Analysis & Reports

Arrakis announced a $30 million Series A funding round to enhance its AI deployment capabilities for industrial companies. Founded in January 2026, the company aims to help enterprises across sectors like energy and logistics adopt AI agents for mission-critical operations. With a focus on maintaining data ownership and improving operational efficiency, Arrakis is set to expand its presence in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.

Houthi forces announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia on October 20, 2023, warning vessels to avoid Saudi ports. As of October 22, five oil tankers have altered their routes in the Red Sea, with some heading to the Suez Canal. The EU military operation in the region has issued warnings about increased risks for vessels linked to Israel, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia.

Iran's Foreign Minister warned that any attack on Iranian infrastructure would elicit a decisive response. He emphasized that any party involved in such attacks would be considered a legitimate target. The Iranian Armed Forces also stated they would prevent oil exports from the region if the U.S. acted against Iran's infrastructure.

Iran's Foreign Minister declared that any attack on Iranian infrastructure will elicit a strong response. He emphasized that those supporting such aggression will be seen as legitimate targets. Additionally, the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force warned that attacks on Iranian bridges and power plants would disrupt power supplies to U.S. allies. U.S. President Trump also threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure in response to any aggression.

Iranian armed forces warned that they would prevent oil exports from the Middle East and attack economic infrastructure if the U.S. acts against Iranian infrastructure. This statement was made on July 22, reflecting a significant military threat in response to U.S. actions.

Iranian military officials warned of retaliation against U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, specifically bridges and power plants, following President Trump's threats. They emphasized their control over the Hormuz Strait and stated that vessels must coordinate with Iran for safe passage. The warning was issued on July 22, highlighting Iran's military readiness and resolve.

Lockheed Martin and Leonardo signed an agreement on July 22, 2026, to enhance maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for the C-130J Super Hercules airlifters across Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. This partnership aims to improve MRO capabilities and efficiency for over 570 C-130Js delivered to 27 countries, strengthening NATO's operational readiness. The agreement builds on a 20-year relationship between the two companies.

The U.S. has cleared the export of F110 engines to Turkey for the KAAN fighter aircraft, with 80 engines planned for serial production. Turkish Aerospace expects the first batch to be delivered by 2027, supporting the Turkish Air Force's needs. This approval follows a review period that ended on July 9, allowing the export to proceed despite previous congressional opposition due to Turkey's acquisition of Russian S-400 systems.

Lockheed Martin and Leonardo signed an agreement to enhance maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the C-130J Super Hercules airlifters across Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. This partnership aims to improve MRO capabilities and efficiency for over 570 C-130Js delivered to 27 countries, strengthening NATO's operational readiness. The agreement builds on a 20-year relationship between the two companies.

The Israeli Ministry of Defence is enhancing cooperation with German defense companies, expanding into new fields like space. Major Israeli firms are engaged in joint ventures with German counterparts, including the Arrow 3 program valued at $6.5 billion. This collaboration is driven by Germany's rearmament needs and the war in Ukraine, with Europe now accounting for 36% of Israel's defense exports.

Ireland assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on July 1, 2026, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The EU is prioritizing defense investment and military capabilities in response to the war in Ukraine and the US-Iran conflict. Ireland's agenda includes managing defense initiatives and addressing the challenges of regional stability and energy security.

U.S. President Trump announced that the U.S. may soon conduct airstrikes on Iran's underground nuclear facility at 'Mount Hossain'. In response, Iran's military declared that such an attack would be viewed as an escalation of regional conflict, threatening U.S. and allied interests. Trump also suggested that Iran might have relocated centrifuges to the facility, emphasizing the importance of tracking nuclear materials.

Iranian armed forces warned that any U.S. military attack on its nuclear facilities would be seen as an escalation of regional conflict. This statement follows President Trump's remarks about potential strikes on Iran's underground nuclear site near Natanz. The Iranian military emphasized that all U.S. and allied interests would be targeted in retaliation.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that the cost of the war against Iran has reached $37.5 billion as of July 21, 2023. He emphasized the urgent need for additional funding to prevent a significant financial shortfall. In recent weeks, at least 3 U.S. military personnel were killed and nearly 100 injured in attacks in Iran.

The U.S. continues its military buildup off the coast of Iran amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. Iranian officials assert they will not make concessions under pressure, while discussions about deploying U.S. ground forces to counter Iranian naval threats are ongoing. Key strategic locations include Kharg Island and other islands in the Persian Gulf.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a projected cost of $37.5 billion for certain aspects of the Iran war through September 2026 during a Senate hearing in Washington. Nearly 100 US service members have been injured since July, with three fatalities reported recently in Jordan and Iraq. Lawmakers expressed concerns over the Pentagon's transparency regarding funding and military operations related to the Iran conflict.

Iran's Central Command declared that any U.S. attack on its nuclear facilities would be seen as an escalation of regional conflict. In response, Iran would target all U.S. and allied interests in the region. This statement was made in the early morning of the 22nd.

U.S. President Trump stated that the U.S. may soon conduct a military strike on Iran's underground nuclear facility at 'Gao Mountain'. He expressed concerns about Iran possibly moving centrifuges to this location and emphasized the importance of tracking nuclear materials. Trump noted that Iran is eager to meet but the U.S. will not engage until meaningful discussions are possible.

U.S. President Trump stated that the U.S. will take action if Houthi forces block the Red Sea. The Houthis announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, prompting the Saudi-led coalition to enhance security measures for shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Trump also expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with Hezbollah regarding Lebanon's situation.

Houthi forces warned international shipping companies on July 20 of potential military strikes against vessels trading with Saudi ports, expanding their maritime blockade. The warning applies to all ships involved in trade with Saudi Arabia, urging caution in navigation plans. Houthi leadership stated this decision is based on a principle of 'blockade against blockade.' Regional nations, including Kuwait and Qatar, have expressed opposition to this blockade, reaffirming support for freedom of navigation under international law.