Not only the world remained on tenterhooks with the fears of escalation in West Asia but also witnessed the Israeli focus shift to Hezbollah and Lebanon as the next ‘destination destruction’. Hezbollah has committedly supported the Hamas in Gaza and maintained pressure on Northern Israel through continuous firing against them. This led to Israel virtually losing its sovereignty in the areas as it was not able to relocate over 70000 Israelis who left due to continuous threats. The Israeli onslaught was started off when the pager blasts caused tremendous panic as well as opened many questions with regard to safety and security of civilians and aviation etc. globally as communication devices were being used as IEDs. This was also condemned internationally. This also disrupted communications, command and control network of Hezbollah. Hezbollah retaliated with large number of attacks on Israel causing more panic. However, Israel once again using its super intelligence and extensive infiltration into their enemy networks and precision targeting killed Hassan Nasrallah- the Hezbollah leader along with a large number of their political and military leaders creating a shock and awe crisis among them. Iran condemned and vowed to retaliate. Meanwhile, UNGA expressing deep concern passed a resolution asking Israel to vacate the Palestinian territories in 12 months’ time. India abstained. Palestinians hailed it as historic.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on 17 September expanded Israel's war aims in Gaza to include the safe return of residents who fled areas near the Lebanese border due to cross-border fire with Hezbollah. Ongoing exchanges between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah have displaced tens of thousands and risk sparking wider conflict. Israel’s security cabinet approved the expanded objectives, with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stating that military action is necessary for the return of northern communities. Despite US efforts, led by Secretary of State Antony Blinken to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal, Netanyahu has rejected the current terms, insisting on Israeli control of the Egypt-Gaza border.
Hezbollah vowed retaliation against Israel following a coordinated cyberattack that killed 12 people and injured over 2,800 in Lebanon and Syria on 17 September. The Lebanese group blamed Israel for the attack, though Israel has not commented. The unprecedented cyberattack has raised fears of escalation, with Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah set to address the situation. Iran condemned the attack, calling it “mass murder,” while global leaders, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urged calm to prevent a broader conflict. At least 20 people have been killed and 450 injured in Lebanon due to a new wave of explosions linked to communication devices on 18 September. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated they are entering a new phase of conflict, emphasizing the military's performance.
Hezbollah on 21 September launched dozens of rockets at Israel's Ramat David Airbase, marking its farthest-reaching attack since cross-border clashes began in October 2023. The Israeli military reported over 100 projectiles fired early Sunday, prompting sirens and forcing hundreds of thousands to take cover, while schools in northern Israel were closed. No casualties or significant damage were reported in Israel. In response, Israeli forces conducted hundreds of airstrikes in southern Lebanon, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that Israel had “inflicted a series of blows” against Hezbollah. The UN warned of an “imminent catastrophe” if the violence continues, emphasizing that there is no military solution to the conflict.
Hezbollah confirmed the use of new rocket types in the attack, signalling its capability to retaliate despite recent Israeli strikes, which included an airstrike in Beirut that killed at least 45 people. Both sides have been engaged in daily skirmishes, escalating tensions and displacing tens of thousands on both sides of the border. Hezbollah on 25 September launched a ballistic missile targeting the Mossad headquarters near Tel Aviv, marking its first claim of such an attack since hostilities with Israel intensified in October amid the Gaza conflict. Sirens sounded in Tel Aviv as the missile, identified as a "Qader 1," was intercepted by Israeli air defence systems after crossing from Lebanon. Hezbollah claimed the strike was in support of Gaza and to defend Lebanon, stating the targeted building was involved in planning recent attacks.
On 28 September, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has been confirmed killed in an airstrike on Beirut, marking a significant blow to the group amidst escalating Israeli attacks. The Israeli military announced his death, stating that most senior Hezbollah leaders were eliminated in the strike, which also injured 91 people. Hezbollah confirmed Nasrallah's killing, pledging to continue fighting against Israel in support of Gaza and Lebanon.
Nasrallah, 64, had led Hezbollah for over 32 years, becoming a prominent figure known for his resistance against Israel and defiance of the United States. His leadership was marked by Hezbollah's involvement in regional conflicts, including support for Hamas during the Gaza war. While his death is celebrated in Israel, the Israeli military cautioned that Hezbollah still possesses a considerable arsenal of rockets and missiles. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted that Nasrallah's death would not weaken Hezbollah, urging support for the group.
According to the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR), over 30,000 people, primarily Syrians, have crossed from Lebanon into Syria in the past 72 hours amid escalating conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Since September 23, more than 90,000 individuals have been displaced due to the fighting, with approximately 80% of those crossing being Syrians and 20% Lebanese, according to UNHCR representative Gonzalo Vargas Llosa. Lebanon hosts around 1.5 million Syrians who fled their country’s civil war, and the choice to cross back into Syria is fraught with difficulty, as the country has faced its own conflict for 13 years. Israel continues its bombardment of Lebanon, with over 700 people killed since Monday and thousands injured. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that the military will persist in targeting Hezbollah to ensure safety in northern Israel. As the situation continued to worsen and Israeli PM.
On 15 September, a long-range ballistic missile fired from Yemen struck central Israel, sparking air raid sirens in Tel Aviv and at Ben-Gurion airport. No casualties or significant damage were reported, though fragments landed in Modiin. Nine people suffered minor injuries while seeking shelter. The Houthis, claimed responsibility, stating their missile evaded Israel’s defence systems and targeted a military position near Jaffa. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation for any attacks on Israel. Hamas praised the missile strike as a response to Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. Yemen’s Houthi rebels on 27 September have claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Ashkelon, as well as three U.S. Navy destroyers in the Red Sea. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree announced the group's intention to continue operations against Israel until its actions in Lebanon and Gaza cease. Despite their attempts, the Israeli military reported intercepting a missile fired from Yemen, which triggered sirens in central Israel. The Houthis have previously targeted Israeli-linked ships and conducted missile strikes as part of their campaign in solidarity with Palestinians.
The Israeli military on 29 September launched significant airstrikes on Yemen, targeting key ports and power stations operated by the Iran-aligned Houthi group, marking the second major attack in over two months. The strikes, which occurred on Sunday, hit the Ras Isa and Hodeidah ports, resulting in at least four deaths and numerous injuries. This escalation is part of Israel's broader campaign against what it calls the "axis of resistance," comprising armed groups backed by Iran. The attacks utilized "dozens" of military aircraft, including fighter jets, and aimed to disrupt the Houthis' ability to import oil for military use. The Hodeidah port, crucial for Yemen's imports, and several power stations, including Ras Khatib and al-Hali, were affected, leading to widespread power outages.
On 8 September, an estimated 750,000 Israelis protested, demanding that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government secure the release of captives held in Gaza. The demonstrations follow the Israeli Army’s recovery of six captives' bodies and frustrations over the government's failure to reach a truce deal. Over 100 captives remain in Gaza, with a third believed dead, after Hamas took about 240 people captives in an October 7 attack that killed over 1,139 Israelis. Protesters across Israel have called for a ceasefire, urging Netanyahu to prioritize negotiations for the captives' return.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on 29 September announced that former rival Gideon Saar is joining the cabinet as a minister without a portfolio, a move aimed at bolstering the government coalition's support in parliament. Saar's inclusion increases the coalition's seats from 64 to 68 in the 120-seat Knesset, diminishing the influence of far-right parties. Once a vocal critic of Netanyahu, Saar has aligned with the prime minister since the onset of the Gaza war, with reports suggesting they may collaborate on key military appointments, including a new Israeli army chief. Saar, a former lawyer and journalist, was brought into politics by Netanyahu and was once seen as a rising star in the Likud Party. After losing a leadership challenge to Netanyahu, he defected and formed his own political movement, New Hope, in late 2020. By expanding the government, Netanyahu aims to strengthen his position and reduce reliance on coalition partners, further solidifying his grip on power.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 18 September passed a resolution calling on Israel to end its illegal occupation of Palestinian territories within a year, marking a significant moment for Palestine, which hailed it as “historic.” The nonbinding measure was adopted with a vote of 124-14, with 43 countries abstaining including India. It demands that Israel cease its unlawful presence and make reparations to Palestinians for damages incurred during the occupation.
This resolution supports an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which deemed Israel’s presence in the Palestinian territories unlawful. The vote comes amid Israel's ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in over 41,250 Palestinian deaths. The U.S. opposed the resolution alongside Israel and several other countries, while allies like France, Finland, and Mexico supported it. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the vote, urging global action to pressure Israel to comply.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on 26 September condemned the US for its ongoing support of Israel's military actions in Gaza, urging the international community to halt arms supplies to Israel. In his first address to the UN General Assembly since the conflict escalated last October, Abbas criticized Washington for providing diplomatic cover and weapons to Israel, despite a reported death toll of at least 41,534 people in Gaza. Abbas accused the US of obstructing UN Security Council resolutions aimed at achieving a ceasefire, stating, “The US alone stood and said, ‘No, the fighting is going to continue.’” He highlighted the need for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza post-conflict and proposed that the Palestinian Authority govern the territory as part of a future Palestinian state. While Abbas's speech included a vision for peace and a call for an international conference under UN auspices, analysts noted his lack of recent engagement in the peace process. In response, Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, criticized Abbas for not mentioning Hamas during his address, questioning his commitment to peace.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on 11 September arrived in Iraq on his first state visit, aiming to strengthen ties amid tightening Western sanctions. Pezeshkian, elected in July, met with Iraqi Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani to discuss trade, the Gaza war, and regional issues. Iran and Iraq are expected to sign agreements on trade, agriculture, communications, and security. Pezeshkian will also visit Erbil to meet Kurdish officials. The trip is seen as part of Iran's effort to mitigate the impact of US-led sanctions. Iran is a major trade partner for Iraq, and both nations share political and security ties.
Iran on 14 September successfully launched the Chamran-1 research satellite, advancing its aerospace program despite Western criticism. The 60kg satellite, launched by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) using the Ghaem-100 solid-fuel rocket, is designed to test orbital manoeuvring technology. Iran insists its launches are for peaceful purposes, though Western nations warn that the technology can be used for ballistic missiles. The launch occurs amid accusations from the US and Europe that Iran is supplying ballistic missiles to Russia for use in the Ukraine war, a claim Iran denies. Iran has conducted multiple satellite launches, despite facing sanctions.
Russia on 9 September called Iran an "important partner" while not denying reports that Tehran is supplying short-range ballistic missiles for the war in Ukraine. The European Union (EU) has claimed it has "credible information" confirming the supply, raising the possibility of further sanctions on Iran. While a senior Iranian commander denied the claims, stating no missiles were sent to Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not refute the reports, emphasizing instead that Russia and Iran are developing cooperation in "sensitive areas." The White House said it could not confirm the missile transfer, while NATO warned that such transfers would represent a significant escalation.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 24 September, emphasizing his desire to open a "constructive" chapter in Iran's international relations and to engage with the West regarding its nuclear program. In his inaugural speech at the UN, Pezeshkian criticized Israel for what he termed "genocide in Gaza" and "crimes against humanity" in its military actions against Palestinians and Lebanon.
Pezeshkian stated that Iran seeks peace and is prepared to engage with participants of the 2015 nuclear deal, provided the commitments of all parties are met. He directly addressed the American people, highlighting grievances against US sanctions and the 2020 killing of General Qassem Soleimani. His speech coincided with remarks from the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, who noted an increased willingness from Iranian officials to engage with the agency. Grossi expressed hope for a trip to Tehran in October following discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, a key figure in the 2015 nuclear agreement that aimed to limit Iran's uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief.
The United States military on 29 September announced the killing of dozens of fighters from ISIS and an al-Qaeda-affiliated group in two separate attacks in Syria this month. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that a large-scale airstrike on September 16 targeted an ISIL camp in central Syria, resulting in at least 28 operatives killed, including four senior leaders. CENTCOM stated that the strike would disrupt ISIL's operational capabilities against US interests and allies.
Additionally, a separate attack on September 24 in north-western Syria killed nine fighters, including Marwan Bassam ‘Abd-al-Ra’uf, a senior leader of Hurras al-Din, responsible for overseeing military operations in the region. This attack follows a previous strike in August that killed another senior figure from the same group. The US maintains around 900 troops in Syria to assist local forces in preventing ISIL's resurgence. The Syrian government has consistently opposed the US military presence in the country and has called for the withdrawal of US forces.
President Joe Biden on 23 September designated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a "major defence partner," enhancing military ties despite ongoing tensions related to the war in Sudan and escalating violence in the Middle East. This designation, announced after a White House meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, makes the UAE only the second country to receive this status, following India in 2021. The White House stated that this move would facilitate unprecedented cooperation through joint training and military collaboration, promoting regional stability in the Middle East, East Africa, and the Indian Ocean.
The meeting occurred amid intensified Israeli attacks on Lebanon, which resulted in at least 492 casualties, including 35 children. Biden emphasized ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure humanitarian aid access to Gaza, where over 41,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed. Despite the UAE's support for UN resolutions condemning Israel's actions in Gaza, it has also faced criticism over its alleged role in the Sudan conflict, where it is accused of supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Biden and Al Nahyan acknowledged the need for a diplomatic solution to the Sudan crisis and compliance with international humanitarian law.
Qatar has become the first Gulf nation to join the US visa waiver program, allowing its citizens to travel to the United States visa-free for up to 90 days. The US State Department and Department of Homeland Security on 24 September announced that Qatari citizens can apply for this status no later than December 1. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that Qatar's adherence to stringent security requirements will enhance the strategic partnership between the two countries and facilitate greater movement of people and commerce. The US and Qatar have maintained close ties, with Washington designating Doha as a “major, non-NATO ally” in 2022, reflecting their deepening military and economic collaboration. Qatar has also played a significant role in efforts to broker a ceasefire amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Qatar is now the 42nd member of the visa waiver program, which includes countries that meet strict criteria related to law enforcement and border management. While US citizens could already travel to Qatar without a visa, their stay will now extend to 90 days, up from the previous 30 days.
Sudan’s army on 26 September launched a major offensive in Khartoum to regain territory held by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Military sources reported air raids targeting RSF positions in the capital and northern Khartoum, marking the army's largest assault in months. The army has taken control of three major bridges, including those connecting Khartoum to Omdurman, and engaged in heavy fighting near the presidential palace.
At least four people were killed and 14 injured due to RSF artillery shelling on residential areas. Despite previous gains in Omdurman, the army has struggled against the more effective RSF ground forces. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023 due to tensions between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, has displaced over 10 million people. As the offensive continues, the RSF has reportedly withdrawn some forces to reinforce their position in Khartoum. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about the escalating conflict's humanitarian impact, while the UN warns of potential widespread famine. More than 18,800 people have been killed, and 33,000 injured since the fighting began.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II on 15 September accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Bisher al-Khasawneh's government following parliamentary elections marked by frustration over Israel’s war on Gaza. Khasawneh, a seasoned diplomat, had served since 2020 and will be replaced by technocrat Jafar Hassan, the king’s head of office. The government will remain in a caretaker role until a new cabinet is formed.
Jordan’s Islamic Action Front (IAF), affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood, won 31 out of 138 seats in the low-turnout election, reflecting public dissatisfaction over economic troubles and Gaza. Jordan, which signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1994, has struggled to balance relations with Israel and domestic anger, especially among its significant Palestinian-origin population. The Gaza conflict has also hurt Jordan’s tourism sector, vital to its economy, as unemployment reached 21% in early 2024.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has won a second term with 84.3% of the vote, according to the Constitutional Court verdict on 14 September. This follows challenges from his opponents over alleged irregularities after the initial results gave Tebboune nearly 95% support. The court adjusted the final vote share, granting Tebboune 84.3%, with his challengers, Abdelaali Hassani Cherif and Youcef Aouchiche, receiving 9.56% and 6.14%, respectively. Turnout was 46.1%, with 11.2 million of the 24 million registered voters participating. Tebboune’s critics, including Amnesty International, have raised concerns about his human rights record, accusing him of repressing dissent.
Tunisian presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel on 26 September was sentenced to six months in prison for falsifying documents, marking the second prison sentence against him within a week, just days before the presidential election. The Jendouba Court of First Instance found him guilty of using a fraudulent certificate, following a previous 20-month sentence for falsifying popular endorsements. Zammel's lawyer described the ruling as "another unjust ruling" aimed at undermining his candidacy. Zammel, a businessman with little public recognition before his presidential bid, was arrested on September 2 for allegedly falsifying signatures required for his candidacy and was briefly released before being re-arrested.
The political climate in Tunisia has intensified ahead of the October 6 election, with concerns over a potentially rigged vote to maintain President Kais Saied’s grip on power. Saied, who seeks a second term, has faced criticism for disqualifying prominent candidates and jailing opposition figures, including his main critics. Civil liberties advocates have condemned the crackdown as a sign of Tunisia’s democratic decline, with Amnesty International labelling it an assault on human rights and the rule of law.
An Egyptian warship on 23 September delivered a significant cache of military equipment to Somalia, including anti-aircraft guns and artillery, marking the second major shipment this year. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry announced that this aid aims to bolster the Somali army's capabilities and support its aspirations for security and stability. The first shipment occurred in August, after Egypt and Somalia signed a joint security pact amidst shared concerns about Ethiopia. The weapons were unloaded in Mogadishu, with security forces blocking off access to the quayside as convoys transported the materials to military facilities. Tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have escalated, particularly after Ethiopia agreed to lease land for a port to Somaliland, which Somalia views as a violation of its sovereignty. Ethiopia maintains a contingent of around 3,000 soldiers in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission to address ongoing unrest. Egypt has long been at odds with Ethiopia over the construction of a large hydro dam on the Nile's headwaters. In January, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi reiterated Egypt's commitment to Somalia's security, stating that Cairo would not allow any threats to its stability. Egypt has also expressed willingness to contribute soldiers to a new peacekeeping mission in Somalia.
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