🌍 Middle East

UK Intensifies Criticism of Israel Over Gaza and West Bank Policies
May 21 @ 4:08pm ET  
The UK has intensified its criticism of Israel by suspending trade talks and sanctioning West Bank settlers over actions in Gaza. Foreign Secretary David Lammy called Israel's military offensive 'monstrous' amid growing diplomatic tensions.
EU Considers Trade Agreement Review with Israel Over Gaza Crisis
May 21 @ 12:00pm ET  
The EU is reviewing its trade agreement with Israel due to the 'catastrophic' Gaza crisis, as stated by Kaja Kallas. This move aims to pressure for immediate, unobstructed aid flow to address urgent humanitarian needs.
Syria's New Regime Issues 10-Day Ultimatum to Armed Factions
May 21 @ 4:20am ET  
Syria's post-Assad regime has issued a 10-day ultimatum for armed factions to join the state security apparatus, as announced by Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra on May 17. This move aims to unify military forces under government control amid efforts to stabilize the nation.
WHO Ratifies Historic Pandemic Agreement for Global Health Security
May 20 @ 4:07pm ET  
The World Health Organization approved a historic pandemic agreement on May 20, aiming to enhance global preparedness for future health emergencies. The treaty promotes a 'One Health approach' and ensures equitable distribution of vaccines and medicines.
U.S. Syria Withdrawal Rumors Spark Concerns for Kurdish Allies
May 20 @ 4:06am ET  
Rumors of a U.S. troop withdrawal from Syria, reducing forces from 2,000 to 1,400, have raised concerns for Kurdish allies like the SDF. The move could reshape regional dynamics and threaten stability.
Microsoft's AI Partnership with Israeli Military for Hostage Rescue
May 19 @ 1:11pm ET  
Microsoft partnered with the Israeli Defense Ministry to provide AI for hostage rescue after the October 7, 2023 attacks. This collaboration highlights AI's role in addressing urgent security challenges.
Israel Intensifies Gaza Offensive with Operation Gideon's Chariots
May 19 @ 10:06am ET  
Israel has launched Operation Gideon's Chariots, a major offensive to gain control over parts of Gaza, targeting Hamas. The IDF aims to enhance security, amid international concern for civilian safety.
Trump Secures $200 Billion UAE Deals to Boost US Economy
May 16 @ 5:55am ET  
President Trump announced over $200 billion in UAE investment deals on May 15 in Abu Dhabi, boosting US economic and security interests. These span AI, energy, and aerospace, building on a prior $1.4 trillion framework.
Trump Honors U.S. Troops in Qatar on Middle East Tour
May 15 @ 3:55pm ET  
President Trump visited U.S. troops at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, thanking them for making America 'incredibly proud.' The base, a key hub for operations like the Afghanistan withdrawal, underscores their vital role.
Trump Engages with Gulf Leaders at Riyadh GCC Summit
May 15 @ 11:55am ET  
President Trump joined Gulf Cooperation Council leaders in Riyadh to discuss economic and political priorities. The summit focused on investment opportunities and regional stability, strengthening US-Gulf ties.
Iranian and European Diplomats Set for Critical Nuclear Talks in Istanbul
May 15 @ 8:45am ET  
Iranian and European officials will meet in Istanbul on May 16 to discuss reviving a lapsed nuclear deal. The talks, involving Britain, France, and Germany, aim to address Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.
Syrian Leader to Skip Baghdad Summit, Highlighting Region’s Sunni-Shiite Divide
May 14 @ 11:29am ET  
Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, will not attend the Arab League Summit in Baghdad on May 17 due to objections from Iraqi Shiite politicians over his past ties to Sunni extremist groups. Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani will represent Syria instead.
Trump Lifts Syria Sanctions in Bold Move for Regional Stability
May 14 @ 9:05am ET  
President Trump announced the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria on May 13, aiming to give the country 'a chance at greatness.' This historic policy shift follows Bashar al-Assad's departure in December, opening doors for renewed diplomatic ties.
Trump May Join Turkey-Hosted Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks on May 15
May 13 @ 2:46pm ET  
President Trump may attend Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Turkey on May 15, expressing optimism for a positive outcome. His potential presence during his Middle East tour highlights U.S. commitment to resolving the conflict.
PKK Announces Historic End to Armed Struggle Against Turkey
May 12 @ 5:55pm ET  
The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has announced an end to its armed insurgency against Turkey after its 12th congress on May 12. This historic decision could reshape regional dynamics after decades of conflict.
Trump's Middle East Tour: Key Deals and Diplomacy Unfold
May 12 @ 1:55pm ET  
President Trump's Middle East tour from May 13 to May 16 focuses on major investment deals in defense and tech with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE. Discussions also tackle regional issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict and Iran nuclear talks.
US and Iran Commit to Further Nuclear Talks After Oman Meeting
May 12 @ 11:55am ET  
The US and Iran have agreed to continue nuclear talks after their fourth round of discussions on May 11 in Muscat, Oman. Key figures like Steve Witkoff and Abbas Araqchi participated, with Oman mediating the dialogue.
Qatar's Potential Jet Gift to Trump for Air Force One Under Review
May 12 @ 9:55am ET  
Qatar has denied finalizing a decision to gift President Donald J. Trump a jet for Air Force One, with the proposal still under review by both nations' defense departments. The matter awaits legal clearance, as confirmed on May 11.
Hamas to Release American Hostage Edan Alexander on Monday
May 12 @ 7:55am ET  
Hamas announced it will release Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage in Gaza, on Monday. This move aligns with cease-fire efforts and President Trump's upcoming Middle East visit.
Iran Stands Firm on Nuclear Program Amid U.S. Pressure
May 12 @ 5:55am ET  
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi declared on May 10 in Doha that Iran will not abandon its nuclear program despite U.S. pressure. He remains open to talks if they build trust but insists Iran will not forfeit its nuclear rights.
Egyptian Wrestler Kabonga Amazes with Teeth-Pulling Train Feats
May 9 @ 6:30pm ET  
Egyptian wrestler Ashraf Mahrous, known as Kabonga, stunned crowds in Cairo by pulling a 279-ton train with his teeth, earning three Guinness World Records. His feats include the heaviest rail pull, locomotive pull, and fastest 100-meter vehicle pull.
Israel Thwarts Houthi Missile Attack on Nevatim Airbase
May 9 @ 11:55am ET  
Israel's Defense Forces intercepted a Houthi missile from Yemen targeting Nevatim Airbase on April 26. The Iran-backed group claimed responsibility, amid ongoing regional tensions and shifting U.S. terror designations.
US-Iran Nuclear Talks Progress in Muscat with 4th Round Set
May 9 @ 9:56am ET  
The US and Iran concluded their third round of nuclear talks in Muscat, Oman, addressing key technical concerns. A fourth round is set for May 3, with mediator Badr al-Busaidi noting a shared goal for agreement based on mutual respect.
Jordan Outlaws Muslim Brotherhood Over Alleged Plot to Undermine Stability
May 9 @ 5:55am ET  
Jordan has banned the Muslim Brotherhood, accusing members of plotting to destabilize the country, as stated by the Ministry of Interior on April 23. The group denies the allegations, while the decision raises concerns about political freedoms and regional stability.