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MIDDLE EAST DAILY BULLETIN 07 JANUARY 2016

NO: 2079 1. IRAQ, .................................................................................................................................... 4

UN Delegation Visits Change Movement In Sulaymaniyah ..........................................................4

Jaafari Confirms From Tehran: Iraq Seeks To Heal The Rift Between Iran And Saudi .................4

International coalition conducts 19 airstrikes on ISIS in Iraq and Syria .......................................4

Jaafari Makes a Series of Phone Calls with His Arab Counterparts to Ease the Tension in the Region ...................................................................................................................................................5

Hundreds demonstrate to end Saudi embassy’s presence in Baghdad .......................................5

Army Aviation kills 19 ISIS elements in Tharthar northeast of Ramadi ........................................5

19 Afghan ISIS elements killed while booby-trapping vehicles east of Mosul .............................5

ISIS detonates large parts of Ramadi General Hospital ................................................................6

Security forces kill 134 terrorists in Anbar and Salahuddin, says Joint Operations .....................6

The young woman slain by ISIS for daring to 'swim in a sea of dreams' ......................................6

ISIS prepares to attack Haditha District west of Ramadi ..............................................................7

A squalid new front line in the battle to reach Britain: SUE REID sends a worrying dispatch as 3,000 Iraqis and Iranians mass in Dunkirk, hell-bent on boarding trucks to London ...........................7

IS minister of war killed in air-raid ...............................................................................................7

Iraq offers to mediate between Saudi and Iran, fearing for ISIS campaign .................................7

U.S.-led airstrikes obliterate ISIS' high Sharia court in Iraq, killing militants inside .....................8

Foreign Ministers of Oman and Iraq discuss regional developments and international issues ..8

Germany decides to send more troops to Iraq ............................................................................8

Iraq veteran shot to death at Alabama home ..............................................................................9 2. SYRIA .................................................................................................................................... 9

Grand Mufti calls upon youth to play more efficient role in protecting their homelands, civilizations and culture ........................................................................................................................9

Syria conflict: 'Dire situation' in besieged villages........................................................................9

US admits Bashar al-Assad will outlast Barack Obama ................................................................9

UN says 'possible' Sarin used again as weapon in Syria ............................................................ 10

Russia claims it is 'highly probable' ISIS are using chemical weapons in Syria after UN confirm deadly sarin gas has been detected in victims .................................................................................. 10

Is ISIS in retreat? ........................................................................................................................ 10

Saudis back Syria talks despite Iran row.................................................................................... 11

Activists Claim Evidence of Russian Cluster Bombs in Syria ...................................................... 11

Saniora Condemns Silence over 'Crime against Humanity' in Syria's Madaya .......................... 11

State Dept confirms ‘working document’ laid out timeline for Syria regime change ............... 11 3. IRAN .................................................................................................................................... 12

Official: Iran Ready to Replace Russia with Arab States, Turkey for Export of Food Products . 12

China, Iran discussing currency swaps ...................................................................................... 12

Iran, Syria and Switzerland hold talks on aid to Syrian refugees .............................................. 12

Iran not seeking tension with Saudi Arabia: Zarif ..................................................................... 12

Iran appoints new ambassador to Turkmenistan...................................................................... 13

More countries back Saudi Arabia in Iran dispute .................................................................... 13

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Iran has never threatened any country's interests in region – Rouhani ................................... 13

Saudi attacks Iran mission in Sana’a, injures staff ..................................................................... 13

Other viewpoint: U.S. is going soft on Iran ............................................................................... 14

Iran-Saudi Arabia crisis won't turn military confrontation - US Congress expert ..................... 14

Turkey’s Erdogan: Iran authorities took no measures to protect Saudi embassy .................... 14

The Latest: Witness sees no damage at Iran Embassy in Yemen .............................................. 14 4. ISRAEL – PALESTINE.............................................................................................................. 15

Abbas denies concern of Palestinian Authority collapse .......................................................... 15

Anti-Semitic letter sent to officials in New York towns ............................................................. 15

Intelligence Report: Sensitive tasks ahead for Mossad ............................................................. 15

Israeli reporter stabbed while demonstrating stab-proof vest ................................................. 15

The Obama administration has rejected the comparison between an Israeli bill requiring registration of foreign-funded NGOs and US laws registering foreign interest lobbyists................. 16

Aegean Airlines apologizes for removing Arabs from flight ...................................................... 16

Israeli forces demolish mosque in Negev .................................................................................. 16

Palestinian families decry punitive demolitions in Jerusalem................................................... 16

Israel’s killing of Palestinian in Hebron Focus of Dailies............................................................ 17

Palestinian journalists uneasy over use of child terrorists ........................................................ 17 5. JORDAN and LEBANON ......................................................................................................... 17

Why a new US law has Nasrallah riled ...................................................................................... 17

Presidential Elections Postponed Again as MPs Warn of 'Lebanon's Collapse' ........................ 17

Activists scuffle with police at Beirut govt building .................................................................. 18

King: I draw my strength from my people ................................................................................. 18

Jordan renews support for Saudi Arabia ................................................................................... 18

Geagea-Aoun Meeting Under Preparation ............................................................................... 18

Hmadeh warns of any error by Lebanon's representative at Arab Foreign Ministers' meeting 19

UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Sigrid Kaag Meets Lebanon Prime Minister Tamam Salam19

Massing Syrians at Jordan's border could be a sign of things to come in 2016 ........................ 19

Foreign Ministry to relocate office for attesting certificates, again .......................................... 19 6. ARABIAN PENINSULA AND THE GULF OF BASRA .................................................................... 20

Islamic State Vows to Break Open Saudi Arabian Prisons ......................................................... 20

Businessmen call for Iranian goods’ boycott ............................................................................. 20

Qatar recalls envoy to Iran after attacks on Saudi missions ..................................................... 20

BCCI receives Jordanian delegation........................................................................................... 21

Assembly panel debates revised anti-graft law ........................................................................ 21

UAE condemns terrorist attack in India .................................................................................... 21

Yemen troops seize northwestern port from Houthi rebels ..................................................... 21

Oman condemns attack on Saudi embassy in Iran ................................................................... 22

. Arab League, GCC to discuss attacks ....................................................................................... 22

UN Urges Resuming a Meaningful Sustainable Ceasefire in Yemen ......................................... 22 7. EGYPT .................................................................................................................................. 23

Egypt to Impose Import Rules to Shore up Reserves ................................................................ 23

Egypt to welcome China's president for first time in 12 years ................................................. 23

Egypt to host Africa investment conference next February ..................................................... 23

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Egypt to Try 6 Reporters for Allegedly Defaming Minister ....................................................... 24

Egypt plans naming new city after King Salman ........................................................................ 24

Rightists question effectiveness of planned inspection visits to Aqrab prison ......................... 24

Mursi 'espionage' trial postponed to Jan 31 ............................................................................. 24

Egypt to issue letters of credit for delayed wheat shipments on Wednesday ......................... 25

Cabinet approves 30 mn dinar loan from Kuwait ..................................................................... 25

Egypt Christians Celebrate Christmas Amid Tight Security ....................................................... 25 8. NORTH AFRICA ..................................................................................................................... 26

Morocco Telekom Operators Block Whatsapp, Skype, Viber and Others ................................ 26

Algeria, Turkey ink partnership agreement on manufacturing Saharan cabins ........................ 26

Libya: ISIL Attacks Highlight Need for Implementation of Peace Accord, Says UN Envoy ........ 26

El Djem: Tear Gas and Buckshot Used to Dispel Anti Alcohol Store Protesters ........................ 26

Islamic State In Libya Continues Their Assault On Libya's Oil Ports .......................................... 27

Libya Truck Bomb Kills at Least 60 Policemen, Wounds 200 .................................................... 27

Algeria Loses $2bn a Year to Fuel Smuggling ............................................................................ 27

Tunisia to get new political party in days .................................................................................. 27

Powerful blast in Libya kills dozens in area hit by militant, smuggler violence ........................ 27

Tunisia: Premier Essid announces cabinet reshuffle ................................................................. 28 9. AFGHANISTAN – PAKISTAN .................................................................................................. 28

Taliban: DAESH a conspiracy against US, they will be completely eliminated .......................... 28

19 Afghan ISIS elements killed in an explosion in Iraq .............................................................. 28

Attack on Indian consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif was planned abroad ......................................... 29

Washington National Guardsman killed in Afghanistan ........................................................... 29

Razzaq, Rehmani ousted from Taliban’s leadership coincil ...................................................... 29

Pakistan ousts Bangla envoy for ‘overstepping diplomatic role’ .............................................. 29

Nawaz-Modi call: India urges Pakistan to act after Pathankot airbase attack .......................... 29

PM Nawaz Meets Traders In Sri Lanka, Says Terror War Is In Final Phase ................................ 30

Pakistan make an attractive destination for foreign investment: Nawaz Sharif ....................... 30

CTGC wins right to develop hydropower project in Pakistan.................................................... 30 10. TURKEY AND THE MIDDLE EAST ............................................................................................ 30

US commends Turkey's efforts against DAESH ......................................................................... 30

Turkey Warns US of Kurds’ Attempts to Create 'Corridor' in Syria ........................................... 31

Turkey: No relations with Israel before Gaza siege is lifted ...................................................... 31

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1. IRAQ,

UN Delegation Visits Change Movement In Sulaymaniyah

UN organization expressed support and endorsement for the development of the democratic process

in the Kurdistan region and resolving the existing differences between the Kurdish parties. A

delegation headed by George Austin, Special Envoy for Political Affairs of the United Nations visited

the headquarters for the Change Movemnet (Tahgeir) in Sulaimaniya, where he met the officials of

the Movement.

More Details:

http://www.ninanews.com/News_Details.aspx?W5jhPM%252f0zMMZHeCnUD9vlw%253d%253d

Jaafari Confirms From Tehran: Iraq Seeks To Heal The Rift Between Iran And Saudi

Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari confirmed that "Iraq strongly seeks to heal the rift between the

two Muslim neighboring, the Islamic Republic of Iran and Saudi Arabia." He said at a joint press

conference with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif today in Tehran that "we moved to

Iran upon the decision of the Council of Ministers to heal the rift between Iran and Saudi Arabia,"

noting that he "had multiple contacts with his Arab counterparts in order to reach a common vision

of the situation in the region."

More Details:

http://www.ninanews.com/News_Details.aspx?xL7Ozsf7Rm7ski4ur4z1rA%253d%253d

International coalition conducts 19 airstrikes on ISIS in Iraq and Syria

The US-led international coalition announced, that it has carried out 19 air strikes on the ISIS

organization near eight cities in Iraq, while indicated to the conducting of another air strike in Syria. A

statement received by IraqiNews.com said, “The international coalition warplanes had carried out 19

air strikes near eight Iraqi cities,” pointing out that, “The air strikes hit a number of hideouts, tactical

units, as well as various equipment.”

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/international-coalition-conducts-19-airstrikes-on-isis-in-iraq-

and-syria/

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Jaafari Makes a Series of Phone Calls with His Arab Counterparts to Ease the Tension in the Region

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ibrahim al-Jaafari made a series of phone calls with a number of his Arab

counterparts to discuss the latest developments in the Arab region and the regional, and ways to

ease the tension to maintain the security and stability of the region. Foreign Ministry statement said

the telephony series included the Secretary General of the League of Arab States, Nabil Elaraby, the

Foreign Minister of Oman Yusuf bin Alawi, First Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait

Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Foreign Minister of Lebanon Gebran Bassil, and

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt Sameh Shukri.

More Details:

http://www.ninanews.com/News_Details.aspx?vrN0Ye08kamwC3n0Ub8s9Q%253d%253d

Hundreds demonstrate to end Saudi embassy’s presence in Baghdad

Hundreds of citizens and activists have demonstrated in the Liberation Square in central Baghdad to

eliminate the presence of the Saudi embassy in Baghdad and prohibit the import of Saudi goods, in

response to the execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr. A statement received by IraqiNews.com said,

“Today, hundreds of people have demonstrated in the Liberation Square in central Baghdad at the

invitation of the leaders of al-Hashd al-Shaabi against the execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr.

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/features/hundreds-demonstrate-end-saudi-embassys-presence-

baghdad/

Army Aviation kills 19 ISIS elements in Tharthar northeast of Ramadi

A source in the Joint Special Operations Command announced, that 19 ISIS elements were killed in

two air strikes carried out by the Iraqi Army Aviation in Tharthar area northeast of Ramadi (110 km

west of Baghdad). The source said in a statement followed by IraqiNews.com, “The Army Aviation in

coordination with the forces of Baghdad Operations Command have carried out an air strike on

Yabes River area in Tharthar City, destroying a vehicle belonging to ISIS.”

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/army-aviation-kills-19-isis-elements-tharthar-northeast-

ramadi/

19 Afghan ISIS elements killed while booby-trapping vehicles east of Mosul

According to a local source in Nineveh province, 19 Afghan ISIS elements, including an explosives

expert, had been killed while trying to booby-trap vehicles east of the city of Mosul. The source

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reported for IraqiNews.com, “We have received accurate intelligence indicate that 19 Afghans,

including the leader Habibullah al-Afghani who is an explosives expert in the so-called Wilayat

Nineveh, had been killed while booby-trapping vehicles in a warehouse in the area of Badush in

eastern Mosul.”

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/19-afghan-isis-elements-killed-booby-trapping-vehicles-east-

mosul/

ISIS detonates large parts of Ramadi General Hospital

Khalidiya Council in Anbar Province revealed, that the ISIS organization managed to detonate some

parts of Ramadi General Hospital north of the city (110 km west of Baghdad), before the arrival of

the Iraqi security forces. The Head of the Council Ali Dwood said in a statement followed by

IraqiNews.com, “The ISIS elements were able to detonate large parts of the Ramadi General Hospital

in al-Thayyalah area in northern Ramadi, before the arrival of the security forces to cleanse the

hospital of the organization’s elements.”

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/isis-detonates-large-parts-ramadi-general-hospital/

Security forces kill 134 terrorists in Anbar and Salahuddin, says Joint Operations

The Joint Operations Command announced on Tuesday the killing of 134 terrorists during security

operations in the provinces of Anbar and Salahuddin. The Operations Command said in a statement

obtained by IraqiNews.com, “The security forces, with support from the Iraqi aviation and warplanes

belonging to the international coalition, had managed, during the last 24 hours, to kill 134 terrorists

and destroy vehicles, weaponry and other targets in the provinces of Anbar and Salahuddin,”

pointing out at the same time to, “The arrest of a wanted individual in the capital Baghdad.”

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/146811/

The young woman slain by ISIS for daring to 'swim in a sea of dreams'

Ruqia Hassan was 30, a woman who dared to defy ISIS in its stronghold of Raqqa, Syria. She seemed

to sense that one day she would pay with her life for her words and prayers. She was right. According

to the social media accounts of citizen journalists from Raqqa, Hassan was killed sometime late last

year. But ISIS only informed her family of her death this week, saying she had been "executed" for

"espionage." CNN is unable to independently confirm the circumstances of her death.

More Details:

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http://english.shafaaq.com/politics/17252-the-young-woman-slain-by-isis-for-daring-to-swim-in-a-

sea-of-dreams.html

ISIS prepares to attack Haditha District west of Ramadi

Anbar Provincial Council announced, that the ISIS organization has prepared its elements to attack

Haditha District west of Ramadi (110 km west of Baghdad) from two axes, while emphasized that the

Iraqi Army backed by the international coalition aircrafts are working to shell the convoys of ISIS

convoys before reaching their goal.

More Details:

http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/urgent-isis-mobilizes-its-elements-to-attack-on-haditha-district-

west-of-ramadi/

A squalid new front line in the battle to reach Britain: SUE REID sends a worrying dispatch as 3,000 Iraqis and Iranians mass in Dunkirk, hell-bent on boarding trucks to London

This is the front line of the new battle to get to Britain. At 2 am, police haul eight migrants out of a

lorry near a makeshift French camp where 3,000 Iraqis and Iranians wait to slip across the Channel to

the White Cliffs of Dover. Living amid filth and squalor, the crowds here grow daily as more and more

people from the strife-torn Middle East arrive after traipsing through Europe, their hearts set on a

new life in England.

More Details:

http://english.shafaaq.com/politics/17255-a-squalid-new-front-line-in-the-battle-to-reach-britain-

sue-reid-sends-a-worrying-dispatch-as-3,000-iraqis-and-iranians-mass-in-dunkirk,-hell-bent-on-

boarding-trucks-to-london.html

IS minister of war killed in air-raid

A military source announced on Wednesday, January 8, 2016, that ISIS' minister of war was killed

during raids by Iraqi Air-force strikes in Anbar's Parwana sub-district. The air-raids were part of Anbar

Liberation operations which also led to the killing of three other Islamic State militants.

More Details:

http://www.pukmedia.com/EN/EN_Direje.aspx?Jimare=37414

Iraq offers to mediate between Saudi and Iran, fearing for ISIS campaign

Iraq dispatched its foreign minister to Tehran on Wednesday with an offer to mediate in an

escalating feud between Saudi Arabia and Iran, reflecting Baghdad’s fears that new sectarian conflict

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could unravel its campaign against Islamic State. Sunni Saudi Arabia’s execution of Shi’ite dissident

Nimr al-Nimr on Saturday has inflamed sectarian anger across the Middle East, infuriating Iran, the

region’s main Shi’ite Muslim power. After demonstrators sacked the Saudi embassy in Iran, Riyadh

and some of its allies cut off diplomatic ties with Tehran.

More Details:

http://newsdaily.com/2016/01/iraq-will-mediate-in-saudiiran-row-says-foreign-minister/

U.S.-led airstrikes obliterate ISIS' high Sharia court in Iraq, killing militants inside

A high Sharia court in the Iraqi city of Mosul was wiped out when the U.S-led coalition launched

airstrikes in the area recently, killing militants and destroying all equipment inside, reports said. The

court was being used by the Islamic State (ISIS) militants to maintain control over Mosul, Iraq's

second biggest city, the Daily Caller reported.

More Details:

http://www.christiantoday.com/article/u.s.led.airstrikes.obliterate.isis.high.sharia.court.in.iraq.killin

g.militants.inside/75498.htm?

Foreign Ministers of Oman and Iraq discuss regional developments and international issues

Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Omani Foreign Minister, and Ibrahim al-Jaafari, Foreign Minister of Iraq,

have today discussed aspects of bilateral cooperation between the two countries and ways of

enhancing them in various fields. According to the Oman News Agency, ONA, during the meeting,

both parties exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of common concern,

and recent developments in the region.

More Details:

http://www.wam.ae/en/news/international/1395290030515.html?

Germany decides to send more troops to Iraq

The German government announced, that it will send 50 German soldiers to train the Peshmerga

forces in the Kurdistan region. The German government said in a statement obtained by

IraqiNews.com, “The Cabinet of Germany approved to increase the number of troops that were sent

to Iraq to train the Peshmerga forces in the Kurdistan region from 100 to 150 soldiers.” The German

Defense Ministry said in a statement, “The troops that were sent to Iraq have a wide experience in

the field of military training.”

More Details:

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http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/german-government-decides-to-send-more-troops-to-iraq/?

Iraq veteran shot to death at Alabama home

Jonathan Michael Gilotti, a veteran of the war in Iraq, was shot and killed Tuesday as he left his

central Alabama home for an early morning workout, according to the Hoover, Ala. police

department. Gilotti, 33, was fatally shot early Tuesday after encountering someone either in the

driveway of his home or inside his car in Hoover, according to local police. Gilotti was going to the

gym for an early-morning workout, according to police .

More Details:

http://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/iraq-veteran-shot-to-death-at-alabama-home-1.387457?

2. SYRIA

Grand Mufti calls upon youth to play more efficient role in protecting their homelands, civilizations and culture

Syria, in facing Takfiri terrorism, is not only defending itself and the Arab Nation, but civilization and

the future of the youth, Syrian Grand Mufti Ahmad Bader-Eddin Hassoun told the participants in the

International Youth Forum for Solidarity with Syria “Hands off Syria”. Hassoun called, during the

meeting Wednesday, upon the youth to play more efficient role in protecting their homelands,

civilizations and culture in the face of what is happening in the world nowadays.

More Details:

http://sana.sy/en/?p=65975

Syria conflict: 'Dire situation' in besieged villages

The situation in three besieged villages in Syria is "extremely dire", the International Committee of

the Red Cross (ICRC) has warned. Activists say civilians have died because of a lack of food and

medicine in rebel-controlled Madaya, near Damascus, or died trying to escape.

More Details:

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35241396

US admits Bashar al-Assad will outlast Barack Obama

Leaked adminstration document says Syrian president will not step down before at least March 2017

- more than five years after Mr Obama called for him to leave The US government privately accepts

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that Bashar Assad will still be in power when Barack Obama leaves the White House, according to a

leaked internal document.

More Details:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/12086159/US-admits-Bashar-al-

Assad-will-outlast-Barack-Obama.html

UN says 'possible' Sarin used again as weapon in Syria

New report says blood samples show that people were at some point exposed to "sarin or a sarin-like

substance." The deadly nerve agent sarin has possibly been used in Syria, the United Nations' acting

disarmament chief has told the UN Security Council.

More Details:

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/sarin-weapon-syria-160106053715274.html

Russia claims it is 'highly probable' ISIS are using chemical weapons in Syria after UN confirm deadly sarin gas has been detected in victims

Russia have claimed it is 'highly probable' that ISIS are illegally using chemical weapons in Syria.

Traces of the deadly nerve gas sarin were found in samples of victims by a global arms watchdog who

have been tasked with investigating the use of chemical weapons in the civil war.

More Details:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3385903/Russia-claims-highly-probable-ISIS-using-

chemical-weapons-Syria-confirm-deadly-sarin-gas-detected-victims.html

Is ISIS in retreat?

“The dawn of 2016” wrote veteran Middle East observer Con Coughlin on December 30, 2015, “finds

Islamic State very much on the defensive in both Iraq and Syria.” A good rule of thumb is not to count

your chickens before they hatch, but Coughlin produces evidence to justify his assessment. Does it

stand up to scrutiny? In May 2015, when ISIS fighters overwhelmed a far stronger and better

equipped Iraqi army to capture Ramadi, the capital of Iraq’s western province of Anbar, the jihadi

organization seemed unstoppable.

More Details:

http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Is-ISIS-in-retreat-440667?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

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Saudis back Syria talks despite Iran row

Saudi Arabia signaled on Tuesday its breach in relations with Iran would not affect talks on Syria,

another round of which is scheduled in Geneva this month. Riyadh and Tehran have attended

previous talks and support opposing sides in the war. There is concern the rift between them could

set back diplomatic efforts to bring peace. Speaking after talks in Riyadh with U.N. special envoy for

Syria Staffan de Mistura, Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir was quoted as saying by the official Saudi

Press Agency (SPA).

More Details:

http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=42271

Activists Claim Evidence of Russian Cluster Bombs in Syria

A group of Russian activists said on Thursday they had evidence that Russian aircraft deployed in

Syria were armed with cluster bombs, challenging official denials. Last month, the international rights

group Human Rights Watch said recent evidence on the ground suggested that Russia had either

dropped cluster bombs in Syria, provided a new batch to the Syrian airforce, or both. Russia's

Defense Ministry denied HRW's allegations.

More Details:

http://www.themoscowtimes.com/news/article/activists-claim-evidence-of-russian-cluster-bombs-

in-syria/554996.html?

Saniora Condemns Silence over 'Crime against Humanity' in Syria's Madaya

Head of the Mustaqbal parliamentary bloc MP Fouad Saniora slammed on Thursday the silence over

the “crime against humanity” that is taking place in Syria's Madaya. He said: “The crime in Madaya is

a black mark against all those who are witnessing it and have failed to do anything about it. Why is

no one talking about this crime?” “Madaya is only a few kilometers away from Lebanon. The crime

against it is being committed under the noses of the Arab and Muslim world,” he remarked.

More Details:

http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/198845-saniora-condemns-silence-over-crime-against-

humanity-in-syria-s-madaya?

State Dept confirms ‘working document’ laid out timeline for Syria regime change

A “working paper” written by US diplomats envisions Syrian President Bashar al-Assad ceding power

to a new government by March 2017. The State Department confirmed the document was authentic,

but denied that it represented official US policy. The key points of the policy paper were published on

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Wednesday by the Associated Press. It envisions an 18-month political process, starting with talks in

Vienna next month and ending in Assad’s resignation next year.

More Details:

https://www.rt.com/usa/328134-syria-timeline-state-department/?

3. IRAN

Official: Iran Ready to Replace Russia with Arab States, Turkey for Export of Food Products

Iranian producers are ready to replace Russia for the transit and export of their food and agricultural

products after some Arab countries severed their ties with Iran and also due to the Ankara-Moscow

strained relations, a trade official announced.

More Details:

http://en.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13941016000985

China, Iran discussing currency swaps

The mechanism envisages payments in yuan to suppliers of commodities and services to Iran in

return for the oil that Beijing purchases from Tehran, Iran’s media reported on Sunday.

More Deatails:

http://en.mehrnews.com/news/113419/China-Iran-discussing-currency-swaps

Iran, Syria and Switzerland hold talks on aid to Syrian refugees

On Wednesday Iran, Syria, and Switzerland held a trilateral meeting in Tehran on humanitarian aid to

Syrian refugees. The meeting was led by Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs

Hossein Amir-Abdollahin, Syrian Assistant Foreign Minister Ahmad Arnous, and Manuel Bessler, the

deputy foreign Minister and head of Humanitarian Aid Unit of Switzerland.

More Details:

http://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=252063

Iran not seeking tension with Saudi Arabia: Zarif

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Wednesday that in contrast to Saudi Arabia

the Islamic Republic does not seek to create tension in the Middle East. The foreign minister said

since Hassan Rouhani took office as president in the summer of 2013 Iran has been seeking to foster

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friendship and brotherhood in the region which is facing threats of terrorism and extremism, but

Saudi Arabia has acted quite differently.

More Details:

http://www.tehrantimes.com/Index_view.asp?code=252041

Iran appoints new ambassador to Turkmenistan

Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif appointed Iran's new ambassador to Turkmenistan. Seyyed

Mohammad Ahmadi was appointed as Iran's new ambassador to Turkmenistan.

More Details:

http://www.irna.ir/en/News/81910723/

More countries back Saudi Arabia in Iran dispute

Qatar has become the latest country to back Saudi Arabia in its dispute with Iran, recalling its

ambassador to Tehran on Wednesday in response to the attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions last

weekend.

More Details:

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/nations-saudi-arabia-row-iran-160106125405507.html

Iran has never threatened any country's interests in region – Rouhani

President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that Iran has never taken any action against any

regional state and has always favored logic and rationality as well as enhancement of cooperation

and securing the Islamic world and regional countries' interests, Irna reported Jan. 6.

More Details:

http://en.trend.az/iran/politics/2477492.html

Saudi attacks Iran mission in Sana’a, injures staff

Iran says Saudi warplanes attack its embassy in the Yemeni capital, injuring some staff, the website of

the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) reports.

More Details:

http://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2016/01/07/444879/Iran-Saudi-Arabia-embassy-Yemen-bombing/

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Other viewpoint: U.S. is going soft on Iran

A week ago on Wednesday morning, the Obama administration notified Congress that it was about

to slap new economic sanctions against Iran for conducting ballistic missile tests that violated a

United Nations ban.The Treasury Department announcement, set for 10:30 a.m., was abruptly

delayed. And delayed again.

More Details:

http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/editorials/2016/01/07/1-u-s-is-going-soft-on-iran.html

Iran-Saudi Arabia crisis won't turn military confrontation - US Congress expert

The crisis in the relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia will not lead to military confrontation

because such action could affect the homelands of both countries and cause major casualties and

economic difficulty, senior analyst at the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research

and analysis for the US Congress Kenneth Katzman told Trend.

More Details:

http://en.trend.az/world/arab/2477381.html

Turkey’s Erdogan: Iran authorities took no measures to protect Saudi embassy

Iranian authorities didn’t take the necessary measures to protect the Saudi Arabia’s embassy in

Tehran, said Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Jan. 6, the TRT Haber news channel reported.

President Erdogan further called the attack on the Saudi embassy in Tehran unacceptable.

More Details:

http://en.trend.az/world/turkey/2477388.html

The Latest: Witness sees no damage at Iran Embassy in Yemen

The latest developments after Saudi Arabia severed diplomatic ties with Tehran amid a dispute over

Riyadh’s execution of an opposition Shiite cleric and attacks on Saudi diplomatic posts in Iran. (All

times local).An Associated Press reporter in Yemen’s capital says he sees no damage at the Iranian

Embassy after the Islamic Republic said it was hit in an overnight Saudi-led strike.

More Details:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/the-latest-iran-bans-import-of-saudi-goods-

amid-tensions/2016/01/07/5539fa36-b530-11e5-8abc-d09392edc612_story.html

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4. ISRAEL – PALESTINE

Abbas denies concern of Palestinian Authority collapse

'Don't even dream of the PA collapsing,' Palestinian leader says, adding the Authority would exist

until a Palestinian state is formed to replace it. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas dismissed

Wednesday weeks of rumours that the Palestinian Authority could collapse, saying he would "never

give up" on it.

More Details:

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4749638,00.html

Anti-Semitic letter sent to officials in New York towns

Police in Rockland County in New York State are investigating the origins of an anti-Semitic letter sent

to mayors and other town officials.

More Details:

http://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/Anti-Semitic-letter-sent-to-officials-in-New-York-towns-440686

Intelligence Report: Sensitive tasks ahead for Mossad

Yossi Cohen believes Iran remains Israel’s No. 1 challenge and will be charged with building ties with

Tehran’s Arab foes. Yossi Cohen took over the Mossad's 12th director on Wednesday at the

intelligence organization's headquarters in Glilot, north of Tel Aviv. He is replacing Tamir Pardo who

retires after 35 years in the agency, five of them as its head.

More Details:

http://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/Iran/New-Mossad-chief-Iran-is-Israels-enemy-No-1-439566

Israeli reporter stabbed while demonstrating stab-proof vest

An Israeli reporter has been accidentally stabbed on the job while demonstrating a protective vest.

Reporter Eitam Lachover was filming a story about a company making protective vests at a time

when Israel is facing near-daily stabbing attacks by Palestinians.

More Details:

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jan/06/israeli-reporter-stabbed-demonstrating-stab-

proof-vest

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The Obama administration has rejected the comparison between an Israeli bill requiring registration of foreign-funded NGOs and US laws registering foreign interest lobbyists.

State Department spokesman John Kirby, asked by JTA on Wednesday about Justice Minister Ayelet

Shaked’s op-ed this week likening the two laws, also said the United States had expressed concerns

to the Netanyahu government about the measure.

More Details:

http://www.timesofisrael.com/us-rejects-likening-israels-ngo-law-to-lobbying-registry/

Aegean Airlines apologizes for removing Arabs from flight

Letter to PLO expresses ‘greatest regrets’ over incident that saw 2 men ejected amid complaints by

Jewish passengers The Greek airline at the center of a scandal involving Israeli Jews and Arabs sent

an official apology Wednesday to the Palestine Liberation Organization over an incident in which two

Arabs were forced off an Israel-bound flight when a number of Jewish passengers protested their

presence.

More Details:

http://www.timesofisrael.com/aegean-airlines-apologizes-for-removing-arabs-from-flight/

Israeli forces demolish mosque in Negev

Israeli forces on Wednesday demolished a mosque in the unrecognized Palestinian Bedouin village

of Rakhama in the Negev in southern Israel, Talal Abu Arar, a Palestinian member of the Israeli

Knesset, or parliament, told Ma'an. Abu Arar said he attempted to prevent the demolition, but had

been unable to convince the Israeli authorities. "(They) do not spare any effort in exerting pressure

on the Arab population of the Negev in their attempt to empty the land of Arabs and to displace

them," he said.

More Details:

http://www.maannews.com/Content.aspx?id=769687

Palestinian families decry punitive demolitions in Jerusalem

Two Palestinian families whose homes were demolished and sealed decried on Tuesday Israel’s

policy of punitive home demolition for homes belonging to Palestinians who carry out attacks on

Israelis.

More Details:

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http://www.maannews.com/Content.aspx?id=769661

Israel’s killing of Palestinian in Hebron Focus of Dailies

The three Palestinian Arabic dailies focused on Wednesday on Israeli troops’ fatal shooting of a

Palestinian teenager near Hebron on Tuesday evening. They said 18-year-old Ahmad Kawazbeh was

shot dead by Israeli troops at the Gush Etzion junction, north of Hebron, after he allegedly stabbed

and injured an Israeli soldier.

More Details:

http://english.wafa.ps/page.aspx?id=mG5x46a28890462315amG5x46

Palestinian journalists uneasy over use of child terrorists

While not sympathizing with Israeli victims, growing number of Palestinian commentators speaking

out on 'ISIS-like' terror, use of children. While an overwhelming majority of the Palestinian Arab

public support deadly terrorist attacks against Israelis - a position enthusiastically advocated and

encouraged by all major Palestinian factions - a growing minority of Palestinian commentators are

voicing unease over the use of children as terrorists and the widespread glorification of death, as well

as the tendency to target innocent Israeli civilians.

More Details:

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/206089#.Vo442LaLQts

5. JORDAN and LEBANON

Why a new US law has Nasrallah riled

Banks have already begun action against Hezbollah members in anticipation of toughest financial

sanctions yet Anyone watching Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah’s televised address

Monday evening – one day after Israel’s assassination of renowned Hezbollah operative Samir Kuntar

in Damascus – in the hopes of a lengthy and emotive eulogy of the slain militant was to be

disappointed.

More Details:

https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/reportsfeatures/566413-why-a-new-us-law-has-nasrallah-riled

Presidential Elections Postponed Again as MPs Warn of 'Lebanon's Collapse'

The 34th session to elect a president has been postponed on Thursday due to the lack of quorum at

parliament. Speaker Nabih Berri scheduled a new electoral session for February 8.

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More Details:

http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/198841-presidential-elections-postponed-again-as-mps-warn-

of-lebanon-s-collapse

Activists scuffle with police at Beirut govt building

The We Want Accountability movement Thursday staged a demonstration at the Central Inspection

Department in Beirut's Verdun area to protest a Cabinet plan to export trash.

More Details:

http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2016/Jan-07/330627-protesters-locked-inside-

central-inspection-department-in-beirut-scuffle-with-police.ashx

King: I draw my strength from my people

His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday expressed pride in meeting with the people of Zarqa

Governorate, recalling his memories of his earlier days when he joined the army and expressing his

understanding of the governorate's problems. At a meeting with dignitaries and representatives of

Zarqa Governorate at the Royal Court, the King said it was in Zarqa "where I had many memories

since my early days with the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and where I have made friendships

with many of Zarqa's people during my military service."

More Details:

http://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/king-i-draw-my-strength-my-people

Jordan renews support for Saudi Arabia

His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday reviewed in separate telephone calls with Saudi King

Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz

regional developments, according to a Royal Court statement.

More Details:

http://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/jordan-renews-support-saudi-arabia

Geagea-Aoun Meeting Under Preparation

Successive contacts are taking place between leaderships of the Lebanese Forces and the Free

Patriotic Movement to arrange for a meeting between the parties' heads, which reports say are to

focus on the presidential elections, An Nahar daily reported on Thursday.

More Details:

Sayfa 19

http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/198822-report-geagea-aoun-meeting-under-preparation

Hmadeh warns of any error by Lebanon's representative at Arab Foreign Ministers' meeting

Member of Parliament Marwan Hmadeh warned on Thursday the cabinet of any slip which might be

made by Lebanon's representative at the Arab foreign Ministers' meeting.

More Details:

http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/54857/Hmadeh-warns-of-any-error-by-Lebanon-39-

representative-at-Arab-Foreign-Ministers-39-meeting

UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Sigrid Kaag Meets Lebanon Prime Minister Tamam Salam

United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Ms. Sigrid Kaag met with Prime Minister Tammam

Salam today on her return from an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ms. Kaag briefed the

Prime Minister on her meetings with Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir and other senior Saudi

officials.

More Details:

http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/54848/UN-Special-Coordinator-for-Lebanon-Sigrid-Kaag-Meets-

Lebanon-Prime-Minister-Tamam-Salam

Massing Syrians at Jordan's border could be a sign of things to come in 2016

This week, Jordan admitted some 12,000 refugees were stranded at the border with Syria—and the

number is only getting higher. This comes after public denial on the part of the Jordanian

government in the face of a similar claim made by humanitarian aid groups working in the area in

December.

More Details:

http://www.albawaba.com/loop/massing-syrians-jordans-border-could-be-sign-things-come-2016-

790024

Foreign Ministry to relocate office for attesting certificates, again

The Foreign Ministry plans to relocate its affiliated office for attesting certificates again since the

building in Shmeisani, rented just a year ago, lacks parking lots and due to complaints by area

residents.

More Details:

Sayfa 20

http://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/foreign-ministry-relocate-office-attesting-certificates-again

6. ARABIAN PENINSULA AND THE GULF OF BASRA

Islamic State Vows to Break Open Saudi Arabian Prisons

A day after the Islamic State appears to have staged its first ever military-style attack on Saudi Arabia,

the group pledged to destroy two Saudi Arabian prisons that house jihadi detainees. The escalation

comes four days after Saudi Arabia executed 47 people, including 43 that the government claims

were al Qaeda militants — it was unclear if any Islamic State members were also among those put to

death.

More details:

https://news.vice.com/article/islamic-state-vows-to-break-open-saudi-arabian-prisons

Businessmen call for Iranian goods’ boycott

Several businesspeople across the country have called on consumers and traders to boycott all goods

from Iran in the wake of the attacks on Saudi missions in Iran. Omar Bahlaiwa, secretary-general of

the international trade committee of the Council of Saudi Chambers, urged businesspeople and

consumers to rather purchase goods from other Arab and Muslim countries, according to a report in

a local daily.

More details:

http://www.arabnews.com/economy/news/861541

Qatar recalls envoy to Iran after attacks on Saudi missions

Qatar recalled its ambassador to Iran on Wednesday, state news agency QNA said, after allies Saudi

Arabia and Bahrain cut their ties with Tehran following attacks on Saudi missions by Iranian

protesters, angered by the execution of a Shiite radical Nimr al Nimr. “The ministry summoned this

morning Qatar’s ambassador to Tehran against the backdrop of attacks on the embassy of the

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Tehran...,” the agency quoted Khalid Ibrahim Abdulrahman Al-Hamar, the

director of the Asian Affairs Department, as saying.

More details:

http://www.arabnews.com/featured/news/861141

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BCCI receives Jordanian delegation

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI)'s Chairman Khalid Al Moayed, First Deputy

Chairman Othman Alrayes and Second Deputy Chairman Jawad Al Hawaj alongside with Executive

Committee member Khalid Al Amin and other senior officials of the Chamber on Wednesday

received Jordanian parliamentary delegation led by MP Abdullah Qasim Obaidat the head of the

Labor, Social Development and Population Committee.

More details:

http://www.bna.bh/portal/en/news/704973

Assembly panel debates revised anti-graft law

The National Assembly’s legal and legislative affairs committee discussed yesterday a new law for the

establishment of the Anti-Corruption Authority after its law was annulled by the constitutional court

over procedural flaws. The panel’s secretary MP Ahmad Al- Qudhaibi said the committee will vote on

the new law on Sunday to be ready for an Assembly debate on Jan 12. He said the main amendment

to the law is the inclusion of a definition on profiteering and granting the authority powers to search

without a prior warrant from the public prosecution.

More details:

http://news.kuwaittimes.net/website/assembly-panel-debates-revised-anti-graft-law/

UAE condemns terrorist attack in India

The UAE has condemned the terrorist attack on the Indian Air Force Base in Pathankot, and stressed

that the it stands with India in its ongoing confrontation against terrorism. In a statement, the UAE

Foreign Ministry said, "The UAE condemns the heinous terrorist attack on the Indian Air Force Base in

Pathankot. We stand with India in its ongoing fight against terrorism."

More details:

http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/uae-condemns-terrorist-attack-in-india-2016-01-07-

1.616319

Yemen troops seize northwestern port from Houthi rebels

Troops loyal to Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi seized a Red Sea port town Wednesday

in the country's northwest following fierce fighting with Iran-backed Shia rebels, a military chief said.

"We have full control of the port and the town, along with its historic castle," Fifth Military Region

commander General Adel al-Qumairi said of Midi.

More details:

Sayfa 22

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/180291/World/Region/Yemen-troops-seize-

northwestern-port-from-Houthi-r.aspx

Oman condemns attack on Saudi embassy in Iran

The Sultanate of Oman on Wednesday deplored the storming of the embassy of the Kingdom of

Saudi Arabia in Tehran and its consulate in Mashhad by Iranian protesters, which is a violation of

Vienna Convention for Diplomatic Relations and international charters and norms that stress the

sanctity of the diplomatic premises and their protection by the host country.

More details:

http://www.timesofoman.com/article/74961/Oman/Government/Oman-condemns-attack-on-Saudi-

Arabia-embassy-in-Iran

. Arab League, GCC to discuss attacks

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Arab League (AL) have convened extraordinary meetings

of their foreign minister on Saturday and Sunday to discuss the issues related to the violent attacks

on the Saudi Embassy in Tehran and the Saudi Consulate in Mashhad. Announcing the emergency

meeting, the Arab League said: “It has been decided to hold an extraordinary meeting of the foreign

ministers of the Arab League Council on Sunday at the headquarters in Cairo.”

More details:

http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/news/861516

UN Urges Resuming a Meaningful Sustainable Ceasefire in Yemen

The United Nations (UN) Security Council expressed its “deep concern on the dire humanitarian

situation in Yemen” and urged the warring parties “to resume a meaningful sustainable ceasefire.”

Speaking to reporters after a closed meeting of the Security Council on the situation in Yemen and

other matters, the Council’s President Elbio Rosselli of Uruguay said “a meaningful sustainable

ceasefire that would be respected by all sides” is of “fundamental importance” to the members of

the Council.

More details:

http://www.nrttv.com/EN/Details.aspx?Jimare=4706

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7. EGYPT

Egypt to Impose Import Rules to Shore up Reserves

Egypt plans to impose new regulations that appear to be aimed at reducing low-quality imports in

order to shore up its foreign currency reserves and protect local industries. The new regulations will

require that foreign factories exporting certain items -- mainly consumer goods -- register with

Egyptian authorities, providing documentation of their licenses and proof of inspection. The

regulations say foreign manufacturers must accept inspections by a "technical team," without

providing further details.

More details:

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/egypt-impose-import-rules-shore-reserves-

36117908

Egypt to welcome China's president for first time in 12 years

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met with China's Deputy Foreign Minister Zhang Ming on

Tuesday, who arrived in Cairo to set up arrangements for the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping

from January 20-22. Ming discussed with Shoukry the details of the anticipated visit of the Chinese

president to Cairo, said Egyptian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid, adding that the

Chinese official stressed the importance of the visit, which is the first for a Chinese president in 12

years.

More details:

http://www.egyptindependent.com//news/egypt-welcome-china-s-president-first-time-12-years

Egypt to host Africa investment conference next February

Egypt is planning to hold a conference to allure investments to Africa next February in Sharm El-

Sheikh, said former Egyptian Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Mona Omar.

Under the auspices of Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the investment event is scheduled for

February 20-21, and will be in the presence of the country’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

More details:

http://amwalalghad.com/en/investment-news/industry-trade/42357-egypt-to-host-africa-

investment-conference-next-february.html

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Egypt to Try 6 Reporters for Allegedly Defaming Minister

An Egyptian prosecutor has referred six local journalists to trial for allegedly spreading "false news"

that defamed the justice minister. Prosecutor Fathy Bayoumi said Wednesday that the six were sent

to court after investigators found that they "intentionally published false information to defame"

Justice Minister Ahmed al-Zind.

More details:

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/egypt-reporters-allegedly-defaming-minister-

36120010

Egypt plans naming new city after King Salman

Egypt plans to name a new city development over 10,000 acres near Cairo after Custodian of the Two

Holy Mosques King Salman, housing minister Mustafa Madbouli announced Monday. The minister

made these remarks during a briefing on several major projects, including the new administrative

capital over 190,000 acres, that will be launched soon.

More details:

http://amwalalghad.com/en/business/real-estate/42343-egypt-plans-naming-new-city-after-king-

salman.html

Rightists question effectiveness of planned inspection visits to Aqrab prison

Rights activists were quick to call out on Wednesday the "uselessness" of the latest prison inspection

visit made by the state-affiliated National Human Rights Council (NCHR), because the ministry of

interior had decided on its date. Ragia Omran, a member of the NCHR herself, told Aswat Masriya

that the council’s visits to prisons “do not have the element of surprise”, with the ministry of interior

having the upper hand on when delegations may inspect prisons and which prisons they may visit.

More details:

http://en.aswatmasriya.com/news/view.aspx?id=afda8fa4-96eb-4b1a-ad2a-5abfbd315fcc

Mursi 'espionage' trial postponed to Jan 31

The Cairo Criminal Court postponed on Wednesday former president Mohamed Mursi's trial, in

which he is accused of espionage, to Jan 31. Mursi and 10 other Muslim Brotherhood figures are

accused of "spying" and "leaking confidential documents" concerning Egyptian state security to

Qatari intelligence.

More details:

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http://en.aswatmasriya.com/news/view.aspx?id=76984b92-9aa9-40c0-95d5-597e7f3e31bc

Egypt to issue letters of credit for delayed wheat shipments on Wednesday

Egypt will issue delayed letters of credit for three wheat shipments waiting off France’s northern port

of Dunkirk on Wednesday even as new stricter import requirements were under discussion, Egypt’s

state grain buyer said. Tighter import rules could delay future wheat shipments to Egypt, the world’s

largest importer of the grain.

More details:

http://english.alarabiya.net/en/business/economy/2016/01/06/Egypt-to-issue-letters-of-credit-for-

delayed-wheat-shipments-on-Wednesday.html

Cabinet approves 30 mn dinar loan from Kuwait

The Cabinet approved on Wednesday a draft law issued by the president on a loan agreement

between Egypt and the Kuwait Fund for Economic Development worth 30 million dinars. The

agreement contributes to an electrical line project between Egypt and Saudi Arabia signed in

November.

More details:

http://www.egyptindependent.com//news/cabinet-approves-30-mn-dinar-loan-kuwait

Egypt Christians Celebrate Christmas Amid Tight Security

Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Christians flocked to churches on Wednesday to attend Masses on

Christmas Eve across the predominantly Muslim country, as the government continues to battle a

burgeoning Islamic insurgency. Police painstakingly searched more than 300 churches in the capital,

Cairo, alone for explosive devices, according to police Maj. Gen. Gamal Halawa. Roadblocks were set

up before churches nationwide and cars and motorcycles were temporarily banned from idling in

front of them, he added.

More details:

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/egypt-christians-celebrate-christmas-amid-tight-

security-36130499

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8. NORTH AFRICA

Morocco Telekom Operators Block Whatsapp, Skype, Viber and Others

Moroccan telecommunication companies Maroc Telecom, Meditel, and Inwi have recently blocked

some world renowned applications that use the Voice over IP technology (VoIP), a move that

triggered a wave of discontent in the country.

More details:

http://moroccantimes.com/2016/01/17763/morocco-bans-whatsapp-skype-viber-and-others

Algeria, Turkey ink partnership agreement on manufacturing Saharan cabins

Algerian public group Industrie locales (Divindus) and two Turkish companies signed, Wednesday in

Algiers a partnership agreement on modernizing of the construction of Saharan cabins and chalets.

More details:

http://www.aps.dz/en/economy/10207-algeria,-turkey-ink-partnership-agreement-on-

manufacturing-saharan-cabins

Libya: ISIL Attacks Highlight Need for Implementation of Peace Accord, Says UN Envoy

The United Nations envoy in Libya, who last month has helped usher in a UN-brokered political

agreement for a national government in the strife-torn country, has said an attack by the Islamic

State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) on oil installations highlights the need for immediate

implementation of the accord.

More details:

http://allafrica.com/stories/201601070332.html

El Djem: Tear Gas and Buckshot Used to Dispel Anti Alcohol Store Protesters

Violent clashes occurred in the city of El Djem, Mahdia, yesterday as protests against the reopening

of an alcohol shop turned violent. Police forces used teargas and buckshot to dispel protesters who

blocked the road leading to the shop. –

More details:

http://www.tunisia-live.net/2016/01/06/el-djem-tear-gas-and-buckshot-used-to-dispel-anti-alcohol-

protesters/#sthash.7c2L4HsJ.dpuf

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Islamic State In Libya Continues Their Assault On Libya's Oil Ports

Three days of Islamic State attacks on Libya's biggest oil terminals have started fires that have spread

to five massive oil storage tanks, a guards spokesman said on Wednesday

More details:

http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com.tr/2016/01/islamic-state-in-libya-continues-their.html

Libya Truck Bomb Kills at Least 60 Policemen, Wounds 200

Libyan officials say a truck bomb exploded in the western town of Zliten near a police camp, killing at

least 60 policemen and wounding at least 200.

More details:

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/M/ML_LIBYA?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAUL

T&CTIME=2016-01-07-06-51-41

Algeria Loses $2bn a Year to Fuel Smuggling

Algerian Cabinet Director Ahmed Ouyahia said yesterday that raising fuel prices may contribute to

reducing fuel smuggling to Morocco and Tunisia, which costs his country nearly $2 billion annually.

More details:

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/africa/23208-algeria-loses-2bn-a-year-to-fuel-

smuggling?

Tunisia to get new political party in days

The outgoing Secretary-General of the ruling Nidaa Tounes party, Mohsen Marzouk, said yesterday

that he will announce a new political project within the next four days.

More details:

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/africa/23207-tunisia-to-get-new-political-party-in-days?

Powerful blast in Libya kills dozens in area hit by militant, smuggler violence

A powerful truck bomb exploded near a police training camp in western Libya on Thursday, killing at

least 50 people in a region where the Islamic State has battled for footholds. There was no

immediate claim of responsibility for the blast in Zliten, near the Mediterranean coast about 60 miles

southeast of Tripoli. But militants pledging loyalty to the Islamic State have been seeking to expand in

the area.

Sayfa 28

More Details:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/powerful-blast-in-libya-kills-dozens-in-area-hit-by-militant-

smuggler-violence/2016/01/07/ab6e2b36-b53d-11e5-a76a-0b5145e8679a_story.html?

Tunisia: Premier Essid announces cabinet reshuffle

Tunisian Premier Habib Essid has announced his new government as part of a reshuffle anticipated a

while ago, according to a statement of the presidency, which did not elaborate on the reasons

behind the changes. Thirteen ministers will be replaced, including key justice, interior, foreign,

culture and religious affairs posts. Overall, the new cabinet will include 30 ministers and no longer

have a secretary of State. A new ministry for local affairs has been created, which has been separated

from the interior ministry, as well as a ministry for energy and mining, a separate entity from the

industry ministry now.

More Details:

http://www.ansamed.info/ansamed/en/news/sections/politics/2016/01/07/tunisia-premier-essid-

announces-cabinet-reshuffle_568c1de3-c0c5-4fed-a655-75e08b4956a1.html?

9. AFGHANISTAN – PAKISTAN

Taliban: DAESH a conspiracy against US, they will be completely eliminated

Earlier this week, the Taliban faction loyal to Mullah Mansur posted on its website that DAESH (aka

ISIS) is a part of an anti-Islamic western conspiracy against them, and they vowed to purge them

from eastern Nangarhar province, as they allegedly had done in other parts of the country.

More details:

http://www.aopnews.com/

19 Afghan ISIS elements killed in an explosion in Iraq

At least 9 Afghan nationals have been killed while fighting for the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)

terrorist group in Iraq, it has been reported.

More details:

http://www.khaama.com/19-afghan-isis-elements-killed-in-an-explosion-in-iraq-1934

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Attack on Indian consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif was planned abroad

Attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-e-Shari, capital of Afghanistan’s Balkh province, was planned

by a foreign terrorist group which left a policeman martyred. It also left five policemen and four

civilians wounded.

More details:

http://www.khaama.com/attack-on-indian-consulate-in-mazar-e-sharif-was-planned-abroad-4474

Washington National Guardsman killed in Afghanistan

A Des Moines resident and Washington National Guard soldier was killed in action Tuesday while

serving his third combat tour in Afghanistan.

More details:

http://komonews.com/news/local/washington-national-guard-commander-killed-in-afghanistan

Razzaq, Rehmani ousted from Taliban’s leadership coincil

Two senior members have been expelled from Taliban’s leadership councilfor refusingto accept

Mullah Akhtar Mansoor’s leadership, a media report said on Thursday.

More details:

http://www.pajhwok.com/en/2016/01/07/razzaq-rehmani-ousted-taliban%E2%80%99s-leadership-

council

Pakistan ousts Bangla envoy for ‘overstepping diplomatic role’

Pakistan has asked Bangladesh to withdraw one of its diplomats from Islamabad following the

expulsion of a Pakistani envoy, who allegedly funded a suspected extremist on trial for espionage.

More details:

http://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/86850-Pakistan-ousts-Bangla-envoy-for-overstepping-

diplomatic-role

Nawaz-Modi call: India urges Pakistan to act after Pathankot airbase attack

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Tuesday to take “firm and

immediate action” against those behind an attack on an Indian Air Force base that left seven soldiers

dead.

More details:

Sayfa 30

http://www.dawn.com/news/1230945/nawaz-modi-call-india-urges-pakistan-to-act-after-pathankot-

airbase-attack

PM Nawaz Meets Traders In Sri Lanka, Says Terror War Is In Final Phase

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that Pakistan has dismantled terrorists’ network and its war

against terrorism has entered in the final phase.

More details:

http://www.geo.tv/latest/9143-PM-Nawaz-meets-traders-in-Sri-Lanka-says-terror-war-is-in-final-

phase

Pakistan make an attractive destination for foreign investment: Nawaz Sharif

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday said Pakistan’s corporate friendly environment makes it

an attractive destination for foreign investment and invited the Sri Lankan businessmen to explore

the opportunities particularly in energy and infrastructure sectors.

More details:

http://paktribune.com/news/Pakistan-make-an-attractive-destination-for-foreign-investment-

Nawaz-Sharif-275430.html

CTGC wins right to develop hydropower project in Pakistan

China Three Gorges Corporation (CTGC), the state-owned hydropower developer, has won the right

to develop a hydropower project in Pakistan, CTGC announced on Thursday, the Xinhua News agency

reported.

More details:

http://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/316537-CTGC-wins-right-to-develop-hydropower-project-in-P

10. TURKEY AND THE MIDDLE EAST

US commends Turkey's efforts against DAESH

Brett McGurk who was appointed by the United States President Barack Obama on October 23, 2015

as the Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter DAESH, praised Turkey's efforts

on fighting against DAESH terror group. Speaking at the daily US State Department press conference,

McGurk said “We have seen the Turks have taken some significant steps in terms of setting up

defensive perimeters more patrols making it much harder for DAESH to get resources into this very

critical area.”

Sayfa 31

More Details:

http://www.trtworld.com/turkey/us-commends-turkeys-efforts-against-daesh-23593

Turkey Warns US of Kurds’ Attempts to Create 'Corridor' in Syria

The Turkish military expressed concerns to the US over attempts by Syrian Kurdish groups to create a

'corridor' in northern Syria and changes to the demographic structure in the region in favor of the

Kurds. The message was delivered to General Joseph Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,

who had talks with Turkish Chief of General Staff Gen Hulusi Akar and Prime Minister Ahmet

Davutoglu on January 6, Hurriyet Daily reported.

More Details:

http://sputniknews.com/middleeast/20160107/1032801014/turkey-kurdish-corridor.html?

Turkey: No relations with Israel before Gaza siege is lifted

Turkish Ambassador to Amman Sedat Önal yesterday reiterated that there will be no restoration of

diplomatic relations with Israel without the siege on the Gaza Strip being lifted, the Anadolu Agency

reported. “Turkey supports the Palestinian cause and the establishment of a Palestinian state, but

[one of] its conditions to restore relations with Israel is to lift the siege on Gaza,” he said.

More Details:

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/europe/23217-turkey-no-relations-with-israel-before-

gaza-siege-is-lifted?

*This media summary is prepared by ORSAM Middle East Research Assistant Firuze Yağmur Gökler.

It covers news and commentaries as reported by the national media sources publishing in the Middle

Eastern countries. The views expressed are not those of ORSAM and their inclusion does not imply

factual accuracy.

*Bu bülten ORSAM Ortadoğu Uzman Yardımcısı Firuze Yağmur Gökler tarafından hazırlanmaktadır.

Bülten Ortadoğu ülkelerinin yerel haber kaynaklarından derlenmektedir. Belirtilen görüşler bölge

ülkelerinin haber kaynaklarına ve ismi geçen yazarlara ait olup ORSAM’ın görüşünü

yansıtmamaktadır.