Ukraine and World Affairs (including Iran/ME): Weekly Update
24th July 2026
This week the conflict around Hormuz has preoccupied the thoughts of most commentators more than anything else. The US continues to escalate by attacking Iran’s civilians and its infrastructure - often at the same time. The Iranians have also escalated but to a limited extent. As Jacques Baud points out, Iran wishes to escalate, on the one hand, but its does not want to alienate Arab populations in the region because it needs them to be on board for a restructuring/reorganising of the Middle East in the absence of the Americans. The large scale destruction of desalination plants or power plants is out of the question because it would cause the Arab populations too much pain. There are signs that Iran is hoping for insurrections in the Gulf States and Jordan and may even engage in ground operations in support of these if they happen. Time will tell.
The growing conflict now affects Iran; the Gulf States (including Saudi Arabia); Syria; Lebanon; Iraq; Yemen; the West Bank; Jordan and Gaza. As part of the MoU, Iran wanted the US out of the Middle East and that is precisely what it is doing as the US retreats from its Gulf bases to Jordan and then to Israel which could enter the Iran war soon.
Meanwhile, Ansar Allah has blocked the Bab el Mandeb Strait/the Red Sea. 12% of the world’s seaborne oil trade passes through the Strait, including Saudi oil suitable for producing diesel which is already in short supply globally. This action was taken in response to the Saudi blockade of Yemen which has been in place for many years. According to Pravda, Russia’s crude oil sales will benefit from the blockade. Crude is now over $100 a barrel.
In nearly 3 years, I can’t recall a single day when the Zionists did not murder someone in Gaza. As other conflicts vary in intensity, the genocide in Gaza has been a constant. The Zionists are also killing in South Lebanon, the West Bank and Syria.
In the Ukraine war, the Russians are advancing slowly almost everywhere as the drone war intensifies (see below).
It has been an intensively eventful week as the World Cup final provided an inspiration for those who oppose Israel (see below).
17th July - Post Publication
Maps
The Fighting
Early this morning:
….US warplanes launched airstrikes targeting several transportation and maritime infrastructure sites in the provinces of Hormozgan and Sistan and Baluchestan, as well as areas in Bushehr, Khuzestan, Lorestan, and the vicinity of Iranshahr Airport. The strikes resulted in material damage and casualties.
Around Midday, the IRGC announced a ‘large and surprising’ attack on Al-Muwahhid Airbase in Qatar. At the same time, the Zionists killed 8 and injured 20 at the Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza.
In Kuwait, the authorities have reported that a power plant and desalination facilities were hit. The Iranians had already warned that if the US attacked their power infrastructure they would respond in kind. But Iran denied hitting the power plant.
This afternoon, the Zionists also attacked Bint Jbeil in Southern Lebanon. In Gaza, a total of 15 civilians have been killed since dawn today, including 8 in an attack on a funeral in Nuseirat. Bint Jbeil was attacked again during the evening.
The Iranians also hit US troop accommodation at Jordan’s King Faisal airbase. You can see satellite images of the damage caused if you have Telegram. The Iranians are calling their attacks Nasr-2 or Victory 2.
Early in the evening, the IRGC targeted a Thai ship trying to break out of the Strait without permission. A total of 4 tankers were apprehended late at night. Erbil Province in Iraq was also targeted this evening.
Around 7.30 pm (GMT) explosions were heard in the Sulaymaniyah province in northern Iraq after Iran targeted a weapons depot belonging to terrorists. US attacks began around 9 pm when Sirik came under attack along with Qeshm Island. At this time it was reported that the Iranians had destroyed an Artificial Intelligence Centre in Bahrain this morning. In Bushehr the Iranians destroyed an MQ-9 drone. Shortly afterwards the Iranians attacked Kuwait, Jordan and Saudi Arabia where the Prince Sultan airbase was hit along with oil facilities in the city of Yanbu. Bahrain was also hit along with the U.S. Al-Harir Air Base in northern Iraq.
In Hormozgan Province (Iran) the Americans targeted a bridge and a tunnel.
The IRGC is claiming that it destroyed several aircraft while damaging several others in its attacks on Jordan today.
According to this report, the Iranians hit a US ship in the Indian Ocean. Another report from the Iranian Army confirms that a US ship sailing in the Indian Ocean was hit with anti-ship Cruise missiles.
Today, the Tanzanian-flagged oil tanker ASANA was hijacked by Somali pirates off the southeastern coast of Yemen in the Gulf of Aden, according to the Yemeni Coast Guard. Such incidents, once common, are now rare.
At least 8 civilians have been killed in the US attacks, including attacks on the Iranian bridges, while many more have been injured.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
Today, RT reported that the Zionists are considering a proposal to surround Palestinian prisoners with moats guarded by crocodiles. Yes - I did say crocodiles.
18th July
Maps
The Fighting
In the early hours of this morning, Jordan; Kuwait; Bahrain and Saudi Arabia came under attack from Iranian missiles and drones.
In Bahrain, according to the IRGC:
Our drones struck aircraft hangars, parking areas, fuel storage facilities and communication links at Sheikh Isa Air Base, a key U.S. air and naval operations hub in the region.
A base used by US forces in Arijifan (Kuwait) was destroyed along with a radar at Al-Salem base.
In the early hours, 2 tankers exploded while attempting to cross the US backed but mined route south of the Strait. Another 4 tankers attempting to leave were halted with warning missiles and drones.
This morning, the Iranian Army (as opposed to the IRGC) reported that it had targeted an ammunition depot in Camp Al-Adiri and General Staff buildings at Ali-Al-Salem air base (Kuwait). Fuel tanks at Al-Azraq air base in Jordan were destroyed along with command and control centres in Jordan and Kuwait.
Later in the morning, the maritime control tower at Larak Island was hit.
Meanwhile, in the Zeytoun neighbourhood of Gaza, another 3 Palestinians were martyred.
Later in the morning, in a piece of uplifting news, it was reported that local residents in Quneitra Province, Syria forced a Zionist patrol to withdraw from the area. But the Zionist air force struck targets in the Yarmouk basin (Southern Syria).
Early in the afternoon, the Iranians hit the Kuwait Academy of Security Sciences causing massive damage. Iraqi Kurdistan was also hit by drone strikes.
Later in the afternoon an Iranian official warned:
If the United States launches an attack on Iranian infrastructure, then Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, as well as the ports of Fujairah and Jebel Ali, must be immediately evacuated.
At this time the Zionists killed a child and injured many others injured in Western Gaza. Zionist shelling also killed 5 and injured many others in the Al-Naser neighbourhood west of Gaza City.
Also in the afternoon, a US strike on Jask in Southern Iran targeted a desalination plant and electricity facilities leaving 10,000 people without water.
This evening it was reported that 2 US soldiers were killed during the Iranian attacks on Jordan while a US report claimed that 5 US soldiers were injured in an attack on the Prince Sultan airbase (Saudi Arabia). Some say 12 soldiers were injured and K-135 Sratotankers damaged. According to the NYT, dozens of soldiers were injured in the attacks on Jordan which also damaged a large number of helicopters. Also during the evening, it was reported that 2 Typhoon jets were destroyed in protected hangars at the Ali-Al-Salem airbase in Kuwait. Later in the evening, according to the IRGC, the Iranians targeted aircraft hangers, fuel tanks and communication nodes at Sheikh Isa airbase in Bahrain.
Later in the evening, several civilians were injured and 1 killed by Zionist strikes on Zeytoun, southeast of Gaza.
Late at night, Iran attacked Kurdish forces in Iraq while the Americans attacked Sirik.
The US boasted about destroying a military tower overlooking Hormuz - the problem is that it is a piece of civilian Infrastructure, just like the bridges and tunnels it has destroyed.
The Iranians have announced 50 civilian deaths and 500 wounded by US attacks so far.
Many cities in Iran were hit, according to this report:
American bombing strikes hit the cities of Lar, Ahvaz, Yazd, Bushehr and Qeshm island, located in the Strait of Hormuz. Strikes were also carried out on the cities of Bandar Abbas and Hajji Abad, where 116 communication towers were destroyed.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
Early this morning, Senior Iranian official Mohsen Rezaee warned that:
If U.S. attacks continue over the next two to three days, the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will move beyond the stage of deterrence and retaliation and enter the phase of “offense and complete destruction,” such that U.S. bases and soldiers beyond political borders will be pursued and directly targeted. The United States should know that the attritional strategy of “war and negotiation” has reached a dead end…
The IRGC is warning that the Americans are approaching ‘Zero Hour’ of a new Iranian operation that will target their ships. This could be part of the phase of ‘offense and complete destruction’.
According to an Iranian Military source:
The forces have begun implementing a plan that will result in the destruction of all water purification stations in the region, specifically in Kuwait, if the American aggression against Iran does not cease.
Wow! Things could begin to get worse quite quickly.
The Iraqi Resistance has warned Jolani that they would not stand by if Syria attacked Lebanon and/or Hezbollah:
“every Syrian step toward Lebanon could be followed by an Iraqi step toward Syria.”
During the evening, Supreme leader Mojtaba made the following announcement:
The violation of the memorandum of understanding has once again proven that the signature of the President of the United States holds no value or credibility, and that the Iranian people have unforgettable lessons for the American enemy.
Today, the ‘Great Satan’ has once again revealed its true face without a mask, making this dark experience of crimes and broken promises new and conclusive evidence of the United States’ falsehood, irrationality, untrustworthiness, and malice.
Now, as the American enemy seeks to ignite war and bear even greater costs and further loss of reputation, it should know that the dear Iranian people and the Axis of Resistance have unforgettable lessons in store for it. The heroism of the fighters of Islam and the courage of the people of the southern regions in recent days have demonstrated examples of those lessons.
He also warned about divisions within the ranks of Iranians and their allies of which the Americans will take full advantage.
The Iranians also announced that they no longer feel obligated to adhere to any of its commitments under the MoU. Among these commitments was a promise not to build a nuclear weapon.
19th July
Maps
The Fighting
According to Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation:
The U.S. regime launched an attack on the Dar Khweyr nuclear power plant site at approximately 3:39 AM this morning, firing several projectiles.
The Erbil base in Iraq was attacked by Iranian drones early this morning.
Iranian missiles also caused damage to manned and unmanned aircraft stationed at Muwaffaq Salti airbase in Jordan. Around the same time, Ali Al Salem and Al Udeiri bases in Kuwait were attacked by drones. Later in the morning, Kuwait came under attack once more. Also this morning, several civilians were injured when the Zionists shelled a residential building in western Gaza.
Around 8 am (GMT) the IRGC announced the destruction of an MQ-9 drone over Ahvaz.1
In Hormuz this morning, 4 tankers attempted to avoid the IRGC by disabling their navigation systems. 2 of the tankers responded to IRGC instructions to turn back while the other 2 were hit when they refused to obey.
Today, a desalination/power plant in Kuwait was attacked for the second time. 90% of Kuwait’s drinking water is provided by the plant. Iranian drones also attacked ammunition depots and personnel shelters in Kuwait.
Around 9 am (GMT) in Khan Younis, Zionist gunfire killed 2 civilians.
Early in the afternoon, the Iranians attacked Al Aqabah airport in Jordan destroying C-17 transport aircraft and P-8 command and control aircraft. In the Israeli resort city of Eilat, air defences were activated, according to an Israeli news channel. Eilat is close to Aqaba, which was attacked, but I doubt that the Iranians would attack Eilat at this stage.
Later in the afternoon, the Americans attacked Abadan in Iran while the Zionists attacked a displacement tent in the Mawasi area of Khan Younis, killing 1 and injuring 10.
Around the same time, impacts were reported in Kuwait.
At tea time, the Americans hit the outskirts of Abadan in Southern Iran. According to this report, Saudi airplanes attacked a number of provinces in Yemen today killing and injuring many civilians and damaging property.
During the evening the US Central Command announced the death of a soldier in northern Iraq. Late in the evening, Zionist shelling injured many civilians in the Zeytoun neighbourhood in Gaza. At this time sirens were heard in Bahrain while explosions were heard in Erbil (Iraqi Kurdistan).
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
According to this report, the US has approved initial permits for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes in cooperation with and under supervision from the US. But Trump expects the Saudis to sign the Abraham accords as a condition. Unsurprisingly, the Zionists believe that this will threaten their security. The Israeli opposition is absolutely furious, as you can read at the Palestinian Chronicle.
According to an Iranian Military source:
We won’t wait any longer for the enemy to increase strikes against our vital infrastructure. We have begun to implemented a phased plan, which will end with the complete destruction of all regional energy and water-purification infrastructure, if the U.S. aggression against Iran does not immediately stop.
As part of the first stage of this plan, all powerplants and water desalination plants in Kuwait are now part of our target bank.
The gloves are off!
According to this report, the Americans have suffered the loss of many refueling aircraft and are moving the remaining tankers to Ben Gurion airport. Since the aircraft are assisting in the US’s attacks on Iran, they are legitimate targets. But it may not suit Iran to have the Israelis join the fight at this stage.
20th July
Maps
The Fighting
Early this morning, 2 tankers exploded while attempting to cross the ‘southern route’ out of the Hormuz Strait associated with the Americans. It sounds as if both vessels have fallen foul of mines laid by the Iranians. Also during the small hours, Kuwait came under attack by Iranian drones along with Bahrain while the Americans targeted Tabriz in Iran.
This morning, according to Slavyangrad:
Satellite images show hits on a US AI center HQ and command post in Bahrain. IRGC destroyed a USAF logistics warehouse at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, and ATACMS missile systems in Kuwait. Multiple airbases struck, details pending.
According to the IRGC, the Al-Azraq base in Jordon was attacked this morning killing dozens of US personnel and destroying 20 hangars.
The Zionists broke the ceasefire in Gaza again this morning, killing some and injuring many others. I can’t remember a day when the Zionists did not kill civilians in Gaza.
In the West Bank, ‘settlers’ and IDF combined to kill 2 Palestinians and injure many others at Deir Jarir, east of Ramallah. These monsters, also obstructed the ambulance crews sent to assist the wounded. Around midday, a woman was injured by Zionist gunfire in Rafah (southern Gaza).
8 Iranian cities were hit by this latest round of US attacks, including Mahshahr Port; Khomeini Port; Chabahar Port; Konarak Port; Bushehr; Tabriz and Sirik Port.
Iran has threatened to retaliate after the Americans hit the under construction Darhovin Nuclear Power Plant.
In the late afternoon, the US attacked Iran while the Iranians attacked US bases starting with Bahrain and then Jordan.
In Hormuz, the IRGC hit another tanker which failed to obey its instructions. So another vessel was punished for listening to the Americans.
During the evening, the Zionists attacked the Al-Sa’id hospital in Gaza causing 4 deaths and many injuries.
Around the same time, the Houthis announced an attack on Abha airport in Saudi Arabia.
Later in the evening the Zionists turned their murderous impulses towards Dara’a in Syria where they killed 2 children.
Late at night, a Kuwaiti source reported that desalination and power plants were hit causing fires.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
Hebrew Channels are reporting that Iran is advising its affiliated resistance groups in Iraq to prepare for a ‘comprehensive confrontation’ in Iraq; Jordan and Kuwait. The Hebrew Channels may be spreading alarmist rumours but it is possible that such fears are justified since Iran is fomenting insurrection.
Today, the Iranian Interior Minister traveled to Pakistan for a meeting with his counterpart while the IRGC declared that any objects relating to Donald J’s business interests in the Middle East are now legitimate targets. These include hotels; residential complexes and golf clubs.
The UK is providing fighter jets and transport aircraft - so is part of the conflict. I wonder, will the new PM intervene?
The Washington Post is reporting that the Pentagon is considering an increase in the scope of operations in Iran, according to this source. However, some officials are concerned that the US does not possess sufficient resources to expand operations by very much. One official said: ‘We don’t have enough resources to safely continue the operation, and I don’t think the White House realizes that’. Stocks of air defence systems and long range ammunition are dwindling and the transfer of more troops to the region is problematic. US military experts are warning that the US is not prepared to launch a ground attack against Iran. I’m glad that some in the Pentagon are exhibiting some sanity.
According to this report, mediators have submitted proposals to Iran designed to reduce tensions through a ten day ceasefire. But Iran ignored the request.
Zero Hedge is reporting that Iran is benefitting from China’s Beidou (BDS) satellite navigation network which was not available to it during the 12 day war last summer when it had to rely on compromised Western Systems.
This afternoon, the Houthis announced a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia affecting the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. It appears that they will block only vessels associated with the Saudis - according to Mahmood.
Brent Crude - $91 ($84.63 on Friday 17th July)
21st July
Maps
The Fighting
Early this morning, the Iranians targeted equipment belonging to the U.S. military at the Al-Arefjan base in Kuwait with ground-to-ground missiles while the Americans hit targets east and west of Sirik. Meanwhile, the Zionists launched attacks on Southern Lebanon and Gaza. In the latter attacks, the Zionists targeted the house of an Egyptian family, killing 5, including 3 children.
In Hormuz this morning, 2 non compliant tankers were struck by Iranian drones/missiles setting them alight. Around 3 am (GMT), the IRGC announced that it had struck and destroyed a US early-warning radar, a missile defense radar system, an AN/FPS-117 radar, a Patriot air defense system, and a satellite communications system supporting air defense at Ahmad Al Jaber Air Base in Kuwait. Early this morning, the Iranians also destroyed HIMARS systems at the Arijan base in Kuwait.
According to the Palestinian Chronicle, the Iranians hit a US military Complex in Jordan’s Al-Rukban area while destroying Amazon’s central data infrastructure in Bahrain.
Around midday, the Zionists killed 2 more Palestinians when they attacked the above car in Zahra (Gaza). In the afternoon, the Zionists attacked Beit Yahoun and Konin. Kuwait and Bahrain also came under attack at this time. Meanwhile the Houthis have turned 6 ships away from Saudi ports at the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb as part of their blockade of the Red Sea. Bahrain came under attack again during the evening when Iraqi Kurdistan also came under fire. It is thought that Kurdish groups could take part in ground invasion so they are being disrupted just in case.
Meanwhile off the coast of Yemen, the Houthis have turned back a Saudi tanker carrying 2 millions barrels of oil. The tanker had come from the Saudi port and terminal of Medina and will now sail through the Suez canal to reach its destination in West Asia. This could add a month to the journey.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
Early this morning the Orange man announced that for every US soldier killed the Iranians will suffer multiple casualties. What he really means is that for every serviceman killed, the US will murder three times as many Iranian civilians.
The Lebanese army has begun deploying in the town of Bzoutar, near Nabatiyeh, following the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces, in accordance with the "Framework Accord." This should be interesting.
According to Alastair Crooke, the Iranians have pushed the Americans out of their Gulf State bases and out of Jordan where the Jordanian people provided intelligence that enabled accurate strikes to be made (according to the IRGC). This means that US assets are being transferred to air bases in Israel with inadequate resources, which could increase the risk of Zionist involvement in the war on Iran.
Israeli intelligence is claiming that the Iranians have moved their enriched Uranium to ‘Pickaxe Mountain'. Trump has threatened to attack this new location.
Today, Khalil Al-Hayya was elected the new leader of Hamas.
Brent Crude - $88.47
22nd July
Maps
The Fighting
Just after midnight, sirens were heard in Kuwait and the US attack on Iran began. Mahshahr was among the first cities hit along with other locations in Khuzestan province. Tabriz was also targeted along with Bushehr. Air defences in Tehran were activated and Chabahar was hit while US missiles hit targets near the cities of Bahbahan and Amadiyah. A US drone was seen hovering over Isfahan at this time while explosions were heard in Zanjan.
Later this morning, a US army base in Syria came under fire from Iranian missiles. Explosions were also heard at Eilat (occupied territories, Israel) but these could have emanated from air defences activated following an attack on nearby Aqaba (Jordon). 24 US tanker aircraft are parked, temptingly, at Ramon airport in Eilat.
Early this morning, it was reported that a total of 5 tankers heading for the Bab el-Mandab Strait reversed course after being confronted by the Houthis.
This morning, the Iranians have hit targets in Bahrain; Kuwait and Jordan. In the afternoon, they destroyed radar systems at Ali Al Salem base, Babiyan Island in Kuwait while carrying out further attacks on Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
This afternoon, Trump engaged in his passion for killing fishermen - this time in Hormuz - where he claimed that the innocent fishing boats he destroyed were part of the non-existent Iranian navy.
According to Laith Marouf, more than 600 US troops have been injured in the past few days which is 10 times more than US estimates. Laith also believes that Iran will chase the US out of the Gulf states into bases in Crete, Greece and Bulgaria. They will also increase their use of bases in Israel.
Late in the afternoon, the Zionists hit the tented community in Al-Nuseirat (Gaza), killing one and injuring several others.
During the evening the Zionists attacked Qabatiya, south of Jenin (West Bank).
Late at night, Iranian drones targeted Erbil (Iraq) while Jordon was also attacked. Meanwhile, another Saudi ship was hit by missiles off the coast of Shuqaiq (Saudi Arabia). Ansar Allah is likely to be responsible.
Around this time, the Americans targeted Ahvaz and Bushehr.
Late in the evening, sirens were heard in Kuwait.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
US official sources are acknowledging the ‘paradoxical’ increase in the lethality and accuracy of Iran’s missiles, according to Simplicius. This is no paradox to those who have been paying attention.
Latest Trump Threat:
From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran.
Trump knows full well that threats will not work with Iran and yet he can’t help himself. The Iranians will definitely engage in an ‘eye for an eye’ on this one - or maybe they will go further.
During the afternoon, an Iranian military official responded thus:
…if the U.S. attacks any Iranian bridge or power plant, Iran will retaliate by striking multiple regional infrastructure and energy facilities linked to U.S. interests.
The Zionists are holding more than 9,000 Palestinian prisoners and the UN Human Rights Commission in Palestine is ordering them to stop torturing their detainees immediately.
Brent Crude - $94.75 (creeping up again).
23rd July
Maps
The Fighting
Early this morning, according to the IRGC, 3 ships attempted to leave Hormuz via the US supported ‘Southern Route'. 2 ships turned back after a warning while the other retreated after being fired upon.
Meanwhile, Ansar Allah blocked 2 ships en route to Saudi Arabia. The Encelia and the Layla were targeted with cruise/ballistic missiles and drones before turning back. A total of 10 ships were forced to retreat.
At this time, the Iranians attacked Aqaba (Jordan) once again, while the Americans targeted the Iran/Iraq border crossing at Shalamcheh. In retaliation, the Iranians attacked the border crossing between Iraq and Kuwait at Abdali. According to this report, 2 civilians were killed and 11 injured by US missiles strikes in this attack on civilian infrastructure at the border.
According to Sputnik, the Iranians claim to have destroyed Thad Radar and Patriot systems in Jordan.
Early in the afternoon, one Palestinian was killed and many more injured at the Jabalya refugee camp in Gaza. Later, the IRGC announced attacks on the US Al-Adhari in Kuwait.
Later, the Zionists injured 2 paramedics In Southern Lebanon while killing 1 and injuring many more in Khan Younis. During the evening they injured several civilians in attacks on the Arab National hospital in Gaza.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
The US Congress has passed a bill that merges US and Israeli military, which will benefit Israel but not the US. Some of Trump’s supporters will be asking ‘are you putting America or Israel first? We can only hope that the Senate rejects the move.
The UN has condemned illegal Zionist military operations in both Southern Syria and South Lebanon.
Fearing an Iranian attack, the Zionists are opening shelters throughout the country.
Today, France, France, Britain and Germany pulled their embassies out of Iran and the IRGC warned Britain against allowing the US to use its bases to attack the country.
Protests have taken place in Kuwait and in Jordan where people are celebrating the arrival of Iranian missiles - according to Mahmood OD. Colonel Macgregor, believes it possible that Iran could conduct ground operations against Kuwait and other Gulf States. Is it possible, I wonder, whether such moves could be planned to coincide with insurrections?
Trump
We don’t need the Strait of Hormuz.
But Trump is fighting in Hormuz ‘because we can’t allow Iran to have nuclear weapons’.
Have you looked at the price of Crude, Orange man, and do you know that the US is using Patriot missiles one hundred and thirty two times faster than it can build them. Get real, Donald.
Brent Crude - $98.05 (still climbing). Later in the day, the price reached $100.43.
24th July
The Fighting
Early this morning, many people were injured when the Zionists attacked the Magazi refugee camp in Gaza. Around the same time, as the Americans began their nightly attack, an object was shot down over Queshm Island and explosions were heard in Ahvaz, Bandar Abbas and Yazd. The US attacks lasted only 2 hours and the Iranian response was prompt. You can view a summary of the US attacks on 16 Iranian cities here.
Kuwait came under attack around 3 am (GMT) along with Jordan. The US Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain was also hit. Later in the morning, the Iranians attacked US Consulate warehouses in Erbil (northern Iraq) causing fires.
Political/Diplomatic/Military Moves
According to Tass, Iran has rejected the US’s call for a ceasefire while Trump claims that it is constantly begging him for a halt in the fighting. Trump has vowed to seize Iran’s frozen assets to pay for the tankers it is destroying but this will undermine faith in the dollar as you can read at Sputnik. Trump is unjustly holding Iran responsible for Houthis attacks.
Today, the Iranians denied claims that they had attacked a power station in Kuwait, claiming this was a ‘false flag’ operation.
Brent Crude - $100.38
Ukraine and World Affairs
In bad news for the once great Z, Hungary has blocked talks on Ukraine’s EU membership again. In more bad news, recent research indicates that Ukrainian deaths are now four times higher than births. The situation at the fronts remains much the same while the air war is still intense, claiming many Russian civilian casualties (see below).
On the 23rd July, Sergei Lavrov met with Marco Rubio at the ASEAN related event in the Philippines where he advised Rubio of the situation at the fronts and may have reminded him that US operatives are deeply and directly involved in attacking Russian civilians. Shortly before this, the US had the nerve to object to alleged Russian involvement in assisting Iran by providing intelligence.
In his parallel universe, Rubio is accusing Iran of blocking talks, filtering out inconveniences such as Trump’s signing of the MoU and his subsequent violation of every single clause. The talks lasted a miserly 35 minutes: just enough time to say hello and goodbye. You can read about the talks at Tass.
European gas prices have soared by 50% over the past month. They will probably continue to rise until the Iran war ends. Germans are paying 5 times more for gas since ditching Russian imports.
In some positive news, it is rumoured that Sergei Surovikin (aka General Armageddon) is back in Ukraine after doing some good work in Africa.
Change of Command
Following many protests throughout Ukraine, General Oleksandr Syrskyi has been dismissed from his post. Zelensky appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi (pictured) to replace him as ground forces commander. Drapatyi is said to be just as a much a butcher as his predecessor.
I am not convinced that the small ‘carboard’ protests prompted the dismissal. You can read some Ukrainian analysis of the issue here.
Zelensky Dismisses Umerov
Zelensky has dismissed Rustem Umerov as Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council, replacing him with Igor Klimenko (below).
Ukraine Terrorist Attacks
17th/18th July
Overnight, 64 drones were shot down as they approached Moscow.
In Tambov Region, 7 people were killed and 24 injured in an attack on the ‘Wildberries’ logistics centre. In Belgorod, 3 were injured and 1 killed in drone attacks while in Zaporozhye 2 women were injured by drones. In Kherson, 3 were killed and 7 injured in drone attacks. A total of 379 drones were destroyed over Russian territory at night.
18th/19th July
Overnight, 61 people were injured and 1 killed in Ukrainian drone attacks on Moscow Region.
19th/20th July
Overnight, 400 drones attacked the Moscow region but most were shot down before they reached the city boundaries. Nevertheless, 10 people were injured by this attack. In Belgorod, 13 civilians were injured by drones while 4 more were injured in Kherson. Later in the day, Ukrainian drones attacked a civilian bus in Belgorod, killing 5 and injuring another 23. A woman and child are among the dead. In Bryansk, 1 person was killed and 13 people injured by drone attacks.
20th/21st July
Overnight in Belgorod, another 4 were killed and 42 injured in drone attacks while in Bryansk a fire fighter was killed and 3 civilians injured by drones. In Kursk, 5 railways workers were injured by drones while 2 more were injured in Kherson. A total of 209 drones were shot down over Russian territory at night.
21st/22nd July
During the 21st July, 123 drones were destroyed over Russian territory. Overnight, Wildberries warehouses2 were burned down by Ukrainian drones at Krasnodar and Stavropol Nevinnomyssk. 5 people were injured. In Bryansk, 2 people were injured in drone attacks while in Belgorod 2 civilians were killed and another 8 injured by drones. In the DPR, 2 were killed and 3 injured by drones while in Zaporozhye 2 were injured in an attack on a bus station. In Kherson, 1 civilian was killed and 7 injured by drones.
22nd/23rd July
Overnight in Bryansk, 1 civilian was killed and 3 injured by drones. 2 were injured by drones in Kursk another 3 in Belgorod and 3 more in Kherson.
23rd/24th July
Overnight, 59 drones were shot down over Leningrad Region. The Ukrainians continue to target Wildberries stores in Crimea, Leningrad and other places. In Belgorod, 10 people were injured by drones, missiles and shelling, while in Kursk, another 2 civilians were injured by drones. 3 more were injured by drones in Kherson. A total of 571 drones were shot down over Russian territory at night.
The Sea War
17th/18th July
According to the War Chronicle:
Last night, the Armed Forces of Ukraine attacked 12 of our ships in the Black Sea east of the Kerch Strait, including 9 dry cargo ships, 1 tanker, a gas carrier and a tugboat. For the first time, FP-2 drones used auto-lock on target.
Also:
The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reports that during the week, 24 enemy naval vessels used in the interests of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were attacked. Of these: 14 dry cargo ships, three ferries, two container ships, a tanker, a dock, two boats.
Ukraine used jet drones to attack northern Crimea where they killed 2 and injured 1.
Overnight, the Russians hit port facilities while in Chernomorsk a container ship unloading ammunition was also hit. They also targeted a ship near Snake Island.
18th/19th July
Overnight, Ukrainian drones attacked shipping in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea while energy/fuel infrastructure was targeted in Crimea.
The Ukrainians also carried out a terrorist attack on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium’s Marine Terminal on the Black Sea Coast. Tankers in the area were not damaged and no oil spillage was recorded.
According to Slavyangrad:
Russian forces struck vessels in the Black Sea. One ship caught fire after impact, another developed a significant list. Reports indicate an additional dry cargo ship was attacked minutes later as the Russian Ministry of Defense continues clearing the waters of vessels attempting to reach Odessa and Nikolaev.
19th/20th July
Overnight, drones were shot down over Crimea and the Sea of Azov. Sevastopol and Balaclava were also attacked by drones.
20th/21st July
Overnight, several drones were shot down over Crimea, the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
21st/22nd July
Overnight, the Russians hit 2 Ukrainian vessels near Odessa and a dry cargo ship in Nikolaev. During the 22nd July, Ukrainian drones attacked residential apartment buildings in Yalta (Crimea) injuring 17.
22nd/23rd July
Overnight at Chornomorsk port, Russian geraniums hit 4 dry cargo ships and a bulk carrier. A ‘Nova Poshta’ logistics centre was also targeted. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones attacked Sevastopol and other parts of Crimea.
The Air War
Russian Missile/Drone Attacks
17th/18th July
Overnight, the Russian Geraniums attacked Odessa; Cherkasy; Sumy; Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporozhye regions.
18th/19th July - Huge Attack on Kiev
According to the War Chronicle:
Kyiv, they report the arrival of about 30 missiles in 20 minutes, and in just 53 minutes of the attack, 40 missiles arrived.
You can read more detail here.
Oakland LLC, which produces drones, and Nova Poshta (Kiev) were also hit.
The Russians hit another locomotive in Volyansk (Zaporozhye).
In Kiev, a section of the vestibule at the Lukyanivska metro station has partially collapsed – the station is located near the "Artem" factory which was attacked by the Russians.
You can view a list of the Kiev targets here.
According to Ukraine’s Air Force Command:
…its radio-technical troops detected 166 aerial threats in total: 41 missiles of various types and 125 attack drones. The missile inventory included 10 3M22 Zircon hypersonic anti-ship cruise missiles, 25 Iskander-M/S-400 ballistic missiles, three Oniks anti-ship cruise missiles, and three Kh-59/69 air-launched cruise missiles.
19th/20th July
Overnight, Russian geraniums attacked targets in Kherson, Nikolaev and Zaparozhye.
Kiev also came under a heavy attack. You can read a list of targets hit at the Russian MoD.
Odessa Port also came under attack from missiles and drones which damaged a Ukrainian cargo ship - The Golden Leo (pictured). 5 sailors were killed and another 5 missing (feared drowned).
A hydrocarbon processing centre was destroyed in Poltava, according to this, while an electric substation was hit in Chernigov.
20th/21st July
Overnight the Russians continued their attacks on Odessa ports damaging a Turkish container ship and another vessel. In Odessa, the largest oil depot in Ukraine is on fire. Port infrastructure at Chornomosk was also targeted while 2 bulk carriers and a cargo ship attempting to deliver supplies to the port were destroyed. A large logistics centre in Sumy was also hit. The Russians also hit targets in Poltava; Kharkov (the Novaya Pochta terminal); Zaporozhye and Krivoy Rog.
21st/22nd July
Overnight, geraniums hit an Ukrainian recruitment centre in Chernigov.
22nd/23rd July
Overnight, warehouses in Odessa were set alight by Geraniums. Today, for the first time, no ships entered Odessa ports. In consequence, grain prices are creeping up.
23rd/24th July
Overnight, facilities and fuel storage were attacked at the ports at Nikolaev; Odessa and Izmail while Kiev was hit by Iskanders and Zircons.
Ukrainian Missile/Drone Attacks
19th/20th July
Overnight, 2 tankers were targeted by Ukrainian drones near the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal in the Black Sea.
22nd/23rd July
Today the governor of Ulyanovsk region reported that:
A fuel and energy facility in the Novospassky district has been attacked by the enemy’s UAVs. Emergency services are working at the scene. Please remain calm; I will keep you updated on the firefighting efforts and the situation at the site,”
The Ground War
Russian MoD Reports - Ukrainian Losses
w/e July 3rd 10,840 Casualties killed and wounded: equipment losses 791.
w/e July 10th 10,050 Casualties killed and wounded: equipment losses 697.
w/e July 17th 10,155 Casualties killed and wounded: equipment losses 725.
w/e July 24th 10,165 Casualties killed and wounded: equipment losses 782.
The Fronts
Front Line Cats
Sumy
On the 23rd July, according to the Majors:
In the Sumy direction, units of the "North" Territorial Defense Force are engaged in firefights in Ulanovo and near Malaya Sloboda. Firefights continue in Ryzhevka, Pisarevka, Mogritsa, Maryino, the village of Novaya Sech, the village of Khoten, and the forests south of Ivolzhanskoye.
Ukrainian counter-attacks were repelled.
Kharkov
On the 23rd July, according to the Majors:
In the Kharkov direction, units of the 34th Guards Separate Motor Rifle Brigade (Mountain) and the 11th Tank Battalion of the 18th Mechanized Division, 11th Army Corps of the "North" Territorial Defense Force drove out the Ukrainian Armed Forces and Ukrainian border guards from the village of Artelovo (Kupyansk district) and liberated the settlement.
Russian troops also captured Volokhovskoye.
On the 24th July, according to the Majors:
On the Volchansk section, infantry fighting continues in the villages of Zakharovka, Ivanovka, Yurchenkovo, and the town of Bely Kolodez, north of Baksheevka, and near Shevchenkovo.
Ukrainian counter attacks have been repelled.
Kupyansk
The city of Kupyansk is still being contested by both sides. According to the Majors:
In Kupyansk, an increase in enemy reserves is being observed, aimed at expanding control in the western part of the city.
On the 24th July the Ukrainians were attacking towards Sobolevka and Moskovka.
Liman
According to Rybar:
In the Lyman direction, heavy fighting continues in Lyman and its surroundings. The enemy pulls reserves from near Shchurove, where they are thinned out by air strikes.
Slavyansk
Konstantinovka
Pokrovsk
According to Slavyangrad:
Russian troops are gradually moving beyond the active operation zone in Pokrovsk itself, continuing their westward advance. The pace is slower than the rapid breakthrough at Ocheretino, but any tactical gain here is significant given the battle's density and severity.
Kamyanske
Novopavlovka
Dobropillia
By the end of the week, according to the Majors:
In the Dobropol direction, fighting is taking place in Shevchenko and Belitskoye, and the enemy has the capability to conduct counterattacks.
By the end of the week, the city of Belitskoye was liberated.
Zaporozhye
By the end of the week:
The guards of the 36th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade of the 29th Army of the "East" Territorial Defense Force liberated the settlement of Blagodatnoye, Zaporozhye region.
On the 23rd July in the Orekhov Sector:
Paratroopers from Shcherbaki advanced east towards Novoandreyevka and to fortifications near Novopavlovka. North of Stepovoye and Malye Shcherbaki, significant successes in liberating territories were also achieved. Enemy positions at the western outskirts of Orekhov and logistics routes from Zaporozhye are being targeted, preventing enemy troops from rotating and delivering ammunition
The Economic War
US Stocks Crash
U.S. stocks lost nearly a trillion dollars after Trump issued a new warning to Iran regarding the loss of American military personnel. Stocks recovered, of course but this shows how jittery the market is.
World Politics
The World Cup
After 5 weeks or so, the World Cup ended with a win by Pro-Palestinian Spain over Pro-Israeli Argentina. Spain was by far the better side while Argentina hardly threatened the Spanish goal yet tried to foul its way into contention. At the end of the match, some Argentinian players disgraced themselves in a physical attack on a Spanish player. Donald Trump gave out World Cup medals to the Spanish players and tried to impose his bulk on the team photograph but was pulled away by Infantino.
The Iranian parliamentary speaker, Qalibaf, congratulated Spain:
I would like to congratulate you, the people, and the government of Spain on the national team's victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Your support, along with that of the players, for the people of Palestine, and Spain's support for the Islamic Republic of Iran during the Third Imposed War, demonstrates that freedom and independence are characteristics of that wise and respected nation. This valuable victory and championship not only brought joy to the people of that country but also to many freedom-loving and independent nations around the world.
So, those who Trump called ‘hopeless bad people’, have won the World Cup.
They celebrated wildly in Gaza (above).
In an amazingly inspiring episode, English and French players gathered at the end of their match to pray: not to fight and express hate but to pray and express love. I think this provides a profound antipathy to the Argentinian reaction that shows the more honourable side of the game I love.
Block Aid To Israel - Bernie
At a rally in Michigan, Bernie Sanders called for a halt in all aid to Israel.
Burnham Elected Labour Leader
Andy became UK Prime Minister on Monday but will anything change? Early reports suggest that he will abandon digital ID - which will not please Tony Bliar. However, Burnham will actively support Israel and Ukraine.
AfD Leads by 8 Points
Germany’s AfD Party now leads Merz’s CDU/CSU by 8 points as you can read at Sputnik.
Lavrov Attends ASEAN Summit - Philippines
The Summit was held in Manilla on the 21st to the 23rd July. The Russian delegation led by Lavrov presented:
…its assessment of the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, "including the growing conflict potential there amid the Western policy of militarizing the Asia-Pacific, introducing NATO's military capabilities into the region, and expanding bloc-based mechanisms.
Protests
Stockholm
Demonstrators marched in Sweden’s capital to protest the ongoing genocide in Gaza and the Zionist incarceration of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya.
Ukraine
The anti-Syrsky/pro-Fedorov protests continued for a third day in Kiev and 13 other cities. I have no idea what the cardboard signs are saying.
Iran
Thousands of Iranians formed a human chain around the Persian coast at Bandar Abbas. Some expect that a US ground attack could be made here and on the nearby island of Qeshm. However, it is not clear whether US troops will be involved rather than proxy forces. The 50,000 US troops currently deployed to the region will not be adequate. The temperature in the Hormuz area has reached 50 Celsius with humidity at 99%. Therefore, US troops will be very uncomfortable.
The emerging Multi-Polar World
It has been an incredibly eventful week which I have struggled to keep pace with. Please subscribe and share so that the Busker can reach more people. Have a good week. Best Rob
Non subscribers can view Updates on Telegram: https://t.me/UWUupdate.
They cost $34 million each.
The Russian version of Amazon, I think.
Excellent report Rob - 'struggle to keep up' is no exaggeration! Isn't it amazing that all you read about in the BRitish Media is how Ukraine has turned the tide and is now winning - so what do they do? Sack Syrsky as well as Federov. In football terms, would you sack the manager of a winning team? I think not - and that tells you what the real situation is. I can't watch the msm anymore because it is so off beam, it is shameful.
Thanks for all your hard work. I'm reading through the excellent report. One of the thoughts I have had recently is the situation where Russia uses Iran as a proxy like NATO uses Ukraine. If Russia gave Iran hypersonic missiles what would Italy, Germany or the UK do if Iran attacked military assets with them for allowing the US to use their bases to attack Iran as is currently happening with the Arab countries that allow US bases. Seems to be one way of Russia avoiding a direct strike while Iran seems less disinclined to strike US and allied assets directly they just lack the means to strike further afield. I'm not suggesting they do that but I do wonder speculatively what eaders think the consequences might be.