full Article

Capital Police In Islamabad, Pakistan Put Security On High Alert - Capital police in Islamabad, Pakistan have put security on high alert for the next 48 hours across the district, with "no unnecessary movement" allowed.

The Islamabad Police put out the following statements: "Islamabad Capital Police has put security on high alert for the next 48 hours across the district. IG Islamabad Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan has issued security high alert orders. Checking has been increased on all entry and exit routes".

"Security has been tightened at all police stations, important buildings and important installations. Additional police personnel have been deployed in the red zone. Strict checking is going on at the entry and exit points of the red zone. No unnecessary movement will be allowed. Citizens are requested to cooperate with the police during checking".

Saudi Arabia Allows Israeli Aircraft To Fly Over Territory For First Time In Decades - Saudi Arabia on Friday made an announcement that it is lifting restrictions on all [Israeli] carriers, allowing them to use airspace over the country after a decades-long ban. Read Full Article

Israeli Airstrikes Hit Gaza After Rockets Fired From Gaza Strip Into Israel - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out airstrikes in Gaza after rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel on Saturday. The IDF reported four rockets being fired into Israel from Gaza, two of which fell in "open areas" according to the IDF. Read Full Article

Biden To Sign Iran Nuclear Prevention Pledge With Israel - In light of global disputes, regarding the nuclear capacity of Iran, a decision was made, and on Thursday, United States President Joe Biden will sign a joint agreement with the Israeli Prime Minister, Yair Lapid, denying nuclear weapons capabilities to Iran. Read Full Article

US Drone Strike Kills ISIS Leader In Syria, Wounds Another - U.S. Central Command has put out a release saying that they carried out a "UAS strike" outside of Jindayris, in northwest Syria that targeted "two senior ISIS officials" on July 12th, 2022.

The strike killed Maher al-Agal, who was one of the top five ISIS leaders and leader of ISIS in Syria, and 'seriously injured' a senior ISIS official who was "closely associated" with Maher according to the statement.

The CENTCOM statement said that "extensive planning" went into the operation in order to ensure its "successful execution" and that a review of the strike indicated that there had been no civilian casualties.

The statement also said that Al-Agal was responsible for "aggressively pursuing the development of ISIS networks outside of Iraq and Syria".

U.S. Central Command spokesperson Colonel Joe Buccino said, "This strike reaffirms CENTCOM's steadfast commitment to the region and the enduring defeat of ISIS. The removal of these ISIS leaders will disrupt the terrorist organization's ability to further plot and carry out global attacks."

"ISIS continues to represent a threat to the U.S. and partners in the region," he added. "CENTCOM maintains a sufficient and sustainable presence in the region and will continue to counter threats against regional security."

White House: Iran Providing Russia With "Hundreds" Of Drones - The White House has said that the U.S. has "information" that indicates Iran is preparing, or already has given Russia "hundreds" unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and said that Iran plans to train Russian forces on using the drones as early as this month.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said, "Our information indicates that the Iranian government is preparing to provide Russia with up to several hundred UAVs, including weapons-capable UAVs on an expedited timeline".

He added that this is proof that Russia's attack on Ukraine is "coming at a cost to the sustainment of its own weapons".

Sullivan also said that Iran has likewise given similar UAVs to the Houthi rebels in Yemen so that they could be used against Saudi Arabia, before the ceasefire was reached earlier this year.

- Alert Put Out By Donald Standeford

The Israeli Government Dissolves - ISRAEL - Creating its 5th Election in 3 years, the newly formed coalition in the Israeli government has chosen to dissolve parliament, which will paralyze the country and allow for assistance from Benjamin Netanyahu, the former conservative prime minister, who left office approximately 1 year ago after the new government was formed, according to The New York Times Read Full Article

A Further Complicated Syria in 2022 - TURKEY - After a cabinet meeting on Monday, the President of Turkey announced that a new military operation would be underway in Syria, to stabilize logistics between 2 already Turkish-controlled areas. The operation will target Turkish efforts at resuming a 20-mile (30km) safe zone along the Turkish-Syrian border. Read Full Article

Syrian Militant Affiliated With Hezbollah Reportedly Killed In Drone Strike - A militant, who was reportedly affiliated with both the Syrian military and the Hezbollah terrorist organization has been killed by an alleged Israeli drone strike in Quneitra.

The drone strike was reported to have been carried out in southwestern Syria on Wednesday, according to Syrian state news agency SANA and targeted a region west of Hader located near Syria's border with Israel.

Syrian media reported that the person killed was named Farid Fouad Mustafa, and SANA reported that he was not far from his home when a guided missile was fired at him from the Golan Heights, in Israel.

Halab Today TV, which is affiliated with the opposition reported that Mustafa was "one of the most prominent figures of the [Assad] regime in the city of Hader," and said that he had carried out military operations with both Syrian soldiers, as well as the National Defense Forces militia. It also said that he was tied to Hezbollah.

The report said that he played a large role in the suppression of Syrians who had rebelled against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in southern Syria.

While most reports say that Mustafa died in the drone strike, there was a report by a Syrian journalist Nour Abo Hasan however, that said that Mustafa was shot and killed by an Israeli sniper.

The journalist wrote on Twitter (translated), "An Israeli targeting by a sniper shot killed the so-called Farid Fouad Mustafa, who is active with Hezbollah and the Southern Command under the leadership of the so-called Hajj Hashem, in the west of the town of Hader, north of Quneitra governorate, southwest of Syria In conjunction with the flight of the Israeli reconnaissance aircraft in Quneitra".

UK: Iranian Report Of Detained British Citizen 'Completely False' - The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced that they arrested several foreigners, including the British deputy ambassador to Iran Giles Whitaker for spying. The UK says that the reports are "completely false".

Iranian state television said, "These spies were taking earth samples in Iran's central desert where the Revolutionary Guards' aerospace missile exercises were conducted" and said that "Whitaker was expelled from the city after apologizing".

Representative of the British Foreign Office, Samuel Heath said that "Reports of the arrest of a British diplomat in Iran are completely false. He is not even posted in Iran any more".

One of those that the IRGC says that they detained was claimed by Iranian state TV as being the huhsband of Austraia's cultural attache in Iran.

A third foreigner which was allegedly shown by Iranian state television was Maciej Walczak, who is a university professor in Poland, who the state TV said was visiting Iran as a tourist.

Iran's state TV allegedly showed Walczak and three of his colleagues collecting earth samples after they visited Iran during a scientific exchange program.

Iranian state television said that the collection of the earth samples coincided with a missile test that was carried out in the Kerman province in Iran.

Erbil International Airport Prevents Unauthorized Iranian Aircraft From Landing - Kurdistan 24 news has reported that the Erbil International Airport (EIA) in Iraq has "prevented an unauthorized Iranian Pouya Air Cargo plane from landing, citing the EIA Director Ahmed Hoshyar.

Jason Brodsky, who is a UANI Policy Director and Middle East analyst commented on this, saying that Pouya Air is "under U.S. terrorism sanctions for acting for or on behalf of the IRGC-QF for transporting illegal cargo, including weapons, to Iran's clients in the Levant".

Explosions Reported At U.S. Base On Syrian-Iraqi Border - Multiple explosions have been reported at a U.S. base on the Syrian-Iraqi border in the Al-Omar oil field in Deir Ez-Zur in Eastern Syria.

Sabereen News reported that at least two blasts were heard in the US base in the al-Omar oil field in the Dayr al-Zawr province near the Syrian-Iraqi border early Monday.

Russia had Carried Out Airstrikes on the al-Tanf garrison U.S. military base located near Syria's border with Jordan in southeast Syria on June 15th after it had first notified the United States of their intentions.

Russian Vessels Turning Off Their Transponder Trackers - Russian and Syrian vessels have been turning off their transponders and have been accused of deceptive shipping practices in order to sell crude oil and stolen Ukrainian grain while evading the heavy sanctions placed on Russia due to its war on Ukraine. Read Full Article