Analysis & Reports

Iran faces a severe economic crisis, with warnings from officials about potential starvation among its population. U.S. sanctions are intensifying, as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced measures to cut Iran's financial connections globally. Mohammad Bagher-Ghalibaf highlighted the dire situation, stating that military strength cannot compensate for economic collapse. The Iranian leadership may exploit hunger to maintain control and deflect blame onto external forces.

The U.S. Department of State approved a possible $800 million Foreign Military Sale to Iraq, which includes Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters along with associated equipment.

Iran is preparing to restart minelaying operations in the Strait of Hormuz following a U.S. drone strike on a Fajr-5 rocket launch platform on Larak Island. The Iranian Armed Forces possess an estimated 6,000 naval mines, which pose a significant threat to global shipping. The U.S. response has included military strikes, but concerns remain about the effectiveness of mine-clearing efforts.

Greece and Israel finalized a €3bn ($3.5bn) agreement for a layered air defense network. This government-to-government deal enhances Greece's military capabilities and strengthens defense ties between the two nations.

The U.S. State Department approved a potential $800 million military sale to Iraq, which includes Bell 412EPX and 407M helicopters along with various military equipment. This sale aims to enhance Iraq's capabilities to address current and future threats. The details of the sale are still subject to negotiations and may change before finalization.

Elbit Systems signed contracts worth approximately $270 million to supply ISR and targeting payloads, including the SPECTRO family of systems and AMPS NG systems, designed for various military applications. The contracts will be executed over a period of up to six years. Elbit Systems, based in Haifa, Israel, is a global leader in ISR and targeting solutions.

Israeli airstrikes targeted Gaza City on September 1, 2023, resulting in 3 deaths and 8 injuries. The strikes were a response to an attempted operation by Israeli special forces. The Israeli military stated that the airstrikes aimed to eliminate threats to their security forces, with no Israeli casualties reported.

The United Arab Emirates Air Force intercepted an Iranian drone over its territorial waters on August 31, 2026. This incident follows the detection of two ballistic missiles launched from Iran towards maritime navigation. The UAE denies Iranian claims of an attack on the Al Minhad airbase, emphasizing its commitment to protecting its sovereignty amid rising tensions with Iran.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Sep 01 2026Loading...

Elbit Systems signed contracts worth approximately $270 million for advanced ISR and Targeting payloads in Haifa, Israel, on September 1, 2026. The contracts involve supplying SPECTRO™ and AMPS™ NG systems, which enhance target identification and intelligence gathering capabilities across various operational environments. These systems integrate advanced imaging channels and AI-based analytics for effective ISR and targeting missions.

Elbit Systems signed contracts valued at approximately $270 million for the SPECTRO defense equipment. The contracts were made with an international customer, indicating ongoing military procurement activities.

The U.S. State Department approved the sale of approximately $800 million worth of helicopters to Iraq on August 31, 2023. The deal includes Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters, along with logistical support. This military sale aims to enhance Iraq's capabilities in transportation, reconnaissance, and ground target strikes to address current and future security threats.

U.S. military officials conducted airstrikes on Iranian Revolutionary Guard positions on Larak Island on August 30, 2023. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of ongoing military operations against Iran due to significant resource depletion and ammunition shortages. The Pentagon indicated that the U.S. Navy's missile inventory is critically low, impacting future operational capabilities.

U.S. officials are considering a limited strike against Iran in the Strait of Hormuz to prevent the rebuilding of its radar and missile capabilities. The plan, developed by U.S. Central Command and supported by Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, has not yet received President Trump's approval but may be authorized if tensions escalate. This action aims to reduce the risk of Iranian attacks on shipping and U.S. military assets.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted an operation on August 31 in Gaza City, resulting in the death of Omar Saraj, a commander in Hamas's logistics and supply department. Saraj was responsible for supplying weapons to Hamas fighters in the region. The operation aimed to eliminate threats posed by Hamas, which has been accused of recent attacks against Israeli forces and civilians, violating ceasefire agreements.

The INS Drakon, a new Israeli submarine, was handed over to the Israeli Navy after successful sea trials as of July 2026. It features a notably larger sail than previous Dolphin-class submarines, potentially allowing for advanced weapon systems. The submarine's design may serve as a testbed for future technologies in the Dakar program, reflecting a strategic partnership with German submarine builders.

The U.S. military executed a preemptive strike against Iranian positions preparing to launch missiles into the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, Iran fired missiles that reportedly caused no damage. This exchange highlights the ongoing military tension and strategic maneuvering by the Trump administration regarding Iran's military capabilities and intentions.

U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Ken Wilsbach met with Israeli military leaders on August 23, 2023, to discuss regional security and cooperation regarding the ongoing Iran war. The meeting highlighted shared priorities and learning from joint operations as the conflict surpassed six months. Since the war began on February 28, 2023, U.S. and Israeli forces have conducted airstrikes, resulting in 18 U.S. service member casualties.

Iran launched missiles at U.S. military targets in Jordan and the UAE on August 31, 2023, in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on Larak Island the previous day. The U.S. had targeted Iranian rocket launchers, claiming they posed a threat to navigation in the Hormuz Strait. Iran's military actions included the use of drones and missile strikes, while the UAE reported intercepting all incoming missiles.

The Remington 870 shotgun has been a staple in U.S. military and law enforcement since its introduction in the 1950s, with significant use during the Vietnam War and ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Known for its reliability and versatility, it is employed in roles such as close-quarters combat and breaching operations. Over 11 million units have been sold, reflecting its enduring appeal in both military and civilian markets.

Israel and Greece signed a $3.4 billion deal for air defense systems today in Tel Aviv. The agreement includes the multi-layered Achilles’ Shield and other systems like David’s Sling and Barak MX, marking a significant expansion in defense cooperation. Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias emphasized the deal's importance in addressing geopolitical challenges.