Analysis & Reports

The Iranian Foreign Ministry announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Discussions between Iran and Oman regarding the management of the strait have reportedly made positive progress as of the 27th.

General Brad Cooper of U.S. Central Command recommended pausing airstrikes against Iran, citing limited effectiveness. Following consultations with military advisors, President Trump decided on July 24, 2023, to halt these operations. Concerns about the potential escalation of conflict and the shortage of air defense interceptors were also highlighted.

On July 24, China imposed export controls on 14 EU entities, including Wrocław University, in response to EU sanctions. This action targets the European military supply chain, affecting dual-use technologies and materials. The inclusion of a university indicates China's strategy to disrupt connections within the European defense sector.

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Turkey is actively attempting to sell its S-400 Triumf air defense systems to the United Arab Emirates to rejoin the U.S. F-35 program. The sale involves two batteries and 120 interceptor missiles, with ongoing discussions among Turkey, Russia, and the UAE. Israel has expressed severe concerns regarding the implications of this sale for regional security.

The United Arab Emirates and Israel established a joint arms fund on July 27, 2026, aimed at purchasing and developing new weapon systems, particularly for countering unmanned aerial systems and enhancing air defense. This partnership marks a shift from secretive security cooperation to a more formalized military production and procurement relationship, driven by the recent Iranian threats and the need for advanced defense capabilities.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Jul 27 2026Loading...

Leonardo and PT ESystem Solutions Indonesia signed a contract to supply 12 M-346 F Block 20 multirole light fighter aircraft to the Indonesian Ministry of Defence, with deliveries starting in 2030. The agreement includes support and training services, contributing to Indonesia's air force modernization efforts. This makes Indonesia the first Asian customer for this aircraft model, which will enhance its combat capabilities.

A new type of attack submarine has been identified under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai as of July 24, 2026. The submarine measures approximately 120 meters in length and features a smaller sail, which may enhance its stealth capabilities. This development suggests an expansion of the People's Liberation Army Navy's underwater platform capabilities, addressing previous deficiencies in underwater operations.

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Poland proposed joint production of missiles for the Patriot air defense system with Ukraine and the U.S. during a visit to Washington on July 23. This initiative aims to address security concerns and ensure that missile production occurs in safe locations. The U.S. plans to issue a production license for Patriot missiles to Ukraine, with potential production sites in Germany or other European countries to mitigate risks from Russia.

Greece approved a €3.5 billion procurement from Israel for a multi-layer air defense system on July 23, 2023. The system, named 'Achilles Shield', will enhance Greece's defense capabilities and includes various military equipment such as C-390 transport aircraft and drones. The Greek Armed Forces aim to modernize their military by investing approximately €28 billion by 2036.

Australia announced an additional $3.2 billion investment for the construction of nuclear submarines on July 24, 2023, as part of the AUKUS defense agreement with the U.S. and U.K. This investment aims to enhance Australia's military capabilities and ensure the timely delivery of submarines amid concerns over production rates. The funding will support the Osborne shipyard in South Australia.

U.S. Central Command Commander Brad Cooper recommended halting bombing operations around the Strait of Hormuz on July 26, citing diminishing effectiveness. This recommendation influenced President Trump's decision to pause U.S. strikes against Iran. The airstrikes have reportedly weakened Iran's capability to attack vessels, and Cooper noted that the designated bombing targets have largely been destroyed.

On the 25th, Ukraine attacked an Iranian merchant ship in the Caspian Sea, resulting in one sailor's death and another's injury. Iran condemned the attack, claiming it violated the UN Charter and was carried out under Israeli influence. Analysts believe the attack aims to disrupt Iranian military support to Russia and to signal the U.S. for assistance in the Ukraine conflict. This incident marks a significant escalation in tensions between Ukraine and Iran.

Iran suspended retaliatory strikes against the U.S. on the 26th but expressed skepticism about U.S. intentions. The Iranian military is prepared for any potential actions and maintains a stance of responding to attacks. U.S. military operations against Iran have been paused for 13 days, as ordered by President Trump.

U.S. officials, including President Trump, decided against resuming large-scale military strikes against Iran during a meeting on April 24, 2023, due to concerns over ammunition depletion and potential retaliation. The U.S. has already used over 1200 Patriot missiles in the conflict, leading to worries about the readiness of U.S. forces in the Middle East. Discussions emphasized the need for continued negotiations with Iran instead of military escalation.

Iran's Supreme Leader declared on July 26, 2023, that supporting the 'Resistance Front' is a strategic mission to defend Lebanon and halt Israeli aggression. He emphasized that maintaining Lebanon's territorial integrity is essential for ending the conflict, as stated in a letter to Hezbollah's leader, Naim Qassem.

Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed the attack on an Iranian merchant ship in the Caspian Sea during a phone call on July 26. Amir-Abdollahian condemned the attack as a dangerous act, while Lavrov criticized it as a violation of international law, emphasizing the need to hold Ukraine accountable. The two officials also exchanged views on the latest regional security situation, including the Strait of Hormuz.

Russian President Putin stated that the Navy's development plans will be implemented, emphasizing its importance for national security during a Navy Day event in Saint Petersburg. The Russian Navy is set to receive 20 ships and auxiliary vessels by 2026, with 21 more expected by the end of this year. Putin also highlighted Russia's commitment to protecting its interests in Arctic cooperation.

Iran is prepared to halt military operations if the U.S. stops its strikes, but it remains doubtful about U.S. intentions. On July 24, 2023, President Trump ordered U.S. forces not to engage Iran, breaking a 13-day streak of airstrikes. Iran's position emphasizes a retaliatory approach to attacks, and it has communicated this stance to the U.S.

The U.S. Navy has officially redesignated the Information Professional community as Communications Systems Warfare Officers (CSWO) effective July 25. This change emphasizes the community's role in managing cybersecurity and command and control networks, aligning with modern warfare needs. The redesignation reflects ongoing efforts to enhance electronic warfare and information capabilities within the Navy.

Iranian military spokesperson Akraminia stated that the U.S. is in a dire situation without a clear strategy. He outlined potential U.S. options, including withdrawal, large-scale airstrikes, or ground operations. Iran is prepared for various scenarios and is monitoring U.S. actions, with the conflict's geographical scope now extending to the Strait of Mandeb, targeting U.S. forces from Jordan to the Persian Gulf.