The Islamic Republic of Iran is smuggling its crude oil through the waters of Iraq to circumvent US sanctions. It is said that Iranian oil is transferred to other tankers in the port of Faw and exported in the name of Iraqi oil. The Wall Street Journal in a special report revealed the smuggling of Iranian crude oil through Iraqi waters.
Category: UAE
Sudan Joins Train of Normalizing Relations with Israel
Israel and Sudan agreed to normalize relations between them through American mediation. Sudan is the third Arab country to establish relations with Israel within two months. The Palestinians condemn the agreement and consider it a “new stab in the back of the Palestinian people” and a “political sin.”
Israel Roundup — UAE Delegation Lands, Lockdown Eases
In August, Israel and United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed to normalize relations between the two countries. They met at the White House, together with US President Donald Trump. Representatives from Bahrain joined them. This was the first Middle East treaty since 1994.
Emirati Delegation Meets Netanyahu at Ben-Gurion
As part of a high-level delegation, the United Arab Emirates’ Economy and Finance Ministers arrived in Israel, where they were received by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The two sides will sign several agreements in the fields of visas, aviation, investment, science and technology.
International Oil Prices Fall, OPEC+ Meeting Coming
International oil prices fell on Monday due to China’s economic growth rate in the third quarter, which was lower than expected. China’s energy demand is still inevitably dragged down by the renewed surge in the number of new coronavirus infections in other countries around the world.
Social Media Marketing Is More Powerful Than Ever
When it was first introduced to the world, social media was a foundational motion that was introduced as a means for individuals around the globe to connect and communicate on a more consistent and easy basis. In the year since, social media has well and truly proven its value as a leading connection and communication tool that spans the globe. So much so, in fact, that social media has today ballooned and flourished into what is a leading modern marketing strategy as well as a foundational epicentre for not only connection but also communicating across oceans in terms of world news.
Two Steps Taken, More Steps Needed
Kudos to President Donald Trump, Jared Kushner and their diplomatic team. They have added the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to the list of Arab countries that recognize Israel as a legal entity and via the “Abraham Accords” agree to normalize diplomatic and other relations.
In recognition of President Trump’s brokerage of the Accords, a Norwegian official has nominated him for a Nobel Peace Prize, seemingly totally oblivious of the fact that the peace deals between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain represent only two small steps in a complicated and lengthy process toward Middle East peace. Agreements between Arabs and Palestinians, Sunnis and Shia, Arabs and Iranians must be achieved before a lasting Middle East peace becomes a reality.
Iran is Growing its Military Arsenal
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has unveiled a new ballistic missile that has a range of approximately 700 kilometers. Dubbed Zolfaghar Basir, its range surpasses that of the nation’s other systems, which include the “Hormuz-2.” The “Hormuz-2” has a range of 300 kilometers.
World Reacts with Surprise, Worry at Trump-Biden Brawl
Many newspapers at home and abroad reacted overnight to the first presidential debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden, held in Cleveland, Ohio. Almost unanimously, the papers analyzed it as one marred by chaos, confusion, and insults.
Peace Between Nations – Peace Between Religions
Peace is a universal goal of all mankind. Peace Shalom is the name of God. The True peace must also include the right to remain separate, separate nations and separate religions. The meaning of “God is One” means to include One God who is separate and One God united. One means separate from his creation; one means united with his creation. Each person has the right to be an individual as well as being part of the whole, a part of his nation, a part of mankind, a part of the congregation of his religion.
Historic Peace Agreement Signed in Washington
On Tuesday, an historic Middle East peace agreement was signed at the White House between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain titled the Abraham Accords. This the first peace accord between Arab nations and Israel since 1994, when Jordan and Israel signed a peace agreement.
Israel Makes Peace With Bahrain
Following an agreement with UAE, a peace treaty with another Arab country Bahrain is a new step in a cherished dream of Israel and America to win recognition of the Jewish State of Israel without having to complete negotiations for the two state solution which has been most difficult considering the objection of the Palestinians to any type of compromise.
Israel Roundup — Lockdowns Hardening, Palestinians Easing
Israel was one of the first nations to lockdown, and in the first wave of Coronavirus, they were leading the world in fewest cases. Since their economy was in danger of breakdown from their lockdown, they began to normalize opening up businesses, schools, synagogues, wedding halls, restaurants, and malls, almost totally restoring normal Israeli life.
Netanyahu Secretly Met UAE Leader in 2018
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu allegedly met United Arab Emirates leader, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in 2018. This is according to a new revelation by Israeli newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth. The publication has additionally revealed that Yossi Cohen, the head of the Mossad intelligence agency was in attendance.
Iran — Treasury Department Announces New Sanctions
The United States has announced sanctions against 14 companies in Iran, China, and the United Arab Emirates for violating sanctions against Iran’s oil and petrochemical industries. The US Treasury Department has added a number of individuals and companies to its sanctions list as part of its “Maximum Pressure” policy.
Israel Roundup — Trials, Touchdowns, and Talks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may be able to remain in office even when his corruption trial starts in January. This was the decision of Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit on Thursday. This is on the condition that Netanyahu will refrain from interfering with law enforcement appointments and actions.
Bahrain Opens Airspace to Israel-UAE Flights
Bahrain has opened its airspace for direct flights between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the official state news agency, BNA, reported on Thursday. Saudi Arabia did so earlier this week. The UAE had asked Bahrain to open its airspace to Israeli planes bound for the Emirates.
Pompeo: World Must Condemn Khamenei’s Hateful Ideology
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo responded to Iran Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei’s remarks on Twitter about the UAE-Israel peace agreement. Pompeo also said he was waiting for Khamenei to respond to the killing of Uighur Muslims by the Chinese government.
Religion, Faith, Freedom, Democracy
Living in a democratic society until you understand the relationships between religion, faith and freedom you cannot appreciate democracy. All three factors religion, faith and freedom are in the center of life each one making its claims on modern society. Before religion came into the world beginning with Abraham described in Genesis in the bible, there was freedom and there was chaos.
Khamenei Blasts “Betrayal” of Palestinians by UAE
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has called the establishment of relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates a “betrayal” of the Muslim world and the Palestinians. According to Reuters, Ayatollah Khamenei made the speech as senior U.S. and Israeli officials flew to Abu Dhabi to finalize the pact.
Netanyahu Leaves Out Security Team in UAE Talks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has exempted Shin Bet and Mossad security officials from his trip to the United Arab Emirates. He is set to hold talks with the Emirati leadership on the new diplomatic alliance that will see the two nations forge closer ties.
Israeli Court Rules Settlements in Palestinian Territory Illegal
The Supreme Court of Israel has ruled that Israeli settler homes built on private Palestinian land are illegal. This is following a case brought forward by Palestinian plaintiffs. They contended that homes built by Israeli settlers on the Mitzpe Kramim zone in the West Bank were built on private land.
Israel Roundup: Balloon Fires, Coronavirus Lockdown Continue
With dazzling flames, Israel is battling Hamas’ incendiary balloons and rockets shot at them from Gaza. Israeli civilians living along the border have been constantly terrorized by deliberate wildfires caused by incendiary balloons shot at them from Gaza. The attacks began several days before Israel’s peace with the UAE was announced.
Gaza Dispute Continues During US and British Visit to Israel
The Israeli army announced the launch of new strikes against Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip, in response to the launching of explosive and incendiary balloons from the Strip towards Israeli territory. The Islamic Jihad announced Tuesday that four militants of its military wing, the Al-Quds Brigades, were killed in an explosion in eastern Gaza.
UAE Deal Political Cover for Bibi’s West Bank Plans
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has had a rutted few months trying to appease a nation that has become increasingly critical of his leadership. Tens of thousands of Israelis continue to take part in demonstrations across the country calling for his resignation.
Secret Sale of F-35s to UAE Causing Problems
The US government’s move to sell F-35 stealth jet fighters to the UAE has come as a surprise to many military analysts. According to White House senior adviser, Jared Kushner, there is a greater chance of the deal going through after the normalization pact between Israel and the UAE.
Netanyahu Compromises – Coalition Government Time Extended
Benjamin Netanyahu accepted the compromise offered him and Likud to avoid a fourth election. Pushing back the deadline only kicks the budget crisis down the road as the two ruling parties are at loggerheads over key issues including judicial appointments and annexation of West Bank Settlements. Prime Minister Netanyahu announced on television that he will not drag the country into a fourth election.
Pompeo Arrives in Jerusalem, First Stop on ME Tour
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in Jerusalem on Monday to meet with Israeli officials. The purpose of the trip is to support President Donald Trump’s Middle East peace plan and Israel’s proximity to Arab countries. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu then met with Pompeo in the Prime Minister’s Office.
Brother of Former Afghan Vice President Accused in Gemstone Scam
A Dubai-based entrepreneur Selaiman Azizi, CEO of Azizi & Partners LLC is alleging that Abdul Hossain Fahim, brother of Former Vice President of Afghanistan “Marshal Faheem” and head of Panjshir Gems General Trading LLC was behind a scam involving precious gemstones, claiming he has lost $1.25 million as a result.
UAE Ship Detained By Iran Amid Tensions
A ship registered to a United Arab Emirates shipping company has been intercepted by Iranian authorities after it sailed into its territorial waters without authorization. The fishing vessel was detained following an incident in the UAE which led to the shooting of two Iranian fishermen. Tensions are high in the region.
Pompeo and Kushner Traveling To Middle Eastern Countries
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Jared Kushner, the son-in-law and adviser to President Donald Trump, are traveling to the Middle East. The trip by the two US officials is mostly to encourage countries in the region to establish relations with Israel. AFP quoted three diplomats as saying that Pompeo and Kushner would travel separately.
Libyan Civil War; Announcing Ceasefire, Prepares for Elections
The parties to the Libyan civil war have stated that they intend to establish a ceasefire immediately and are ready to hold elections. Libya has been at war for years, and agreement between the warring factions has not been reached in the past. The United Nations appreciated the agreement reached between the two.
Could Freelance Gigs Be Better for the Arab Economy than Oil?
The inflation rate in the Middle East is now estimated to be 8.8% in 2020. With Egypt, possibly the fastest growing Arab country, growing at only 2%, most oil producing countries in the region are seeing economic contractions. The combination of Covid-19 hitting the local population and the oil decline has severely affected this region.
Arab oil exporters are forecasting oil supply cuts of about 50% in 2020 and 2021, levels that have been approved by OPEC agreements. The combination of significant cuts in production, $42 a barrel for oil, and Covid affecting local marketplaces, will have a significantly negative impact on regional economies.
Israel Roundup — Peace Deal Growing, Coalition Deal Cracking
The Abraham Accords— the peace agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates— is exciting to almost all Israelis and brings a new beginning in development of peace in the Middle East. The UAE is the first Gulf Arab nation to make peace with Israel. Egypt and Jordan already have friendly relations with Israel.
Report: Kushner Behind F-35 Deal with UAE
Emirati Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said that his country had submitted “legitimate requests” to acquire F-35s. On Thursday, CNN cited US State Department sources and members of Congress stating that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, was behind the push to complete the deal.
Universal Faith and Religion – Corona, Abraham Accords
Israel and UAE have made peace. UAE is the most liberal of all the Arab Republics in the Gulf. This year Pope Francis was invited by UAE to visit and pray in their land. He wrote a tweet: This visit to the UAE belongs to the surprises of God. So let us praise Him and his providence and pray that the seeds sown may bring forth fruits of peace.” His prayers have been partially answered through the Abraham Accords.
Iran Detains UAE Ship After Killing of Fishermen
Iran seized a ship registered in the United Arab Emirates that entered its territorial waters this week, and said that the UAE Coast Guard had killed two Iranian fishermen. Tensions escalated between the two countries after the normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel.
Report: UAE to get F-35’s as Part of Deal with Israel
An Israeli newspaper revealed that the peace agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates includes a secret clause that allows the UAE to acquire advanced American weapons. However, Israeli officials confirmed their country’s refusal to sell advanced American weapons to any Middle Eastern countries.
Maas Warns of “Deceptive Calm” in Libya
German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas warned of what he called “deceptive calm” in Libya. Maas, who arrived in Libya on a surprise visit before heading to the United Arab Emirates, added that the process that began in Berlin remains the appropriate framework for resolving the conflict.
Spain Confirms Former King Juan Carlos in UAE
The Spanish Royal Palace confirmed that the former King, Juan Carlos, who decided in early August to reside in exile due to suspicions of corruption, is in the United Arab Emirates. A spokesman for the Royal Palace made the announcement, but did not give further details.
GCC Sharply Criticizes Iran’s Threats Against UAE
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has condemned Iran’s approach to a peace agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Israel. The secretary-general of the council called the threatening reaction of Hassan Rouhani and other officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran a violation of diplomatic norms.
Israel, UAE Launch Telephone Service After Deal
Israel and the United Arab Emirates have launched direct telephone service after agreeing last week to normalize relations. This will enable direct telephone calls between the two countries from now on. The two foreign ministers “telephoned and exchanged greetings after the historic peace deal,” a statement said.
Israel: Other Gulf States, Sudan, Could Follow UAE
Israeli Intelligence Minister Eli Cohen said in an interview with Israeli army radio on Sunday that agreements with Bahrain, Oman, and Sudan could soon follow the recent UAE-Israel diplomatic agreement. Bahrain and Oman welcomed the UAE-Israel diplomatic agreement but did not comment on their relationship with Israel.
UAE Summons Ambassadors Over Rouhani Speech
The United Arab Emirates has summoned Iran’s ambassador to Abu Dhabi over “threats made by Iranian officials,” specifically, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Iran threatened that after the UAE’s agreement with Israel, that from now on, the UAE will be a “legitimate and easy target” for the “resistance” forces.
Abraham Accords
The agreement made between Israel and UAE was given the name Abraham Accords. The agreement was reached through the work of President Trump negotiating between the ministers of UAE and Netanyahu-Gantz. It is called Abraham Accords because both nations UAE and Israel are related to religions which are connected to Abraham called the father of nations in the Bible, Genesis. God appeared to Abraham Genesis 12, And God said to Abraham go out from your homeland to the land which I will show you. I will make from you a great nation, and glorify your name to be blessed. Calling the peace treaty Abraham Accords is a fulfillment of this prophecy to glorify the name Abraham and to call the peace agreement Abraham Accords.
The Land of Israel and Peace
The right of the Jews to live in the Land of Israel was certified by the United Nations in 1948 after the war of Independence. The Jewish people have always had an historical connection to the land of Israel from Biblical times. After World War II and the holocaust came the opportunity for the Jewish people to establish in the land of Israel a sovereign nation. The Jewish people have always been a nation and the land of Israel has always been its homeland. The Land of Israel is an important part of Judaism, the Jewish religion.
Iran Stops Oil Tanker in International Waters
Centcom, the US headquarters in the Middle East and Central Asia, posted a video on its Twitter account reporting that Iranian forces had stopped and taken control of an oil tanker in international waters in the Persian Gulf. The ship was called “Villa,” and was flying the Liberian flag.
Israel and UAE to Launch Diplomatic Ties
An agreement was sealed on the telephone between Israel and UAE where UAE will launch full diplomatic ties with Israel. Israel in return will halt its plans for annexation of the West Bank. The agreement was made on a conference telephone call between Netanyahu, the crown prince of UAE, and President Trump. Netanyahu lauds “an historic day in history.”
EU Punishes Violators of Libya’s Arms Embargo
Germany, France, and Italy have stepped up pressure on violators of the Libyan arms embargo. The three had previously threatened to punish violators of the embargo in mid-July, on the sidelines of an EU summit in Brussels. A list of Turkish, UAE, and Jordanian companies has been compiled.
GCC Calls for Extension Of Iran’s Arms Embargo
Bloomberg News reported on August 9th, that it had a copy of a letter sent by the Gulf Cooperation Council to the United Nations Security Council. The letter called on the Security Council to extend the arms embargo against Iran, which expires in October, ending its five-year term.
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