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Iran has stated that the recent blasts in Kerman, which killed nearly 100 people, were likely carried out by suicide bombers. The first blast targeted a crowd commemorating the death of Qassem Soleimani, a powerful Iranian general killed by the US in 2020. The second blast was also likely a suicide attack. Following the blasts, a group of countries led by the US issued a warning to Houthi militants in Yemen, an Iranian proxy force, regarding their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Analysts believe that while a direct US-Iran confrontation is unlikely, there is a risk of escalating proxy attacks in the region. The situation has already caused an increase in oil prices and threatens global commerce. [Extracted from the article]

Iran has stated that the recent blasts in the central province of Kerman, which killed nearly 100 people, were intended to punish its stance against Israel's invasion of Gaza. However, no group has claimed responsibility for the explosions. Following the blasts, a group of countries led by the US issued a warning to Houthi militants in Yemen, an Iranian proxy force, regarding their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Analysts believe that while a direct US-Iran confrontation is unlikely, there is a risk of escalating proxy attacks in the region. The situation has already caused an increase in oil prices and raised concerns about the security of waterways in the Middle East. [Extracted from the article]

Trump allies are advocating for Tulsi Gabbard to be appointed as the director of national intelligence, despite concerns about her shifting positions on intelligence collection and past meetings with Bashar al-Assad. Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman who has supported both Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump, faces tepid Senate support. Some Republicans are hesitant due to her past statements on issues like Edward Snowden and Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Critics question her judgment and loyalty, while supporters believe she can offer a fresh perspective on intelligence matters. [Extracted from the article]

British and American ships are cautiously resuming operations in the Red Sea following a pledge by Yemen's Houthi rebels to refrain from attacking vessels associated with the US and UK. The Joint Maritime Information Center reported that six ships from these countries have safely passed through the area since the announcement. While the situation is showing signs of improvement, the risk in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden remains high. The partial ceasefire was initiated in response to a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas, with Israeli-owned or flagged vessels still prohibited from passing through. This development could potentially encourage other shipping companies to return to the region, as many have been avoiding the Red Sea due to security concerns, leading to longer routes and increased costs. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union has decided to resume monitoring the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, aiming to allow injured individuals to leave Gaza for medical care. This move comes after the crossing, a key source of tension between Israel, Palestinian authorities, and Egypt, was shut down by Israeli forces in May 2024. The EU previously helped run the crossing before Hamas took control in 2007. Discussions between Israel, the US, and the EU have been ongoing since 2024 regarding control of the crossing, with recent talks indicating a potential role for the Palestinian Authority, the EU, and a private US security company in its administration. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union is considering reactivating its border assistance mission at the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt by February 1st. This crossing has been a source of tension between Israel, Palestinian authorities, and the Egyptian government. Discussions are ongoing about the administration of aid through the crossing, with the involvement of the Palestinian Authority, the EU, and a private US security company. The recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has allowed for increased aid flows to Gaza. [Extracted from the article]

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend their ceasefire until Feb. 18 to allow Israeli troops more time to withdraw, as reported by Bloomberg. A dispute over a civilian Israeli hostage in Gaza was resolved, with a deal to release hostages, including the hostage in question. The Trump administration's envoy is set to advance the next phase of the deal with Hamas, while tensions remain high in the region over the handling of Palestinian refugees. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's ceasefire agreements with Lebanon and Gaza face challenges due to deadly violence and disputes over the fate of an Israeli hostage, testing international efforts to maintain the deals. President Trump's envoy is working to advance the agreement with Hamas, while Trump's suggestion of having Jordan and Egypt take in Palestinian refugees was rejected in the region. Egypt and Jordan opposed the displacement of Palestinians, emphasizing their commitment to regional stability and peace. The ceasefire deal involves the release of hostages and prisoners, with ongoing negotiations to secure the release of remaining hostages and establish a reconstruction plan. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's ceasefire agreements in Lebanon and Gaza are being tested by deadly violence and disputes over the fate of an Israeli hostage, challenging international efforts to maintain peace. President Trump's envoy is working to advance the deal with Hamas, while Trump's suggestion of Jordan and Egypt taking in Palestinian refugees was met with rejection in the region. The situation is further complicated by clashes in southern Lebanon, ongoing negotiations for hostage releases, and the need for a phased withdrawal and reconstruction plan in Gaza. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Hamas's release of four Israeli soldiers after 15 months of captivity, showcasing the event as a symbolic victory for the group. The release ceremony was seen as a display of Hamas's resilience and control over Gaza, despite ongoing conflicts with Israel. The article also touches on the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict, including US involvement and the potential for future negotiations between Israel and Hamas. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a disagreement between Israel and Hamas over a hostage, which is hindering displaced Palestinians from returning to their homes in northern Gaza and testing a fragile truce. Hamas released four Israeli soldiers, and Israel freed 200 Palestinian prisoners, but a dispute arose when Israel accused Hamas of not handing over a civilian hostage as agreed. The situation has led to delays in the return of displaced Palestinians, with tensions escalating as both sides struggle to adhere to the terms of the ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt and Qatar. [Extracted from the article]

Hamas released four Israeli female soldiers held captive in Gaza, while 200 jailed Palestinian militants were freed in a swap under a ceasefire deal mediated by Arab powers. The exchange, brokered by Qatar and Egypt, marked the second of its kind, following a previous swap involving three civilian women. President Trump took credit for the release, with his envoy participating in the negotiations. The release of additional hostages is contingent on potentially ending the conflict, with ongoing talks on power-sharing between Hamas and a rival Palestinian faction. [Extracted from the article]

The UN-recognized government of Yemen has expressed support for US President Donald Trump's decision to designate the Houthi militant group as a terrorist organization, believing it will weaken Iran's influence in the region. The move is seen as a way to curb the group's attacks on Israel and ships in the Red Sea, impacting global freight markets. While the Houthis have criticized the decision, the Yemeni government believes international efforts should be coordinated to ensure the group's demise through military, political, and financial pressure. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump has signed an order to designate the Houthi militant group in Yemen as a terrorist organization, reversing a decision made by the Biden administration four years ago. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have been carrying out missile and drone attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, as well as firing upon Israel. Despite recent announcements by the Houthis to stop attacking US and UK vessels, Western shipping firms are still avoiding the area. The conflict in Yemen dates back to 2014 when the Houthis rebelled against the UN-recognized government and seized the capital, Sana'a. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, threatening financial penalties if Russia does not swiftly conclude the fighting. Trump, who campaigned on ending the conflict, acknowledged the challenges in reaching an agreement as the Russian army continues to advance. The US has been a major supporter of Ukraine, but Trump hinted at reducing that support. Putin's spokesman downplayed Trump's sanctions threat, stating that Russia remains open to dialogue with the US. The potential penalties could target Russian oil producers or frozen reserves, but the impact may be limited as US imports from Russia are minimal. [Extracted from the article]

Qatar's successful mediation of the Gaza ceasefire has bolstered its reputation as an international mediator, prompting officials to consider other conflicts they could help resolve. Qatar's role in brokering the truce between Israel and Hamas involved intricate negotiations and indirect talks, showcasing its ability to navigate complex diplomatic engagements. With ongoing efforts to mediate in multiple conflicts, including potential involvement in Afghanistan and Iran, Qatar's neutral positioning and diplomatic finesse have positioned it as a key regional mediator. [Extracted from the article]

Egypt's Minister for Foreign Trade and Investment expressed cautious optimism that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas could lead to a recovery in Suez Canal revenue, which had fallen by at least 60% due to the conflict. The decrease in traffic through the canal was attributed to attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping in solidarity with Hamas. Egypt is looking to attract foreign investment by selling state assets and implementing investor-friendly monetary policies. The government aims to conduct three to four asset sales in the first half of 2025, with a goal of raising up to $2.5 billion by June. [Extracted from the article]

The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, set to expire next week, is likely to be extended to allow more time for the implementation of the original terms. Despite accusations of violations from both sides, negotiations are ongoing to prevent a resumption of full-scale fighting. The truce, which began in late November, aims to create stability in the region and has had economic impacts on both Israel and Lebanon. Israeli troops are still present in southern Lebanese villages, and further discussions are needed to ensure a successful ceasefire agreement. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to designate the Houthi militant group in Yemen as a terrorist organization, reversing a decision made by the Biden administration four years ago. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have been carrying out missile and drone attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, disrupting maritime commerce in the region. The White House cited the Biden administration's policy as weak, leading to continued attacks by the Houthis on US Navy warships and civilian infrastructure in partner nations. The terrorist designation was initially applied at the end of Trump's first term, but was revoked by President Joe Biden in 2021 due to concerns about famine in Yemen, which has been embroiled in civil war since 2014. [Extracted from the article]

Yemen's Houthi rebels have released the crew of the commercial vessel Galaxy Leader, which was hijacked over a year ago in the Red Sea region. The crew, consisting of 17 Filipinos, three Ukrainians, two Mexicans, two Bulgarians, and a Romanian, were handed over to Omani officials. The Philippines, a major supplier of seafarers, is working on repatriating the crew to Manila, where they will reunite with their families. The hijacking of the vessel had disrupted global trade routes, and shipping firms remain cautious about returning to the area despite the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to designate the Houthi militant group in Yemen as a terrorist organization, reversing a decision made by the Biden administration nearly four years ago. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have been carrying out missile and drone attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, disrupting maritime commerce in the region. The White House cited the Biden administration's policy as weak, leading to continued attacks by the Houthis on US Navy warships and civilian infrastructure in partner nations. The terrorist designation was first implemented at the end of Trump's first term, but was revoked by President Joe Biden in 2021 due to concerns about famine in Yemen, which has been embroiled in civil war since 2014. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, threatening financial penalties if Russia does not swiftly conclude the fighting. Trump, who campaigned on promises to end the conflict, acknowledged the challenges in reaching an agreement. The US has been a major supporter of Ukraine, but Trump hinted at reducing that support. The specifics of the penalties Trump mentioned are unclear, but they could include targeting Russian oil producers or frozen reserves. Trump has also hinted at a potential meeting with Putin to discuss the situation. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, threatening financial penalties if Russia does not comply. Trump, who campaigned on ending the conflict quickly, acknowledged the challenges of reaching an agreement as the Russian army continues to advance. The US has been a major supporter of Ukraine, but Trump hinted at reducing this support. The specifics of the penalties and potential involvement of other countries remain unclear. Trump emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to prevent further loss of life. [Extracted from the article]

The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon is likely to be extended beyond its expiration next week, as both parties need more time to implement the original terms of the truce. The agreement, backed by France and the US, gave Israeli troops 60 days to withdraw from southern Lebanese villages and required Hezbollah to move north of the Litani River. Despite accusations of violations from both sides, negotiations are ongoing to prevent a resumption of conflict. The presence of Israeli troops in Lebanon remains a point of contention, even as Lebanon elected a new president with backing from the US and Saudi Arabia. [Extracted from the article]

Yemen's Houthi rebels have freed the crew of the commercial vessel Galaxy Leader, which they had hijacked over a year ago. The release marks a positive development in reducing risks to ships in the Red Sea region, where attacks by the Houthis have disrupted trade routes between Asia and Europe. The crew, consisting of 25 members from various nationalities, was handed over to Omani officials after rebel leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi ordered their release. Despite the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, shipping firms remain cautious about resuming normal operations in the area. [Extracted from the article]

Qatar's successful mediation in brokering the Gaza ceasefire has bolstered its reputation as an international mediator, prompting officials to consider resolving other conflicts. Qatar's efforts, including hosting talks between Israel and Hamas, have positioned it as a key regional player, despite criticism from some quarters. The nation is now looking to expand its mediation role to other conflicts, such as in Afghanistan, Iran, and Syria, leveraging its neutral positioning and constructive ties with various parties. Qatar's effectiveness as a mediator will depend on its ability to navigate complex relationships and shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region. [Extracted from the article]

Bank of Israel Governor Amir Yaron believes that sustainable arrangements in the Middle East will lead to economic growth in Israel and the region. He emphasized the importance of regional stability supported by the US, Europe, and other nations. Yaron hopes that the recent ceasefire will pave the way for increased growth, with Israel's GDP expected to expand by 4% this year and 4.5% in 2026. Additionally, he highlighted the need for investments in infrastructure, education, and workforce inclusion to sustain growth levels in the long term. [Extracted from the article]

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co. SA has announced that it will continue to avoid the Red Sea route and send its ships around Africa's southern tip due to ongoing security concerns in the Suez Canal. This decision reflects a cautious approach shared by other major shipping companies, such as A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S and Hapag-Lloyd AG, who are waiting for safe passage to be assured before resuming normal trade flows through the Red Sea. The recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has led to some optimism, but the situation remains fragile, with the potential for further disruptions to shipping routes. [Extracted from the article]

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co. SA has announced that it will continue to avoid the Red Sea and navigate around Africa's southern tip due to ongoing security concerns in the Suez Canal. The decision is aimed at ensuring the safety of their seafarers and maintaining service consistency for customers. This choice comes amidst uncertainty surrounding the impact of a recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas on shipping routes. [Extracted from the article]

The Gaza ceasefire has allowed aid trucks to enter the region after a hostages-for-prisoners exchange, but the future remains uncertain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration faces challenges due to the deal, with potential shifts in the ruling coalition. The question of governance in Gaza, the fate of displaced Palestinians, and the potential for renewed conflict are key concerns as negotiations progress. The involvement of various parties, including the Palestinian Authority, Hamas, and international actors, adds complexity to the situation. [Extracted from the article]

The Gaza ceasefire has allowed aid trucks to enter the war-torn strip after a hostages-for-prisoners exchange, but the future remains uncertain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration faces challenges due to the deal, with concerns about who will govern Gaza and oversee rebuilding efforts. The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the US, aims for a permanent end to hostilities, but the fate of Gaza and its residents hangs in the balance as negotiations continue. [Extracted from the article]

The shekel has shown increased resilience as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas holds in Gaza, leading to a decrease in pessimism among options traders. Risk reversals for the shekel against the dollar have improved, indicating a more positive outlook compared to other currencies. While investors are optimistic about the ceasefire's impact on the Israeli economy, there are concerns about the sustainability of the truce and the potential for continued hostilities. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's increasing influence in the Middle East following the conflict in Gaza, which weakened Iran's regional power. The Crown Prince aims to shift the region towards development and prosperity, aligning with his economic transformation plan known as Vision 2030. While Saudi Arabia is making diplomatic moves to shape political transitions in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, challenges remain, including Iran's continued influence in Iraq and Yemen, and potential escalations over Tehran's nuclear program. The article highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region and the implications of the power struggle between Saudi Arabia and Iran. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's increasing influence in the Middle East following the conflict in Gaza, which weakened Iran's regional power. The Crown Prince aims to shift the region towards development and prosperity, aligning with his Vision 2030 economic plan. While Saudi Arabia is making diplomatic moves to shape political transitions in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, challenges remain, including Iran's influence in Iraq and Yemen, and potential escalations over Tehran's nuclear program. The article highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics and power struggles in the region. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's increasing influence in the Middle East following the conflict in Gaza, which weakened Iran's regional power. The Crown Prince aims to shift the region towards development and prosperity, aligning with his Vision 2030 economic plan. While Saudi Arabia is making diplomatic moves to shape political transitions in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, challenges remain, including Iran's influence in Iraq and Yemen, and potential escalations over Tehran's nuclear program. The article highlights the complex geopolitical landscape in the Middle East and the implications of power shifts for global investors and regional stability. [Extracted from the article]

A ceasefire in the Gaza war was initiated as Hamas released three hostages in exchange for 90 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. The truce, facilitated by US President Joe Biden, Qatar, and Egypt, aims to gradually release more hostages on both sides. The release of hostages was celebrated by thousands in Israel, marking a significant step towards peace in the region. [Extracted from the article]

Israel has stated that the planned Gaza ceasefire will not begin until Hamas fulfills its obligations, including providing the names of hostages for release. The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar and Egypt and supported by the US, was scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. local time. Hamas has attributed the delay to technical issues. The agreement involves a six-week truce with the release of 33 hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed that the ceasefire would not commence until Hamas complies with the terms. [Extracted from the article]

Oil prices remained stable around $81 a barrel as the market anticipated the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, expecting a period of uncertainty and potential turmoil at the beginning of his second term. Trump's plans for executive orders on energy, threats of tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, and possible sanctions on Iran contributed to market concerns. The recent rally in oil prices was also influenced by US sanctions on Russia's crude sector, leading to disruptions in Asian markets. Additionally, a ceasefire in Gaza has initiated a pause in hostilities between Israel and Hamas. Trading volumes on Monday may be lower due to a US federal holiday. [Extracted from the article]

A ceasefire in Gaza, halting the Israel-Hamas conflict for six weeks, will begin at 8:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, as announced by Qatar's foreign ministry. Israel approved a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal with Hamas after 15 months of fighting, despite opposition from some far-right members of the government. The agreement, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, involves the gradual release of hostages and further negotiations to end the war that began in October 2023. [Extracted from the article]

A ceasefire in Gaza, halting the Israel-Hamas conflict for six weeks, will begin at 8:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, following approval from all parties. The agreement includes a prisoner exchange, with Israel releasing 95 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for three Israeli hostages. The deal, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, aims to end the war that began in October 2023, with further negotiations planned. Israeli stocks have risen in anticipation of the ceasefire, but there is internal wariness in Israel about the agreement, with some politicians expressing concerns about security risks and the desire to continue the conflict until Hamas is completely destroyed. [Extracted from the article]

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is set to begin at 8:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, earlier than expected, following approval from both sides. The deal includes a prisoner exchange and increased humanitarian aid, with the truce coinciding with Donald Trump's inauguration as US president. While some Israeli politicians express wariness and opposition to the ceasefire, negotiations for a more permanent resolution are set to follow the initial agreement. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's full cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, marking a six-week pause to the 15-month war in Gaza. The truce is set to begin on Sunday, with the first exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners scheduled to take place. The agreement, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, involves the gradual release of hostages and prisoners, as well as an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. Despite some opposition within Israel, the ceasefire aims to pave the way for further negotiations to end the conflict that began in October 2023. [Extracted from the article]

The Israel Security Cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, marking a pause in the 15 months of fighting in Gaza. The truce, set to begin the day before Donald Trump's inauguration, involves the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli hostages. The agreement, mediated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, aims to pave the way for further negotiations to end the conflict that began in October 2023. [Extracted from the article]

The Israel Security Cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, marking a pause in the 15 months of fighting in Gaza. The truce is set to begin the day before Donald Trump's presidential inauguration, with the release of Palestinian prisoners and Israeli hostages. The agreement, mediated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, aims to end the conflict that began in October 2023, despite some opposition within Israel's government. [Extracted from the article]

The Israel Security Cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, marking a pause in the 15 months of fighting in Gaza. The agreement, mediated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, will see the gradual release of hostages and prisoners, with further negotiations planned to end the conflict that began in October 2023. While some Israeli politicians express wariness and opposition to the deal, the ceasefire is expected to proceed, with significant economic gains and market improvements in anticipation of the agreement. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that an agreement with Hamas to pause the war in Gaza has been finalized and is set to begin on Sunday. The truce, backed by US President Joe Biden and incoming leader Donald Trump, includes the release of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from populated areas in Gaza. While there is optimism for peace, some Israeli politicians are wary and believe the war should continue until Hamas is completely destroyed. The ceasefire is seen as a crucial step towards broader diplomatic ties in the Middle East and is set to start a day before Trump's inauguration. [Extracted from the article]

A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S, a major container shipping company, is exercising caution in resuming shipping through the Red Sea following a pause in attacks by Yemen-based Houthis on commercial vessels. The company stated that they will only return to the Red Sea and Bab el Mandeb when it is deemed safe to do so. Recent developments, including a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, are seen as positive steps towards ensuring the safety of the crucial trade route. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that an agreement with Hamas to pause the war in Gaza is set to begin on Sunday, pending approval from his security cabinet. The deal, supported by US President Joe Biden and incoming leader Donald Trump, involves the release of hostages by Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from populated areas in Gaza. While there is optimism for a ceasefire, some Israeli politicians are hesitant, expressing concerns about the terms of the agreement and the role of Hamas in Gaza's future governance. The ceasefire is seen as a significant development, with Israel stocks rising in anticipation of the truce. [Extracted from the article]

The Yemen-based Houthis have indicated a temporary halt in their attacks on commercial ships following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi stated that the group would adhere to the agreement, potentially pausing their campaign on vessels and Israel, but did not rule out resuming attacks in the future. This development may impact shipping firms operating in the Red Sea, as they remain cautious about returning to the region. The ceasefire deal is set to begin pending approval from Israel's security cabinet, with the Houthis having initiated attacks in solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas conflict. [Extracted from the article]