Overview
Syrian opposition forces have reportedly captured Damascus, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that Assad may have fled or been killed in a plane crash.
Russia confirmed Assad’s resignation and announced a peaceful transition plan.
As rebels progress against Assad's forces, Iran has begun evacuating military commanders, diplomats, and their families from Syria to Iraq and Lebanon. This includes senior figures from the Quds Force and Revolutionary Guards.
A Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo on Friday to resume ceasefire talks. Proposals discussed included a 60-day ceasefire, the entry of 200 trucks of aid per day, reopening of the Rafah crossing under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the IDF, and no requirement for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Qatar expelled Hamas leaders under pressure from the Biden administration. US President elect- Donald Trump is reportedly trying to broker a deal before he is inaugurated on January 20th.
Consistent with the cease-fire agreement with Israel, the Lebanese army has deployed in Shebaa village, approximately two kilometers from the Israeli border.
Syria’s Political and Military Collapse
The fall of the Assad regime:
Syrian opposition forces have captured Damascus, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that Assad may have fled. Russian news agency TASS reported, citing Kremlin sources, that the fleeing Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad and his family are currently in Moscow as Russia confirmed Assad’s resignation and announced a peaceful transition plan.
Abu Muhammad al-Julani, the leader of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), entered the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, a symbol of Islamic heritage and significance.
Senior Russian officials are reportedly in contact with the "armed Syrian opposition." The opposition has committed to safeguarding Russian bases and the Russian diplomatic mission in Syria.
Joyful crowds gathered in squares in Damascus, and across Syria following Assad’s fall waving the Syrian revolutionary flag.
Troops abandoned the strategic city of Deir ez-Zor to reinforce the capital, Damascus which did not prevent it from falling to the rebels.
Kurdish forces of the SDF have captured key territories along the western bank of the Euphrates River, including Abu Kamal. Iraq has closed the Al-Qaim border crossing, allowing entry only to Iraqi citizens, effectively severing Iran’s overland corridor to Syria.
Rebel advances include:
The Free Syrian Army (FSA) advancing from Al-Tanf to seize the strategic city of Palmyra and move toward northwestern Damascus.
The Southern Operations Room, an alliance of militias and former rebel groups, swiftly taking control of southern Syria, including Daraa and Quneitra, with Assad’s forces retreating.
The Druze and Sunni uprisings in Al-Suwayda have further destabilized the south, with rebels toppling Assad’s statues and advancing toward Damascus.
Assad’s forces requested military and intelligence aid from Arab states, but these requests were denied.
The rebels have gained access to military equipment, including fighter jets, from the Hama airbase.
Following a tripartite meeting between the foreign ministers of Iran, Syria, and Iraq, on December 6th Iran decided to abandon Assad’s regime. Iranian Revolutionary Guard personnel and military commanders were ordered to withdraw from Syria on the same day, 2 days before Assad fled.
Turkey supported the opposition’s advance and eventual toppling of Assad , with President Erdogan stating, "Idlib, Aleppo, Hama, Homs, and ultimately Damascus—this is the path of the opposition."
Qatar has resumed participation in hostage negotiations while distancing itself from Assad’s regime, despite their previously normalizing ties with Assad.
Abu Mohammed Al-Joulani, leader of Tahrir al-Sham, reassured Christians in Syria that they would not be targeted and vowed to establish governance and public services in rebel-controlled territories.
Israeli Response to Assad Toppling
Reinforcement of Bashan Division:
The IDF has deployed to the buffer zone in Syria, near the Golan for the first time since 1974 and the implementation of the ceasefire monitored by United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). The IDF captured the Syrian Hermon, overlooking the Golan Heights without encountering any resistance. Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi told IDF Golani Brigade recruits that the IDF is now engaged in 4 different ground theaters. The IDF said it was following the developments in Syria, bolstering its defenses, but not getting involved in the internal affairs of the country.
IDF soldiers from the Shaldag unit also waved the Israeli flag in the Syrian Golan, for the first time in history.
The IDF stressed that its deployment to the buffer zone between Israel and Syria was a defensive and temporary measure amid the chaos in the country. The decision to capture the Syrian Hermon area and buffer zone was unanimously approved by the Israeli cabinet .
Israel launched airstrikes in Syria, hitting weapons factories, including chemical weapons sites near Damascus, apparently to prevent them from falling into the hands of rebel groups.
In a visit to the border with Syria, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video statement taking credit for starting the chain of events that led to the sudden fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria. Netanyahu said that going forward Israel will pursue a similar policy of giving humanitarian aid to Syrian civilians while avoiding taking an active part in internal conflicts. The prime minister also stressed that Israel is extending a hand in peace to Druze, Kurds, Christians and Muslims in Syria.
Prime Minister Netanyahu held high-level security consultations, focusing on preventing new threats along the Golan Heights and blocking Iranian reinforcements.
An Israeli airstrike near Damascus, guided by intelligence, killed Salman Nimr Jum’ah, a Hezbollah operative involved in transferring arms to Lebanon
Israel has bolstered the Bashan Division, responsible for securing the Syrian border and protecting the Golan Heights. Additional air and ground forces have been deployed.
Recent infrastructure developments include the construction of a fortified border named "New East", featuring earthworks, ditches, and rock embankments, along with expanded fortifications and manned outposts.
A large-scale exercise named "Yuval Peak" was recently completed in southern Golan and northern Jordan Valley to prepare for any potential escalation on the Syrian border.
The Israeli Air Force conducted a precision strike in Damascus, killing a Hezbollah envoy to the Syrian military. The operation aimed to: erode Hezbollah’s operational capabilities and prevent the transfer of weapons from Syria to Lebanon.
Iran
The U.S. imposed sanctions on 35 companies and ships involved in smuggling Iranian oil, targeting networks that enable continued financial support for Iranian-backed operations.
Iran’s Nuclear and Space Program Updates
Iran has activated advanced centrifuges following a decision by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Board of Governors. This action could trigger widespread UN sanctions against Iran.
IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi reported that Iran's uranium enrichment capacity, now at 60% purity, has grown "astonishingly."
The U.S. intelligence report warns that if sanctions intensify or Israel attacks Iranian assets, Tehran could accelerate steps in its nuclear program.
Satellite Launch:
Iran successfully launched the Fakhr-1 satellite using the Simorgh ("Phoenix") rocket. This launch follows a series of previous failures and coincides with concerns from the U.S. intelligence community about potential use of such technology for intercontinental ballistic missile development.
Analysis
Despite pledges of unwavering support, including military reinforcements, advanced weapons, and public solidarity, Iran was ultimately unable to intervene effectively on behalf of its proxy, Bashar al-Assad, during Syria's crisis. Decades of investment in Assad's regime proved futile against advancing Sunni and other rebel forces, as Israel's strategic actions neutralized Iran's ability to act decisively with the incapacitation of Hezbollah and Israel’s strategic hits against Iran. Days before Assad fell, Iranian President Masoud Pazeshkian spoke with Assad and reassured that Iran would send military assistance to Syria and is committed not to allow the regime fall. Iran's assurances amounted to little more than rhetoric, highlighting their diminished regional influence in the face of this crisis.
Iran’s regional strategy is unraveling. Hamas has been neutralized as a fighting force, Hezbollah’s leadership has been shattered, and now Assad’s Syria—a cornerstone of Iran’s regional ambitions—is collapsing. The fall of Syria is a seismic shift. For years, it was the critical land corridor enabling Tehran to funnel weapons and resources to its proxies in Lebanon and Syria. The dismantling of this corridor delivers a direct blow to the "ring of fire" strategy championed by Qassem Soleimani, aimed at encircling Israel with Iranian-backed forces.
Israel’s actions have put Iran on the defensive like never before. It is not just a proxy war anymore—this is direct confrontation. Israel’s offensive has crippled Iran’s air defenses, exposing its airspace and leaving Tehran vulnerable to future strikes. With its conventional strategy faltering and its regional proxies disarmed or discredited, Iran is left with one remaining card to play: accelerating its nuclear program. A nuclear weapon now appears to be Iran’s last viable deterrent against Israel and the West.
Hezbollah, long touted as Iran’s strongest proxy, has been exposed as largely ineffective, just like Assad’s regime. This shift forces a recalibration of Israel’s approach to Iran’s ambitions. The perception of Iranian weakness might spur Israel to act decisively to prevent Tehran from achieving nuclear capability.
International
President Biden hailed the fall of Assad's regime as a "historic opportunity" and pledged U.S. support for a UN-led peaceful transition in Syria. He attributed this development to the weakening of Assad's allies, notably Russia and Iran,
The UN Security Council held an emergency session to discuss the situation in Syria, focusing on humanitarian aid, regional stability, and support for Syria's political transition.
Canadian Announcement:
The Canadian government officially added the Houthis to its list of terrorist organizations. The statement emphasized that the Houthis have contributed to regional instability by initiating attacks on civilian and military vessels in the Red Sea and other maritime routes, as well as their strikes targeting Israel.
Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres at the Cairo Summit:
Guterres criticized Israel, warning that if UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) is forced to close, Israel, as the occupying power, will bear full responsibility for replacing its essential services completely ignoring the Israeli accusations of UNWRAs culpability in the war against Hamas, and refusal to consider alternative humanitarian possibilities such as the UNHCR which administers refugees in all other conflicts worldwide.
He called for an end to the "illegal occupation", emphasizing that the eviction of families and the destruction of homes exacerbate the suffering and injustice faced by Palestinians.
While condemning the October 7th terrorist attacks, he balanced his statements sympathetic to Israel with his description of Israel’s military response as collective punishment against Palestinians is equally unjustifiable, urging an immediate end to the "nightmare," while failing to acknowledge the unprecedented efforts that the IDF has utilized to avoid civilian casualties, which undermines his collective punishment allegations.
The three nations aim to leverage their influence to restore security and stability in Syria as quickly as possible.
A report by Amnesty International accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, claiming violations of the Genocide Convention with the intent to destroy Palestinians, and that Israel’s actions have caused death, injury and mental harm on a vast scale. U.S. State Department Deputy Spokesman Vedant Patel rejected Amnesty’s findings, stating that the genocide allegations are unfounded. He emphasized the importance of monitoring Gaza’s humanitarian situation but dismissed the report's conclusions.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide: Eide expressed support for a "unified Palestinian state" encompassing the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Linda Thomas-Greenfield's Leadership: As U.S. Ambassador to the UN and the new president of the UN Security Council, Thomas-Greenfield stated that the Gaza conflict would be a top priority.
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken met in Washington with Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer. They discussed:
facilitation of more humanitarian aid across Gaza.
Planning for post-conflict governance, security, and reconstruction in Gaza is critical for Israel's long-term security.
The importance of implementing a ceasefire in Lebanon to ensure safe and lasting returns for both Israeli and Lebanese civilians.
U.S. Treasury Imposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Smuggling: Sanctions were imposed on 35 companies and tankers involved in smuggling Iranian oil, petroleum products, and petrochemicals.
The sanctioned entities include:
A total of 14 companies registered in India, UAE, China, Hong Kong, Pakistan, Liberia, the Marshall Islands, and Iran.
21 oil tankers that are part of the so-called "Ghost Fleet" or "Shadow Fleet", facilitating illicit oil shipments.
Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Thani:
Al-Thani revealed to Sky News that President-Elect Trump is pushing for a hostage deal before his inauguration on January 20, 2025.
He expressed cautious optimism about a ceasefire and indicated that the gaps between Israel and Hamas are not insurmountable.
Al-Thani described a "new momentum" in negotiations following the US election, noting Qatar’s ongoing coordination with the U.S. and other parties to finalize agreements quickly.
Photo Graphic
Gaza Strip
Diplomatic
UNRWA's Humanitarian Aid Halt
Suspension of Operations: The head of UNRWA announced a cessation of food aid deliveries to Gaza following another truck hijacking at the Kerem Shalom crossing on Saturday and amid continuous threats from armed, terrorist groups.
UNRWA criticized the blockade and delays caused by Israeli authorities , which it claims make humanitarian work nearly impossible.
Israeli Response: The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) responded that UNRWA coordinated only 7% of all humanitarian aid that entered Gaza during November 2024. Dozens of other organizations continue delivering aid through Kerem Shalom and four other crossings.
Hostage Deal
Hostage Video Release: Hamas released a video of an Israeli hostage calling for the Israeli public to pressure their government to agree to a ceasefire.
. Ceasefire Negotiations in Cairo:
A Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo on Friday to resume ceasefire talks.
Proposals discussed include a 60-day ceasefire, the entry of 200 trucks of aid per day, reopening of the Rafah crossing under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the IDF, with no requirement for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Hamas reportedly expressed flexibility and is open to an agreement resembling the Hezbollah model, that includes a gradual Israeli withdrawal with the PA to assume eventual control over the Rafah crossing.
Israeli Proposal via Egypt: Israel offered a ceasefire lasting 42-60 days, contingent on the release of all female hostages, men over 50, and those in critical medical condition. Hamas has not yet responded to this proposal.
Hamas-Fatah Agreement: Under Egyptian mediation, Hamas and Fatah agreed to establish a civilian governance mechanism for Gaza and the Judea and Samaria post-war.
Steve Witkoff's Diplomatic Mission: Steve Witkoff, Trump’s choice to be the Special Envoy to the Mideast, visited Israel and Qatar to facilitate a hostage release deal. He met with key leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and Qatar's Prime Minister Al-Thani.
Qatar expelled Hamas leaders under pressure from the Biden administration, and Trump aims to broker a hostage deal before he assumes office on January 20th.
Hostage Situation
Warning from IDF Officials: Major General Nitzan Alon warned of the dire situation for hostages, many of whom are reportedly starving and suffering from a lack of food provided by their captors.
Hostage Death Investigations:
The deaths of six hostages (last August) in an underground tunnel in Khan Younis were recently reviewed.
Forensic analysis showed gunshot wounds on the hostages but not on the militants. While the timing of the deaths remains uncertain, it is likely they were killed around the time of a nearby airstrike. Other scenarios, including execution before the strike, have not been ruled out.
Efforts to Locate Hostages: Hamas is attempting to gather intelligence on hostages held by other Palestinian factions in preparation for potential negotiations with Israel.
Israeli Humanitarian Agreements
Proposed Interim Agreement:
Israel is reportedly considering an interim agreement that would allow the entry of temporary humanitarian aid and the repositioning of IDF forces without a full withdrawal.
During the ceasefire, the IDF would refrain from military actions unless attacked.
Egyptian Mediators have suggested that initial agreements could be finalized within days, with intensive coordination involving the United States, Turkey, and Qatar.
An Israeli delegation visited Russia to discuss the status of hostages - with a focus on those holding Russian citizenship - and regional developments in Syria.
Truck Deliveries: On Wednesday, 138 humanitarian trucks entered Gaza, with 122 trucks arriving on Tuesday. Current demands are for 200 trucks per day, with Hamas insisting on 500 trucks as part of potential deals.
Operational
Counterterrorism and Clearance Activities: The 162nd Division is focused on destroying terrorist infrastructure and clearing the terrain along the Mefalsim route. This operation mirrors efforts in the Rafah area and involves expanding control:
Northward and Southward Expansion: Clearing is being done at the expense of neighborhoods in Jabalia, similar to the continuous expansion along the Be'eri route, which affects southern Gaza City neighborhoods and northern Nuseirat camp.
Strategic Objective: The goal is the complete destruction of terrorist infrastructure, seizure of weapons, and elimination of all resistance pockets of suppport. Drilling operations are ongoing across all areas to locate additional tunnels.
House-to-House Scans: The Kfir Brigade is conducting scans of residential areas. One significant challenge is the prevalence of explosive devices.
Captured Materials: In two raids, body cameras belonging to militants were confiscated. Footage reveals a consistent effort by the militants to plant explosives along streets and between houses.
Elimination of a Hamas terrorist involved in Nir Oz massacre: The terrorist traveled in an unmarked vehicle resembling a humanitarian transport of the World Central Kitchen (WCK). COGAT has urged humanitarian organizations to provide lists of their staff to prevent misuse by terrorists.
Elimination of Senior Hamas Commander: A joint operation by the IDF and Shin Bet resulted in the elimination of the Head of Hamas' Aerial Unit in Gaza City. This commander was involved in planning the October 7th aerial assault and led numerous drone attacks against IDF forces during the campaign.
Focused Raids: IDF's Nahal Brigade has been conducting targeted raids, uncovering and destroying booby-trapped tunnels, as well as locating weapons caches that included explosives and mortar launchers.
Civilian Evacuations and Terror Suspects
Evacuations in Beit Lahia: Between Wednesday and Thursday, 18,000 residents were evacuated, significantly more than initial estimates a month ago. Many were found hiding in ruins and homes, rather than designated shelters.
Terror Suspects Arrested: The Kfir Brigade detained approximately 100 terror suspects attempting to infiltrate crowds of evacuees. These individuals were transferred for further investigation in Israel.
Evacuation Totals: So far, approximately 90,000 civilians have been evacuated from northern areas such as Beit Lahia, Beit Hanoun, and Jabalia.
Combat and Casualties
Decreasing Resistance: Over the past day, 20 terrorists were neutralized. The diminishing rate of clashes and killings indicates the success in eliminating pockets of resistance.
Jabalia Clashes: During the third phase of the battle in Jabalia, approximately 1,750 militants were killed, and 1,300 were arrested.
Airstrikes: Key airstrikes targeted Khan Younis, killing 21 terrorists, including a senior Hamas internal security figure responsible for torturing opposition members.
Operations in Shati Camp: Airstrikes in the Shati neighborhood killed several Hamas operatives, including a battalion deputy commander involved in the October 7th massacre at Nahal Oz and a local company commander responsible for kidnapping civilians during the attack.
Hostage and Tunnel Incidents
Rescue of Hostage Remains: The remains of hostage Itai Savirsky were retrieved from an undisclosed Gaza location. Savirsky, a Tel Aviv resident kidnapped on October 7th, was murdered after four months in captivity. The total number of hostages in Gaza has now decreased to 100.
Northern Gaza
Northern Gaza Pockets: Around 100-200 militants remain north of the Mefalsim route, operating in 2-3-person cells. They utilize RPGs, explosives, and sniper tactics for guerrilla warfare.
Search-and-Destroy Missions: The Givati Brigade has been conducting operations in schools and shelters used by militants, aiming to separate militants from civilians before either arresting or neutralizing them.
Rafah Region and Strategic Plans
Clearing Operations: The Nahal Brigade is focusing on clearing the Rafah area, leaving no weapons or infrastructure for terror groups to regroup.
Buffer Zone Creation: The Gaza Division has completed creating 95% of a buffer zone, extending 1-2 kilometers into Gaza. Thousands of buildings and agricultural areas have been destroyed, totaling 65 square kilometers.
Reconstruction Efforts: Despite significant losses, Hamas is recruiting new operatives and rebuilding weapons production facilities, preparing for potential future conflicts.
Lebanon
Diplomatic
Lebanese Officials and Ceasefire Monitoring: Lebanese officials have expressed concerns regarding ceasefire violations and are working to ensure its implementation.
U.S. Involvement: The US is actively involved in the mediation process, aiming to stabilize the situation and prevent further escalation.
U.S. Special Envoy Amos Hochstein is expected to visit Beirut to oversee the work of the international committee tasked with ceasefire implementation.
lMajor General Jasper Jeffers, Special Operations Command Central of CENTCOM conducted an aerial survey along the Litani River alongside French and Lebanese military representatives.
Hezbollah’s Financial Activities and Rebuilding Efforts
Reactivation of Al-Qard al-Hassan:
Hezbollah announced the reactivation of its banking arm, Al-Qard al-Hassan, and initiated assessments for rebuilding homes and paying living stipends.
On the first day of the ceasefire, Iran reportedly transferred $1 billion to Hezbollah via a regional ally.
Disbursement to Displaced Families:
Hezbollah provided $300-400 per family for 233,500 displaced households, totaling $57 million so far, with plans to allocate an additional $20 million.
For those whose homes were completely destroyed, Hezbollah pledged $4,000 to $8,000 annually for housing rentals
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Hezbollah Secretary General’s Speech
Speech by Naim Qassem on December 5th:
The 27-minute pre-recorded speech addressed Hezbollah’s victory claims, rebuilding efforts, and the situation in Syria.
Key Points on Victory:
Hezbollah declared victory because it fulfilled its objectives, while the enemy failed to achieve its goals.
The ceasefire was accepted from a position of strength, not weakness.
The agreement is an implementation of Resolution 1701 from 2006, rather than a new framework.
Displacement and Reconstruction:
Hezbollah acknowledged the unprecedented displacement of 250,000 families in Lebanon.
It thanked displaced families for their sacrifices and promised financial support for rent and reconstruction.
Syria’s Situation:
Qassem accused Israel and the U.S. of orchestrating new efforts to destabilize Syria using terrorist groups, pledging Hezbollah’s continued support for President Assad. Remember this speech was pre-recorded and released to the public 48 hours before Assad fell.
Operational
IDF Enforcement Operations in Southern Lebanon
IDF Activity and Warnings: The IDF has intensified operations in southern Lebanon, targeting terrorist infrastructure and warning civilians to stay away from affected areas.
Hezbollah Rocket Attack and Israeli Response: Hezbollah launched rockets at IDF positions, prompting retaliatory airstrikes by the Israeli Air Force.
Hezbollah's Financial Support: Hezbollah has pledged significant financial aid for displaced families and reconstruction efforts in areas affected by the conflict.
Iran's Role: Iran has provided financial support to Hezbollah, demonstrating its continued involvement in the region.
The IDF reiterated in Arabic that villages in southern Lebanon remain active combat zones. Residents are warned not to return until further notice.
Lebanese media reported IDF activities in several villages, including Aitaroun, Mays al-Jabal, and Kafr Shuba, where the IDF is systematically destroying terror infrastructure.
On Monday, Hezbollah launched two rockets at IDF positions on Mount Dov, citing alleged Israeli violations of the ceasefire. This marked Hezbollah’s first attack since the ceasefire began, deliberately targeting military zones to avoid escalation.
Israeli Response: The Air Force launched a wave of strikes, destroying dozens of rocket launchers and killing several militants across Lebanon.
Airstrikes on Smuggling Routes: The Israeli Air Force targeted weapon smuggling routes along the Syria-Lebanon border, striking at least nine locations, including a coastal route.
IDF Activities in Lebanon
146th Division Operations:
Composed of the 226th Paratroopers Reserve Brigade (Eagle Formation) and Western Galilee Brigade (Baram), the division is enforcing the ceasefire and dismantling terrorist infrastructure.
Recent operations included destroying rocket launchers, mortars, ammunition boxes, and rifles in multiple areas.
Underground Route Discovery:
IDF forces uncovered a tunnel network in southern Lebanon, containing mortars, rockets, and exit points aimed at northern Israeli communities. Combat engineering units destroyed the elaborate tunnel network.
Hezbollah Weapons Cache:
Brigade 188, previously operating under Division 36 and now part of Division 91, located and neutralized significant amounts of explosives, rockets, grenades, and weapons, eliminating Hezbollah operatives in the process.
Lebanese Army Deployment:
The Lebanese army has deployed in Shebaa village, approximately two kilometers from the Israeli border, consistent with the ceasefire agreement.
Despite the deployment, the Shebaa area remains off-limits to returning residents under IDF directives.
Judea and Samaria
Operational
Elimination of Key Militant Leader:
The terrorist responsible for the murder of Yonatan Deutsch and the head of a militant cell involved in multiple shooting attacks in the Gilboa region was eliminated in a targeted operation.
Additionally, three other militants were neutralized in the same strike.
Counterterrorism Operations:
Over the past week, Israeli security forces have:
Neutralized seven militants via aerial strikes.
Arrested approximately 50 wanted individuals across Judea and Samaria.
Confiscated around 15 illegal weapons.
Diplomatic
A Palestinian delegation led by PA Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa participated in a ministerial conference in Cairo, focusing on humanitarian responses in Gaza.
Key objectives included:
Securing clear commitments for international humanitarian aid.
Expanding international support for Gaza’s recovery and reconstruction planning.
In his speech, Mustafa accused Israel of committing "war crimes", citing the destruction of over 80% of Gaza’s infrastructure, and called for a broadened provision of civilian services post-conflict.
Hamas and Fatah Agreement on a Community Support Committee
According to Arabic media reports, representatives from Hamas and Fatah agreed to establish a "Community Support Committee", under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority (PA), to foster unity between Gaza and Judea and Samaria.
The committee will be established based on national consensus and activated following a meeting of all Palestinian factions in Cairo to finalize its structure. It plans to provide essential services to Gaza residents, including healthcare, education, public utilities, and reconstruction efforts in coordination with local and international actors.
This plan would entrench Hamas into Gazan society, protect Hamas from Israel’s goal to wipe out Hamas and allow them to maintain enough control in Gaza to maintain its influence over the general society.
IDF and Domestic
Recent reports reveal that 2,874 buildings were damaged in the north of Israel due to recent incidents, of which:
841 buildings require complete reconstruction.
Kiryat Shmona suffered the most significant damage with 382 buildings affected, including 73 that need complete rebuilding.
Nahariya reported 291 damaged buildings.
The breakdown of affected structures includes:
1,669 residential buildings.
213 public buildings.
104 infrastructure sites.
147 agricultural buildings.
A new intervention unit, named "Prah", has been established in the Golan Heights. The unit aims to prevent terrorist infiltration into Israeli territory.
It was created as part of efforts to enhance operational readiness, serving as a force multiplier to existing units, under the regional division as an operational reserve.
The IDF is undergoing significant growth and modernization efforts, as demonstrated by the following new/expanded units:
Expansion of Yahalom Unit: A special engineering unit to enhance its operational scope.
Creation of a New Engineering Battalion: Additional support for infrastructure and field operations.
Drone Acquisition: Deployment of 15,000 new drones across all units.
Reserve Force Growth: Enlarging the reserve system to ensure rapid mobilization.
Strengthening Border Defense Corps: Improved readiness along national borders.
Observation units will relocate to rear bases, with personnel equipped with Tavor rifles. Infantry brigades Givati and Nahal, currently using Tavor rifles, will transition to M4 carbines.
Integration of Female Soldiers:
The IDF is preparing to increase the number of female combat soldiers and extend their mandatory service to 36 months.
Legal and Security Risks for Soldiers Abroad
Pro-Palestinian groups have initiated 30 legal complaints against Israeli soldiers abroad, gathering incriminating evidence from social media posts of those involved in the Gaza conflict.
Eight soldiers on leave were ordered to leave countries like the Netherlands, Cyprus, and Slovenia due to security concerns.
Integrating Ultra-Orthodox Soldiers
At the technical base in Haifa, a graduation ceremony was held for a course on F-16 maintenance, with 26 Ultra-Orthodox technicians who will serve at Ramat David Air Base.
Future initiatives for Ultra-Orthodox integration include:
Paramedic and driver training programs.
Combat officer courses for the Hasmonean Brigade, potentially at Beit Tzeva or Officer Training Base 1, with tailored adjustments.
Yemen
Israel successfully intercepted a missile launched from Yemen .
The Houthi militia claimed responsibility for three attacks on Israel in recent days: One attack involved a drone intercepted by a missile ship, which was launched from Yemen.
Fallen Soldiers
2 Photos of Soldiers
Captain Omer Maxim Neutra z"l who was belived to be a hostage was found to have been killed on October 7th
Captain Avraham Ben Pinchas z"l
Opmerkingen