Trade route between Egypt, Sudan remains closed The continued closure of the land crossings between Egypt and Sudan has prompted rumors that Egypt is exploiting Sudan’s resources and standing in the way of the civilian-led movement. Egypt
Xi reaffirms 'comprehensive strategic partnership' in meeting with Sisi Meeting on the sidelines of the Olympics, the Chinese president said Beijing and Cairo share 'similar visions and strategies.' Egypt
Ancient burial place uncovered at Gaza construction site The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in the Gaza Strip announced the discovery of the ruins of a burial site dating back to the Roman era, during the construction works of an Egyptian housing project in Gaza. Palestine
Abu Dhabi firm receives green light for new fintech app ADQ will launch a new digital banking platform called Wio, which investors hope will help boost the United Arab Emirates’ digital economy. By Al-Monitor Staff
Russia's experience in Syria informs approach to Ukraine, NATO The opportunity to field-test its next-generation weapons systems in recent years has emboldened the Kremlin to raise the stakes in Ukraine, and so has experience in brinkmanship with Turkey over Syria. Syria
European bank invests in rideshare app to keep Egyptian women safe The European Bank of Reconstruction and Development is investing $10 million in the startup Swvl, which operates in Egypt. By Al-Monitor Staff
Analysis Islamic State still 'global operation,' says Pentagon report Islamic State leader's killing prompted questions on Turkey's role; our reporting from Idlib, Syria. By Week in Review
Saudis bust more Captagon smugglers The stimulant is widely sold and used in the Middle East, creating a market worth billions of dollars. By Al-Monitor Staff
Raisi: Iran 'never has hope' in Vienna talks Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has struck a pessimistic tone commenting on the nuclear talks between Iran and world powers. Iran
Turkey rethinks Libya policy Libya’s rekindled power struggle has left Turkey in an ambivalent position and might force it to review its alliances. Turkey
Egypt’s top judiciary body opens door to women for first time Egyptian women can apply to join the State Council, a top judicial body, after 76 years of the council being limited to men. Egypt
Islamic State kills Iraqi forces in sparsely populated Anbar desert Attacks and unexploded ordnance continue to reap victims in Iraq’s vast western desert as security officials deny increased risks associated with a massive recent jailbreak across the border. Iraq
Israel's Herzog leads rapprochement with Turkey Jerusalem is well aware that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has a long list of own interests behind his rapprochement campaign. Israel
