Iraq -
Several Katusha rockets were fired at the Taj military base north of Bagdad. Reportedly two hit but only an Iraqi security guard was injured. this is most likely from the Iranian supported militas. Expect more of the same in the coming weeks.
Sudan -
Skirmish in Khartoum between Sudan Army and NISS occurred overnight.
Kinda a normal day of chaos
Iran -
Protests probably continuing except that internet shutdowns are inhibiting information getting out from other than govt authorized sources.
Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei is reported to be leading Friday prayers for the first time since 2012. His attendance at these prayers have been very spotty. Could mean that things are getting desperate for the religious rulers and are trying to sway the people back to them. Have to see just what the response is.
Great video snuck out from Iran showing TWO TOR-1 (SA-15) missiles being fired within 30 seconds, targeting the Ukraine air liner.
Major EU players - France, Germany and Britian - looking to impose more sanctions on Iran as noted yesterday. Iranian economy will degrade further. Its economy is reported to have contracted by about 9.6% last year.
Israel -
Late yesterday afternoon, IAF struck the Syrian T-4 airbase, targeting Iranian munitions and supplies. This is become a rather routine operation. Iran ships stuff in, Israel blows it up.
Sporadic activity along the Gaza border. Explosive balloons being launched and ab out a half dozen rockets launched into Israel. Heavy IAF over flights of Gaza. Again, this is almost routine.
Of more strategic note, there are some analysts that believe the Hezbollah/Israel war will occur some time this year. Factors to look at -
1. Iran is on the rocks financially and facing strong internal protests. They have been prepping Hezbollah to do this attack for a long time and may give the go signal to divert attention.
2. Hezbollah fighters have been getting real world combat training in Syria. On the flip side of that training, they have suffered high losses and to engage in a major conflict with Israel this year could potentially over extend their forces.
3. Hezbollah wants Israel to strike first - PR justification. Israel can hold off with no problem.
4. Israel has learned the lessons of the last conflict and I’m not sure Hezbollah is going to significantly change their tactics.
5. Israel has openly warned Lebanon that elements seen supporting any attack, such as power, fuel, water, etc will also be attacked. IIRC they have also said that if Hezbollah operates out of civilian facilities, those will be hit, unlike the last conflict.
6. Hezbollah leader Nasarallah is looking to enhance his standing in the shia community in the region at the expense of Iran.
Lebanon -
Protests are still continuing in the country as protestors voice anger over corruption of the government by Hezebollah.