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The Biden administration is moving to designate chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon as foreign terrorist organizations, citing their support for violence and destabilization. The move follows regional crackdowns and regional tensions, with the process including reports from US agencies and potential legal challenges.
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German leader Friedrich Merz visited Israel and Jordan amid ongoing Gaza conflict, reaffirming support for Israel while navigating strained relations over arms exports and Netanyahu's ICC arrest warrant. The trip highlights Germany's balancing act between historical responsibility and current geopolitical interests.
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On December 8, 2025, Israeli police and municipal officials forcibly entered the UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem, seizing property and replacing the UN flag with an Israeli one. Israel cited unpaid municipal taxes, while UNRWA and the UN condemned the raid as a violation of international law. The compound remains empty since Israel banned UNRWA operations in January 2025.
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Israel has resumed aid deliveries through the Allenby crossing into the West Bank and Gaza after a closure following a deadly shooting incident in September. The crossing is now open for trucks carrying humanitarian and construction materials, with security measures tightened. The move aims to facilitate aid amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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Morocco defeated Jordan 2-1 in the 2025 Arab Cup final at Lusail Stadium, with a stunning early goal from Tannane and a late winner from Hamdallah. Jordan fought back to lead before Morocco's late surge secured their second Arab Cup title amid weather disruptions and dramatic moments.
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The IMF reached staff-level agreements with Egypt, Ghana, and Jordan on their latest review milestones, unlocking billions in disbursements. Egypt's support includes an $8 billion loan, Ghana's about $385 million, and Jordan's roughly $240 million, reflecting ongoing reforms and economic stabilization efforts.
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The US launched over 70 military strikes across Syria in retaliation for an attack that killed three US personnel. The operation involved fighter jets, helicopters, and artillery, targeting ISIS infrastructure in Deir ez-Zor and surrounding regions. Jordan supported the strikes, which aim to prevent ISIS regrouping.
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US Ambassador Holtsnider has engaged extensively with Jordanian communities, breaking traditional diplomatic norms amid regional tensions over US support for Israel. His visits, including tribal and community events, have sparked parliamentary questions and online controversy, reflecting broader regional sensitivities and US diplomatic strategies.
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On January 10, 2026, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed multiple airstrikes across Syria targeting ISIS as part of Operation Hawkeye Strike. These strikes respond to a December 13 ISIS ambush in Palmyra that killed two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter. The operation reflects increased US cooperation with Syria's new government after Bashar al-Assad's ouster in 2024.
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The UAE announced a withdrawal of its remaining forces from Yemen following a Saudi demand and escalating tensions with Saudi Arabia. The move follows a Saudi-led coalition airstrike on a UAE-linked weapons shipment, highlighting a rare public dispute between the Gulf allies over Yemen's conflict and regional influence.
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As of January 11, 2026, Syrian government forces have regained control of Aleppo's Kurdish-majority neighborhoods Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh following a ceasefire and withdrawal of Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The clashes, which began January 7, displaced over 150,000 residents and killed at least 21 civilians. The ceasefire was brokered amid stalled talks on Kurdish integration into Syria's government.
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Multiple countries in the Middle East and Africa are advancing AI strategies and financial reforms. The UK plans to re-establish a civil service training school focused on AI, Nigeria is launching a microfinance bank leveraging payment data, and Arab nations are investing heavily in AI infrastructure and regulation amid geopolitical shifts.
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On January 13, 2026, the US designated the Lebanese Muslim Brotherhood as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and the Egyptian and Jordanian branches as Specially Designated Global Terrorists. The move targets their alleged support for Hamas and rocket attacks on Israel, imposing sanctions and travel bans amid regional tensions.
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A new international Board of Peace, chaired for life by Donald Trump, has been announced to oversee Gaza's postwar management and expand to global conflicts. Invitations have been sent to around 60 nations, with some accepting and others expressing concern over its scope and funding requirements. The initiative aims to challenge the UN's influence.
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The US launched Trump's 'Board of Peace' for Gaza reconstruction, but it faces widespread skepticism. Key countries, including Israel and the UK, oppose the initiative, citing legitimacy and regional concerns. Netanyahu's rejection of US invitations highlights tensions over regional influence and governance structures.
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The US-led Board of Peace, chaired by Donald Trump, has announced a comprehensive plan to oversee Gaza's reconstruction, disarm Hamas, and establish a new governance structure. The plan involves international leadership, Palestinian technocrats, and significant investment, aiming for long-term stability and economic growth in Gaza.
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Heavy rainfall in Tunisia, the worst in over 70 years, has caused severe flooding, resulting in at least five deaths, widespread property damage, and disruptions to daily life. The storm system, Storm Harry, is affecting multiple North African countries, with rescue efforts ongoing.
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Since the October 2025 ceasefire in Gaza, violence has persisted with Israeli forces killing over 580 Palestinians and Hamas militants attacking Israeli troops. Recent clashes include Israeli strikes on Hamas commanders and militants emerging from tunnels near Rafah. Indonesia is preparing up to 8,000 troops for a potential peacekeeping mission in Gaza, while the Rafah crossing with Egypt has reopened, allowing limited civilian movement.
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On February 16, 2026, Israel approved restarting land registration in Area C of the West Bank for the first time since 1967, enabling state registration of land and easing Jewish land purchases. The move, led by far-right ministers, is widely condemned by Palestinians, Arab states, and international bodies as de facto annexation and a violation of international law, intensifying tensions and threatening the two-state solution.
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Syrian forces have taken control of the strategic al-Tanf military base in southeastern Syria after coordination with the US, marking a shift in US military strategy. The US has been reducing its presence in Syria, focusing on ISIS threats, with about 900 troops remaining. The move follows recent US and Syrian government agreements.
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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited Jordan, focusing on humanitarian efforts. They met refugees, children evacuated from Gaza, and supported health and food aid initiatives, including the WHO and World Central Kitchen. The trip highlights ongoing regional crises and aid efforts.
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Australia has advised its citizens in Israel and Lebanon to consider leaving due to escalating regional tensions. The government has also offered voluntary departures for dependents of diplomats in Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE, amid increased US military activity and diplomatic negotiations over Iran's nuclear program. The situation remains volatile.