In 2020 #Iran's frigate warship, the #IRISAlborz, was upgraded with new indigenously developed combat systems including an improved fire control system (FCS) and an electronic warfare system (EWS).

It's almost certain the #Houthis asked for backup after #US combat helicopters sank three Houthi raider boats attacking the #MaerskHangzhou in the #RedSea. #Israel

source: https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/iranian-navy-upgrades-alborz-frigate-with-new-combat-systems

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111681354926370647

Iranian navy upgrades Alborz frigate with new combat systems

The Islamic Republic of Iran Navy has equipped one of its ageing Alvand-class (Vosper Mk 5) frigates with new indigenously developed combat systems.

Janes.com

Under the plan, originally proposed by #Nicosia last month, ships would travel to #Cyprus for security checks before heading 370 kilometers to #Gaza's coast in a route that would avoid Egyptian or Israeli borders.

#Israel green-lights Cypriot aid plan for #Palestinians as military pounds Gaza – POLITICO
https://www.politico.eu/article/israel-green-lights-cypriot-aid-plan-for-palestinians-as-military-pounds-central-gaza/

Israel green-lights Cypriot aid plan for Palestinians as military pounds central Gaza

French, British, Greek and Dutch ships could carry aid directly to Gaza under new plan.

POLITICO

After the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by #Hamas, #Netanyahu suspended efforts to change the country's judiciary.

On Monday, Netanyahu's #Likud party said the ruling was against the will of the people at a time of war.

In landmark ruling, #Israel's #SupremeCourt rejects right-wing changes to judiciary

https://www.npr.org/2024/01/01/1222400537/israel-supreme-court-ruling-judiciary-changes

#Israel will appear at #InternationalCourtOfJustice: Israeli media

Israel “will not boycott” proceedings launched by #SouthAfrica at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Israel’s National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi has said, the Israeli news site Ynet is reporting.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/2/israel-hamas-war-live-almost-22000-palestinians-killed-by-israel-in-gaza

Israel-Hamas war live: Almost 22,000 Palestinians killed by Israel in Gaza

Al Jazeera teams on the ground report Israeli attacks focused on the southern and central areas of Gaza.

Al Jazeera

TEL AVIV — Israel says five of its military brigades, including many reservists, will be withdrawing from the #GazaStrip this week in an effort to pace itself for an expected long-term conflict and to mitigate damage to Israel’s economy.

#Israel withdrawing some units from #Gaza
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/israel-withdrawing-units-gaza-rcna131800

Israel withdrawing some units from Gaza

TEL AVIV — Israel says five of its military brigades, including many reservists, will be withdrawing from the Gaza Strip this week in an effort to pace itself for an expected long-term conflict and to mitigate damage to Israel’s economy.

NBC News

“I don’t think he has the ability [to respond]" , says Amit Segal, chief political analyst at #Israel’s Channel 12. “Prior to the war, his allies (far-right ministers, Itamar) Ben Gvir, and (Bezalel) Smotrich would have demanded him to do so and dragged him to do it. Now they can’t because it’s a war and after the war, I think it will be the least of his problems.”

Israel’s #SupremeCourt deals huge blow to #Netanyahu, but one he may have to swallow | CNN
https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/02/middleeast/israels-supreme-court-analysis-intl/index.html

Officials say four people were killed in the attack, including a “senior #Palestinian official”, Reuters reports, quoting two unnamed security sources. The Associated Press, citing #Hezbollah TV, named the person as “top #Hamas official #SalehArouri#Israel #Lebanon

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/02/israel-gaza-war-live-israeli-military-kills-four-alleged-palestinian-militants-in-west-bank-idf-says?page=with:block-65943a318f08f167df68dffd#block-65943a318f08f167df68dffd

Israel-Gaza war live: senior Hamas official Saleh al-Arouri killed in Beirut explosion

Hamas has confirmed deputy head died in what Lebanon state media report as drone strike; Israeli officials declined to comment

the Guardian

#Hamas confirms deputy head killed in reported Israeli #DroneStrike

An Israeli drone strike killed the deputy head of Hamas, #SalehAlArouri, in #Beirut, reports on Tuesday said. His death, which was confirmed by a Hamas radio station, would be a significant blow to the group in #Gaza #Israel #Lebanon
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/02/israel-gaza-war-live-israeli-military-kills-four-alleged-palestinian-militants-in-west-bank-idf-says?page=with:block-65943e088f0892175dae604b#block-65943e088f0892175dae604b

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111687521892452106

Israeli military forces in a state of ‘high readiness’ says senior IDF spokesperson – as it happened

This blog is now closed

the Guardian

Who was Saleh al-Arouri?

The death of #Hamas’s deputy leader, #SalehAlArouri, in a reported drone strike in #Beirut on Tuesday is a significant victory for the #Israel Defense Forces as the military campaign against the group in Hamas continues.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/02/israel-gaza-war-live-israeli-military-kills-four-alleged-palestinian-militants-in-west-bank-idf-says?page=with:block-659442918f083d1e9a9aeb87#block-659442918f083d1e9a9aeb87

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111687548116603918

Israeli military forces in a state of ‘high readiness’ says senior IDF spokesperson – as it happened

This blog is now closed

the Guardian

Witness reports spoke of two explosions 15 minutes apart in the south-central city of #Kerman tearing into the crowds that had gathered to mark the death of #Suleimani, once regarded as the most powerful figure in the Middle East, and responsible for extending Iranian influence in #Lebanon, #Syria and #Iraq.

Almost 100 dead in blasts at #Iran memorial for assassinated commander | Iran | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/03/dead-in-blasts-at-memorial-for-assassinated-iranian-commander

Almost 100 dead in blasts at Iran memorial for assassinated commander

Two explosions at Kerman ceremony marking anniversary of killing of Qassem Suleimani raise Middle East tensions further

The Guardian

Crack legal teams are being assembled, countries are issuing statements in support of #SouthAfrica, and #Israel has said it will defend itself in court, reversing a decades-old policy of boycotting the #UN’s top court and its 15 elected judges.

The first hearing in #TheHague is set for 11 and 12 January.

Stakes high as South Africa brings claim of genocidal intent against Israel | #ICC | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/04/stakes-high-as-south-africa-brings-claim-of-genocidal-intent-against-israel

Stakes high as South Africa brings claim of genocidal intent against Israel

Israel’s decision to defend itself at the international court of justice will make it harder for it to brush aside any adverse finding

The Guardian
Israeli forces searched houses in the #NurShams refugee camp in the occupied #WestBank city of #Tulkarem on Thursday, detaining hundreds of people suspected of militant activities, its military said. #Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596a3448f08310f25e7da34#block-6596a3448f08310f25e7da34
Middle East crisis live: tension spreads as US says it carried out strike in Baghdad; Hezbollah reports Israeli attack in Lebanon

Lebanese state media said Israeli strikes hit border town of Naqura; US military says it carried attack in Baghdad against Iraqi militia leader

the Guardian
The #US military has carried out a strike in #Baghdad against an Iraqi militia leader it blames for attacks against U.S. forces in the country, killing him and another person, a US official told Reuters on Thursday. #Iraq #Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596ad208f082ac94d4240fb#block-6596ad208f082ac94d4240fb
Middle East crisis live: tension spreads as US says it carried out strike in Baghdad; Hezbollah reports Israeli attack in Lebanon

Lebanese state media said Israeli strikes hit border town of Naqura; US military says it carried attack in Baghdad against Iraqi militia leader

the Guardian
It doesn't look like it's #Israel's doing. Earlier toot on #KermanBombing here:
https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111695032746407752
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Associated Press reports that the state-run Irna news agency in #Iran says suicide bombers probably carried out the attack in #Kerman, which killed at least 84 people.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596c5678f082ac94d424243#block-6596c5678f082ac94d424243
Norobiik @Norobiik@noc.social (@Norobiik@noc.social)

Attached: 1 image Witness reports spoke of two explosions 15 minutes apart in the south-central city of #Kerman tearing into the crowds that had gathered to mark the death of #Suleimani, once regarded as the most powerful figure in the Middle East, and responsible for extending Iranian influence in #Lebanon, #Syria and #Iraq. Almost 100 dead in blasts at #Iran memorial for assassinated commander | Iran | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/03/dead-in-blasts-at-memorial-for-assassinated-iranian-commander

Noc.Social
#Cyprus will be the key in getting more aid in. The country has functioned as a humanitarian aid hub before.
------
#DavidCameron, the #UK foreign secretary, has warned about starvation and disease spreading in #Gaza if #Israel does not allow more aid into Gaza.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596ca628f082ac94d42429d#block-6596ca628f082ac94d42429d
Middle East crisis live: tension spreads as US says it carried out strike in Baghdad; Hezbollah reports Israeli attack in Lebanon

Lebanese state media said Israeli strikes hit border town of Naqura; US military says it carried attack in Baghdad against Iraqi militia leader

the Guardian

At least 84 people died when two blasts ripped through the crowd near #Suleimani’s tomb in the city of #Kerman, four years after he was killed by a US drone strike in #Baghdad. Suleimani had been a staunch enemy of IS, which resents the damage he did to its cause in #Iraq and #Syria. #ISIS #Israel

#IslamicState claims responsibility for Iran bombings that killed at least 84
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/04/iran-kerman-attack-islamic-state-suspicion-border-afghanistan-pakistan

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111695032746407752

Islamic State claims responsibility for Iran bombings that killed at least 84

Afghan affiliate of IS claims responsibility for blasts in memorial crowd as Tehran tightens security on its eastern bordersMiddle East crisis – live updates

The Guardian

The ship sent a message on the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations portal, saying five to six unknown armed personnel had boarded on Thursday evening, the statement said.

At least 15 Indian crew members were on board the #MVLilaNorfolk, which was hijacked near #Somalia’s coast. #Houthi #Israel

#India navy says responding to Liberian-flagged vessel hijack in #ArabianSea | Shipping News | Al Jazeera
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/5/india-navy-says-responding-to-liberian-flagged-vessel-hijack-in-arabian-sea?traffic_source=rss&utm_source=press.coop

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111646123110157384

India navy says responding to Liberian-flagged vessel hijack in Arabian Sea

Navy says it has sent a warship to render assistance after the vessel issues a hijacking distress call.

Al Jazeera

Wow, if our own secretary of defense tried this stunt he'd be fired and out a job by morning 🙄
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Under the plan, #Israel’s war in the territory would continue until it had secured the return of the #hostages taken on 7 October, dismantled #Hamas’s “military and governing capabilities” and removed any remaining military threats.

Gallant unveiled the plan to the press before submitting it to prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war cabinet, #PostWarGaza

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/05/israel-defence-minister-yoav-gallant-gaza-plan-after-war-hamas-palestine-control-antony-blinken-visit

Israel could keep security control of Gaza after Hamas defeat, says defence minister

Yoav Gallant’s proposal suggests Palestinians would run day to day administration of territory

The Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Israel to continue war with ‘new combat approach’ until Hamas dismantled, defence minister says

Yoav Gallant outlines plan for how Gaza would be run in document yet to be approved by Israeli officials

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Israel to continue war with ‘new combat approach’ until Hamas dismantled, defence minister says

Yoav Gallant outlines plan for how Gaza would be run in document yet to be approved by Israeli officials

the Guardian

#Teheran - Iranian President #EbrahimRaisi joined mourners in #Kerman on Jan 5 for the funerals of the 89 people killed in twin blasts claimed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (#ISIS) group, state media said. Despite the claim of responsibility by ISIS, Iranian officials have continued to suggest #Israel's and #US involvement. #KermanBombing

Iran lays to rest victims of Islamic State twin bombings | The Straits Times
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/iran-lays-to-rest-victims-of-isis-twin-bombings

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111702771023446526

Iran lays to rest victims of ISIS twin bombings

The 89 victims include multiple women and children and at least a dozen Afghan nationals. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times
Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian

In a second nationally televised address within three days, #Nasrallah said that all of #Lebanon would be “exposed” if there was no response from his group to the killing of #SalehAlArouri, further heightening fears of a dangerous escalation in the conflict, even as #Israel warned its military was ready for any eventuality. #Hezbollah

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/05/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-antony-blinken-israel-palestine-gaza-hamas?page=with:block-6598409e8f08640ae963aac6#block-6598409e8f08640ae963aac6

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111687563046771710

Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian

About 90% of #children under the age of two are consuming two or fewer food groups, #UNICEF said in a statement on Friday.

Most families said their children are only getting grains – including bread – or milk, which would meet the definition of severe #FoodPoverty, it said. #Gaza #Israel

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/05/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-antony-blinken-israel-palestine-gaza-hamas?page=with:block-65983e518f08640ae963aab1#block-65983e518f08640ae963aab1

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111704611699433530

Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian

#SalehAlArouri’s assassination took place in the #Hezbollah stronghold of #Beirut’s southern suburbs, even as the group has attempted to pursue a policy of supporting #Hamas in #Gaza while stopping short of triggering its own major war with #Israel.

Friday’s comments by Hezbollah’s head, #HassanNasrallah, were, however, more forceful than those made earlier this week.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/05/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-antony-blinken-israel-palestine-gaza-hamas?page=with:block-659842d18f08d8e96baf7fef#block-659842d18f08d8e96baf7fef

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111704625289959044

Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian

#India’s navy said its commandos have rescued all crew members from a Liberian-flagged merchant vessel after its attempted hijack in the #ArabianSea, and that it had not found any pirates on board.

The subcontinent’s navy said on Friday that 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, were rescued from the #MVLilaNorfolk after they intercepted the vessel. #Israel

Indian navy intercepts ship, rescues crew after Arabian Sea hijack attempt
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/5/india-navy-says-responding-to-liberian-flagged-vessel-hijack-in-arabian-sea

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111702399001659663

India navy says responding to Liberian-flagged vessel hijack in Arabian Sea

Navy says it has sent a warship to render assistance after the vessel issues a hijacking distress call.

Al Jazeera
Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian

Families of captives arrive in #Qatar for meeting with prime minister

#Israel #Hamas

The The US secretary of state, #AntonyBlinken, arrived in #Istanbul late on Friday for the first leg of a trip that includes visits to #Israel and #WestBank, along with five Arab states.

Blinken’s fourth crisis tour since the start of the Israel-Hamas war three months ago comes with fears mounting that the conflict will engulf swathes of the #MiddleEast.

Blinken to discuss #Gaza with #Erdoğan
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/06/middle-east-crisis-israel-gaza-war-hamas-us-blinken-trip-erdogan?page=with:block-6598e21c8f08640ae963af69#block-6598e21c8f08640ae963af69

Middle East crisis live: dozens of rockets fired at northern Israel from Lebanon, IDF says

Israeli military says about 40 rockets fired into the Meron area

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: dozens of rockets fired at northern Israel from Lebanon

Israeli military says about 40 rockets fired into the Meron area

the Guardian

#US Secretary of State #AntonyBlinken and the #EuropeanUnion’s senior diplomat #JosepBorrell were both in the region on separate diplomatic missions to stop the three-month-old #Gaza war spilling over into #Lebanon, the Israeli-occupied #WestBank, and #RedSea shipping lanes. #Israel

Israel, #Hezbollah exchange fire across Lebanon border amid alarm over Gaza war spillover
https://www.rappler.com/world/middle-east/israel-war-hamas-updates-january-6-2024/

Back toot Lebanon: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111704677918351651

Israel, Hezbollah exchange fire across Lebanon border amid alarm over Gaza war spillover

(1st UPDATE) Hezbollah says it hit a key Israeli observation post with 62 rockets as a 'preliminary response' to the killing of Hamas' deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri 

RAPPLER

#MetroManila (CNN #Philippines, January 6) — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Saturday confirmed the safety of six #Filipino crew members on board the #MVNilaNorfolk after an attempted hijacking in the North #ArabianSea. #India #Israel

6 Pinoy seafarers safe after attempted hijacking of ship in North Arabia Sea
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2024/1/6/6-Pinoy-seafarers-safe-after-attempted-hijacking.html

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111704743002419835

6 Pinoy seafarers safe after attempted hijacking of ship in North Arabia Sea

The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed the safety of six Filipino crew members on board the MV Nila Norfolk after an attempted hijacking in the North Arabia Sea.

cnn

Judging from the positive outcome of this meeting, I'm going to assume that the discussion on the other items on the table (ie. #F16's for #Turkey, #Sweden's #NATO membership) also went well. #Israel #Erdoğan

Turkey to play 'productive' role in postwar #Gaza, #Blinken says
https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20240106-%F0%9F%94%B4-live-israel-bombing-of-gaza-continues-despite-un-warnings-that-territory-is-uninhabitable

🔴 Live: Israel bombing of Gaza continues despite UN warnings that territory is 'uninhabitable'

Israel’s bombardment of Gaza continued on Saturday despite UN warnings that the Palestinian territory has become "uninhabitable" after three months of fighting that threatens to engulf the wider region. Israeli strikes were reported on Gaza's southern city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of people have sought refuge from the fighting. Follow our liveblog for the latest developments.

FRANCE 24

This is video footage of the aftermath of the fatal Israeli airstrike on a car carrying two journalists in southern #Gaza.

Al Jazeera journalist #HamzaAlDahdouh and #MustafaThuria, a video stringer for AFP, were killed when their car was struck driving between #Rafah and #KhanYounis.

Hamza’s father, Al Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief, #WaelAlDahdouh, holds his late son’s hand. His wife, two other children and a grandson were killed by a separate earlier airstrike. #Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/07/middle-east-crisis-live-israel-west-bank-jenin-palestinian-ministry-latest-updates?page=with:block-659aad818f08640ae963b883#block-659aad818f08640ae963b883

Middle East crisis live: Israel says it has completed mission to destroy Hamas infrastructure in northern Gaza

Offensive will now shift to southern Gaza, as Netanyahu insists war is not over

the Guardian

Under the #ICJ’s rules a state that does not have a judge of its nationality already on the bench can choose an ad hoc judge to sit in their case. #TheHague

#Israel names former supreme court president #AharonBarak to ICJ panel ahead of #SouthAfrica's #genocide case hearing
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/07/middle-east-crisis-live-israel-west-bank-jenin-palestinian-ministry-latest-updates?page=with:block-659ac87d8f08640ae963b92e#block-659ac87d8f08640ae963b92e

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111696933912393850

Middle East crisis live: Israel says it has completed mission to destroy Hamas infrastructure in northern Gaza

Offensive will now shift to southern Gaza, as Netanyahu insists war is not over

the Guardian

Here's the backstory of #IsraelInTheHague
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Top officials in the #IsraelDefenseForces and Israeli government have reportedly been warned by a top legal expert that the #InternationalCourtOfJustice could issue an injunction requiring the country to halt its bombardment of #Gaza, following a motion filed by #SouthAfrica last week. #Israel

As Death Toll in Gaza Rises, Israeli Officials Fear Possible #Genocide Charges at #ICJ
https://www.commondreams.org/news/israel-icj-genocide

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111715519162639965

As Death Toll in Gaza Rises, Israeli Officials Fear Possible Genocide Charges From ICJ

"In general, it's hard to prove an intention of genocide because no public statements to that effect are made during the fighting," said one expert. "But these irresponsible statements about erasing Gaza will require Israel to explain why they don't reflect such an intention."

Common Dreams

“The levels of #hunger are quite severe in #Gaza. From #Rafah to the north, it gets worse, the farther north you go. We’re making a concerted effort to try to import more food into Gaza and make sure it gets to people in need, including the 1.4 million people in the Rafah governorate." - Scott Anderson, UNRWA’s Gaza deputy director

#Israel

#UNRWA in 'life-saving' mode in Gaza as #HumanitarianCrisis deteriorates
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/07/middle-east-crisis-live-israel-west-bank-jenin-palestinian-ministry-latest-updates?page=with:block-659ad5498f08640ae963b98e#block-659ad5498f08640ae963b98e

Middle East crisis live: Israel says it has completed mission to destroy Hamas infrastructure in northern Gaza

Offensive will now shift to southern Gaza, as Netanyahu insists war is not over

the Guardian

#SouthAfrica’s lawsuit seeking a halt to the Israeli assault on #Gaza comes after years of deteriorating relations rooted in the #ANC’s decades-long support for the #PalestinianCause and the legacy of #Israel’s close military alliance with the #apartheid regime during some of the most oppressive years of white rule. #TheHague #ICJ

How apartheid history shaped South Africa’s #genocide case against Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/08/south-africa-genocide-case-israel-apartheid-history

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111715672236466183

How apartheid history shaped South Africa’s genocide case against Israel

Jewish groups have accused the ANC of antisemitism, but ICJ case stems from party’s longstanding support for Palestinians

The Guardian

Why it matters: MBZ's refusal underscores the position of many Arab countries that have said they won't foot the bill to maintain the status quo in the #WestBank and #Gaza after the war.

"The notion that Arab countries will come in to rebuild and pay the bill for what's currently happening is wishful thinking," an Emirati official told Axios.

#UAE rebuffs #Israel's #Netanyahu over #Palestinian workers' pay: "Ask Zelensky"
https://www.axios.com/2024/01/08/netanyahu-uae-mbz-zelensky-palestinians-unemployment

"Ask Zelensky:" UAE rebuffs Bibi request to pay Palestinian workers barred from Israel

"The notion that Arab countries will come in to rebuild and pay the bill for what's currently happening is wishful thinking."

Axios

#Fixers with alleged links to Egyptian intelligence are making a fortune in ‘fees’ from people hoping to exit through the #RafahCrossing. #Egypt, a key regional player in negotiations on #Gaza, has long resisted opening the Rafah crossing, fearing that millions of people would flee into the neighbouring Sinai peninsula. #Israel

#Palestinians desperate to flee Gaza pay thousands in bribes to ‘brokers’ | Global development | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2024/jan/08/palestinians-flee-gaza-rafah-egypt-border-bribes-to-brokers

Palestinians desperate to flee Gaza pay thousands in bribes to ‘brokers’

Fixers with alleged links to Egyptian intelligence are making a fortune in ‘fees’ from people hoping to exit through the Rafah crossing

The Guardian

Expressing concern that the war between #Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group #Hamas in the #GazaStrip could spread in the wider #Middle East, he called for a “ceasefire on every front, including #Lebanon”.

'Indiscriminately striking' civilians is #WarCrime, #PopeFrancis says in major speech
https://www.rappler.com/world/global-affairs/indiscriminately-striking-civilians-war-crime-pope-francis/

'Indiscriminately striking' civilians is war crime, Pope Francis says in major speech

Pope Francis makee his comments in a 45-minute address to Vatican-accredited envoys from 184 countries that is sometimes called his 'state of the world' speech

RAPPLER

A variety of metal tubes and components as well as shell casings were stacked in an overground workshop area, while in another area, long metal racks holding missiles could be seen, with an elevator leading down into the tunnel. #Gaza #Israel #Hamas.

Israeli forces say they locate large underground #WeaponsFactory in Gaza
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/israeli-forces-say-they-locate-large-underground-weapons-factory-in-gaza/ar-AA1mEMYw?ocid=emmx-mmx-feeds&PC=EMMX01

MSN

#Jordan's army has stepped up a campaign against #DrugDealers after clashes last month with dozens of people suspected of links to pro-Iranian #militias, who were carrying large hauls over its border with #Syria along with weapons and explosives.

Jordan and its Western allies have blamed #Lebanon-based #Hezbollah and other pro-Iranian militia as being behind the surge in smuggling. #captagon #Assad #Israel

Jordanian jets strike #Iran-linked drug dealers inside Syria
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-781341

Jordanian jets strike Iran-linked drug dealers inside Syria - report

Jordan and its Western allies have blamed Lebanon-based, Iran-backed Hezbollah and other pro-Iranian militia who control much of southern Syria as being behind the surge in smuggling.

The Jerusalem Post | JPost.com

Just wanted to comment that #Jordan's air force and it's pilots have always been top notch (the late King Hussein was an avid pilot). Which was why Jordanian air fields were among #Israel's primary targets in the 1967 Six Day war.

My guess is that US & Israeli intel helped guide the airstrikes on #Syria' s #captagon drug warehouses.

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Norobiik @Norobiik@noc.social (@Norobiik@noc.social)

Attached: 1 image #Jordan's army has stepped up a campaign against #DrugDealers after clashes last month with dozens of people suspected of links to pro-Iranian #militias, who were carrying large hauls over its border with #Syria along with weapons and explosives. Jordan and its Western allies have blamed #Lebanon-based #Hezbollah and other pro-Iranian militia as being behind the surge in smuggling. #captagon #Israel Jordanian jets strike Iran-linked drug dealers inside Syria https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-781341

Noc.Social

Backstory on #Syria's multi-billion #captagon drug trade via a June 2023 BBC article. Captagon is a highly addictive #amphetamine-like drug that has plagued the #MiddleEast in recent years and has now spread to #Europe, #Africa and #Asia. #AssadRegime #Hezbollah #Israel

Syria: New Captagon drug trade link to top officials found - BBC News
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-66002450

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Syria: New Captagon drug trade link to top officials found

Evidence shows members of the president's family and armed forces are involved in the Captagon trade.

BBC News

#WaelAlDahdouh is one of the most well-known faces in #Gaza — and he has become a symbol of the embattled territory’s calamity.

#Israel’s #GazaWar leads to a massacre of #journalists
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/01/09/gaza-journalist-killed-israel-dahdouh/

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Israel’s Gaza war leads to a massacre of journalists

At least 79 journalists and media workers have been killed since the start of the war on Oct. 7, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.

The Washington Post

Dr Ng said #Singapore is contributing to the coalition operation in the #RedSea – launched by the #US on Dec 19, 2023 – as it aligns with the three principles of maritime security cooperation that the Republic articulated at the Shangri-La Dialogue in 2005 when the #MalaccaStrait and #SingaporeStrait were threatened by #piracy and sea robbery. #Houthi #Israel

SAF to participate in multinational military operation to keep #RedSea safe
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/saf-to-participate-in-multinational-military-operation-to-keep-red-sea-safe

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SAF to participate in multinational military operation to keep Red Sea safe

The immediate economic impact on Singapore from the ongoing attacks is expected to be limited. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times

#Hezbollah said that it had targeted the “enemy’s northern command centre in the city of #Safed with several drones” in retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah field commander #WissamAlTawil in #Lebanon on Monday, as well as an attack on #Hamas’s deputy leader #SalehAlArouri in #Beirut last week.

‘Brink of war’: Hezbollah-#Israel trade further strikes across border | News | Al Jazeera
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/9/brink-of-war-hezbollah-israel-trade-strikes-as-fear-of-escalation-rises

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‘Brink of war’: Hezbollah-Israel trade further strikes across border

Fear that Israel-Gaza war could spark regional conflagration growing amid rise in violence across Israel-Lebanon border.

Al Jazeera

“More children have died in #Gaza than in all other conflicts around the world this past year,” Abdullah said according to the speech which was carried on state media. “Of those who have survived, many have lost one or both parents — an entire generation of orphans.”

British surgeon says Gaza ‘beyond worst thing’ he’s seen, as #Jordan’s king warns #Israel creating a ‘generation of orphans’ | CNN
https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/09/middleeast/gaza-orphan-british-doctor-jordan-king-intl-hnk/index.html

Middle East crisis live: Blinken urges Israel to avoid ‘further civilian harm’ in Gaza; Hamas chief calls on Muslim states to give weapons

Blinken told Netanyahu IDF must avoid inflicting further harm on civilians in Gaza; Hamas chief calls on Muslim states to provide militants with weapons

the Guardian

In three months, according to figures released last week by the International Organization for Migration, about 76,000 people have been driven from southern #Lebanon.

Local authorities in #Tyre, a pretty seaside city with ancient ruins, are registering between 200 and 300 newly displaced people each day. #Hezbollah #Israel #Gaza

‘Everyone is leaving’: bombardments drive tens of thousands from southern Lebanon
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/09/everyone-is-leaving-bombardments-drive-tens-of-thousands-from-southern-lebanon

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‘Everyone is leaving’: bombardments drive tens of thousands from southern Lebanon

Israeli and Hezbollah forces exchanging almost daily fire across boundary zone, say observers

The Guardian

US Secretary of State #AntonyBlinken urges Israel to support Palestinian leaders willing to live peacefully alongside Israelis and warned the daily toll in its war with #Hamas in #Gaza was far too high. #Israel

Top US diplomat urges Israel to make hard choices, work with #Palestinians
https://www.rappler.com/world/middle-east/israel-war-hamas-updates-january-10-2024/

Top US diplomat urges Israel to make hard choices, work with Palestinians

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also urges Israel to support Palestinian leaders willing to live peacefully alongside Israelis and warned the daily toll in its war with Hamas in Gaza was far too high

RAPPLER

After months of all-out war to root out #Hamas' brutality has drawn #Israel into what looks like a no-win situation, a war in which it is trying to destroy the militant group but can't keep up the same pressure without backlash over the devastation it brings. #Gaza

Israel's military is facing a no-win situation
https://www.businessinsider.com/israel-no-win-situation-gaza-after-months-war-crush-hamas-2024-1

Israel faces no-win situation after months of war to crush Hamas

Israeli officials have signaled a shift to a new phase of the war after facing pressure to lower the intensity of operations in the Gaza Strip.

Insider

A legal hearing into the war in #Gaza has opened in #TheHague, as the international court of justice (#ICJ) hears arguments alleging that #Israel is committing genocide of #Palestinians.

Middle East crisis live: #SouthAfrica’s genocide case against Israel over war in Gaza opens in The Hague
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/11/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-israel-gaza-war-hamas-palestine-south-africa-genocide-case-icj?page=with%3Ablock-659fa0728f08b223cc64ceaa#block-659fa0728f08b223cc64ceaa

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Middle East crisis live: South Africa’s genocide case against Israel over war in Gaza opens in The Hague

Israel has described the case as “preposterous” and is set to defend itself; the Israeli military is focusing its operations on the southern city of Khan Younis and refugee camps in central Gaza

the Guardian

This is #Russia's back yard 🤔
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#Iran has arrested 35 people in relation to the 3 January attacks in the south-eastern city of #Kerman, its intelligence ministry has said.

Citing the semi-official Tasnim news agency, Reuters reports that the ministry said it had identified one of the two suicide bombers as a national of #Tajikistan, who entered Iran illegally on 19 December. #KermanBombing #CentralAsia #Israel

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/11/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-israel-gaza-war-hamas-palestine-south-africa-genocide-case-icj?page=with:block-659fa6fe8f08acbfcb2085c2#block-659fa6fe8f08acbfcb2085c2

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Middle East crisis live: South Africa accuses Israel of ‘calculated pattern of conduct indicating a genocidal intent’ in The Hague

Israel has describes case as ‘preposterous’ and is set to defend itself as South Africa’s case opens at ICJ

the Guardian

While the security firm Ambrey did not name the vessel, shipping tracking service TankerTrackers said the vessel was the #StNikolas, which in 2023 had been seized by the #US in a sanctions enforcement operation under a different name, #SuezRajan.

The tanker's AIS tracking system was turned off as it headed in the direction of the Iranian port of Bandar e-Jask. #Iran #US #Israel #ArabianSea

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/update-3-oil-tanker-involved-in-u-s-iran-dispute-boarded-by-armed-guards-near-oman/ar-AA1mNDTx?ocid=emmx-mmx-feeds&PC=EMMX01

MSN

#Israel has shown “chilling” and “incontrovertible” intent to commit genocide in #Gaza, with full knowledge of how many civilians it is killing, the UN international court of justice in #TheHague has heard, at the opening of a case Israel has described as baseless. #ICC

Israel shows ‘chilling’ intent to commit genocide in Gaza, #SouthAfrica tells UN court | #IsraelGazaWar
https://www.theguardian.com/law/2024/jan/11/south-africa-accuses-israel-of-genocide-gaza-the-hague-international-court-of-justice

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Israel shows ‘chilling’ intent to commit genocide in Gaza, South Africa tells UN court

Case opens in The Hague with judges shown pictures and video as evidence of alleged genocide

The Guardian

Large demonstrations organised by #Israel supporters and pro-#Palestinian groups converged outside the international court of justice (#ICC) in #TheHague on Thursday as the court began hearings in the #Gaza genocide case against Israel.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/11/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-israel-gaza-war-hamas-palestine-south-africa-genocide-case-icj?page=with:block-65a01dde8f08438ab216c622#block-65a01dde8f08438ab216c622

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Middle East crisis live: US special envoy ‘hopeful’ diplomacy can calm tensions between Lebanon and Israel

Amos Hochstein says officials from both sides would ‘prefer’ diplomatic deal to end three months of hostilities

the Guardian

The #UnitedStates and #Britain have started carrying out strikes against targets linked to #Houthis in #Yemen, four US officials have told Reuters. #RedSea #Iran #Israel

Middle East crisis live: UK and US strike Houthi sites in Yemen and ‘will not hesitate’ to launch further measures, says Biden
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/11/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-israel-gaza-war-hamas-palestine-south-africa-genocide-case-icj?page=with%3Ablock-65a07c018f08319df20494c6#block-65a07c018f08319df20494c6

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@Norobiik Just watching Napoleon and how the Russians burned Moscow rather than negotiate with the French. They also engaged in guerrilla warfare. That one ended badly for the invader. Is Israel in a similar situation?
@mike805 I think Israel has to back down at some point, specially with South Africa accusing them of genocide in The Hague. They can either destroy Hamas or preserve what's left of Gaza, Israel can't do both.

@Norobiik
The photo appears to be of an above ground "steel factory".
The bright lights appear to be sunshine and curtains and windows appear to be above ground features.

Not happy with #News outlets misleading readers.

@skua I better put in the right paragraph to make it clear that this part of the factory was above ground. The original one was indeed misleading.

Replacing the original with this:

"A variety of metal tubes and components as well as shell casings were stacked in an overground workshop area, while in another area, long metal racks holding missiles could be seen, with an elevator leading down into the tunnel."