Israel raises rates again as central bank expects inflation Housing prices are also on the rise in Israel, and interest rates are now at their highest levels since 2008. Israel
Iraqi prime minister sees tensions spike with political allies Differences are growing between Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani and his political ally in parliament, the Coordination Framework. Iraq
Afghanistan's Hazara minority increasingly fearful under Taliban Al-Monitor spoke to members of the long-persecuted Hazara Shiite minority group in Afghanistan as restrictions on women increase and verifiable information becomes scarcer. By Shelly Kittleson In Baghdad, reporting on Iraqi politics
Cheers, jeers as Amir Ohana becomes Israel's first LGBTQ Knesset speaker Ultra-Orthodox Knesset members are being criticized by their religious leadership for voting in favor of appointing openly gay Amir Ohana as Knesset speaker. Israel
Iran pursues 94 US citizens over Soleimani killing Tehran has announced it is pursuing dozens of people it accuses of involvement in the 2020 assassination of its Quds Force leader. Iran
Dubai’s use of solar power increased in 2022 Dubai is playing a large role in the UAE’s move toward solar energy. Gulf
Palestinian female referee prepares for FIFA Women’s World Cup Heba Saadia has been selected as the Palestine's first referee to officiate the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 matches. Palestine
Turkey's inflation slows most in December in a boost to Erdogan Facing crucial elections in spring, the Turkish government is trying to take credit for curbing inflation, even though the steep decline in the annual rate owes mostly to a favorable base effect. Turkey
Israeli far-right minister risks regional flareup with Temple Mount visit Despite international warnings, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed for National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to ascend the Temple Mount. Israel
UAE, Saudi, others condemn Israeli minister’s visit to Jerusalem holy site Ben-Gvir’s visit to the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif could hurt the new far-right Israeli government's relations with Arab states and Turkey. Israel
