In this comprehensive Middle East Update, we delve into the most critical developments as of July 1, 2024, sourced from understandingwar.org.

Segment 1 covers the Iranian presidential election runoff set for July 5. Hardline candidate Saeed Jalili is expected to win against reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, who received 10.4 million votes compared to Jalili's 9.5 million in the initial round on June 28. The support of Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf's voters gives Jalili a significant advantage.

Segment 2 discusses the Iranian regime's portrayal of the election as competitive, despite Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's preference for Jalili. Voter turnout on June 28 was only 40 percent, the lowest in Kermanshah and Tehran provinces, indicating widespread disillusionment.

Segment 3 examines the strengthening of Palestinian militia groups in the West Bank, undermining the Palestinian Authority. Militias control refugee camps, preventing Palestinian Authority security forces from entering, allowing them to build capabilities and plan operations.

Segment 4 explores Iranian-guided efforts since 2022 to strengthen Palestinian militias in the West Bank through combined battalions. Despite Israeli security measures, these militias continue to operate, though their capabilities have not significantly changed during the conflict.

Segment 5 focuses on IDF operations in Shujaiya, Gaza City, aimed at degrading a reconstituted Hamas battalion. The IDF has destroyed weapon production sites and issued evacuation orders for eastern Khan Younis, suggesting imminent operations.

Segment 6 details threats from Iranian-backed Iraqi militias to target US interests if Israel launches a major offensive into Lebanon. The Iraqi Resistance Coordination Committee plans to attack US forces and disrupt the Aqaba-Basra oil pipeline, aligning with Iranian objectives.

Segment 7 reports on Houthi attacks on maritime targets using a new unmanned surface vessel, "Destructive Flood," capable of carrying up to 1,500 kilograms of explosives. The US CENTCOM destroyed three Houthi vessels in the Red Sea on June 30, highlighting ongoing maritime threats.

Stay tuned for more updates on these critical developments in the Middle East conflict.

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