Analysis & Reports

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu convened security cabinet meetings in Jerusalem on May 18, 2023, to prepare for potential military action against Iran, following a call with U.S. President Trump. The situation is tense, with expectations of military action possibly resuming soon. Trump announced a delay in military strikes against Iran at the request of leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, who believe an agreement is imminent.

Iran announced the formation of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz on May 18, 2026. President Trump delayed a planned military strike against Iran at the request of leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The situation reflects a complex interplay of military readiness and diplomatic negotiations, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear activities and regional security dynamics.

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Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, announced on May 18, 2023, that the country is considering opening new fronts in areas where the enemy is weak. He emphasized that research on this strategy has been completed, and if the current state of war persists, these fronts will be activated.

Iranian President Raisi asserted that negotiations do not equate to surrender, emphasizing the importance of dignity and national rights during discussions. On the same day, U.S. President Trump rejected any concessions to Iran, labeling their latest proposal as disappointing. Raisi's comments reflect Iran's commitment to defending its interests and dignity in the face of U.S. pressure.

SAHA Expo 2026 opened in Istanbul on May 5, showcasing advancements in defense technology with 1,478 exhibitors from over 120 countries. The event featured new military equipment, including drones and missiles, and was attended by official delegations from 74 countries. Key figures from Turkey's defense industry inaugurated the exhibition, emphasizing high-tech developments.

Solid Aero unveiled the Basat Bi fixed wing interceptor drone at Saha Expo 2026 in Istanbul. The drone is designed to neutralize various types of UAVs and features a unique fixed wing layout. It can take off vertically and is equipped with advanced navigation and targeting systems. The Basat Bi is ready for production and aims to address the growing drone threat in military operations.

The Israeli Navy intercepted a fleet attempting to reach the Gaza Strip on May 18. The fleet had departed from southern Turkey and was reportedly carrying humanitarian aid. Israeli forces warned that those involved in the provocation should change course. This follows a previous interception of a similar fleet near Crete in late April.

Two temporary Israeli bases were established in western Iraq on May 18, 2026, to support military operations against Iran. These bases enhance Israel's operational capabilities, integrating air support and special operations. Iraqi forces reportedly approached one site in March, resulting in airfire and casualties. The presence of these bases raises concerns about the military sovereignty of Gulf states despite their advanced military equipment.

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ASELSAN showcased over thirty advanced military systems at the EFES 2026 Exercise in Turkey, including the KOCATEPE Battlefield Management System, which was used for the first time. The exercise demonstrated ASELSAN's capabilities in air defense, electronic warfare, and battlefield management, attracting significant attention from international military delegations. The event underscored the strength of the Turkish defense industry and its technological advancements.

Turkey is developing the Yıldırımhan long-range hypersonic ballistic missile, which will enhance its strategic capabilities with a range of 6,000 km and a payload of approximately 3 tonnes. The missile was showcased at Saha Expo 2026 in Istanbul, alongside DeltaV's HISTEP hypersonic test platform. The Yıldırımhan is designed to reach speeds of Mach 9 and Mach 25, reflecting Turkey's advancements in military technology in response to regional threats.

Three drones attacked the vicinity of the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi on May 17, 2026, with one drone successfully hitting an external generator. UAE air defense forces intercepted two of the drones, revealing vulnerabilities in the country's air defense system. This incident raises significant concerns regarding the security of critical infrastructure in the Gulf amid ongoing regional tensions.

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Israeli Defense Forces struck over 30 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon within the past 24 hours, targeting weapon depots, observation posts, and military infrastructure. The operation resulted in the deaths of several Hezbollah militants who were planning attacks on Israeli soldiers.

STM unveiled the Tunga X interceptor drone at the Istanbul exhibition in 2026. The drone is designed to neutralize enemy drones using a 750 grams high explosive fragmentation warhead. It can reach speeds of 300 km/h and has a range of 25 km. Currently operated manually, it will gain autonomous capabilities by late 2026.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced on May 17, 2023, that Israel is nearing the completion of a key military objective in the Gaza Strip, which involves eliminating Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 attack. The Israeli Defense Forces have reported significant casualties, with over 72,000 Palestinians killed, primarily civilians, and approximately 1200 Israelis dead since the attack. The situation remains tense with ongoing violence despite a ceasefire agreement.

Saudi Arabian Defense Forces intercepted and destroyed three drones that entered Saudi airspace from Iraq on May 17. The Defense Ministry emphasized its right to respond to any violations of Saudi sovereignty and security.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu discussed the possibility of resuming military actions against Iran with U.S. President Trump on May 17. The conversation lasted about half an hour, with indications that Israel and the U.S. may conduct joint airstrikes if military actions are resumed.

The Israeli military warned of a personnel shortage of about 12,000 troops, including 7,000 combat soldiers, due to the pressures of multi-front operations. The IDF Chief of Staff has urged the government to extend mandatory military service from 30 to 36 months to mitigate this issue. Without legislative action, the personnel gap is expected to widen as the first soldiers under the new service term will be discharged in January 2027.

UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah condemned a drone attack on the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi on October 17, which resulted in a generator fire but no casualties. He emphasized the violation of international law by targeting civilian infrastructure and asserted the UAE's right to respond. The conversation with the IAEA Director General also covered enhancing cooperation on nuclear safety.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that Israel has expanded its control over 60% of the Gaza Strip as of May 17, 2023. He emphasized that this expansion is part of efforts to strengthen control over Hamas, ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. A new map indicating these changes was released in March 2023, which includes a newly designated restricted area.

On May 17, 2023, a drone attack targeted the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE, causing a fire at a generator. The UAE's air defense intercepted three drones, successfully shooting down two. IAEA Director General Grossi condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for military restraint near nuclear facilities. The UAE Armed Forces are currently on high alert to address any threats to national security.