Abbas issues decree ordering Palestinian elections for first time in 14 years

Hamas agrees to support move although several previous attempts to unite rival factions and hold a vote have failed over the years; observers are skeptical this time too Aaron BoxermanToday, 10:49 pm Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has issued a presidential decree ordering Palestinian national elections to be held within the next seven months, which […]

Iran holds ballistic missile, drones drill amid tensions

In fourth large-scale exercise in recent weeks, IRGC launches ballistic missiles with 700-km range against simulated ‘enemy bases’ By Agencies and TOI staff Today, 1:42 pm Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces on Friday held a military exercise involving ballistic missiles and drones in the country’s central desert, state TV reported, amid heightened tensions over […]

With Iran held in check by Biden hopes, Israel grabs chance to hit hard in Syria

With US in transition, the IDF sees Tehran as less likely to retaliate, and is making hay by expanding and intensifying its air campaign against Iranian forces across the border Judah Ari Gross14 January 2021, 1:23 pm Over the past two and a half weeks, Israel has reportedly conducted at least four rounds of airstrikes […]

Report: IDF drawing up plans to strike Iran’s nuclear program

Newspaper says IDF chief has asked for options to derail atomic production, day after Likud minister warned Israel could attack Islamic Republic if US rejoins nuclear deal By TOI staff 14 January 2021, 7:09 pm The Israel Defense Forces is drawing up plans for an attack on Iran’s nuclear program, the Israel Hayom daily reported […]

‘Next big step’: Experts advocate relocating Israel to US military’s Central Command

As Iran tensions remain high, moving Israel to CENTOM’s area of responsibility would enable Israel, the United States and Arab partners to conduct joint exercises and planning for Iran-specific threats, thereby boosting readiness, says Jonathan Ruhe, director of foreign policy at JINSA. Yaakov Lappin (January 14, 2021 / JNS) As the Middle East remains on […]

Israel, Arab allies ‘on same page’ against Iran ahead of Biden transition

The official in Jerusalem confirmed that there is “no formal dialogue as so far,” between the Israeli government and the Biden’s transition team. LAHAV HARKOV JANUARY 14, 2021 22:14 Israel and like-minded Arab states have a shared message ahead of US President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration next week: Don’t reduce the pressure on Iran. The countries […]