Middle East & North Africa
100 articles from 12 countries
Tensions simmer across the Middle East as Spain's diplomatic moves draw European ire and Israel's military actions against Iran escalate, with an estimated 18,000 bombs dropped. Amidst the geopolitical flux, Israeli director Nadav Lapid's film "Yes!" probes the nation's moral landscape following the Oct. 7 attacks, reflecting deeper societal introspection within the region.
🇸🇦 Saudi ArabiaUS cancels automatic protections for imperiled animals, critics warn of extinctions
- The US Interior Department canceled a rule providing automatic protections for threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. - Imperiled species will now require individualized protection pla…
Messi Vows Argentina Will 'Give it Our All' in World Cup Final Amidst Star-Studded Event
- Lionel Messi expressed Argentina's commitment to giving their all in the World Cup final. - The pre-final press conference featured sports legends like Tom Brady and Novak Djokovic asking questions.…
India's first private rocket launches successfully, eyes global space economy
- India's first privately built orbital rocket, Vikram-1, successfully completed its maiden test flight on Saturday. - The rocket, built by Skyroot Aerospace, aims to carry small satellites into low-E…
Hezbollah escalates rhetoric against Lebanese authorities
- Hezbollah has escalated rhetoric against Lebanese authorities ahead of President Aoun's U.S. visit. - The group signals unwillingness to cooperate with proposed "pilot zones" in southern Lebanon. - …
GCC Condemns Iranian Attacks as War Crimes, Demands International Accountability
- The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) condemned Iran's attacks on infrastructure and civilian facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan as war crimes. - GCC Secretary-General Jassim Albudaiwi called th…
Messi Vows Argentina 'Will Give it Our All' in World Cup Final; Stars Ask Questions at Unique Press Conference
- Lionel Messi stated Argentina "will give it our all" in the World Cup final against Spain. - The star-studded press conference at Fanatics Fest featured athletes like Tom Brady, Novak Djokovic, and …
Ryan Fox matches major championship record with a 62 in the British Open
- Lionel Messi spoke ahead of the World Cup final, stating Argentina will 'give it our all.' - The event featured other sports legends like Tom Brady, Novak Djokovic, and Kevin Durant. - Messi's appea…
Hezbollah cuts ties with Lebanon's presidency while sparing the army
- Hezbollah has intensified its confrontation with Lebanese authorities, particularly the presidency, ahead of President Aoun's U.S. visit. - The group has severed ties with the presidency but continu…
FIFA Detects 7 million Abusive Comments Aimed at Players and Staff during World Cup
- Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli received advice from tennis legend Roger Federer on managing pressure and emotions. - Antonelli is focusing on one race at a time and controlling what he can to maint…
Mawani Signs Seven Deals Worth SAR1 Billion to Expand Port Logistics Centers in Jeddah
- Saudi Arabia lifted regulatory restrictions on a 30,000-square-meter plot of land owned by Saudi Real Estate Co. (Al Akaria) in Riyadh. - The land, with a book value of $26 million, can now be used …
IMF backs Yemeni reforms to restore economic stability
- Yemen and the IMF agreed on an 18-month economic reform program to support stability. - The program aims to advance fiscal and monetary reforms and improve public resource management. - The IMF proj…
Turkey Arrests 119 Suspected of ISIS Links
- Turkish authorities have arrested 119 individuals suspected of having links to the Islamic State (ISIS). - The arrests were part of a broader operation targeting the group's network. - The operation…
Saudi Arabia Reports 22.5% Rise in Umrah Pilgrims
- Saudi Arabia saw a 22.5% increase in Umrah pilgrims from the start of the season until the end of Muharram 1448 AH. - Over 931,500 pilgrims arrived on Umrah visas, with more than 1.27 million coming…
Ukraine Drone Strikes Hit Russian Warehouses, Oil Facility; Seven Dead
- Ukraine launched extensive drone attacks across 19 Russian regions overnight, targeting energy infrastructure and military sites. - Russian officials reported seven fatalities and 51 injuries from t…
Lebanese Soldier Killed in Army Vehicle Explosion in Southern Lebanon
- Commuting in Sudan's capital, Khartoum, has become a dangerous challenge due to war-related disruptions and rising costs. - Thousands of families are forced to choose between transportation and esse…
Beirut festival opens with concert celebrating Lebanon's resilience
- The Beirut Holidays festival opened its 11th season with a concert by Abeer Nehme, celebrating "And Lebanon Remains." - Thousands gathered to watch Nehme perform a mix of her songs and tributes to L…
7 Killed in Ukrainian Drone Attack on Russian Regions
- Ukrainian drone attacks killed seven people and wounded 51 others across Russian regions overnight. - Targets included two major warehouses of online retailer Wildberries and an oil facility. - Ukra…
Rescuers Race to Find Survivors in the Rain after Deadly China Landslide
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu canceled a planned trip to the U.S. due to scheduling conflicts and reported difficulties in arranging a meeting with President Trump. - Sources suggest underlying t…
Flash Flood Kills 4, Leaves 4 Others Missing in Vietnam
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu canceled his planned trip to the US due to scheduling conflicts and a perceived lack of support from the Trump administration. - Sources suggest Netanyahu fears humi…
Lebanon: Aoun Departs for Washington to Meet Trump
- Gunfire erupted in Zawiya, Libya, after an intoxicated militiaman fired on a rival group's headquarters. - The incident adds to the ongoing militia violence plaguing the city, with residents accusto…
Boeing maintains 20-year forecast for strong global aircraft demand
- Boeing forecasts steady global demand for new commercial aircraft over the next 20 years, projecting 43,625 deliveries from 2026 through 2045. - The US planemaker's outlook remains largely unchanged…
UAE Pledges $5 Million to FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund
- The United Arab Emirates pledged $5 million to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. - The contribution aims to expand access to quality education and empower youth globally. - This pledge aligns …
Dubai Police warn against fraudulent ads promoting labour, residency or visit visas
- Dubai Police warn against fraudulent ads offering labor, residency, or visit visas. - Scammers use fake company names or impersonate official bodies to lure victims. - Residents are urged to complet…
Abu Dhabi Shuts Restaurant for Repeated Food Safety Violations
- Abu Dhabi has temporarily shut down Yummy Indian Bite Restaurant for repeated food safety violations. - The closure, mandated by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), aims to…
Sharjah completes Dhs35 million natural gas project in Dibba Al Hisn
- Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) completed a Dhs35 million natural gas project in Dibba Al Hisn. - The project included a pumping station, a 46-kilometer gas network, and connecti…
Baby Haaland in Peru: Newborns take names of World Cup stars
- Hundreds of newborns in Peru have been named after World Cup stars like Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Cristiano Ronaldo. - Parents in Latin America are naming children after soccer playe…
Paris Grand Mosque Marks 100 Years Amid Concerns Over Muslim Acceptance
- Paris' Grand Mosque is celebrating its 100th anniversary, marking a century since its construction to honor Muslim soldiers from French colonies who fought in World War I. - The mosque is now a sign…
Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre records Dhs117 billion in real estate transactions during H1 2026
- Abu Dhabi's real estate transactions reached Dhs117 billion in the first half of 2026. - This represents a 112% increase compared to the same period in 2025, with a 61.7% rise in transaction numbers…
Chinese airlines order 95 Airbus jets with list price of $17.8 billion to expand fleet
- Three Chinese airlines have ordered 95 Airbus aircraft, including A350 widebodies and A320neo-family jets. - The combined list-price value of the orders is approximately $17.8 billion. - The orders …
Uganda bans school trips after 24 killed in bus crash
- A bus crash in Uganda killed 23 children and one adult, prompting the education ministry to suspend all school field trips nationwide. - The accident occurred when the bus veered off the road near K…
Why Argentina are the World Cup's favourite 'villains'
- Argentina's national football team is a polarizing force in the World Cup, inspiring both intense devotion and strong opposition from fans worldwide. - The team's identity is shaped by iconic player…
India's private sector launches first orbital rocket Vikram-1
- India successfully launched its first privately developed orbital rocket, the Vikram-1, from Sriharikota. - The launch marks a significant step for India's growing private space sector, aiming to ca…
Emirati footballer Abdullah Al Ali’s journey is an inspiration to many
- Former Emirati footballer Abdullah Al Ali now coaches young players, dedicating his post-retirement life to the sport. - Al Ali, who played professionally for Baniyas, has spent years mentoring athl…
Andy Burnham's vision for Britain: Decentralization, reindustrialization, and education reform
- Andy Burnham, newly appointed leader of Britain's Labour Party, has outlined policies focused on decentralizing power from London to the regions. - His proposals include devolving more authority ove…
Kébili residents face fourth day of water crisis amid heatwave
- Residents in Tunisia's Kébili governorate are experiencing severe water shortages for the fourth consecutive day due to repeated disruptions and cuts. - The crisis, affecting multiple villages inclu…
Tunis sky turns red: Scientists explain the sunset phenomenon
- A red sunset observed in Tunis on Friday evening sparked curiosity among residents due to its unusual color. - A scientist from the Tunis City of Science explained the phenomenon is natural, caused …
El Jadida University adopts flexible study hours system
- Chouaib Doukkali University in El Jadida will adopt a "facilitated timing" system for the 2026-2027 academic year. - This system aims to accommodate employees, workers, and self-employed individuals…
Saïdia Beach Quality Declines Due to Alleged 'Algerian Pollutants'
- The quality of Saïdia beach in Morocco has deteriorated due to alleged "Algerian pollutants." - Beachgoers and residents have complained about polluted seawater, foul odors, and foam on the water's …
Infantino calls 2026 World Cup 'greatest in history'
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the 2026 World Cup as the "greatest World Cup in history" and the "greatest human, social, and cultural event ever." - The tournament has surpassed all expecta…
New Chinese AI Model Challenges US Dominance, Sparks Regulatory Debate
- A new Chinese AI model, Qimi Kai 3, has impressed with capabilities rivaling advanced US systems, sparking calls for swift action in the US. - Chinese AI companies are releasing open-source, free mo…
Third place in World Cup motivates France and England
- France and England will compete for third place in the 2026 World Cup. - Both teams aim to end their World Cup campaign on a positive note after disappointing exits. - France seeks to overcome their…
French artist Jacques Gutra exhibits abstract art in Rabat
- French artist Jacques Gutra is exhibiting abstract contemporary art in Rabat, Morocco. - The exhibition, organized by the Rabat-Fès Development Association, features eleven acrylic paintings on canv…
Wayne Rooney Rows in New York to Honor Norway's World Cup Success
- Wayne Rooney fulfilled a promise to try rowing in New York's Hudson River after Norway qualified for the World Cup quarterfinals. - Rooney had pledged to row if Norway eliminated Brazil, a feat achi…
Morocco Court Postpones Hearing in "Forged Invoice" Fraud Case
- A court in Fez, Morocco, postponed a hearing in a case involving alleged forgery and tax fraud in a network known as the "phantom and forged invoice" scheme. - The regional council president of Taza…
Mauritania Coast Guard Rescues Migrants, Searches for Missing
- Mauritania's coast guard rescued 37 irregular migrants and recovered one body from a sinking boat headed for the Canary Islands. - The boat, carrying 160 people, had been at sea for 25 days after le…
Indian police end activist's hunger strike protesting exam cheating
- Indian police intervened to end a 20-day hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk. - Wangchuk was protesting alleged cheating in university entrance exams and demanding the resignation of the educat…
US Attacks Cut Off Water for 10,000 in Iran
- U.S. attacks in southern Iran have cut off drinking water for over 10,000 people. - The strikes targeted a desalination plant in the Jask coastal area, affecting approximately 20 villages. - The U.S…
Calls to Remove Ceuta Border Fence with Morocco After Gibraltar Deal
- Following the opening of a new border crossing and the removal of a border fence between Spain and Gibraltar, calls have emerged in occupied Ceuta for a similar measure on the border with Morocco. -…
Morocco's Constitutional Union Seeks New Candidate After Key Defection
- The Constitutional Union party is searching for a new candidate in the Tangier-Assilah constituency for the upcoming legislative elections. - This comes after the party's long-standing representativ…
Israel wins World Cup of public diplomacy by aiding earthquake-hit Venezuela
- Israel's public diplomacy efforts are highlighted by its humanitarian aid to earthquake-hit Venezuela, contrasting with criticism from potential U.S. presidential candidates. - The article draws par…
NYC Mayor Considers Arresting Netanyahu Ahead of UN Visit
- New York City Mayor Eric Adams is considering an order to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the city for the UN General Assembly in September. - Adams stated that Netanya…
Why Did Iran Claim to Attack an Abandoned US Garrison in Syria?
- Iran claimed to attack an abandoned U.S. military site in Syria, an assertion denied by the U.S. and a Syrian military source. - The claim appears to be a message to Syria's new government, which ha…
War, Boycotts, and Shrinking Budgets Push Israeli Culture to the Brink
- Israeli artists are struggling to make ends meet amid ongoing trauma from recent conflicts and economic pressures. - Despite financial hardships, artists continue to produce high-quality work, seeki…
Why Israel Must Reverse the 2005 Gaza Withdrawal and Resettle Gush Katif
- The article argues for Israel to resettle Gaza and restore Jewish communities in Gush Katif, calling the 2005 withdrawal a catastrophic error. - It asserts that rebuilding Jewish life in Gaza is the…
Hiking in the Holy Land: Ein Haniya, an Easy Water Outing Outside Jerusalem
- Ein Haniya, a restored national park near Jerusalem, offers a beautiful and historic water outing. - The site features a large Byzantine-era stone pool fed by a spring and a Roman nymphaeum. - It pr…
Can Israel finally stub out smoking? Experts turn to AI, brain stimulation, and new drugs
- Smoking rates are rising in Israel, with one in four adults now smoking, driven by war stress and aggressive promotion of new products. - Despite a higher death toll from tobacco-related causes than…
Iran claims coordinated attacks on US military sites in Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain
- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for attacks on US military sites in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. - The IRGC used drones and ballistic missiles, targeting ammun…
After 100 years, Israel's kibbutzim are still adapting to war, change, and an uncertain future
- Kibbutzim, communal agricultural settlements founded over a century ago, remain a symbol of Israeli resilience and nation-building. - Originally focused on collective farming and self-sufficiency, m…
Former Shin Bet official: Sara Netanyahu's request for lifetime security is 'delusional'
- A former Shin Bet official called Sara Netanyahu's request for lifetime security "delusional." - The ministerial committee, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, granted her security until the end of …
AIPAC removes donation options for House Democrats who voted to cut aid to Israel on site
- AIPAC has reportedly stopped offering donation options for 15 US House Democrats who voted to cut aid to Israel. - The amendment to cut $3.3 billion in aid was defeated, but the vote highlighted div…
Will Mahmoud Abbas actually let Palestinians vote? Critics say he's testing the waters first
- Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas announced legislative elections for November 28, with presidential elections planned for early 2027. - Critics suggest Abbas is scheduling legislative e…
Football fever grips Oman ahead of FIFA World Cup final
- Oman is preparing to host thousands of football fans for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina. - Venues across the Sultanate, including malls, hotels, and cinemas, are setting u…
US Army and Bangladesh Armed Forces to launch Tiger Lightning bilateral exercise
- The US Army and Bangladesh Armed Forces are launching their annual Tiger Lightning bilateral exercise. - Over 160 service members will participate, focusing on jungle operations, counter-terrorism, …
Iran Suspends All Commitments Under US MoU, Cites 'Aggressive Actions'
- Iran has suspended all commitments under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US, citing aggressive actions and violations by Washington. - Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated t…
Dhofar Opens New Tourism Attractions: Atin Square and Shaat Viewpoint
- Dhofar Governorate in Oman has opened Atin Square and Shaat Viewpoint as new tourism attractions. - These sites offer entertainment, family activities, and stunning natural views during the Khareef …
MSX records remarkable performance in first half of 2026
- The Muscat Stock Exchange saw remarkable performance in the first half of 2026, with its main index rising 28 percent. - This growth was driven by a strong national economy, increased liquidity from…
MSX index falls 163 points in weekly trading
- The Muscat Stock Exchange's main index fell 163 points to close at 7,480 points amid regional geopolitical tensions. - Sectoral indices, particularly industrial and financial, also declined, despite…
Omani banks' net profits rise 10.6% to over OMR300 million in H1
- Omani banks listed on the Muscat Stock Exchange reported a 10.6% increase in net profits for the first half of the year, reaching OMR305.2 million. - Growth was driven by increased credit to individ…
Oman's Legal Framework on Fair Market Competition and Monopoly Prevention
- Oman's Competition Protection and Monopoly Prevention Law, established in 2014 and amended, governs fair market competition and prohibits anti-competitive practices. - The law applies broadly to eco…
Why America's hospitals keep looking to India for nurses
- U.S. hospitals are increasingly recruiting nurses from India. - Angel Verghese, a nursing graduate from Kochi, India, has already passed required exams. - This trend highlights a growing demand for …
Oman's foreign direct investment Rises 8.7% to OMR 32.2bn in Q1 of 2026
- Oman's foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 8.7% to OMR 32.2 billion in the first quarter of 2026. - The oil and gas extraction sector remains the largest recipient, attracting OMR 25.9 bill…
Oman's trade surplus with ASEAN bloc stands at around $3.4 billion
- Oman is participating in the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila to strengthen economic ties. - The Sultanate aims to expand cooperation in sectors like logistics, energy, and digital tr…
Oman's Sohar sewerage project 67% complete, boosting infrastructure
- Nama Water Services has completed 67% of its OMR 19 million Sohar sewerage network expansion project. - The project aims to improve wastewater services, support urban growth, and enhance environment…
Oman's investment and real estate funds capital soars to OMR 1.2 billion in 2025
- Oman's real estate and investment funds saw their total capital surge by 89.9% in 2025, reaching OMR 1.2 billion. - Investment funds drove this growth, with capital increasing 125.4% to OMR 993.7 mi…
Argentina, Spain set for 2026 World Cup final clash
- Argentina and Spain will contest the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, featuring the tournament's top offense against its strongest defense. - The final pits the champions of South America and Europe again…
Europe Should Look to Africa for Heatwave Solutions
- Europe is experiencing dangerous heatwaves, highlighting the need for climate adaptation strategies. - Africa has decades of experience adapting to climate instability under constrained conditions, …
India launches first private orbital rocket, Vikram-1
- India successfully launched its first private-sector orbital rocket, Vikram-1, from Sriharikota. - The launch marks a significant step in India's ambition to become a global space economy player, wi…
Ukrainian Drone Strikes Kill at Least 8 in Russian Warehouses; Kyiv Cites Drone Production Targets
- At least eight people were killed and dozens wounded in Ukrainian drone attacks on warehouses in western Russia. - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the targeted facilities were used fo…
Indian police forcibly hospitalise activist after 20-day hunger strike
- Prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly taken to a hospital by police after a 20-day hunger strike. - Wangchuk was protesting alleged corruption in India's national examination system. - The …
Colombia and Slovenia recognized a Palestinian state. Now they’re moving embassies to Jlem
- Colombia and Slovenia, under new right-wing leadership, are set to establish embassies in Jerusalem. - This move follows their previous governments' recognition of a Palestinian state and strained r…
ADL and JCPA reactions to US teachers union exposes divide on how to fight antisemitism
- Two prominent Jewish civil rights groups, the ADL and JCPA, publicly disagreed on how to combat antisemitism within the National Education Association (NEA). - The dispute arose after Jewish teacher…
Israeli study finds antibiotics can reverse salmonella damage to stem cells in mice
- Israeli scientists have discovered that antibiotics can completely reverse salmonella-induced damage to stem cells in mice. - This breakthrough offers hope for patients awaiting blood transplants an…
Ministry of Economy launches Google Play app for mandatory vehicle insurance
- Libya's Ministry of Economy and Trade has launched an official mandatory vehicle insurance app on the Google Play Store. - The app allows citizens to access insurance services via smartphones, verif…
NOC confirms commercial viability of Essar oil discovery
- Libya's National Oil Corporation (NOC) announced the Essar discovery in concession 103 is commercially viable. - The discovery holds 195 million barrels of oil and is expected to produce 5,000 barr…
Trump is edging towards another American ‘forever war’ in Iran
- President Donald Trump is considering military action against Iran, viewing it as a diplomatic tool. - This approach contrasts with his stated goal of ending wars, raising concerns about a potential…
Iran's Hardliners Warn of 'Coup' as US Truce Faces Pressure
- Iranian hardliners are warning of a potential 'coup' amid pressure on a US-brokered truce. - President Masoud Pezeshkian faced chants of "death to the compromiser" during Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei…
Eight warehouse workers killed in deadliest Ukrainian attacks inside Russia for two years
- Ukrainian drone attacks killed at least eight people at warehouses in Russia, marking the deadliest strikes in two years. - Seven people died at a Wildberries distribution center in Tambov, and one …
Egyptian official denies 50 million dogs claim, outlines animal management plan
- An Egyptian Agriculture Ministry official denied claims that there are 50 million dogs in Egypt, warning against misinformation. - The official stated that domesticated dogs help protect citizens fr…
Egypt, US Envoy Discuss Middle East Developments, Iran Deal
- Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty spoke with US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff about regional developments. - Both officials discussed the recent military escalation in the Mid…
Egypt, Turkey discuss expanding environmental cooperation ahead of COP31
- Egypt and Turkey discussed expanding environmental cooperation during a meeting in Turkey on July 16-17. - Discussions focused on waste management, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity protec…
Red Sea Governor, Norwegian Ambassador Discuss Renewable Energy Cooperation
- The Governor of the Red Sea region met with the Norwegian Ambassador to discuss cooperation on renewable energy projects. - The governor emphasized Egypt's commitment to attracting foreign investmen…
The Odyssey Rakes in US$17.6 Million in Previews, Poised for Blockbuster Opening
- Christopher Nolan's new film, "The Odyssey," grossed US$17.6 million in previews since its July 6 premiere. - The film is projected to earn between US$90 million and US$100 million in its opening we…
Iran war could shake global economy, warns Egyptian host Amr Adib
- Middle Eastern conflict escalation threatens global economy and oil prices. - Threats to Iranian oil facilities have driven oil prices to $85 per barrel, with potential to reach $90. - Rising oil pr…
Egypt partners with Bank of New York to boost company financing and global access
- Egypt's Investment Ministry is strengthening ties with the Bank of New York to develop financing tools and improve global market access for Egyptian companies. - The initiative aims to boost the co…
Kuwait military intercepts hostile missiles, drones amid Iranian attacks
- Kuwait's Armed Forces intercepted ballistic missiles and hostile drones entering its airspace on Saturday. - The intercepted threats were part of Iranian attacks targeting military, security, and vi…
US Strike Disrupts Water Supply for 10,000 in Southern Iran
- A US strike damaged a water desalination plant in southern Iran, cutting off drinking water for approximately 10,000 residents. - The attack severely impacted the facility in Bunji, Hormozgan provin…
Rescuers race to find survivors after China landslide kills at least 8
- Rescue crews are searching for survivors after a landslide in China's Chongqing municipality killed at least eight people and left 34 missing. - The landslide, triggered by persistent rain, buried o…
Cut the number of choices you make each day. Your brain will thank you
- Modern life offers an abundance of choices, but behavioral scientists argue this can lead to anxiety, indecision, and decreased happiness. - Research shows that having too many options, whether in s…
UN to list south Lebanon historic castles as 'in danger' from conflict
- UNESCO is set to list several global sites, including Lebanese castles, as endangered due to conflict and climate change. - The UN's World Heritage Committee will vote on new additions and endangere…