Pessimism prevails as Iran nuclear talks resume Ahead of the new round, Iran’s foreign minister expressed doubt that the Western sides were ready to accept Tehran’s demands, while the United States spoke of “additional measures” if diplomacy was heading toward failure. Iran
Austin Tice's mother says White House a 'hurdle' to his return Debra Tice, whose son Austin disappeared while reporting on the Syrian war in 2012, called on the White House to do more to ensure his safe return. United States
Iraq announces end to US-led combat role with no fanfare The defeat-IS coalition will continue its advisory mission into next year, despite a declared end to a combat role. Iraq
Kurdish politician's plight highlights Turkey's indifference to critically ill inmates Aysel Tugluk, who defended PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan in his trial decades ago, is now suffering from advanced dementia behind bars, despite widespread calls for her release. Turkey
Iran threatens sanctions against US over treatment of Black Americans An Iranian judicial official said the Islamic Republic is concerned about police brutality against Black people in the United States, citing the murder of George Floyd. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Turkey arrests dozens of foreign Islamic State suspects Ankara has made sweeping arrests of suspected Islamic State militants. News Brief
US to warn UAE banks, firms against sanctioned Iran dealings The Wall Street Journal reports that US officials will warn petrochemical companies, private firms and banks of "extreme risk" for noncompliance. Iran
Car ownership drifts beyond reach of millions of Turks Turkey’s currency crisis coupled with exorbitant taxes levied on cars has dealt an enormous blow to the domestic automotive market. Turkey
Israeli foreign minister meets Egyptian president in Cairo Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in another sign of strengthening bilateral ties. Israel
Six years later, ex-Islamic State stronghold in Iraq feels left behind As a former ISIS stronghold, Hawija feels rejected and neglected both nationally and internationally. Iraq
Will other Gulf states follow UAE decision to shift workweek? The Emirates' push to better align its economy with global markets elicited mixed reactions across the Gulf. Gulf
Lebanese opt for new emigration destinations amid crises Lebanon is witnessing one of the biggest waves of emigration in its history as the country faces its worst socio-economic conditions amid a worsening political crisis; Turkey, Armenia and Georgia have become new destinations. Lebanon
UAE is Australia’s top trading partner in the Middle East An Australian trade official praised the two nations' relations while attending Dubai Expo 2020. News Brief
Kuwait detects first case of omicron variant Kuwait's announcement follows the detection of cases in Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Kuwait
The Takeaway: What to expect in next round of Iran nuclear talks Iran’s dismal economy; Saudi defense reforms; Sudan-Ethiopia border dispute; Israeli settlements increase in Hebron; Mosul’s robot waiter; Luxor’s long-lost fertility goddess. Iran
Beirut port explosion probe resumes work The investigation into the deadly blast was suspended in October after a Hezbollah-linked politician filed a lawsuit. News Brief
