France, US push for stronger Lebanese army to secure Israel border

Strengthening Lebanon's army will be crucial to implementing a key United Nations Security Council resolution that aims to keep peace on the country's border with Israel, the United States and France have warned (Read more at Yahoo News).

Gulf states lobby US to stop Israel from bombing Iran's oil sites

As part of their attempts to avoid being caught in the crossfire, Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar are also refusing to let Israel fly over their airspace for any attack on Iran and have conveyed this to Washington. The moves by the Gulf states come after a diplomatic push by Tehran to persuade its Gulf neighbors to use their influence with Washington amid rising concerns Israel could target Iran's oil production facilities (Read more at Daily Sabah).

U.S. Targets Iran’s “Ghost Fleet” Sanctioning 17 Tankers and 10 Operators

The U.S. State Department and Treasury working in coordination said the actions intensify financial pressure on Iran, limiting the regime’s ability to earn critical energy revenues to undermine stability in the region and attack U.S. partners and allies. "In response to Iran’s attack on Israel, the United States is taking decisive action to further disrupt the Iranian regime’s ability to fund and carry out its destabilizing activity,” said Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen (Read more at Maritime Executive).

Trump asks for military aircraft protection amid Iran threat

U.S. President Joe Biden, speaking to reporters, said he has authorized security to protect Trump as if he were a sitting president, and if Trump’s request falls in that category it should be granted (Read more at News Nation Now).

US moved 1000 citizens out of Lebanon via Turkey

"It's the fastest, safest way to get Americans out of harm's way," Consul General Julie Eadeh said in an interview in Istanbul. Ten of 12 U.S. chartered flights from Beirut have arrived in Istanbul carrying 1,025 citizens and immediate family members since Oct. 2, according to another U.S. official (Read more at AOL).

US calls on Israel to address 'catastrophic conditions' in Gaza

'Let’s be clear: conditions are catastrophic and will further deteriorate if additional steps are not taken,' says US envoy at UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield. The envoy also said the US is "concerned by the situation in northern Gaza, including the announcement by Israel of a new evacuation order for several communities ... We are particularly concerned that Palestinian civilians have nowhere safe to go," she said (Read more at Anadolu Ajansı).

White House loses trust in Israeli government as Middle East spirals

The worsening trust crisis is magnified by Israel's planned retaliation against Iran for its massive missile attack, which requires coordination with the U.S. in case Iran responds. "Our trust of the Israelis is very low right now and for a good reason," one U.S. official said.  White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told Israel's minister for strategic affairs Ron Dermer that the U.S. expects "clarity and transparency" from Israel about its plans to retaliate against Iran because it will have implications for U.S. forces and interests in the region (Read more at Axios).

US says ceasefire call shows Hezbollah getting battered

Qassem said the group supported the efforts of Lebanon's Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally, to secure a ceasefire, without providing further details on any conditions demanded by Hezbollah. "For a year, you had the world calling for this ceasefire, you had Hezbollah refusing to agree to one, and now that Hezbollah is on the back foot and is getting battered, suddenly they've changed their tune and want a ceasefire," U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said (Read more at MSN).

Lebanon should not turn into situation like in Gaza: US State Department

“I’m making (it) very clear that there should be no kind of military action in Lebanon that looks anything like Gaza and leaves a result anything like Gaza.” Mr Netanyahu said on Oct 8 in a video message directed at the people of Lebanon that Hezbollah was weaker than it had been in many years and urged Lebanese to “take back your country” (Read more at Strait Times).

US Incredibly Concerned About Humanitarian Situation in Gaza

"We have been making clear to the government of Israel that they have an obligation under international humanitarian law to allow food and water and other needed humanitarian assistance to make it into all parts of Gaza, and we fully expect them to comply with those obligations." the State Department said. Despite the US's alleged concerns, it has made clear that its funding of Israel's war machine is unconditional, with the US continuing to provide weapons and diplomatic support for Netanyahu's government despite it crossing alleged red lines set by Washington (Read more at New Arab).

US Helping Americans Get Out of Lebanon Ahead of Potential Israeli Strike

The U.S. embassy in Beirut remains open and can help Americans who need emergency passports or other documentation and the U.S. will continue to make airplanes available as long as the Beirut airport remains open White House press spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said (Read more at USNews).

Biden and Netanyahu speak, as Israel vows lethal retaliation against Iran

The 30-minute call was the first known chat between Biden and Netanyahu since August. The call was “direct and very productive”, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters, while acknowledging the two leaders have disagreements and are open about them (Read more at South China Morning Post).

Oil Falls as Swelling US Supply Counters Middle East

Oil fell by more than $1/bbl on Oct. 9 on rising U.S. crude inventories, while the risk of supply disruption from the Middle East conflict and Hurricane Milton in the U.S. curbed price declines (Read more at Hart Energy).

US Senator Graham urges Israel-Saudi normalisation before year end

He warned that the next US administration is unlikely to be able to secure enough votes to support the deal. “We can get you a treaty through the Senate between the United States and Saudi Arabia, a defence agreement like you have in Japan and Australia, if you do it on President Biden’s watch,” Graham, who is seen as close to Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump, told reporters in Jerusalem. “The next president will have a very difficult time getting 67 votes,” he said in reference to the two-thirds majority needed in the US Senate for approving a defence treaty (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Israel's Defense Minister Cancels Visit to Washington, Pentagon Says

The Pentagon declined to comment on reports that the trip was dropped because Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refused to sign off on it until he gets “a phone call” with President Joe Biden, and the Israeli cabinet approves the response to Iran. “I am going to stay out of Israeli politics,” Sabrina Singh, a Pentagon spokesperson, told reporters at a news briefing. “I wouldn’t read too much into it.” Austin and Gallant have a “great relationship” and have spoken more than 80 times, Singh added (Read more at Aljazeera).

Some Progress Made on Gaza Ceasefire Deal, Says Harris

But it is "meaningless" unless a deal is actually reached, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris said. "We must have a ceasefire and a hostage deal as immediately as possible," she said (Read more at USNews).

Trump says Gaza "could be better than Monaco" once it's rebuilt

He added "they never took advantage of it. You know, as a developer, it could be the most beautiful place — the weather, the water, the whole thing, the climate. It could be so beautiful. ... it could be one of the best places in the world." . He claimed he's "been there" despite public records showing he's never visited Gaza, and his campaign told the New York Times "Gaza is in Israel. President Trump has been to Israel." (Read more at Axios)

Harris and Trump deliver remarks to mark the anniversary of the Oct. 7

Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff “will plant a memorial tree on the grounds of the Vice President’s Residence in honor of the victims and deliver remarks,” according to the White House. Trump will deliver remarks in Miami at an Oct. 7 remembrance event (Read more at USNews).

US Targets Hamas Backers With Fresh Sanctions On Attack Anniversary

The United States imposed fresh sanctions on individuals and a "sham charity" it said were international financial supporters of Hamas, among others, on the anniversary of the group's bloody attack on Israel. Among the individuals targeted are Yemeni national Hamid Abdullah Hussein al Ahmar, said to be an international supporter of Hamas, and nine entities linked to him. Several Europe-based fundraisers were also named, including Italy-based Mohammad Hannoun, Majed al-Zeer in Germany and Adel Doughman in Austria (Read more at Barrons).

US says it does not want UNIFIL forces in Lebanon put in danger

When State Department spokesman Matthew Miller asked if the US still sees Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon as a "limited operation," Miller responded: "We have seen the ground operations so far continue to be limited." Asked if the US believes Israel has complied with international law so far, he said: "That's never the question I can answer with a sweeping conclusion here." He also emphasized the importance of keeping Beirut airport and the roads to the airport be open so that American citizens and citizens of other countries who want to leave that can get out  (Read more at Anadolu Ajansı).

Harris Reiterates Support for Gaza Ceasefire as Conflict Escalates

Harris sidestepped a question in the interview on whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was a ”real close ally.” ”I think with all due respect the better question is do we have an important alliance between the American people and the Israeli people and the answer to that question is yes,” Harris said (Read more at First Post).

US on Israeli Bombing: Military Pressure Can Enable Diplomacy but Has Risk

"Military pressure can at times enable diplomacy. Of course, military pressure can also lead to miscalculation. It can lead to unintended consequences," a U.S. State Department spokesperson said in an emailed statement (Read more at USNews).

Jill Stein sees 'no lesser evil' between Harris, Trump - interview

Polls show Stein garnering just 1% in the Nov. 5 election, while Harris and her Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, are almost tied with 49% and 48%. But Stein, who has been campaigning on a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and an immediate U.S. arms embargo on Israel, won 40% of the Muslim vote in Michigan in an August poll. Democrats could win back those voters if they demanded and work to enact an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon (Read more at USNews).

US to give $157 million in humanitarian aid in response to Lebanon crisis

The United States will provide nearly $157 million in new humanitarian assistance to support populations affected by conflict in Lebanon and the region, the State Department said in a statement on Friday. "This funding will address new and existing needs of internally displaced persons and refugee populations inside Lebanon and the communities that host them. The assistance will also support those fleeing to neighboring Syria," the State Department said (Read more at AOL).

Biden says no public negotiation on Israel's stance on Iranian oil sites

Asked if he was worried an Israeli strike on Iran's oil facilities would raise oil prices, he said, "If a hurricane hits, prices are going to go up. I don't know; who knows." Biden was also asked why he had not spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in recent days. He replied: "Because there's no action going on right now." (Read more at TRTWorld).

Biden does not believe there will be ‘all-out-war’ in Middle East

But he said more needed to be done to avoid a Middle East war. Asked by reporters in Washington on Thursday how confident he was that such a war could be averted, Biden said, “How confident are you it’s not going to rain? Look, I don’t believe there is going to be an all-out war. I think we can avoid it (Read more at Arabnews).

Emails show early US concerns over Gaza offensive

The emails, which haven’t been reported before, reveal alarm early on in the State Department and Pentagon that a rising death toll in Gaza could violate international law and jeopardize US ties in the Arab world. The messages also show internal pressure in the Biden administration to shift its messaging from showing solidarity with Israel to including sympathy for Palestinians and the need to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza (Read more at Irish Examiner).

Trump Son-In-Law Discussed U.S.-Saudi Diplomacy With Saudi Crown Prince

43 old Kushner has a close relationship with Saudi Arabia and has invested $2 billion in his firm Affinity Partners, and Mr. Kushner created it after he left the White House. They included discussions on the process of normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, a key diplomatic objective of the Biden and Trump administrations (Read more at CNA).

US strikes 15 Houthi targets in Yemen: Pentagon

 The targets included “Houthi offensive military capabilities.” U.S. officials earlier told The Associated Press that U.S. military aircraft and warships bombed Houthi strongholds at roughly five locations. Houthi media said the strikes hit Yemen’s capital Sanaa, the airport in Hodeida, the south of Dhamar city and the southeast of al-Bayda province — the latter of which has several Houthi military outposts (Read more at The Hill). 

Biden would weigh alternatives to striking Iranian oil if he were in Israel's shoes

"The Israelis have not concluded what they are going to do in terms of a strike. That's under discussion," Biden said. Biden was also asked if he thought that by not engaging in diplomacy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was trying to influence the Nov. 5 U.S. election in which Republican former President Donald Trump faces Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. "Whether he is trying to influence the election, I don't know but I am not counting on that," Biden said in response. "No administration has done more to help Israel than I have." (Read more at Reuters)

U.S. wants to use Hezbollah's weakness to elect new Lebanese president

Nasrallah blocked any effort to elect a person who was not its ally Suleiman Frangieh. One candidate is the commander of the Lebanese armed forces Gen. Joseph Aoun, who is supported by the U.S. and France. The Lebanese armed forces will be a key player in any post-war settlement in Lebanon. With Nasrallah dead and Hezbollah at its weakest in years, the Biden administration thinks there is now an opportunity to dramatically reduce its influence on the Lebanese political system and elect a new president who is not an ally of the Shia militia, two U.S. officials said (Read more at Axios).

Biden backs Israel’s operations in Lebanon despite risk of expanding conflict

The Biden administration believes it is appropriate for Israel to continue with its ground and air attacks on Hezbollah for now, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Thursday, even as he acknowledged the risk of the operation in Lebanon expanding beyond Israel’s current aims. Washington has repeatedly warned Israel against escalating the conflict, but a three-week ceasefire proposal put forward by the U.S. and other countries last week was quickly dismissed by Israel in favor of intensified operations (Read more at Arab America News).

US arranges flights to bring Americans out of Lebanon

U.S.-arranged flights have brought about 350 Americans and their immediate relatives out of Lebanon this week.  U.S.-arranged flights have brought about 350 Americans and their immediate relatives out of Lebanon this week (Read more at Associated Press).

Influential US Republican Urges Biden to Speed Israel Arms Sales

The chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee urged President Joe Biden to speed up weapons shipments to Israel, including 2000-pound (907 kg) bombs that have been held up for months over human rights concerns. Michael McCaul, who reviews all major foreign U.S. weapons sales in his position as committee chairman, said he was also aware of more than 10 other planned weapons sales to Israel that have been awaiting final approval for more than four months and urged that they proceed quickly (Read more at USNews).

Michigan Governor Urges US to Do More for Americans Stuck in Lebanon

Many of them were from Michigan. "We are already hearing reports of confirmed deaths and fear there will be more. We cannot stand by while our constituents and their families are suffering," Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said in a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. In a post on X earlier on Thursday, Tlaib said the U.S. government's "lack of urgency to get Americans out of Lebanon is shameful." (Read more at USNews)

Biden Says ‘Discussing’ Possible Israeli Strikes on Iran Oil Facilities

When asked by a reporter if he supported Israel striking Iran’s oil facilities, Biden said, “we’re discussing that. I think that would be a little… anyway.” Biden said he did not expect any immediate action from Israel — even if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recently paid little heed to calls for restraint as he targets the Iran-allied Hezbollah militia in Lebanon (Read more at Defense Post).

Kamala Harris Calls Iran a Destabilizing Force in Middle East

US Vice President Kamala Harris condemned Iran's "reckless and brazen" missile attack against Israel "unequivocally." "As I have said, I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself against Iran and Iran-backed terrorist militias. My commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering," Harris said (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

US energy companies' shares gain as Middle East crisis sparks supply fears

Iran's missile attack on Israel, and Washington's full backing of its ally on a response against Tehran, sent markets into a risk-off mode. Safe-haven currencies like Japan's yen and Swiss franc saw strong bids, along with oil and defense stocks. U.S. energy majors Exxon Mobil and Chevron rose 1.6% and 1.5%, respectively. Major oil and gas producers ConocoPhillips, Occidental Petroleum and Devon Energy gained between 1.5% and 1.9% while oilfield services firm SLB and Halliburton both rose about 2% each. Analysts expect the market to remain "jittery" as investors await Israel's retaliation and the resultant impact on supply (Read more at Zawya).

CIA Expands Online Recruitment of Informants to China, Iran, North Korea

The U.S. CIA on Wednesday launched a new drive to recruit informants in China, Iran and North Korea, adding to what it says has been a successful effort to enlist Russians (Read more at USNews).

Trump pushes back on U.S. soldiers' brain injuries: "They had a headache

The Republican presidential nominee made the comments after being asked Tuesday if he believed he "should have been tougher on Iran" following the attack. "What does injured mean? You mean because they had a headache? Because the bombs never hit the fort?" Trump said (Read more at Axios).

Biden says he would not back Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear sites

Other US officials warned Iran would face “severe consequences”, with State Department spokesman Matthew Miller telling reporters he was not “ruling anything out”. Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett explicitly called for such an attack in a post on X, saying Israel must “act now to destroy Iran’s nuclear program”. “We have the justification. We have the tools”, Bennett said (Read more at Aljazeera). 

U.S. Destroyers Successfully Down Iranian Missiles

Two U.S. guided-missile destroyers destroyed a handful of Iranian missiles using a combination of weapons, including the Standard Missile 3, a U.S. official confirmed to USNI News on Wednesday. USS Bulkeley (DDG-84) and USS Cole (DDG-67) fired about a dozen interceptors at Iranian missiles fired at Israel, the Pentagon said Tuesday (Read more at US Navy Institute).

US condemns Iran attack on Israel as major escalation

The United States warned Iran that it would face severe consequences for its ballistic missile attack on Israel on Tuesday, saying the barrage marked a significant escalation but appeared to have been thwarted. Biden was reported to have urged Netanyahu to “take the win” and refrain from retaliation after Iran’s April attack to avoid a wider regional war, given that Israel was largely unscathed (Read more at Swissinfo).

Middle East conflict lifts oil prices despite large US crude build

Oil prices rise on fears over Middle East supply disruptions. Israel vows retaliation against Iran over Tuesday's missile attack. US crude, gasoline inventories rose while distillate stocks fell last week. Israel's retaliation could include targeting Iranian oil production facilities among other strategic sites. An attack on Iran's oil infrastructure could provoke Tehran to respond with a strike on Saudi oil facilities, similar to one conducted in 2019 on crude processing facilities there, said Tamas Varga of oil brokerage PVM (Read more at Reuters).

Pentagon chief tells Israel that US is 'well-postured' against Iran

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke to his Israeli counterpart late on Tuesday, hours after Iran's missile attack on Israel following Israel's military campaign in Lebanon, and said Washington was "well-postured" to defend its interests in the Middle East. "The minister and I expressed mutual appreciation for the coordinated defense of Israel against nearly 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran and committed to remain in close contact," Austin said separately in a post on X (Read more at AOL).

Israel and U.S. repel 180-missile attack from Iran

Iran launched around 180 ballistic missiles toward Israel in a two-wave attack on Tuesday that U.S. and Israeli officials say was largely repelled. This was Iran's largest-scale attack ever against Israel (Read more at Axios).

US targets West Bank settler group with sanctions

"Through these violent activities, Hilltop Youth is actively destabilizing the West Bank and harming the peace and security of Palestinians and Israelis alike. The group has carried out killings, arson and other attacks to intimidate Palestinians and has devastated communities in the process." Treasury said in a statement (Read more at Daily Star).

US Sees Indications of Imminent Iranian Missile Attack on Israel

A U.S. official said that the Iranian strike could be as large or potentially bigger than one on April 14 in which Tehran launched more than 300 missiles and drones. "A direct military attack from Iran against Israel will carry severe consequences for Iran," the second US official said (Read more at USNews).

US Army tests Robot Dogs Armed in Middle East

The Army has sent at least one "robot dog" armed with an artificial intelligence-enabled gun turret to the Middle East for testing as a fresh counter-drone capability for U.S. service member. A U.S. Army Central spokesman told that the armed robot dog was one of several “non-counter-sUAS” systems tested alongside 15 counter-drone platforms at Red Sands during the September test and that the gun engaged several static ground targets (Read more at Military.com).

Biden directed US military to help Israel shoot down Iranian missiles

The president said the attack appears to have been "defeated and ineffective." "This is testament to Israeli military capability and the U.S. military," Biden said in his first on-camera remarks on the issue. "It's also a testament to intensive planning between the United States and Israel to anticipate and defend against the brazen attack we expected." "Make no mistake, the United States is fully, fully, fully supportive of Israel," Biden added (Read more at ABC).

US, Israel agree on 'dismantling attack infrastructure' on Lebanon border

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday offered support to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for “dismantling attack infrastructure” along the border with Lebanon, after Israel launched “targeted ground raids” on Hezbollah. Austin also issued a warning to Iran of “serious consequences” should it directly attack Israel in response to their attacks on the Tehran-backed militant group (Read more at Defense Post).

US sets new rule that could spur AI chips to the Middle East

The new rule allows data centers from around the world to apply for a VEU status through which they can receive AI chips or other designated items under general authorization, rather than requiring their US suppliers to obtain multiple individual export licenses to ship to them. The move comes despite growing concerns among US policymakers that the Middle East could become a conduit for China to obtain American products (Read more at Forbes Middle East).

US is sending a few thousand more troops to the Middle East to boost security

The additional forces would raise the total number of troops in the region to as many as 43,000. The increased presence will involve multiple fighter jet and attack aircraft squadrons. The additional personnel includes squadrons of F-15E, F-16, and F-22 fighter jets and A-10 attack aircraft, and the personnel needed to support them (Read more at Associated Press).

Rockets Target Base Hosting US Troops Near Baghdad Airport

"The Victory Base at Baghdad Airport was targeted with three rockets, two of which were shot down by the base's special defences, while the third fell near the headquarters of the Counter Terrorism Service Command," a security source said. A second security source said there were no casualties and that the incident had not affected air traffic (Read more at Barrons).

Biden urged Lebanon truce, US official says Israeli incursion could be imminent

Asked about reports that Israeli ground troops were preparing to move into southern Lebanon, Biden told reporters that he was “comfortable with them (Israel) stopping.” Several top aides reinforced Biden’s call for a ceasefire by urging a diplomatic resolution to the violence to allow tens of thousands of displaced Israelis and Lebanese to return to their homes along the border. Washington “will continue to work with our partners in the region and around the world to advance a diplomatic resolution,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a State Department conference (Read more at Cyprus Mail).

Israel has told US ground operations against Hezbollah are limited

“This is what they have informed us that they are currently conducting, which are limited operations targeting Hezbollah infrastructure near the border,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. Asked to confirm they were limited ground operations, he said: “That is our understanding.” (Read more at AOL)

US Fines Air Canada Over Flights Over Prohibited Iraqi Airspace

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) determined that Air Canada had violated regulations by flying over Iraq, an airspace prohibited due to the risk of military conflict. This violation led to a fine of 338,000 dollars to the company (Read more at Flywest)

U.S. airstrikes on Syria kill 37 militants affiliated with extremist groups

U.S. Central Command said it struck northwestern Syria on Tuesday (September 24, 2024), targeting a senior militant from the al-Qaeda-linked Hurras al-Deen group and eight others. They say he was responsible for overseeing military operations (Read more at Hindu).

US says all-out war not the way to return people to homes in northern Israel

The United States is watching to see what Hezbollah does to try to fill its leadership vacuum "and is continuing to talk to the Israelis about what the right next steps are", White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said (Read more at Cyprus Mail).

U.S. boosts air support and hikes troops' readiness to deploy for Middle East

"The United States is determined to prevent Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies from exploiting the situation or expanding the conflict," Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder said in a statement (Read more at CNBC).

Israel Used American-Made Bomb In Attack On Hezbollah Chief

Mark Kelly, chair of the Senate Armed Services Airland Subcommittee, said Israel used a 2,000-lb (900-kg) Mark 84 series bomb. JDAMs convert a standard unguided bomb using fins and a GPS guidance system into a guided weapon (Read more at NDTV).

Iran warns U.S. will face consequences alongside Israel for Nasrallah assassination

In the statement, Tehran called Israel’s Friday assassination of Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah a war crime that breached Lebanon’s territorial integrity. It also put the blame directly at Washington’s feet. "The U.S. government is directly responsible and complicit in the Zionist regime’s crime as a supporter and accomplice in continuing to commit various international crimes and terrorist acts." (Read more at TehranTimes)

Israel asks U.S. to deter Iran after Hezbollah leader assassination

Israel asked the U.S. to take steps to deter Iran from attacking Israel in response to the Israeli airstrike in Beirut that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and a top Iranian general, two Israeli and U.S. Iran has been careful to avoid any attack on Israel that could pull it into such a war, but officials in Washington and Jerusalem are worried Friday's strike could push Tehran over the edge (Read more at Axios).

Houthis claim attacks on 3 U.S. warships in Red Sea

We carried out a qualitative military operation targeting three hostile American warships in the Red Sea that were supporting and backing the Israeli enemy," Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said in a statement aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. The three American destroyers were "directly hit," Sarea said, describing the attacks as the "largest" since November last year (Read more at Xinhua).

US Charges Iranians With Hacking Attack on Trump Campaign

The three men -- Masoud Jalili, Seyyed Ali Aghamiri and Yasar Balaghi -- were trying to undermine Trump's campaign, Attorney General Merrick Garland told a news conference on Friday. "We are seeing increasingly aggressive Iranian cyber activity during this election cycle," he said. The indictment says the three men used fake email accounts to trick several campaign officials into believing they were dealing with a trusted source, and then got them to click on links that allowed the hackers to steal emails and other internal documents, such as debate preparation material and profiles of potential vice presidential candidates (Read more at USNews).

US Had No Advance Warning of Israeli Strike That Killed Hezbollah Leader

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told the reporters, "The US is "still assessing" the event, Singh said, adding she does not have any additional information or any further specifics to provide." When asked whether Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah is alive, she said: "I don't have any information on the strike itself. We're still gathering information, as this just happened a few hours ago." (Read more at AnadoluAjensi)

UAE is doubling down on US ties: Foreign minister

Being recognised as a major defence partner was a welcome development that mirrored a confidence in US policy, says Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed (Read more at Khaleej Times).

Former FAA Contractor Indicted for Illegally Acting as an Agent of the Iranian Government

Former Federal Aviation Administration contractor Abouzar Rahmati, 42, a naturalized U.S. citizen and resident of Great Falls, Virginia, was indicted today for acting and conspiring to act as an illegal agent of the Iranian government in the United States (Read more at DOJ)

US announces coalition mission in Iraq to end by 2025, but US ‘not withdrawing

The US and Iraq have agreed “on a two phase transition plan for operations in Iraq,” the official said. “In the first phase, we’ll be concluding the global coalition’s military mission in Iraq, the Combined Joint Task Force Inherent Resolve, and ending the presence of coalition forces in certain locations in Iraq as mutually determined.” That phase will begin this month and finish by the end of September 2025. The second phase involves an “understanding to allow the coalition to continue to support counter-ISIS operations in Syria from Iraq … until at least September 2026,” the official said (Read more at Breaking Defense).

Israel rejects US-backed Lebanon ceasefire plan, hits Beirut again

Israel rejected global calls on Thursday for a ceasefire with the Hezbollah movement, defying its biggest ally in Washington and pressing ahead with strikes that have killed hundreds in Lebanon and heightened fears of an all-out regional war.Despite Israel's stance, the US and France sought to keep prospects alive for an immediate 21-day truce they proposed on Wednesday, and said negotiations continued, including on the sidelines of a United Nations meeting in New York (Read more at IrishExaminer).

US and allies call for an immediate 21-day cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah

The U.S. hopes the new deal could lead to longer-term stability along the border between Israel and Lebanon. Months of Israeli and Hezbollah exchanges of fire have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes, and escalated attacks over the past week have rekindled fears of a broader war in the Middle East (Read more at Associated Press).

 

New York Mayor Adams charged in Turkey bribery, fraud scheme

US prosecutors on Thursday charged New York City Mayor Eric Adams with accepting illegal campaign contributions and luxury travel from Turkish nationals seeking to influence him, capping an investigation that has sent the largest US city’s government into turmoil. In a 57-page indictment, prosecutors laid out an alleged scheme stretching back to 2014 that helped to underwrite Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign and showered him with free rooms at opulent hotels and meals at high-end restaurants (Read more at Indian Express).

Iran denies targeting ex-US officials after Trump implicates it in assassination attempts

Iran said on Thursday that accusations it had targeted former U.S. officials were baseless, after former U.S. president Donald Trump implicated Iran, without offering evidence, in assassination attempts against him. "It is obvious that such accusations are just a part of creating the election atmosphere in the U.S...., and not even worth a response," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said in a statement (Read more at AOL).

US Defense Secretary Plays Down Any Red Lines on Aid to Israel

Asked about "red lines" for U.S. support to Israel, Austin told reporters that the United States would not change its commitment to help Israel protect itself. He echoed U.S. calls for a ceasefire and a diplomatic solution to the crisis (Read more at USNews).

Turkey's Erdogan says he hopes new U.S. president heralds better ties

Speaking to Turkish journalists in New York before leaving the U.N. General Assembly, Erdogan said Turkey still wanted to be reimbursed for the money it spent on F-35 fighter jets after being removed from the jet programme over the Russian purchases. "My hope is that whoever comes does not make us miss the outgoing one," Erdogan was cited as saying. "They all made us experience this disappointment. The Republicans and Democrats." (Read more at Reuters).

Blinken Tells Israel Escalation Will Make Civilian Return More Difficult

Israel rejected global calls on Thursday for a ceasefire with the Hezbollah movement, defying its biggest ally in Washington and pressing ahead with strikes that have killed hundreds in Lebanon and heightened fears of an all-out regional war (Read more at USNews).

Activists protest US support for Israel as risks rise of wider Middle East war

Protesters chanted "Hands off the Middle East," "Free Palestine" and "Biden, Harris, Trump and Bibi; none are welcome in our city," demonstrated on Tuesday against American military support for Israel as risks have risen of a full-fledged conflict in the Middle East, with anti-war activists demanding an arms embargo against the US ally (Business Standard).

Lebanon says only US can stop fighting

Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib criticized Biden’s address as “not strong, not promising”. The United States “is the key ... to our salvation,” he told an event in New York City hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (Read more at Arabnews).

Biden not giving up on Gaza ceasefire, hostages, says White House

“He absolutely hasn’t given up,” Mr Sullivan said in an interview with MSNBC hours before Mr Biden addressed the UN General Assembly for the last time as president. Mr Biden will huddle with world leaders gathered in New York to work on a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza (Read more at Straitstimes). 

US not providing intelligence support to Israel for Lebanon operations, Pentagon says

Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh also said no Israeli ground incursion into Lebanon appeared imminent, but referred reporters to Israel for questions about its operations and plans. Asked about whether the United States was supporting Israel's operations in Lebanon, including with intelligence support, Singh said: "No. No support." (Read more at Reuters)

US issues sanctions over shipment of Iran oil to Syria, East Asia

Four ships associated with the fleet of Syrian shipping magnate, Abdul Jalil Mallah, who was sanctioned by the US in 2021, and his brother, Luay Al-Mallah, were among the vessels included in Wednesday’s action, the Treasury Department said in a statement. Luay Al-Mallah was designated under US sanctions on Wednesday. The brothers have “continued to use their shipping empire to support Iran’s malign activities and those of its proxies,” Treasury said (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Trump was briefed on alleged Iran assassination threats, campaign says

“President Trump was briefed earlier today by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence [ODNI] regarding real and specific threats from Iran to assassinate him in an effort to destabilize and sow chaos in the United States,” Steven Cheung, the ex-president campaign’s communications director, said in a statement (Read more at The Hill). 

Biden Designates UAE as a Second Major Defense Partner After India

Moreover, Biden and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan called for "urgent, unhindered" humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza and shared their commitment to a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in a statement after their meeting. Their joint statement touched on the Gulf state's involvement in the Sudan conflict, with both stressing that there was no military solution to the war, which has triggered the world's largest displacement crisis. They also underscored plans to deepen cooperation on space exploration, clean energy and artificial intelligence, where the UAE has launched ambitious plans drawing interest from U.S. geopolitical rival China (Read more at Ariana News).

Erdogan calls on the US to lift sanctions on various sectors

The US imposed sanctions on Turkey as a result of a lack of consensus on particular issues, including Gaza. The measures include “additional customs duties in the iron, steel, and aluminium sectors, along with investigations and CAATSA sanctions.” During the in New York with American and Turkish businesspeople at the 15th Turkey Investment Conference hosted by the Turkey-US Business Council (TAİK), Erdogan stated that the United States has been Turkey’s second-largest export market and fifth-largest source of imports for the past two years, with bilateral trade exceeding $30 billion in 2023 (Read more at Al24news).

US OKs sale of Stinger missiles to Egypt for $740 million

The missiles have been in hot demand in Ukraine, where they have successfully stopped Russian assaults from the air, and in neighboring European countries which fear they may also need to beat back Russian forces. Egypt would put the Stingers on vehicles equipped with the Avenger launcher system versus a shoulder-fired launcher (Read more AOL).

US Admits Qatar Into Visa Waiver Program

It allows visa-free travel by Qatari citizens for up to 90 days. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State said in a statement that Qatar is the first Gulf country to be admitted to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, commending Doha for meeting the strict security requirements to join (Read more at Aljazeera).

UAE Seeks Closer AI, Tech Ties in Biden Talks

The UAE, a wealthy oil producer and longtime security partner of the U.S., is hoping for greater access to American technology to build its own advanced tech industry. G42, the state-backed technology company, has already secured a $1.5 billion investment from Microsoft, partnered with chipmaker Nvidia and is using supercomputers built by Cerebras Systems. But the U.S. has been concerned about the UAE's warm relationship with China and placed restrictions on exports of some American technology to the UAE and other Middle Eastern states over concerns that it could be shared with Beijing (Read more at USNews).

US sends additional forces to Middle East as tensions soar

Experts question whether Iran would stay on the sidelines if Lebanon's Hezbollah's existence were threatened and say US troops could also find themselves targeted throughout the Middle East, if a regional war breaks out. The United States is sending a small number of additional troops to the Middle East given escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah, the Pentagon said on Monday, declining to specify the precise number or mission of the deployed forces (Read more at Daily Star).

US seeks to prevent Israel-Hezbollah escalation

Washington is going to discuss "concrete ideas" with allies and partners to prevent the war from broadening. Asked if that is a disagreement with the Israeli stance, the U.S. official nodded. The spiraling conflict over Israel's northern border with Lebanon is a focus for Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly this week (Read more at USNews). 

Relations with US remain unchanged regardless of who is elected president

Erdoğan’s remarks came during a meeting on Sunday with representatives from US think tanks at Turkish House on the sidelines of a UN meeting in New York. Erdoğan said just like the rest of the world, Turkey is also closely following the elections in the United States, ruling out any possibility of a change in the relationship due to the outcome of the polls (Read more at Turkish Minute).

US seeks control of S-400s in exchange for Turkey’s return to F-35 program

The United States submitted a detailed proposal to Turkey to transfer the Russian system to the US-controlled part of İncirlik Airbase in southern Turkey. The proposal will reportedly not put Turkey in a difficult situation since neither the terms of its contract with Russia nor any binding clauses will be violated (Read more at Turkish Minute).

Hamas’ Sinwar is ‘big obstacle’ in cease-fire talks, John Kirby says

The White House national security communications adviser said, “It’s tough to get him to say yes to things that he’s already said he wants. It’s very, very difficult. But as the president said the other day, everything is unrealistic until all of a sudden it’s not anymore.” Earlier this month, the U.S. Justice Department announced criminal charges against Sinwar, along with others in connection with the Oct. 7 attack (Read more at Politico).

Trump Says He Met With Qatari Leaders in Florida

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on Sunday said he had met with Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani at his Florida resort (Read more at Dunyanews).

US urges citizens to leave Lebanon while commercial options available

In late July, the United States raised its travel advisory for Lebanon to its highest "do not travel" classification, after a strike on southern Beirut killed a top Hezbollah commander (Read more at Business Standard). 

U.S. hopes Israeli attacks push Hezbollah to a deal

U.S. officials say the Biden administration is "extremely concerned" about the risk of an all-out war between Israel and Lebanon, but hopes to use growing Israeli military pressure on Hezbollah to get a diplomatic deal (Read more at Axios).

Sullivan: justice served in strike on Hezbollah

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Saturday said he was worried about escalation between Israel and Lebanon but that the Israeli killing of a top Hezbollah leader brought justice to the Iran-backed group. He said he still sees a path to a ceasefire in Gaza but that the U.S. is "not at a point right now where we're prepared to put something on the table." (Read more at ANews)

Hezbollah ‘financier’ pleads guilty to evading US sanctions

The State Department in May 2018 had declared Bazzi to be a “specially designated global terrorist” and offered a $10 million reward for information leading to his capture. In February 2023, he was arrested in Romania and extradited to the US. The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control has said Bazzi “has provided millions of dollars to Hezbollah over the years, generated from his business activities in Belgium, Lebanon, Iraq and throughout West Africa” (Read more at Arabnews).

For Americans Haunted by Beirut Bombings, a Killing Resurfaces Decades of Pain

A day after the killing of a senior Hezbollah member seen as a key figure in those attacks, many of those Americans welcomed the news but said it stirred painful memories without resolving the past. “It doesn’t bring closure,” said Michael Harris, 59, a Marine veteran who was “blown out” of his barracks in one of the attacks and lives today in Rhode Island. “It wasn’t just one person responsible.” Valerie Giblin, 61, of Smithfield, R.I., shared a similar sense of unresolved grief. Her husband, Timothy Giblin, died in the barracks attack when their daughter was 2 years old. “I was 20 years old,” she said. “I never remarried. I’ll be his wife until the day I die.” (Read more New York Times).

U.S. fears Israeli finance minister will topple Palestinian banks

The crash of the Palestinian banking system could bring down the Palestinian Authority, creating a power vacuum that could throw the West Bank into chaos and exacerbate the conflict in the region. Israel's finance minister Bezalel Smotrich, an ultranationalist anti-Palestinian settler, has taken many steps over the last two years to weaken the Palestinian Authority as part of his ideology of annexing the West Bank (Read more at Axios).

US Lawmaker Rashida Tlaib Condemns Cartoon Showing Her With Exploding Pager

The congresswoman’s statement about the publication of the cartoon “Tlaib Pager Hamas” came after many users on the social media platform X had condemned it as anti-Arab as well as Islamophobic. A statement from the Democratic US House representative also expressed concern that the cartoon by Henry Payne would “incite more hate and violence against Arab and Muslim communities” (Read more at Guardian). 

US believes Gaza ceasefire deal unlikely in Biden's term

US officials now believe that a ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas in Gaza is unlikely before President Joe Biden leaves office in January, the Wall Street Journal reported. “I can tell you that we do not believe that deal is falling apart,” Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters before the Wall Street Journal report was published. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said two weeks ago that 90 percent of a ceasefire deal had been agreed upon (Read more at Aljazeera).

Muslim Americans Moving to Jill Stein in Blow to Kamala Harris

Some Arab American and Muslim voters angry at U.S. support for Israel’s offensive in Gaza are shunning Democrat Kamala Harris in the presidential race to back third-party candidate Jill Stein in numbers that could deny Harris victories in battleground states that will decide the Nov. 5 election (Read more at The News).

Israel warned US that operation in Lebanon was coming but gave no details

The officials said the U.S. did not get advance warning of the second wave of attacks, with walkie-talkie radios targeted. During a call with Gallant, Austin spoke about regional security developments and reiterated America’s unwavering support for Israel in the face of threats from Iran, Hezbollah and other Iranian proxies in the region (Read more at Stripe)

Biden to discuss Gaza, Sudan, AI with UAE President

White House spokesperson John Kirby said the visit would be the first-ever by a president of the Gulf Arab country to Washington, adding that Vice President Kamala Harris would meet separately with the UAE leader. Discussions would also focus on climate, clean energy and UAE's role as a partner in the Group of Seven's global infrastructure partnership, Kirby told reporters (Read more at Gulf Today).

US Says Iranian Hackers Sent Trump Information to Biden Camp

The incidents that occurred before Biden suspended his campaign mark "the latest example of Iran's multipronged approach" to "stoke discord and undermine confidence" in the U.S. electoral process, per a joint statement from the FBI, CISA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (Read more at Axios).

At UN Iran and Europeans to Test Diplomacy With US Election Looming

Iran's leaders hope to see an easing of U.S. sanctions over its nuclear programme. It is unclear whether the Europeans and Iranians can find areas for compromise in New York. Kelsey Davenport, director of non-proliferation policy at the Arms Control Association advocacy group, said substantive talk before the U.S. election were unlikely. But interim steps, such as Iran receiving some sanctions relief in return for expanding IAEA monitoring of its nuclear facilities, could be possible (Read more at USNews).

Gulf central banks cut key interest rates, mirroring US Fed move

The Gulf region’s oil and gas exporters tend to follow the US Fed’s lead on rate moves as most regional currencies are pegged to the US dollar; only the Kuwaiti dinar is pegged to a basket of currencies, which includes the dollar (Read more at Arab Weekly).

US Says No Change to Its Military Posture in Middle East Amid Attacks in Lebanon

Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said, “I am not tracking any force posture changes in the Eastern Med or in the Central Command area of responsibility ... In pretty much every call the secretary always reiterates the need (that) we want to see regional tensions quell.” The spokesperson added that the US felt as of now the conflict was contained to Gaza (Read more at Arabnews).

US Defence Secretary postpones Israel trip

The source did not give a reason for the postponement. The trip would have come at a time of heightened tensions in the region after attacks that blew up Hezbollah radios and pagers, which Lebanon and Hezbollah have blamed on Israel (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

U.S. Warns All Parties Against Escalation in the Middle East

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "We will continue to stand by Israel's right to defend itself, but we don't want to see any party escalate this conflict, period. We have been engaged in the region for some time, and of course, since October 7th we have been engaged to try to bring down tensions. But ultimately, yes, every country is responsible, and every entity is responsible for the actions that they take." (Read more at USNews). 

US MQ-9 Drone Crashes Near Yemen

A US MQ-9 Reaper drone crashed near Yemen, the Pentagon said Tuesday, after Houthis claimed to have downed several of the aircraft in recent days. The Houthis claimed Tuesday that they had shot down three MQ-9s over the past week — a figure Ryder described as “too high.” The Pentagon spokesman said he could not provide a specific number for security reasons, but that the Houthis’ figure “is not accurate.” (Read more at Defense Post)

US issues fresh sanctions on Iran over human rights violations

The measures come two years after the death of Kurdish-Iranian woman Mahsa Amini while in police custody. The sanctions focus on members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iranian prison officials, and those involved in lethal operations abroad, according to a statement from the US Treasury Department (Read more at Indian Express).

Bernie Sanders Attempts to Block Arms Sales to Israel

He is attempting to block over $20 billion in arms sales to Israel through a series of resolutions. Sanders said he has support for the proposal, which would halt the sale of missile systems, tank rounds, new fighter jets, and other weapons responsible for the destruction in Gaza (Read more at New Republic).

US 'not involved' and 'not aware' of Lebanon pager blasts

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "We're collecting information in the same way that journalists are across the world, to gather the facts about what might have happened," Miller said the United States was always concerned about any incident that can raise tensions in Middle East and urged Iran not to take advantage of any incident to raise instability. Miller also said that civilians were not legitimate targets for any type of operation (Read more at USNews).

In Egypt, Blinken to discuss bilateral ties and Gaza ceasefire

Blinken will not visit Israel on this trip, the first time he has skipped a stop in Washington’s closest regional ally since Palestinian militant group Hamas sparked the war in Gaza nearly a year ago. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that was because Washington aimed to discuss bilateral issues with Egypt on this trip and the Gaza ceasefire proposal that U.S. and mediators have been working on was still not ready to present to Israel. "So it would be premature to be presenting such a proposal, or doing any other diplomatic engagements," he added (Read more at USNews).

China says US 'shielding' Israel at UN is preventing Gaza ceasefire

Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, questioned the Security Council’s effectiveness, asking, “Why has it been unable to stop this human tragedy, the worst of its kind to this day?” “Had the US not shielded one side time and again, multiple resolutions of this council would not have been flagrantly rejected and defied,” Shuang stated. He urged the US to “show a responsible attitude”, cease its passivity, and use its’ strategic influence to pressure Israel into ending its military operations immediately, as demanded by council resolutions months ago (Read more at Middle East Eye).

US says initial probe into US citizen’s killing does not exonerate Israel

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week described Eygi's killing as "unprovoked and unjustified" and demanded an overhaul of Israeli military conduct in the West Bank. “If the first investigation plays out. … and we are not satisfied, we will of course look at whether any other measures are appropriate,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller added (Read more at Indian Express).

Blinken to head to Egypt to discuss Gaza cease-fire, hostage deal

Top US diplomat will also chair US-Egypt Strategic Dialogue with his Egyptian counterpart, according to State Department. The visit, Blinken's 10th to the Middle East since Oct. 7 last year, comes as the US, along with Qatar and Egypt, are working to secure a cease-fire and hostage swap deal between Israel and Hamas. US President Joe Biden said on May 31 that Israel presented a hostage-prisoner exchange, the Israeli military’s withdrawal from Gaza, a surge in aid and a permanent end to hostilities (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

King Abdullah appoints US-educated technocrat as PM

Jafar Hassan, now head of King Abdullah’s office and a former planning minister, replaces Bisher Khasawneh, a veteran diplomat and former palace adviser who was appointed nearly four years ago. Harvard-educated Hassan is a widely respected technocrat. He will face the challenges of mitigating the impact of the Gaza war on the kingdom’s economy, hard-hit by curbs to investment and a sharp drop in tourism (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Saudi, US military officials discuss ways to strengthen partnership

Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces, Lieutenant General Fahad bin Hamad Al Salman, received a delegation from the US armed forces in Riyadh on Sunday and discussed ways to strengthen the two countries' military partnership (Read more at Arabnews)

U.S. warns Netanyahu against starting a war in Lebanon

Hochstein's message came as the Israeli military and security cabinet have been ramping up preparations for a war against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The U.S. envoy made clear to Netanyahu and Gallant that the U.S. remains committed to a diplomatic resolution in Lebanon, "either together with a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal or on its own." Netanyahu told Hochstein that it would not be possible to return displaced Israelis to their homes without a fundamental change in the security situation on the border with Lebanon (Read more at Axios).

Houthi claim US Offered to Recognize Sanaa Government; US Denies

"There is always communication after every operation we conduct," Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi movement's political bureau, told Al Jazeera Mubasher TV. "These calls are based on either threats or presenting some temptations, but they have given up to achieve any accomplishment in that direction." He added, "the calls after attacks included some from the U.S. and the United Kingdom indirectly through mediators and that the threats included direct U.S. military intervention against countries that intervene militarily "in support of Gaza." The Houthis have damaged more than 80 ships in missile and drone attacks since November, sinking two vessels, seizing another and killing at least three crew members (Read more USNews).

US still working on revised proposal for Gaza ceasefire deal

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "I don't have a timetable for you other than to say that we are working expeditiously to try to develop that proposal." Talks over months have so far failed to reach a deal to end war, now in its twelfth month, even after U.S. President Joe Biden in June publicly laid out a proposal that Israel had agreed to (Read more at Reuters).

Third man 'self-immolates' to protest Israel's Gaza genocide, US complicity

Matt Nelson of Boston reportedly sets himself on fire outside Israeli consulate, becoming latest individual in US to self-immolate to protest Israel's genocidal war in Gaza being carried out with American weapons (Read more at TRTWorld).

'There is unfair amount of focus on Israel in UN,' says U.S. envoy

The U.S. permanent representative to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, accused the UN of "inordinately over-focus" on Israel. "There is no other country in the world that has a monthly meeting on the (Security) Council's agenda going back decades," the U.S. envoy said. Asked about recognizing the Palestinian state, Thomas-Greenfield gave an evasive response as she claimed that "a state has certain responsibilities for its people, and I do not believe the Palestinians, as they exist right now, have all of the elements to give it statehood." (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

Centcom says four ISIS leaders killed in US-Iraq raid

US Central Command said that 14 ISIS operatives, among them four major figures in the group, had been killed as part of a joint raid in western Iraq on August 29. As part of the continuing post-raid assessment, Centcom can confirm that four ISIS leaders were killed. There were no civilian casualties, Centcom added (Read more at The National).

Iran says it is open to talks but rejects pressure as US, EU impose sanctions

The United States, Germany, Britain and France on Tuesday imposed new sanctions on Iran, including measures against its national airline Iran Air. Araqchi said that Tehran had not delivered any ballistic missiles to Russia and sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States and three European powers would not solve any problems between them (Read more at Business Standard).

US approves $165 million in weapons sales to Israel for 2027 delivery

It is to fund heavy-duty tank trailers. The systems include spare and repair parts, tool kits and technical and logistics support (Read more at ABCNews).

US shifts aircraft carrier away from Middle East

Theodore Roosevelt has departed and begun its transit to Indo-Pacific command area of operations, says spokesman. One of two US aircraft carriers deployed to the Middle East to deter Iran from attacking Israel departed the region. US forces in the region include, but aren’t limited to, an amphibious ready group and marine expeditionary unit, multiple destroyers, fighter aircraft and carrier strike group presence (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

UAE to ask Trump to fulfil F-35 deal if he's re-elected

If the U.S. did approve the transfer, the UAE would be only the second Middle East state after Israel to operate F-35 fighters. Trump had signed off on the deal in the final days of his presidency in 2021 but the UAE suspended talks by the end of the year, unable to agree terms with the Biden administration (Read more at AOL).

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders calls for investigations into Eygi's killing

He called on the Justice Department to initiate independent investigations into the killing of Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi, a Turkish American activist, by Israeli forces in the West Bank. He said, "By continuing to credulously accept the explanations of an extremist Israeli government whose stated goal is to annex the West Bank and push Palestinians off their land, the United States makes a mockery of its values." (Read more at Anadolu Agency)

Senior Saudi royal urges US to cut financial and military support to Israel

Prince Turki al-Faisal stated that “Israeli lobbyists” enjoyed tax-free status in the US because they were considered to be “philanthropic or humanitarian”, rather than as representing the interests of Israel. He said, “There are many tools that are available to the United States, not simply harsh talk, which seems to have gotten us nowhere. But is America ready to do that?”  (Read more at Middle East Eye)

Trump Could Bring Algeria, Polisario to Western Sahara Negotiating Table

George Lombardi, senior advisor to former US President Donald Trump, has suggested that a second Trump administration could put a definitive end to the Western Sahara dispute by bringing Algeria and Polisario to negotiate on the terms of a political settlement. This assessment comes nearly four years after the Trump administration’s historic decision in December 2020 to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara (Read more at Morocco World News).

Two missiles fall near US forces in Baghdad

Kataib Hezbollah, one of Iraq’s armed factions, said the timing of the attack was clearly designed to disrupt a visit to Iraq by Iranian President. The group called on Iraqi security forces to investigate the attack and to determine who is responsible (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Biden, Harris seek 'full accountability' after killing of US citizen in West Bank

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris called the Israeli military's killing of an American activist in the Israeli-occupied West Bank "unacceptable" and said Israel must do more to make sure it never happens again. Eygi's relatives called on Biden and Harris to speak to the family directly and order an independent investigation into her shooting (Read more at Reuters).

US sanctions oil smuggling network allegedly generating millions for Hezbollah

OFAC has sanctioned three individuals, five companies and two vessels. It has facilitated dozens of LPG shipments to the Government of Syria. The US Treasury said “two prominent Hezbollah officials involved in these efforts include Muhammad Qasir (Qasir) and Muhammad Qasim al-Bazzal (Read more at Nahar Net).

US grants full $1.3B military aid to Egypt

U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration has decided to provide Egypt with its full $1.3 billion military aid allocation for 2024, which comes amid Egypt’s critical role in mediating talks between Israel and Hamas in an effort to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, overriding human rights conditions for the first time during this administration (Read more at Defense Blog).

Turkey Condemns Cyprus-US Defence Co-Operation Roadmap

The US steps, including last June’s announcement of the launch of a strategic dialogue with Cyprus, are detrimental to the security of the Turkish Cypriot side of the island, the Turkish foreign ministry said. “These steps … undermine the neutral USA position towards the island of Cyprus and make it more difficult to reach a just, lasting and sustainable settlement of the Cyprus issue,” it said in a statement (Read more at Cyprus-Mail)

Kamala Harris decries ‘tragic’ killing of US citizen by Israeli forces

The US vice president and Democratic nominee has failed to back Aysenur Eygi’s family’s call for an independent investigation. But she also urged “full accountability” for the killing. Israel’s preliminary investigation indicated it was the result of a tragic error for which the [Israeli military] is responsible (Read more at Aljazeera). 

US closer to green lighting Nvidia chips for Saudi Arabia

It would help the country train and run the most powerful AI models. Earlier this year, the US curtailed shipments of Nvidia’s advanced graphics cards out of concern that Saudi Arabia’s close ties with China could allow valuable AI secrets to flow there. Some who work for the Saudi Data and AI Authority, said the country is working to satisfy US security demands in an effort to get the chips as soon as possible  (Read more at Semafor).

New York City museum sacks three staff for wearing keffiyeh

Last month, the art museum — founded by Japanese American sculptor Isamu Noguchi — announced a policy prohibiting employees from wearing anything that expressed "political messages, slogans or symbols". The Museum said they violated its updated dress code by wearing keffiyeh head scarves, which have become an emblem of solidarity with the Palestinian cause (Read more at Khaleej Times).

White House Says Will Sanction Iran and Russian Targets

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that new sanctions on Iran Air would restrict its commercial flights from Iran to British and continental Europe. "The supply of these Iranian missiles, which have a maximum range of about 75 miles, could allow Russia to use more of its arsenal for targets beyond the front line while employing Iranian warheads for closer-range targets," Kirby said. Kirby said it would also be dangerous for the Middle East that Iran would now be able to avail itself of Russian technology, including on nuclear issues (Read more at USNews).

Israeli military says it likely killed American in West Bank

The United States said the shooting was “unprovoked and unjustified” and called for “fundamental changes” to Israel’s conduct, a rare direct rebuke of its close ally. Washington had urged Israel to investigate the circumstances around Eygi’s death and to ensure the findings were “thorough and transparent.” The Israel Defense Forces said in a brief statement published Tuesday that an initial inquiry found it was “highly likely” that Eygi was “hit indirectly and unintentionally by IDF fire, which was not aimed at her, but aimed at the key instigator” of the protest.” (Read more at CNBC)

Pro-Israel camp ramps up pressure ahead of Brown University divestment vote

That rare vote is scheduled to take place next month. A group of students made up of members of Brown Students for Israel, among others, are making the case in front of the Advisory Committee on University Resources Management (ACURM) that a vote on divestment is “functionally antisemitic” and that “there is no genocide in Gaza.” Brown Divest Coalition (BDC) is seeking to have the university divest its $6.6 billion endowment away from 10 companies in particular that have contributed resources and technology to Israel’s war on Gaza (Read more at Middle East Eye).

US increases pressure on Turkiye's banking operations with Russia

All sources of transfers from and to Russia are being checked, and bank accounts [for Russian citizens] are being opened under increased control of head offices (Read more at Almayadeen).

Netanyahu's hold on power rests on avoiding Gaza ceasefire, US senator says

US Senator Chris Murphy said on Monday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has a vested political interest in avoiding a ceasefire and that his coalition partners would likely not stand for a deal that includes releasing "Hamas prisoners". Murphy said a ceasefire feels less likely with every passing month and suspects Netanyahu doesn't want to hand Biden a diplomatic victory. Looking ahead at the upcoming November election Murphy said that both Israel and Hamas may not see it as in their political interest to deliver a deal by election day. "This is speculative, but it is not hard to believe that Netanyahu is rooting for Trump (Read more at Middle East Eye).

US, UK strike Houthi targets for second day

At the same time, US Central Command said on Sunday evening that over the past 24 hours, its forces had destroyed three Houthi drones and two missile systems in a Houthi-controlled Yemeni area, all of which were threatening US-led coalition ships and commercial vessels in international shipping lanes. Hodeidah, Yemen’s only major coastal city under Houthi control, has received most of the US and UK strikes since January. Meanwhile, Yemen’s government requested financial assistance from GCC countries on Monday to help shore up its faltering economy, stabilize the currency and pay public employees (Read more at NewArab).

Body of US-Turkish citizen shot in West Bank to be returned to Turkey

A Symbolic funeral held for Aysenur Eygi in Palestinian city of Nablus before her body is transported to Turkey. Turkish authorities are continuing efforts to bring Ms Eygi's body from the West Bank to Turkey (Read more at The National).

Israel Lobbying US Congress to Pressure South Africa to Drop ICJ Genocide Case

The Israeli foreign ministry “sent a classified cable” to the Israeli embassy in Washington, DC, and to all Israeli consulates in the U.S.” about South Africa’s ICJ case. Israeli diplomats “were instructed to ask members of Congress to issue public statements condemning South Africa’s actions against Israel and threaten that it could lead to suspending U.S. trade relations with South Africa.” (Read more at Palestine Chronicle)

US Urges Israel to Conclude Probe Into Killing of American Activist in West Bank

U.S. State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "Our understanding is that our partners in Israel are looking into the circumstances of what happened, and we expect them to make their findings public, and expect that whatever those findings are, expect them to be thorough and transparent." White House national security spokesperson John Kirby later said Israel was understood to be "moving swiftly on this investigation" and was expected to present its findings and conclusions in the coming days (Read more at USNews).

US drafts new proposal for hostage swap deal between Israel, Hamas

US settlement proposal includes all the contentious points, foremost among them the Philadelphia Corridor between the Gaza Strip and Egyp. It also focused on the number of senior Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails who will be released as part of the potential deal, rather than the total number of prisoners to be released (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Houthis claim downing another US MQ-9 Reaper drone over Yemen

The Houthis have not released footage for the latest attack, but have shown downing US drones with missiles before. This is the eighth drone of this type to be shot down since the start of the war on Gaza. It costs about $30m (Read more at Aljazeera).

Blinken travelling to London to discuss Middle East, Ukraine

Support for Ukraine in its defence against Russia, reaching a ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza and the tense situation in the Indo-Pacific are among the items on their agenda (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

US-backed SDF transfer ISIS members from Raqqa to al-Hasakah

The transfer was conducted under US supervision with strict security measures in place to prevent any security breaches, following the escape of five foreign prisoners last week, of whom the SDF managed to recapture only two (Read more at Almayadeen).

US response to Israeli killing of of Turkish-American draws sharp criticism

Statements so far from the administration differ from remarks that follow killings of Israeli Americans. The State Department's immediate response drew the ire of Palestinian Americans, who accused the White House of treating the death of Israeli Americans with higher concern than other Americans killed by Israel (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Doubts grow in White House about presenting new Gaza deal terms

The White House is reassessing its strategy for a hostage-release and ceasefire in Gaza deal as President Biden's top aides deliberate whether there is a point in presenting a new proposal as Hamas and Israel both take tougher positions in negotiations, U.S. officials say. The murder of six hostages by Hamas, military control of the Philadelphi corridor, and the Hamas's new demand to release 100 more Palestinian prisoners who are serving life sentences for murdering Israelis caused significant pessimism at the White House. Officials feel Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar doesn't want a deal right now (Read more at Axios).

Family of American woman killed in West Bank demands independent probe

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, 26, was shot in the head Friday while protesting in the Israeli-occupied town of Beita. Her family called on President Biden, Vice President Harris and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to order an investigation and “ensure full accountability for the guilty parties.” The IDF said in a statement that the incident is under review (Read more at New York Post).

Egypt-US Joint Economic Committee discusses ways of enhancing bilateral ties

The meetings held in Washington, DC and were participated by Ambassador Moataz Zahran, Egypt's Ambassador to the United States. Discussions included enhancing collaboration in key sectors such as renewable energy, technology, infrastructure, and agriculture within the framework of the long-term strategic partnership (Read more at Egypt Today). 

Meta removes TRT Arabi documentary on Israeli attacks against journalists

The Turkish Radio Television's documentary "Journalism Under Genocide," which exposes Israeli military crimes against journalists, was deleted from Facebook (Read more at TRTWorld).

Heads of CIA, MI6 issue joint call for ceasefire in Gaza

They said their agencies had “exploited our intelligence channels to push hard for restraint and de-escalation (Read more at Business Standard).

US 'alarmed' by reports of Iranian missile transfer to Russia

Nnnamed US and European officials believe Iran has already provided ballistic missiles to Russia. White House National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett stated that any missile transfer from Iran to Russia would be a "dramatic escalation" in their military partnership. However, Savett did not confirm whether the transfer had already occurred (Read more at Tribune).

Trump: US colleges lose accreditation over antisemitism if he's elected

"Colleges will and must end the antisemitic propaganda or they will lose their accreditation and federal support," Trump said, speaking remotely to a crowd of more than 1,000 Republican Jewish Coalition donors in Las Vegas. In the United States, the federal government does not directly accredit universities but has a role in overseeing the mostly private organizations that give colleges accreditation (Read more at Reuters).

Blinken says cease-fire '90% agreed

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged both Israel and Hamas to finalize an agreement for a truce in Gaza. In an interview with US news channel Fox, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sounded less optimistic a deal would be reached soon and said, "It's not close." (Read more at Times of Oman).

US Citizen Killed During Protest in West Bank, Shot by Israeli Troops

The incident occurred during a regular protest march in Nablus that has witnessed repeated attacks by settlers. Fouad Nafaa, head of Rafidia Hospital in Nablus, confirmed that the woman arrived at the hospital in critical condition with a severe head injury. “We tried to perform a resuscitation operation on her, but unfortunately she died,” Nafaa told Reuters (Read more at Media Line).

Walz says Gaza demonstrators are protesting for all the right reasons

Walz's comments came in an interview with a local Michigan public radio station — a state with a large Muslim American population that is also a potentially pivotal swing state. The Democratic ticket looks to balance its support for Israel with the humanitarian plight of civilians (Read more at NewArab)

US-Iraq Deal Would See Hundreds of Troops Withdraw in First Year

The United States and Iraq have reached an understanding on plans for the withdrawal of U.S.-led coalition forces from Iraq. The U.S. and Iraq are also seeking to establish a new advisory relationship that could see some U.S. troops remain in Iraq after the drawdown (Read more at USNews).

Harris to meet Arab American leaders in Michigan angry over Israel

The meeting is one of several attempts in recent days to mend fences with Muslim and Arab voters, who resoundingly backed Democrat Joe Biden in 2020 but could withhold their votes from Harris in numbers that would cost her the key state of Michigan. Harris will meet with Emgage, which recently endorsed her, the American Task Force on Lebanon, and a long-standing friend of Harris, Hala Hijazi, who has lost dozens of family members in Gaza (Read more at New Strait Times).

American killed in Lebanon was a US citizen, State Dept says

Kamel Ahmad Jawad, from Dearborn, Michigan, was killed in Lebanon in an Israeli airstrike on Tuesday, according to his daughter, a friend and the U.S. congresswoman representing his district (Read more at Reuters).

US Calls on Big Tech to Help Evade Online Censors in Russia, Iran

(Reuters) - The White House convened a meeting with representatives of Amazon.com, Alphabet's Google, Microsoft, Cloudflare and civil society activists in a bid to encourage U.S. tech giants to offer more digital bandwidth for government-funded internet censorship evasion tools. The tools, supported by the U.S.-backed Open Technology Fund (OTF), have seen a surge of usage in Russia, Iran, Myanmar and authoritarian states that heavily censor the internet (Read more at USNews).

Alleged Hezbollah Financier Expected to Plead Guilty in US Sanctions Case

A dual Lebanese-Belgian citizen accused by the United States of financing Lebanese armed group Hezbollah is expected to plead guilty in a criminal case charging him with sanctions evasion and money-laundering conspiracies. Prosecutors said Bazzi covertly sold real estate he owned in Michigan and transferred the funds abroad, in violation of those sanctions (Read more at Arabnews).

United States respects Turkish plan to join BRICS

the United States, has been quiet so far on Türkiye’s intention to join the BRICS alliance of developing markets. However, a spokesperson for the White House’s National Security Council broke the silence on the matter. Speaking to the Turkish edition of Voice of America, the spokesperson said in a written statement that the U.S. believed that countries (Read more at Daily Sabah).

US Tech Meta does not automatically remove pro-Palestinian phrase

The Board, which operates independently but is funded by the US social media firm, said the phrase “From the river to the sea” has several meanings, and as such its use cannot in itself be deemed to be harmful, violent or discriminatory. Critics of the phrase say it is anti-Semitic and a call for Israel’s eradication (Read more at Middle East  Monitor).

Hostage killings and new demands cast doubt in the US that Hamas wants a deal

Hamas' new demand to increase the number of Palestinian prisoners released as part of the deal raised even more concerns and questions among U.S. negotiators about whether an agreement is possible. U.S. officials said one of the main arguments made in the meeting was that after Hamas murdered the hostages, including an American, the U.S. shouldn't push for a proposal that gives Hamas additional concessions and instead focus on applying more pressure and accountability measures against Hamas (Read more at Axios).

U.S. and Israel quietly discuss options to cool tensions with Lebanon

The meeting, which hasn't been announced by the White House or the Israeli government, was initiated by the Biden administration to take the pulse on the Israeli side and coordinate their policies about the situation in Lebanon. The virtual meeting lasted an hour. The U.S. team was led by White House national Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. President Biden's advisers Amos Hochstein and Brett McGurk also participated. The Israeli team was led by the Minister for Strategic Affairs and Netanyahu confidant Ron Dermer (Read more at Axios).

U.S. captures ISIS leader in Syria who helped fighters escape

U.S. troops and the Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led coalition, captured ISIS facilitator Khaled Ahmed al-Dandal days after "five ISIS Foreign Terrorist Fighter detainees (Two Russians, two Afghans, and one Libyan) escaped from the Raqqah Detention Facility," per a CENTCOM statement. The SDF recaptured two of the escapees, but CENTCOM said three remained at large (Read more at Axios).

U.S. prosecutors charges Hamas leaders over Oct. 7 attack on Israel

U.S. prosecutors charged Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and five other leading figures in the Palestinian militant group with offenses including terrorism over the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. The indictment that was unsealed Tuesday marks the first step in the U.S. trying to hold Hamas accountable for the killing and kidnapping of hundreds of civilians, including U.S. citizens, but it's largely symbolic as Sinwar is believed to be hiding in Gaza and the DOJ notes in a statement that three of those charged are believed to be dead (Read more at Axios).

Two US soldiers assaulted by nationalist youth group in Turkey

Fifteen suspected assailants were detained after attack in port city of Izmir. Police intervened in the incident and authorities are conducting an investigation (Read more at Guardian).

Father of US hostage slams Netanyahu for prioritising grip on power

He said Netanyahu is more concerned with retaining his grip on power than brokering an agreement to free hostages. He added, Netanhayu has made choices to pursue this fantasy of total victory over Hamas, but his idea of total victory is a messianic one, not realistic (Read more at TRTWorld).

Biden: Netanyahu not doing enough to secure Deal with Hamas

He also said he believed a final deal to free prisoners held by the Palestinian group was “very close”. (Read more at Sarajevotimes)

Israel recovers bodies of six hostages held by Hamas, including American citizen

After the operation, there are 101 hostages remaining in Gaza. IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the hostages were murdered by Hamas guards "shortly before IDF forces reached them." The body of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a U.S. citizen who became the symbol of the American hostages held by Hamas, was among those recovered (Read more at Axios).

Pro-Palestinian Groups to Protest Harris Campaign Stops, Trump Debate

Kamala Harris' strong support for Israel as it continues its war in Gaza is fueling calls for a fresh round of protests at campaign stops, universities and public events in the weeks ahead, activists told Reuters, describing what they said was her failure to listen to pro-Palestinian voices. They plan to show up in force during Harris' debate against Donald Trump in Philadelphia on Sept. 10 (Read more at Arabnews).

Fifteen IS group operatives killed in joint US-Iraq raid in west Iraq

Also, seven US troops injured during a joint US-Iraq raid in western Iraq. The operation comes as Baghdad and Washington have been engaged in months of talks over the presence of anti-jihadist coalition forces in Iraq (Read more at France24).

Iraq seeks U.S. investment in gas for energy independence

Iraq seeks U.S. investment in gas as new projects target energy independence. The move is part of Baghdad's efforts to attract U.S. investment into its energy sector, following previous licensing rounds where Chinese firms secured the majority of available fields (Read more at Reuters).

USAID warns Israel's forced displacements 'debilitate' aid efforts

at least 1.7 million Palestinians were crowded into a “safe zone” whose size is equivalent to just 70 percent of the total area of Washington’s Dulles International Airport. the US government has lobbied Israel on “several mitigating measures”, based on the assessment that Israel is “unlikely” to change its overall policy (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Erdogan 'played' Trump and lied to him on Syria

Turkish President "played" Donald Trump and convinced him that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad would be the inevitable winner of the Syrian civil war and to withdraw US forces from parts of northern Syria to allow Turkish forces to remove Syrian Kurdish armed elements. Erdogan described continued arms transfers to the SDF as a waste of money. McMaster says, on the contrary, Trump had never ordered him to stop the delivery of weapons (Read more at Middle East Eye).

How US universities are trying to muzzle pro-Palestine protests before they begin

At the University of South Florida, all activities which may feature signs, tents or amplified sound now require prior approval. Likewise, at the University of California, the university president ordered chancellors on all 10 campuses to ban student encampments and "overnight loitering".  Using a mask to hide your identity or block walkways and university buildings is now also prohibited. New York University says identifies "Zionists" as hate speech and be subject to punitive action. At GWU, the mandatory orientation briefing for new enrollments included a briefing on what students could and could not say with regards to criticism of Israel on campus (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Egypt-US strategic partnership key to resolve regional crises

Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty, during a meeting with a US congressional delegation, led by Senator Joni Ernst, emphasized the increasing significance of the Egypt-US strategic partnership in resolving successive regional crises, including the war in Gaza, the crises in Libya and Sudan, and security in the Red Sea (Read more at AlAhram).

US says it rescued two Iranian mariners in trouble

The two were found in the water when a US inflatable boat and helicopter took them in from the water. They were taken to the USS Theodore Roosevelt to receive medical care, as well as food and water (Read more at The National).

Harris hires Egyptian American lawyer for Arab voter outreach

Brenda Abdelall would be tasked with shoring up support from a community frustrated with U.S. support for Israel's war on Gaza. She most recently served as senior counselor to the Department of Homeland Security's secretary. Two weeks ago, Harris's campaign hired Afghan American lawyer Nasrina Bargzie to lead outreach to Muslim voters (Read more at Al Ahram). 

Israel Tells US Shots Fired at WFP Vehicle in Gaza After 'Communication Error'

Israel told the United States that an initial review found that shots were fired at a World Food Programme (WFP) vehicle in the Gaza Strip after a "communication error" between Israeli military units, the deputy U.S. envoy to the United Nations said (Read more at USNews).

White House Says Progress in Gaza Talks Despite Lebanon Flare-Up

The United States has repeatedly voiced optimism for talks on reaching a truce proposed by President Joe Biden in the more than 10-month conflict, despite repeated differences voiced between Israel and Hamas. Kirby said that senior White House official Brett McGurk stayed in Cairo for an extra day to allow further talks at a lower level (Read more at Defense Post).

US officials met Libyan National Army Commander Haftar in Benghazi

The U.S. urges all Libyan stakeholders to engage constructively in dialogue, with support from United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMI) and the international community (Read more at USNews).

U.S. military says drone strike killed leader of Al Qaeda-aligned group in Syria

A drone strike in northwestern Syria killed a Saudi militant from an al-Qaeda-linked group as he was riding on a motorcycle. The U.S. Central Command said in a statement that its forces had killed Abu Abdul Rahman Makki, a senior leader in the group Horas al-Din, or “Guardians of Religion." (Read more at The Hindu).

US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln arrives in Middle East

The Lincoln is to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt at a time of heightened fears of regional conflict. “The USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 3, is accompanied by Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9,” it added (Read more at Arab Weekly).

US Envoy Tells UN: Gaza Ceasefire Deal 'Now Is in Sight'

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called on Hamas to accept a “bridging proposal” put forward by the US that appears to differ from a previous proposal adopted by the UNSC and agreed to by the Palestinian group (Read more at Aljazeera).

Harris Speech Fails to Win Over Critics in Democrats' Biggest Rift, Gaza

Disappointed Pro-Palestinian activists said Kamala Harris' speech to close the Democratic convention in Chicago failed to demonstrate any break from the status quo, after a week in which the most divisive issue facing the party was mostly ignored (Read more at USNews).

Kamala Harris Says Now Is the Time for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal

U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris said in her Democratic National Convention speech: "I will always stand up for Israel's right to defend itself," Harris said while adding "what has happened in Gaza is devastating", and "heartbreaking." (Read more at USNews)

Biden asked Netanyahu to pull Israeli troops from part of Egypt-Gaza border

During their call, Biden asked for Israeli forces to be pulled out from a 1- to 2-kilometer strip along the Egypt-Gaza border during the first phase of the Gaza deal so negotiations on the deal can move forward. The Israeli officials said Netanyahu partially accepted Biden's request and agreed to give up one Israeli position along the border. Netanyahu's partial agreement resulted in the U.S. supporting the Israeli position that other IDF forces remain along the Philadelphi corridor in the first phase of the deal (Read more at Axios).

Blinken wraps up Mideast trip with Gaza deal still elusive

He sought to inject urgency into efforts to broker a Gaza ceasefire deal and said “the United States does not accept any long-term occupation of Gaza by Israel ... the agreement is very clear on the schedule and the locations of IDF withdrawals from Gaza, and Israel has agreed to that." The US official said even if Hamas were to agree on the bridging proposal immediately, there would have to be additional conversations to iron out details on implementation of the deal (Read morea t Euractiv).

US disputes report of Netanyahu, Blinken talk on Israeli troops on Gaza border

The United States disputed a report as saying Netanyahu might have convinced US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Israel should keep troops on a border strip between Gaza and Egypt. “The only thing Secretary Blinken and the United States are convinced of is the need for getting a ceasefire proposal across the finish line,” a senior administration official told reporters en route to Doha (Read more at Cyprus Mail).