Israeli citizenship law blocks Palestinian family reunification Israel’s Knesset approved a controversial law barring Palestinians' family reunification, furthering the suffering of many Palestinians married to Arabs in Israel. Palestine
Islamic State takes advantage of Ukraine war to increase attacks The Islamic State has recently intensified its activity against the Syrian government forces and its allies, setting up a number of ambushes in the Syrian desert and killing dozens. Syria
Egyptian council holds first ever meeting with human rights, civil society leaders For the first time, Egypt’s state National Council for Human Rights met with independent human rights organizations, which have long been accused by the government of colluding with Western parties. Egypt
Sharjah Emirate opens largest safari park outside Africa Sharjah Safari in the United Arab Emirates is considered the largest safari park outside Africa and is expected to draw more tourism to the Emirate of Sharjah. Gulf
On the Middle East with Amberin Zaman Iran nuclear deal opens possibilities for Gulf regional security, says Mark Fitzpatrick
UK loans $2.3 billion to Turkey for high-speed rail line Turkey and the United Kingdom have gotten closer economically recently, which is in part related to tensions with the European Union. By Al-Monitor Staff
Iran says nuclear deal within closest reach yet The statements reflected fresh hope by Iran after Russia said its separate demands were being met by the United States. Iran
Saudi Arabia, Qatar raise repo rates while Turkey stays put Central Banks in the Middle East are responding to the US Federal Reserve raising interest rates due to rising inflation. Saudi Arabia
Erdogan steps up pro-refugee rhetoric as 20,000 Ukrainians come to Turkey The Turkish president’s pro-refugee rhetoric aims to deliver a positive message to Western allies and slash the opposition, but activists wonder if it is sincere. Turkey
Analysis Lawmakers call for probe as arms purchasers target US-based dissidents Democratic lawmakers are seeking a congressional watchdog study on how the State Department is tracking extraterritorial harassment by countries that benefit from US security assistance or arms, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. By Elizabeth Hagedorn In Washington, DC, reporting on diplomacy, regional politics, human rights