US will deploy additional troops to the Middle East, Pentagon says

September 23, 2024

Smoke billows over southern Lebanon following Israeli strikes.

The Pentagon announced on Monday that the United States will deploy a limited number of additional troops to the Middle East in response to rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Specific details regarding the number of troops and their mission were not disclosed.

Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, a spokesperson for the Pentagon, stated, “In light of the current situation, we are sending a small contingent of U.S. military personnel to reinforce our existing forces in the region.”

Following nearly a year of conflict with Hamas in Gaza, Israel is now redirecting its attention to its northern border, where Hezbollah has been launching rockets into Israeli territory in solidarity with Hamas.

On Monday, the Israeli military conducted extensive strikes against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, the eastern Bekaa Valley, and northern areas near Syria. An Israeli airstrike in the evening targeted senior Hezbollah figure Ali Karaki, who leads operations on the southern front, according to a security source cited by Reuters.

The Biden administration is focused on limiting the conflict to Gaza and has consistently advocated for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis along the Israel-Lebanon border. This diplomatic approach has been emphasized by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin during his regular communications with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

Experts express concerns about Iran’s potential involvement if Hezbollah’s position in Lebanon is jeopardized, suggesting that U.S. forces could also become targets across the Middle East in the event of a regional escalation.

During a recent call on Sunday, Austin reiterated that external parties should refrain from intervening in the conflict.

“The Secretary emphasized that the United States is prepared to safeguard its forces and personnel while remaining resolute in deterring any regional actors from taking advantage of the situation or escalating the conflict,” the Pentagon stated.

The U.S. military assets available for this purpose include the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group, along with fighter jets and air defense systems.

Ryder stated, “Our current capabilities in the region surpass what we had on April 14th, the day Iran launched its drone and missile assault on Israel.” He emphasized that the collective strength of these forces offers us various options to safeguard our personnel in the event of an attack. Ryder noted that Iran’s assault involved over 300 missiles and drones, which resulted in only limited damage within Israel, largely due to successful air defense interventions from the United States, Britain, and other regional allies. This incident marked Iran’s inaugural direct strike against Israel.

Netanyahu commits altering the power dynamics in the northern region

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

Smoke billows over southern Lebanon, amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces

Israel announced that it conducted airstrikes targeting hundreds of Hezbollah positions on Monday, resulting in the deaths of at least 274 individuals, marking the deadliest day in Lebanon in decades, according to Lebanese officials. This escalation intensifies nearly a year of ongoing conflict with its Iran-backed adversary. Following significant cross-border exchanges of fire, Israel urged residents in Lebanon to evacuate areas identified as sites for weapon storage by the militant group.

After nearly a year of conflict with Hamas along its southern border, Israel is now redirecting its attention to the northern front, where Hezbollah has been launching rockets into Israeli territory in solidarity with Hamas. On Monday, Israel’s military executed extensive strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, the eastern Bekaa Valley, and northern regions near Syria. Lebanon’s health minister reported that the airstrikes resulted in 274 fatalities, including 21 children and 39 women, with 1,024 individuals injured, marking the highest death toll since the conclusion of the civil war from 1975 to 1990.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is experiencing “complicated days” as it intensifies its military operations in southern Lebanon, urging Israelis to maintain unity during this ongoing campaign.

“I committed to altering the security dynamics and the power equilibrium in the north, and that is precisely what we are executing,” he conveyed in a message following a situational briefing at military headquarters in Tel Aviv.

Earlier, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant indicated that military actions would persist until the objective of safely returning northern residents to their homes is achieved, suggesting a protracted conflict ahead, especially as Hezbollah has pledged to continue fighting until a ceasefire is established in Gaza.

The Israeli military reported that it had targeted approximately 800 sites associated with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley. “Among the targeted sites were structures where Hezbollah concealed rockets, missiles, launchers, UAVs, and other terrorist infrastructure,” the military stated.

Reuters has not been able to independently verify Israel’s claims regarding Hezbollah’s alleged storage of weapons in residential areas. Hezbollah has refrained from commenting on these allegations but has asserted that it does not position military assets near civilian populations.

In retaliation to the airstrikes, Hezbollah announced that it had launched numerous missiles at a military installation in northern Israel.

Warning sirens were activated in the northern region of the occupied West Bank on Monday as Hezbollah’s rocket fire spread further south from the border areas in northern Israel, which have experienced the most intense attacks in the recent conflict. Alarms were also triggered in various locations across northern Israel, including the port city of Haifa, as reported by the military.

Further assaults from Lebanon are anticipated. Israeli aircraft are reportedly preparing to target Hezbollah’s strategic weaponry concealed within residential areas in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, according to an Israeli military spokesperson, who urged civilians to evacuate without delay.

“The current scenes from southern Lebanon show secondary explosions of Hezbollah munitions detonating within homes. Every residence we are targeting contains weapons—rockets, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles intended for the purpose of harming Israeli civilians,” stated Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari in a televised address.

The strikes have intensified pressure on Hezbollah, which recently faced an unprecedented attack, as described by its Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, following the detonation of thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies utilized by its members. This operation has been largely attributed to Israel, although the country has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement.

In a significant setback, an Israeli airstrike on Friday in Beirut’s southern suburb resulted in the deaths of 45 individuals, including senior Hezbollah commanders, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Hezbollah confirmed that 16 of its members were among the deceased, including prominent leader Ibrahim Aqil and another commander, Ahmed Wahbi.

The ongoing conflict has heightened concerns that the United States, a close ally of Israel, and Iran may become embroiled in a broader Middle Eastern war. One individual sustained minor injuries from shrapnel during a rocket barrage in northern Israel, as reported by the Israeli ambulance service.

Imad Kreidieh, the head of Lebanese telecommunications company Ogero, informed Reuters on Monday that over 80,000 automated calls urging residents to evacuate their areas were detected on the network, though not all were responded to.

Lebanon’s Interior Minister Bassam al-Mawlawi has designated schools in Beirut, Tripoli, and southern regions as shelters due to significant citizen displacement, according to his office. Evacuation alerts have been reported as far as Beirut, the capital. Information Minister Ziad Makary stated that his ministry received an evacuation order but clarified that they would not comply, describing the situation as a “psychological war” in comments to Reuters.

Amid a severe financial crisis, Lebanon is ill-prepared to endure another conflict similar to the 2006 war, which saw extensive Israeli bombardment and substantial damage to the nation’s infrastructure during its confrontation with Hezbollah.

In the Sassine district of eastern Beirut, state employee Joseph Ghafary expressed concerns that Hezbollah might retaliate against Israeli attacks, potentially leading to a full-scale war. “If Hezbollah undertakes a significant operation, Israel will respond with even greater force. We cannot withstand that,” he remarked.

Shop owner Mohammed Sibai from the Hamra neighborhood shared his perspective with Reuters, viewing the recent increase in strikes as indicative of an impending war. “If they desire war, what can we do? It has been forced upon us. We are powerless to change it,” he stated.

Israeli airstrike targeted senior Hezbollah figure Ali Karaki

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

An Israeli airstrike on Monday evening in the southern suburbs of Beirut aimed at senior Hezbollah figure Ali Karaki and Talal Hamia, according to a security source cited by Reuters.

The source indicated that the outcome for Karaki remains uncertain.

Both officers already sit on the Jihad Council, Hezbollah’s top military body.

Karaki leads Hezbollah’s southern command, overseeing the group’s military operations in southern Lebanon, while Hamia heads Unit 910, which manages Hezbollah’s foreign operations and is tasked with conducting attacks outside the country.

The Jihad Council was initially thought to consist of seven members, but it has since been reduced to five due to the deaths of Aqil, who directed Hezbollah operations and the Radwan Force, and Fuad Shukr, the military chief of Hezbollah, both of whom were killed in July.

Russia states it will refrain from testing nuclear weapons as long as the US does the same

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile russia

Russia will refrain from conducting nuclear tests as long as the United States does the same, according to President Vladimir Putin’s chief advisor on arms control. This statement comes amid growing speculation that the Kremlin may reconsider its post-Soviet nuclear test moratorium. As the U.S. and its European allies deliberate on granting Ukraine the capability to launch strikes deep into Russian territory using Western missiles, discussions about the possibility of Russia resuming nuclear testing have intensified.

Recently, the Russian state newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta featured an interview with Andrei Sinitsyn, the head of Russia’s nuclear test facility at Novaya Zemlya, who indicated that the site is prepared for a return to full-scale testing. Putin, who holds the ultimate authority over the world’s largest nuclear arsenal, has stated that any decision to resume nuclear testing in Russia would be contingent upon similar actions by the United States, emphasizing that he sees no necessity to employ such weapons to achieve victory in the conflict in Ukraine.

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, responsible for Russian arms control policy, addressed the rumors regarding a potential nuclear test as a response to missile strikes within Russia. He stated to Russian news agencies, “Nothing has changed.” He emphasized that while the Russian Federation’s president has outlined the possibility of conducting such tests, they would refrain from doing so if the United States avoids similar actions.

Ryabkov noted that preparations at the Novaya Zemlya nuclear test site are being made to ensure it is “fully ready,” a move he attributed to the United States enhancing its own testing capabilities. According to CNN, all three nations—Russia, the United States, and China—have recently developed new facilities and tunnels at their nuclear test sites.

Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Russia has not performed any nuclear tests, with the last Soviet test occurring in 1990 and the last U.S. test in 1992. This century, only North Korea has conducted nuclear explosion tests.

Ryabkov expressed concern over reports indicating that the United States has no immediate intentions to withdraw a mid-range missile system stationed in the Philippines. He noted that Russia is contemplating its response, which may include military considerations.

NUCLEAR TEST?
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now in its second and a half year, has led to the most significant tension between Russia and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, a period recognized as the closest the two Cold War superpowers came to a deliberate nuclear conflict.

Following the Cuban crisis, U.S. President John F. Kennedy and Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev discussed the possibility of establishing a nuclear testing ban.

In 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin officially withdrew Russia’s ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), aligning Russia’s stance with that of the United States.

The potential resumption of nuclear testing could signal the beginning of a new and unstable nuclear era, coinciding with efforts by Russia, the United States, and China to modernize their nuclear arsenals.

Washington identifies Russia and China as its primary nation-state adversaries, while Beijing and Moscow, having strengthened their alliance during the Ukraine conflict, view the United States as a waning superpower that has contributed to global instability.

The Soviet Union surprised the West by detonating its first nuclear bomb in 1949 in Kazakhstan. The United States initiated the nuclear age in July 1945 with a 20-kiloton bomb test at Alamogordo, New Mexico, followed by the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki a month later, which brought World War II to a close.

For many scientists and activists, the extensive nuclear testing conducted during the Cold War exemplified the dangers of nuclear brinkmanship, which poses a threat to humanity and could render parts of the planet uninhabitable for millennia.

Qatari ship Al Khor visits Karachi for naval exercises

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

Qatar Ship al khor visit Karachi port, Pakistan

The Al Khor vessel of the Qatar Amiri Navy made a visit to Karachi, where it received a warm reception from the officers and personnel of the Pakistan Navy upon its arrival.

As reported by a spokesperson for the Pakistan Navy, the commanding officer of the Qatari ship took the opportunity to visit Mazar-e-Quaid and held a meeting with Vice Admiral Faisal Abbasi, the Commander of the Pakistan Fleet.

During their discussion, the commanding officer expressed appreciation for the Pakistan Navy’s contributions to regional peace and security.

The talks also focused on mutual interests and enhancing bilateral cooperation. Throughout its visit, the Qatari ship is set to engage in the Asad al-Bahr exercise, along with joint training and exchanges.

This significant visit underscores the robust diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Qatar and serves as a platform for further strengthening defense and cooperative relations.

Egyptian vessel transported more weapons to Somalia, officials say

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

A general view shows the Mogadishu Sea Port after an Egyptian warship docked to deliver a second major cache of weaponry in Mogadishu

An Egyptian naval vessel has transported a significant shipment of armaments to Somalia, which includes anti-aircraft artillery and other weaponry, according to statements from port and military officials on Monday. This action is expected to heighten tensions between Somalia and Egypt, as well as with Ethiopia.

This year, the relationship between Egypt and Somalia has strengthened due to their mutual distrust of Ethiopia, leading Cairo to dispatch multiple flights of arms to Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, following the signing of a joint security agreement in August.

Mogadishu expressed its displeasure with Ethiopia after the latter reached a preliminary agreement in January with the self-declared region of Somaliland to lease land for a port, potentially paving the way for Somaliland’s recognition as independent from Somalia.

Egypt has been in conflict with Ethiopia for several years over the construction of a large hydroelectric dam on the Nile River’s headwaters and has criticized the Somaliland agreement.

The unloading of the weapons from the Egyptian warship commenced on Sunday, as reported by a diplomat. Security personnel cordoned off the quayside and adjacent roads on both Sunday and Monday while convoys transported the armaments to a defense ministry facility and nearby military installations, according to accounts from two port workers and two military officials.

Nasra Bashir Ali, an official in the office of Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, shared a photograph on her X account showing Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur observing the unloading of a ship. Egyptian authorities either refrained from commenting or did not respond promptly to inquiries.

Reports from Egyptian media on Sunday indicated that the Egyptian embassy in Mogadishu had advised its citizens against traveling to Somaliland due to the area’s security concerns. Ethiopia currently has approximately 3,000 soldiers in Somalia as part of the African Union peacekeeping mission (ATMIS) combating Islamist militants, with an additional 5,000 to 7,000 troops stationed in other regions under a bilateral agreement.

Somalia has labeled the Somaliland arrangement as a violation of its sovereignty and demands the withdrawal of all Ethiopian troops by the end of the year unless Addis Ababa nullifies the agreement.

Additionally, Egypt has expressed its willingness to send troops for a new peacekeeping initiative in Somalia, as stated by the African Union in July, although Cairo has not publicly addressed the issue. Ethiopia’s government has not yet responded to Reuters’ request for comment but has previously asserted that it cannot remain passive while “other actors” take steps to destabilize the region.

Israel targeted more than 300 Hezbollah positions, resulting in at least 180 fatalities

asifshahid73@gmail.com

September 23, 2024

Israel conducted airstrikes on numerous Hezbollah positions on Monday, resulting in at least 180 fatalities, according to Lebanese health officials. This marks the deadliest day in Lebanon amid nearly a year of ongoing conflict. Following intense cross-border exchanges, Israel urged residents to evacuate areas identified as sites for Hezbollah’s weapon storage.

With nearly a year of warfare against Hamas in Gaza, Israel is now redirecting its attention to its northern border, where Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has been launching rockets into Israel in solidarity with Hamas.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated in a video released by his office that operations will persist until the safety of northern residents is ensured, indicating a protracted conflict ahead, as Hezbollah has pledged to continue fighting until a ceasefire is established in Gaza.

“These are times when the Israeli public must demonstrate patience,” he remarked, following military actions targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, the eastern Bekaa Valley, and northern regions near Syria.

Lebanon’s health ministry reported that at least 180 individuals, including women, children, and medical personnel, have lost their lives, with over 400 others injured due to Israeli airstrikes on Monday. Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee announced on X that more than 300 Hezbollah positions had been targeted, following prior warnings of imminent airstrikes on residences in Lebanon where “Hezbollah concealed weapons.” In retaliation, Hezbollah confirmed it had fired rockets at Israeli military installations. Further attacks are anticipated, with Israeli aircraft preparing to strike Hezbollah’s strategic weaponry located in homes within Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley. The Israeli military spokesperson urged civilians to evacuate immediately.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated in a televised address, “The current scenes from southern Lebanon show secondary explosions of Hezbollah munitions detonating within residences. Every house we target contains weapons—rockets, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles intended to harm Israeli civilians.” The airstrikes have escalated pressure on Hezbollah, which recently experienced an unprecedented attack, as described by its Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, when thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies used by its members malfunctioned. This incident has been largely attributed to Israel, although the country has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. Additionally, an Israeli airstrike on Friday in Beirut’s southern suburb aimed at high-ranking Hezbollah officials resulted in the deaths of 45 individuals, according to the Lebanese health ministry.

Hezbollah reported that 16 of its members were among those killed, including prominent leader Ibrahim Aqil and another commander, Ahmed Wahbi. According to the Israeli ambulance service, one individual sustained minor injuries from shrapnel during the recent rocket attacks on northern Israel.

Imad Kreidieh, the head of the Lebanese telecommunications company Ogero, informed Reuters on Monday that over 80,000 automated evacuation calls were detected on the network, although not all were answered. He characterized these calls as “psychological warfare aimed at creating chaos and disorder.” Evacuation alerts reached as far as Beirut, the capital of Lebanon.

Lebanon’s information minister, Ziad Makary, stated that his ministry received an evacuation order for their building but clarified that they would not comply, labeling it as part of a psychological campaign. In the Sassine district of eastern Beirut, state employee Joseph Ghafary expressed concern that Hezbollah might retaliate against Israel’s increased attacks, potentially leading to a full-scale war. He remarked, “If Hezbollah undertakes a significant operation, Israel will respond with even greater force. We cannot endure this situation.”

Mohammed Sibai, a shopkeeper in the Hamra neighborhood of Beirut, described the current escalation as “the beginning of the war,” adding, “If they desire war, what can we do? It has been forced upon us, and we are powerless to change it.”

When questioned by reporters about the possibility of an Israeli ground invasion of Lebanon, Hagari stated earlier, “We will take all necessary actions” to ensure the safe return of evacuated residents in northern Israel, which is a top priority for the Israeli government. During a media briefing, Hagari also presented aerial footage purportedly showing Hezbollah operatives attempting to launch cruise missiles from a civilian residence in Lebanon, followed by an Israeli strike just before the launch.

“Hezbollah is endangering you. Endangering you and your families,” Hagari said.

India has invited political opponents of Myanmar’s ruling junta for a seminar

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

India has extended invitations to political and military adversaries of Myanmar’s ruling junta for a seminar scheduled to take place in New Delhi, according to sources. This action marks a notable shift for the South Asian nation, which has historically maintained relations with the military leaders that Western countries have largely isolated.

The ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar, which erupted following the military’s ousting of an elected civilian government in a coup in February 2021, poses a potential threat to India’s extensive 1,650-km (1,025-mile) border with Myanmar, as well as to several critical infrastructure projects in the region.

A representative from an armed group, along with two sources familiar with the situation, indicated that the parallel National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic minority insurgents from the Chin, Rakhine, and Kachin states, which share borders with India, have been invited to participate in the mid-November seminar.

The event is set to be organized by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), a government-funded body that includes India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar among its council members, as reported by two additional sources who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information.

It remains uncertain whether Myanmar’s military government will receive an invitation to the upcoming event focused on “Constitutionalism and Federalism,” according to sources who did not provide additional information.

Following the 2021 coup, widespread protests in Myanmar escalated into a nationwide rebellion, with an armed resistance movement collaborating with established ethnic armies to gain control over significant territories from the military. The junta has consistently refused to engage in dialogue with these rebels, labeling them as “terrorists.”

Regarding the seminar, Sui Khar, vice chairman of the Chin National Front, one of the ethnic rebel groups, stated, “We are going to send representatives.” He added, “This will be the first time, I believe, that India will formally engage with non-state actors. This represents a positive and constructive approach.”

Attempts to reach a spokesperson for Myanmar’s military for comments were unsuccessful, and the Indian government, along with the ICWA, has not yet responded to inquiries.

The other invited armed groups include the Arakan Army, which holds significant territory in Rakhine near the Bangladesh border, and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), recognized as one of Myanmar’s most formidable rebel factions, according to sources. A representative for the president of the shadow National Unity Government (NUG) declined to provide comments regarding the seminar. Both the Arakan Army and KIA have not responded to requests for their input.

While Western nations have condemned the junta and imposed various sanctions, India has maintained its engagement with the military leaders through visits to Naypyitaw by government and defense officials. India has shown hesitance to publicly criticize the junta, fearing that such actions might drive the generals closer to their rival, China. Furthermore, New Delhi has not engaged formally with the junta’s adversaries.

The objectives of the seminar and the rationale behind India’s involvement remain unclear. In June, Foreign Minister Jaishankar expressed concerns regarding border instability and the potential security threats to Indian projects in Myanmar, stating that India was “open to engaging all stakeholders in addressing this situation” during discussions with his Myanmar counterpart.

India is actively involved in the $400 million Kaladan port and highway project in western Myanmar, in addition to funding approximately $250 million for another road initiative aimed at connecting its landlocked northeastern states with Thailand through Myanmar.

The seminar initiative coincides with a peace effort by the ASEAN group of Southeast Asian nations, which has seen limited progress since its introduction in April 2021, as some ASEAN members have expressed frustration over the junta’s unwillingness to engage in talks. Last year, former ASEAN chair Indonesia reported receiving positive indications regarding preliminary discussions from key parties in the conflict, yet no significant advancements have been observed.

The upcoming November meeting is expected to mark New Delhi’s most substantial attempt to engage with Myanmar’s “pro-democracy side” since the coup in 2021, according to Angshuman Choudhury, a researcher based in Singapore who closely monitors India-Myanmar relations.

It is essential to determine whether the intention is to attain particular foreign policy objectives or merely to convey a message to the Myanmar military to withdraw, he stated. “India continues to be apprehensive regarding the security and stability of its borders.”

Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have resulted in a minimum of 50 fatalities and approximately 300 individuals injured

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

Lebanon’s health ministry has confirmed that Israeli airstrikes on Monday resulted in the deaths of at least 50 individuals, with over 300 others injured, including children, women, and medical personnel in southern Lebanon.

The Israeli military advised residents in Lebanon to evacuate their homes as airstrikes caused significant casualties among the Lebanese population due to intense bombardment.

According to Lebanese broadcaster al-Manar, airstrikes targeted the outskirts of various towns and villages in the southern region and the Bekaa Valley in the east.

Al-Mayadeen reported that strikes in southern Lebanon resulted in at least four fatalities and more than 26 injuries.

Additionally, state media indicated that a rocket struck an uninhabited mountainside east of Jbeil, a historic coastal town north of Beirut, also known as Byblos.

The Lebanese health ministry further reported that an Israeli strike in the Hermel region, located in the northeast, resulted in one death and six injuries.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry has called on hospitals in the southern regions of Nabatiyeh and Baalbek-Hermel to halt all non-essential surgeries in order to focus on treating individuals injured due to the ongoing increase in Israeli military actions against Lebanon.

The Israeli military reports that it has conducted more than 300 air strikes targeting what it asserts are Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.

The Israeli military announced on Monday that it has instructed residents of southern Lebanon to evacuate their homes, indicating that it plans to conduct “extensive strikes” against Hezbollah.

Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated that attacks on residential areas and other sites in Lebanon are “imminent.”

According to a Reuters reporter, residents in southern Lebanon are receiving calls from a Lebanese number instructing them to move at least one kilometer away from locations identified by Israel as Hezbollah targets.

Additionally, residents of Beirut are reportedly receiving text messages, allegedly from the Israeli army, urging them to evacuate their areas promptly, as reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA).

Minister of Information Ziad Makary has also received a voicemail advising the evacuation of his building, according to the agency.

Lt General Asim Malik designated as the new head of ISI

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik has been designated as the new head of the Inter-Services Intelligence.

He is set to take on his responsibilities starting September 30.

At present, he holds the position of Adjutant General at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi.

Lt. General Malik has previously led an infantry division in Balochistan and an infantry brigade in Waziristan.

Additionally, he was awarded the sword of honour upon completing his military course.

Russia’s RS-28 Sarmat ballistic missile failed during a test

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

A recent assessment by arms experts, supported by satellite imagery, suggests that a Russian RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile may have experienced a failure during a test earlier this month. Maxar satellite images taken on September 21 reveal a crater approximately 60 meters (200 feet) wide at the launch silo located at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia, along with damage in the vicinity that was not present in earlier images from the same month.

The satellite imagery does not clarify whether the liquid-fueled Sarmat encountered issues during the launch or if an accident occurred during the defueling process. Pavel Podvig, a Geneva-based analyst who oversees the Russian Nuclear Forces project, commented, “All signs point to a failed test. There is a significant hole in the ground. A serious incident occurred with the missile and the silo.”

The Russian defense ministry has not responded to inquiries regarding this incident and has not issued any statements about upcoming Sarmat tests in recent days.

The RS-28 Sarmat, referred to as Satan II, measures 35 meters in length and boasts an impressive range of 18,000 kilometers (11,000 miles). With a launch weight exceeding 208 tonnes, it is capable of carrying up to 16 multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle nuclear warheads, along with several Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles, as reported by Russian media.

Biden to meet with Vietnam’s President To Lam on Wednesday

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

U.S. President Joe Biden is set to meet with Vietnam’s President and General Secretary of the Communist Party, To Lam, on Wednesday, as announced by the White House on Sunday. This meeting, initially reported by Reuters, is anticipated to occur during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Biden aims to strengthen ties with Vietnam, a key Southeast Asian nation and manufacturing center, as part of efforts to counterbalance the influence of Russia and China, with whom Vietnam also maintains relationships. During his visit to Vietnam last September, Biden secured agreements related to semiconductors and minerals, as well as an elevation of Hanoi’s diplomatic status to match that of China and Russia. Lam, who recently assumed the party’s leadership in early August, will be making his first trip to the U.S., where he is scheduled to address the U.N. assembly and engage with representatives from major U.S. companies, including Google and Meta, the parent company of Facebook, as previously reported by Reuters.

Prior to To Lam’s visit to the United States, Vietnamese authorities, under communist rule, reportedly released several notable activists from incarceration before their sentences were completed, according to sources cited by Reuters. Among those released is Tran Huynh Duy Thuc, who received a 16-year prison sentence in January 2010 for subversion, and environmental activist Hoang Thi Minh Hong, who was sentenced to three years for tax fraud in September of the previous year. Lam’s itinerary also features a visit to Cuba, a longstanding Communist ally of Vietnam.

Zelenskiy will present a “victory plan” during his visit to US this week

Asif Shahid

September 23, 2024

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visits the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Scranton, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to visit the United States this week to present a “victory plan” aimed at influencing U.S. policy regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming elections in November. During his trip, Zelenskiy intends to share this plan with President Joe Biden, as well as potential successors Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, while also addressing the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday.

Zelenskiy has expressed that Western support for the plan could significantly affect Moscow, potentially creating a psychological impact that might encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek a diplomatic resolution to the war. “The Victory Plan outlines immediate and tangible actions for our strategic partners to take from now until the end of December,” Zelenskiy stated to the press on Friday. He further noted that the plan would serve as a “bridge” to a second peace summit led by Ukraine, which Kyiv hopes to organize and extend an invitation to Russia later this year.

Zelenskiy has emphasized that there is no substitute for peace, stating that “no freezing of the war or any other manipulations would merely delay Russian aggression to a later stage.” However, significant differences persist between the two parties.

Zelenskiy seeks Ukraine’s membership in NATO and the European Union, as well as the complete withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory, although he believes the latter goal can be pursued through diplomatic means. In contrast, Putin insists that peace negotiations can only commence if Ukraine relinquishes control of large areas in the east and south to Russia and abandons its NATO aspirations.

critical moment

Zelenskiy’s visit occurs at a critical moment for Ukraine. A potential victory for Trump in the upcoming presidential election on November 5 could lead to a shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine, which heavily depends on American military and financial assistance.

During a televised debate, Trump did not clarify whether he supports Ukraine in its fight against Russia, stating that he would aim to end the conflict before assuming office if he wins. Harris accused Trump of advocating for Ukraine’s rapid and unconditional surrender.

As the election approaches, Kyiv has demonstrated its military capabilities, swiftly capturing territory during a high-risk incursion into Russia’s Kursk region on August 6, showcasing new weaponry, including a “drone missile” and ballistic systems, and executing significant drone strikes. One such strike resulted in a substantial explosion at an ammunition depot in Russia’s Tver region last Wednesday.

In response, Russia has intensified its drone and missile assaults, reportedly received Iranian ballistic missiles, increased its military personnel, sought to revise its nuclear strategy, and escalated its offensive in the east.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has indicated that President Biden is keen to engage in discussions regarding President Zelenskiy’s “comprehensive strategy for success in this war” against Russia. Zelenskiy has outlined that his plan is concise and emphasizes that “all these points depend on Biden’s decision, not Putin’s.”

On Friday, he elaborated on the steps involved, which include defining Ukraine’s role within the global “security architecture,” making battlefield decisions such as the Kursk operation, enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities, and supporting the national economy.

Ukrainian military analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko noted that Zelenskiy may advocate for long-term assurances of assistance extending into 2025 and seek a declaration ensuring continued support beyond Biden’s presidency. “This will be a very important moment. Perhaps in some ways, in a political and military-political sense, it will be a pivotal moment,” he remarked.

Zelenskiy is likely to reiterate his request for Biden to authorize long-range strikes into Russia, a move that Moscow has warned would implicate NATO members directly in the conflict and provoke a response. Ukraine aims to target military facilities up to 300 km (186 miles) within Russian territory, including airfields that host attack helicopters and warplanes responsible for launching glide bombs. However, Washington has stated that it does not view the relaxation of these restrictions as a significant shift on the battlefield.

Currently, Russia occupies 18% of Ukrainian territory and has been on the offensive since last October, achieving its most rapid advances in August. Ukraine’s foothold in Russia’s Kursk region could potentially serve as leverage in negotiations or as a safeguard against any external attempts to freeze the conflict at its current state. Nevertheless, Kyiv must maintain control of the territory while facing significant manpower challenges against a much larger adversary.

In the meantime, Russia is making strides toward the transport hub of Pokrovsk, and its capture could severely disrupt Ukrainian logistics and create new avenues for attack.

Kovalenko indicated that Russia is likely aiming to seize Pokrovsk by the end of the year. “This would enable them to intensify their influence on the information front, potentially prompting discussions about peace negotiations, albeit on their own terms,” he remarked.

Ukraine is looking to present a peace framework at a second international summit later this year, with Russia expected to be invited at the behest of other attendees. The initial summit held in Switzerland notably excluded Moscow in June, and both China and several nations from the Global South chose not to participate.

Zelenskiy asserts that his summit initiative represents the only feasible path to peace and criticized a Chinese-Brazilian proposal this month as “destructive,” as it advocates for “de-escalating the situation” and resuming direct dialogue without necessitating a Russian withdrawal.

As Ukraine braces for its most challenging winter in the ongoing 2.5-year conflict, Russian strikes have severely impacted its energy production capabilities. The government is also grappling with increasing economic difficulties and is planning its first wartime tax increases to address a funding shortfall of approximately $12.2 billion for its military this year.

Public opinion surveys present a varied landscape. As of May 2024, around 32% of Ukrainians expressed willingness to consider certain territorial concessions to conclude the war, a rise from 10% in May 2022, according to Anton Hrushetskyi, executive director of the Kyiv-based polling organization KIIS. However, most envision a scenario that would delay the return of territory rather than relinquish it permanently.

A critical requirement for any peace agreement is the assurance of robust security guarantees, such as NATO membership, he noted. “Despite the prevailing negative trends, Ukrainians remain sufficiently optimistic and aspire for a brighter future—one that they hope will be within the European Union and accompanied by adequate security assurances.”

After the attacks on Hezbollah, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards stopped using all types of communication devices

asifshahid73@gmail.com

September 23, 2024

Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has instructed all personnel to refrain from using any communication devices following a series of deadly attacks last week that resulted in the explosion of thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies utilized by its Hezbollah allies in Lebanon, according to two senior Iranian security officials who spoke to Reuters.

One official indicated that the IRGC is conducting a comprehensive operation to inspect all types of devices, extending beyond just communication tools. He noted that many of these devices were either locally manufactured or sourced from China and Russia.

Concerns regarding potential infiltration by Israeli agents, including individuals on Israel’s payroll, have prompted Iran to initiate a thorough investigation of its personnel, particularly focusing on mid and high-ranking IRGC members. This official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the issue, stated that the investigation includes a detailed examination of their bank accounts both domestically and internationally, as well as their travel histories and those of their families.

Iran’s Foreign, Defence, and Interior Ministries were not immediately available for comment regarding the statements made by the security officials to Reuters.

In a coordinated series of attacks, pager devices detonated on Tuesday in Hezbollah’s strongholds, followed by the explosion of hundreds of walkie-talkies on Wednesday. These incidents resulted in 39 fatalities and over 3,000 injuries. Both Lebanon and Hezbollah have attributed the attacks to Israel, which has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement.

The security official refrained from disclosing specifics regarding the communication methods employed by the IRGC, which consists of 190,000 personnel. “Currently, we are utilizing end-to-end encryption in our messaging systems,” he stated.

The same official noted that there is considerable apprehension within Iran’s ruling elite. IRGC representatives have contacted Hezbollah for technical evaluations, and several instances of detonated devices have been forwarded to Tehran for analysis by Iranian specialists.

Another Iranian official indicated that the primary concern of the Islamic Republic is safeguarding the nation’s nuclear and missile facilities, especially those located underground. “However, since last year, security protocols at these sites have been significantly enhanced,” he remarked, referring to the increased measures implemented following what Iranian authorities described as Israel’s attempts to undermine Iran’s missile program in 2023, a claim that Israel has not addressed.

“There has never been such stringent security and extreme precautions in place as there are now,” he continued, implying that security has been markedly intensified beyond previous standards following the pager explosions in Lebanon.

The IRGC serves as a formidable political, military, and economic entity in Iran, closely aligned with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution to safeguard the clerical regime, it possesses its own ground forces, navy, and air force, which oversee Iran’s strategic weaponry.

Its influence extends throughout the Middle East via its overseas operations division, the Al Quds Force, which provides financial support, weaponry, technology, and training to allied factions, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, the Houthis in Yemen, and various militias in Iraq.

According to the first Iranian source, Iran’s military employs a variety of encrypted communication devices, such as walkie-talkies, to ensure secure communication. While the specific models and brands may differ, the military’s communication equipment is often developed domestically or obtained from a mix of local and international suppliers.

Iran’s armed forces have not utilized pagers for more than twenty years. According to reports, Tehran has established its own military-grade radio communication systems through its defense industry to reduce dependence on foreign imports, particularly in light of Western sanctions related to its nuclear program. Historically, Iran has sourced communication equipment from nations such as China, Russia, and even Japan.

For decades, Iran and Israel have been engaged in a covert conflict characterized by mutual accusations of sabotage and assassination attempts. This tension has escalated over the past year, particularly in the context of the Gaza war, which began following an attack by the Palestinian Hamas group on southern Israeli communities on October 7.

Iran and Hezbollah have accused Israel of being responsible for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, as well as the killing of Hezbollah’s top military commander, Fuad Shukr, in Beirut just hours earlier in July. While Israel has acknowledged the killing of Shukr, it has not confirmed its involvement in Haniyeh’s death.

Iran does not acknowledge Israel’s legitimacy, with Khamenei previously describing Israel as a “cancerous tumor” that “will undoubtedly be uprooted and destroyed.” Israel perceives Iran as an existential threat and accuses it of covertly pursuing the development of nuclear weapons, a claim that Iran vehemently denies.

Ukraine’s air defense intercepted and destroyed 71 Russian drones

asifshahid73@gmail.com

September 22, 2024

Ukraine’s air defense forces successfully intercepted 71 of the 80 attack drones launched by Russia overnight, according to a statement from Ukraine’s air force on Sunday.

Additionally, six more Russian drones were neutralized through Ukraine’s electronic warfare capabilities, as reported on the Telegram messaging platform.

The air force also noted that Russia fired two guided missiles from the occupied areas of Ukraine’s Luhansk region, although details regarding the fate of these missiles were not provided.

Israel struck Hezbollah positions in retaliation for rocket attacks originating from northern Israel

Asif Shahid

September 22, 2024

Israel has announced that it targeted Hezbollah positions in Lebanon in response to the militant group’s launch of numerous rockets towards northern Israel overnight.

Reports indicate that there has been damage to residential areas in Israel, with Hezbollah rockets landing deeper into Israeli territory than previously observed, reaching near the port city of Haifa. Hezbollah claimed that its actions were aimed at military installations.

The Israeli Defense Forces have stated that their operations against Hezbollah “will persist and escalate.”

This recent surge in hostilities follows last week’s assaults on Hezbollah communication devices, and on Friday, Israel reported that an airstrike in Beirut resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Hezbollah leaders. Lebanon has reported a total of 45 fatalities, including three children.

On Sunday morning, sirens were activated in many areas of northern Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that over 100 rockets were launched from across the border during the night.

Later in the morning, the IDF indicated that an additional 85 rockets were fired.

Unverified video footage circulating online appears to depict a fire in a residential neighborhood near Haifa.

On Saturday, a significant operation involving dozens of Israeli fighter jets commenced, targeting southern Lebanon after the IDF detected preparations by Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israeli territory, as stated by IDF spokesman Rear Adm Daniel Hagari.

Prior to the evening airstrikes, the IDF announced that it had successfully targeted “approximately 180 sites and thousands of [rocket] launcher barrels.”

Details regarding Israel’s actions on Sunday have not yet been disclosed.

Earlier in the week, 39 individuals lost their lives, and thousands were injured due to explosions from pagers and walkie-talkies utilized by Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group with considerable political influence, which occurred over two days in Lebanon.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah accused Israel of instigating the attacks, asserting that it had breached “all red lines” and promised “appropriate retribution.”

Israel has not acknowledged any involvement in these incidents.

UN human rights chief Volker Türk stated that the explosions involving pagers and walkie-talkies constituted a violation of international humanitarian law.

On Sunday morning, the IDF announced an extension of restrictions affecting communities in northern Israel and certain areas of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, which took effect at 20:30 local time (17:30 GMT) the previous evening.

The IDF’s Home Front Command has limited gatherings to a maximum of 10 individuals in open spaces and 100 in enclosed areas. Educational activities are permitted to continue, and individuals may attend work provided there are designated protected spaces.

These restrictions are applicable to the Haifa region and areas to the north.

As concerns grow that the conflict could escalate into a full-scale war, the U.S. State Department has issued updated travel advisories for citizens currently in Lebanon.

The U.S. embassy in Beirut has urged individuals to “leave Lebanon while commercial options are still available.”

The embassy also noted that it “may not be able to assist U.S. citizens who decide to stay.”

Similarly, Jordan’s foreign ministry has advised its citizens in Lebanon to exit the country as soon as possible.

Cross-border hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah intensified on October 8, 2023, following the attack on Israel by Hamas militants from Gaza, when Hezbollah targeted Israeli positions.

Israel has recently included the repatriation of individuals displaced from northern regions due to the ongoing cross-border conflict in its war objectives.

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated on Thursday that Israel is entering a “new phase of the war,” focusing its efforts more intensively in the northern region.

Quad group enhances collaboration on maritime security during Biden’s farewell summit

Asif Shahid

September 22, 2024

Leaders from Australia, India, Japan, and the United States have intensified collaborative security measures in the economically significant waters of Asia, as outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden convened with his counterparts from the Quad alliance, formed in response to mutual apprehensions regarding China.

During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese near his hometown in Delaware on Saturday, Biden underscored the significance of sustaining the Quad, which he regards as a hallmark of his foreign policy. He is set to conclude his presidency following the U.S. presidential election on November 5.

The leaders announced plans for joint coast guard operations in the coming year, which will involve personnel from Australia, Japan, and India collaborating aboard a U.S. coast guard vessel. Additionally, they indicated intentions to enhance military logistics cooperation, although specifics regarding the location of these coast guard activities were not disclosed.

Furthermore, the leaders expressed their commitment to expanding the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness, which was initiated two years prior.

While the White House asserted that the Quad summit was not aimed at any specific nation and that Beijing should not perceive the initiative as a threat, Biden commenced the summit’s group discussions with a briefing focused on China.

In a joint statement that refrained from explicitly naming the Chinese government, the leaders denounced “coercive and intimidating maneuvers in the South China Sea.” Analysts noted that these new maritime security initiatives would convey a clear message to Beijing and signify a further pivot of the Quad’s focus towards security matters, reflecting escalating concerns regarding China’s strategic intentions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed opposition to the Quad alliance, perceiving it as a strategy to encircle Beijing and escalate tensions. President Biden characterized Beijing’s approach as a change in tactics rather than a shift in overall strategy, noting that China continues to challenge the United States in the South and East China Seas, as well as in the Taiwan Strait.

Biden remarked, “We believe Xi Jinping is prioritizing domestic economic issues and seeking to stabilize China’s diplomatic relations, while also attempting to create diplomatic leeway to assertively advance China’s interests.” These comments were made during an official event broadcast.

China asserts sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea, which includes areas claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Additionally, it lays claim to territories in the East China Sea that are disputed by Japan and Taiwan. China also regards the democratically governed Taiwan as part of its territory.

The joint statement from the leaders contained strong language regarding North Korea, denouncing its ballistic missile tests and “malicious cyber activities.” A U.S. official indicated that the leaders expressed shared concerns about Russian military support for North Korea.

The Quad is intensifying efforts to deliver critical and security technologies, including a new open radio access network, to the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, regions experiencing significant competition with China.

Additionally, the leaders have launched a health initiative aimed at addressing cervical cancer. Lisa Curtis, an Asia policy expert at the Center for a New American Security and a former administration official, noted that India, which is not aligned with any military alliance, has been apprehensive about the perception that the Quad may be militarizing the Indo-Pacific.

“However, I believe that China’s recent maritime assertiveness may be altering India’s perspective and encouraging it to be more receptive to the concept of Quad security collaboration,” she stated.

Analysts and officials indicate that President Biden’s hosting of the Quad is part of a strategy to solidify the group’s institutional framework prior to his own departure from office, as well as that of Prime Minister Kishida, who is set to resign following a leadership contest next week, alongside upcoming elections in Australia next year.

When questioned about the group’s longevity, Biden placed his hand on Modi’s shoulder and affirmed that the Quad is here to remain. Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the significance of the Quad’s coast guard initiative, stating that the collaboration among the four nations would involve personnel potentially operating from a single vessel, thereby enhancing interoperability and cooperation, as noted in a transcript from a press conference he conducted in Philadelphia.

Prior to the summit, Albanese engaged in discussions with Biden at his residence, focusing on bilateral cooperation between the two nations in areas of defense and security, particularly concerning the Indo-Pacific region.

The Quad previously convened at the foreign minister level during Donald Trump’s administration, which is notable as he is currently campaigning against Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming November elections.

The initiative has received bipartisan backing, evidenced by the establishment of a congressional Quad Caucus prior to the summit, and Biden elevated the Quad to a leaders’ level in 2021.

EU’s von der Leyen has announced a loan of 35 billion euros

Asif Shahid

September 20, 2024

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a loan of up to 35 billion euros (approximately $39 billion) for Ukraine during her visit to Kyiv on Friday. She emphasized that this financial support is essential for the country to defend itself against Russian aggression and to endure the winter months.

At a joint press conference, Ukrainian President Zelenskiy stated that the funds would be allocated for energy, air defense systems, and military procurement, while also calling on allies to endorse a “victory plan” he has proposed by the end of the year.

During her visit, which marks the beginning of her second term leading the European Union’s executive body, von der Leyen reiterated the necessity of ongoing support from the 27-member bloc in light of the persistent Russian threats.

This loan is part of a broader initiative among the Group of Seven industrialized nations to generate funds through the utilization of frozen Russian assets, which were seized as part of sanctions imposed following the invasion of Ukraine.

Zelenskiy stated, “We will allocate the 35 billion primarily towards energy, defense, and constructing bomb shelters for children in schools, nurseries, and universities—this represents a significant shortfall for us,” while standing before the Ukrainian and EU flags. “Additionally, we will invest in weapons, focusing on those manufactured domestically, including drones and missiles. Our long-range drones are currently striking the enemy effectively and are more cost-efficient than those produced by our partners.”

Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the G7 froze approximately $300 billion in Russian financial assets, committing to utilize these funds to support Ukraine, although discussions on the implementation of this mechanism took several months.

Von der Leyen remarked, “Russia continues to target your civilian energy infrastructure in a blatant and malicious manner, attempting to plunge your nation into darkness. I am here to assure you that the European Union stands ready to assist you in this challenge to maintain power.”

She announced that 160 million euros from the frozen Russian assets would be directed towards addressing Ukraine’s urgent humanitarian needs this winter.

Von der Leyen noted that Russia has incapacitated around 9 gigawatts (GW) of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which she described as the “power equivalent of the three Baltic states.”

She indicated that the European Union intends to restore 2.5 GW of power generation capacity and plans to boost exports to provide 2 GW of electricity to Ukraine.

Zelenskiy, who is scheduled to visit the United States next week, mentioned that he would discuss his victory strategy with U.S. President Joe Biden during their upcoming meeting. “The majority of the decisions outlined in the plan rely specifically on him (Biden). While other allies are also involved, certain aspects hinge on the goodwill and support of the United States,” he stated.

Zelenskiy has been consistently updating on the plan’s development but has revealed little about its specifics, only noting that it seeks to establish terms that are acceptable to Kyiv.

“The entire strategy is based on prompt decisions from our partners. It relies on actions that need to occur between October and December, without any delays in these processes,” he remarked.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has asserted that peace negotiations can only commence if Kyiv relinquishes significant territories in eastern and southern Ukraine to Russia and abandons its aspirations for NATO membership.

Zelenskiy has persistently called for the withdrawal of all Russian forces and the restoration of Ukraine’s post-Soviet borders.

On Friday, Russia’s foreign ministry claimed that the EU had “lost its mind” and was heading towards disaster by allocating more military aid to Ukraine.

Germany is poised to approve nearly 400 million euros in additional military assistance to Ukraine, as indicated in a finance ministry letter reviewed by Reuters.

This funding is supplementary to the approximately 8 billion euros allocated for Ukraine in the 2024 budget.

Serbia is taking steps to reinstate mandatory military service

Asif Shahid

September 20, 2024

On Friday, Serbia’s government ministers reached a consensus to reinstate mandatory military service, a policy that had been discontinued 14 years prior. President Aleksandar Vucic commended this decision as a significant advancement in enhancing the nation’s defense preparedness.

The government announced it would establish a working group to initiate the implementation process. According to the proposed plan, Serbian men will be required to complete 60 days of training followed by 15 days of exercises, while military service will remain optional for women.

However, some military analysts have expressed concerns regarding the initiative, arguing that it may incur high costs and that the brief duration of service will have minimal impact on the country’s defense capabilities.

Since becoming an independent nation following the tumultuous disintegration of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Serbia’s armed forces transitioned to a fully professional model in 2011, yet they continue to face challenges related to low pay and inadequate equipment.

As a candidate for European Union membership, the Balkan nation has maintained a system of voluntary service and reserve units.

“Our goal is not to provoke anyone; rather, we aim to deter those who pose a threat to us,” Vucic stated following the signing of an agreement to reinstate conscription last week.

This decision by Serbia aligns with a similar action taken by neighboring NATO member Croatia, where the defense minister announced earlier this month that mandatory conscription, which had been suspended since 2008, will be reinstated starting January 1, 2025.

Serbia, which upholds a policy of military neutrality, became a participant in NATO’s Partnership for Peace program in 2006 and signed the Individual Partnership Action Plan in 2015, representing the highest level of cooperation for nations not seeking NATO membership. Additionally, last month, Serbia finalized a significant agreement with France’s Dassault Aviation to acquire 12 new Rafale fighter jets, indicating a shift away from its traditional ally and arms supplier, Russia.

Croatia has acquired 12 Rafale fighter jets, with six of them already arriving in the European Union member state. The two neighboring nations, which have had strained relations since the disintegration of the former Yugoslav federation in the 1990s, are currently engaged in the procurement of advanced helicopters and armaments. Some analysts interpret this as a potential arms race.

Israel kills a senior Hezbollah leader in a targeted strike in Beirut

Asif Shahid

September 20, 2024

On Friday, Israel conducted an airstrike in the southern suburbs of Beirut, resulting in the death of a prominent Hezbollah commander, according to security sources in Lebanon.

This incident significantly heightens the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-supported group. The targeted individual was Ibrahim Aqil, Hezbollah’s operations commander and a member of its senior military leadership, as reported by both Lebanese security sources and Israeli Army Radio. Aqil was killed during a meeting with members of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Unit, as stated by one of the security sources.

The attack resulted in eight fatalities and left 59 others injured, according to preliminary figures from Lebanon’s health ministry. This strike represents another setback for Hezbollah, which had already faced a severe blow earlier in the week when an explosion involving pagers and walkie-talkies used by its members led to 37 deaths and thousands of injuries.

This earlier incident is widely attributed to Israeli actions, although Israel has not confirmed or denied its involvement. Civil defense teams are currently engaged in rescue operations, searching for individuals trapped under the debris of two buildings affected by Friday’s airstrike.

The Israeli military confirmed that it executed a “targeted strike” in Beirut but did not provide additional details. This marks the second instance in under two months where Israel has targeted a senior Hezbollah military figure in Beirut, following the airstrike that killed Fuad Shukr, the group’s top military commander, in July.

Aqil is subject to a $7 million bounty placed by the United States due to his involvement in the fatal bombing of Marines in Lebanon in 1983, as stated on the U.S. State Department’s website.

Following the strike in Beirut, the Israeli military reported that warning sirens were activated in northern Israel, with local media indicating significant rocket fire in the region.

Hezbollah announced that it had launched Katyusha rockets targeting what it identified as the primary intelligence headquarters in northern Israel, which it claims is responsible for orchestrating assassinations.

John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman, mentioned that he was not informed of any Israeli alert to the United States prior to the Beirut attack, and he strongly advised Americans against traveling to Lebanon or to leave if they are currently there. Kirby emphasized, “War is not inevitable up there at the Blue Line, and we’re going to continue to do everything we can to try to prevent it,” referring to the border area between Lebanon and Israel.

Witnesses reported hearing jet sounds over Beirut coinciding with the timing of the attack, and a plume of smoke was visible rising from the strike zone. The Israeli military announced, “The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) executed a targeted strike in Beirut. Currently, there are no alterations to the Home Front Command’s defensive protocols.”

Visuals depicted a severely damaged structure and streets littered with debris and charred vehicles. The ongoing Gaza conflict has escalated notably this week.

On Thursday night, the Israeli military conducted its most extensive airstrikes in southern Lebanon since the onset of the conflict nearly a year ago. The year-long hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah represent the most severe clashes since their war in 2006, displacing tens of thousands on both sides of the border.

Although the fighting has primarily been confined to areas along the frontier, the recent escalation has raised fears of a broader and more intense conflict. The Israeli military reported that army chief General Herzi Halevi convened with the head of the Northern Command and other division leaders on Friday morning.

Israeli media indicated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu postponed his trip to New York for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly by one day due to the current situation, now scheduled to arrive on Wednesday.

On Friday, Britain’s Foreign Minister David Lammy led a meeting of the government’s emergency committee, known as COBR, to address the latest developments in Lebanon. The Foreign Office stated, “The Foreign Secretary chaired a COBR meeting this morning regarding the latest situation in Lebanon and to review ongoing preparedness efforts, as the risk of escalation remains elevated.”

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