US launches 'Operation Economic Outcast' to isolate Iran as Israel raids Lebanon and Syria

US launches 'Operation Economic Outcast' to sever Iran's global revenue lifelines Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a new sanctions campaign targeting all of Iran's revenue sources, including oil, with secondary penalties for any country or company that facilitates transactions. Bessent framed it as 'economic D-day,' warning that 'no one is above the reach of US sanctions.' 12

Israeli forces cross 'yellow line' in south Lebanon as attacks intensify Tanks and bulldozers entered the town of Haris and destroyed a road link to homes on the outskirts, as Israeli operations in south Lebanon escalate. The incursion comes amid broader regional tensions following the collapse of the ceasefire with Iran. 3

Israeli forces raid southern Syria day after de-escalation meeting Israeli military vehicles entered villages in Daraa and Quneitra provinces, conducting searches and raiding homes, just a day after Damascus and Tel Aviv held US-mediated talks in Jordan to reduce tensions. The raids mark a continuation of near-daily Israeli incursions in the area. 4

EU approves €6.1 billion defense aid for Ukraine on Independence Day The European Commission approved new funding for air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars, part of the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the support is 'unfaltering and concrete' as Russia intensifies attacks. 5

Macron warns Russia will escalate against NATO countries to deter Ukraine support Speaking at the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Kyiv, the French president said 'provocations will multiply' and called for a 'robust posture' from allies. He urged accelerated deliveries of air defense interceptors and new sanctions on Russian oil and gas. 6

UK to share SCALP missile blueprints with Ukraine as coalition meets in Kyiv The UK announced it will share blueprints for the SCALP cruise missile with Ukraine, a significant technology transfer, as the Coalition of the Willing convened in Kyiv. The move is part of broader Western efforts to bolster Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities. 7

Ukrainian drones hit 66 targets including MiG-29 and shadow fleet vessels Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces struck a Russian MiG-29 fighter jet, four radar systems, and two shadow fleet vessels in the Black Sea overnight. The strikes also hit Ozon logistics centers, marking the third consecutive night of attacks on the Russian retailer. 89

Ukraine strikes Ozon warehouses, killing two children in Krasnodar Drone strikes on four Ozon logistics facilities in Krasnodar, Dagestan, Stavropol, and Adygea caused fires and casualties, including two children killed. Ozon shares fell 20% on the Moscow Exchange, and Putin warned Russia will target Ukraine's 'most sensitive economic sectors' in response. 10

Zelenskyy says Russia rejects grain ceasefire, demands halt to oil strikes Ukraine offered a mutual halt to attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea, but Russia refused, demanding instead that Kyiv stop striking Russian energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy said Moscow's focus is 'purely about its energy sector,' not grain. 11

Renewed Black Sea blockade threatens Ukraine's grain harvest As Ukraine and Russia hammer each other's ports, grain shipments through the Black Sea have slowed to a crawl, hitting farmers at harvest time. Russia has stepped up strikes on Odesa's grain silos and port facilities, while Ukraine targets Russian ships and terminals. 12

Houthis claim strike on Saudi oil tanker off Yanbu The Houthi group claimed responsibility for an attack on a Saudi oil tanker near the port of Yanbu, raising concerns about Red Sea shipping security. The strike comes amid ongoing disruptions to oil exports in the region. 13

Zambia courts sealed as election petition deadline looms Court premises in Lusaka and elsewhere have been taped off with a heavy police presence as the deadline approaches for opposition candidate Brian Mundubile to file a petition against the presidential election result. The closure could affect the scheduled September 1 inauguration of incumbent Hakainde Hichilema. 14

Kazakhstan's pro-government party wins parliamentary election The ruling party secured a victory in the parliamentary election, boosting President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's grip on power. The result was reported by state media and international observers. 2