9 Middle East universities, 3 in Saudi Arabia make world’s top 300 schools Nearly 150 universities from the MENA region are featured in a list of the world’s top universities. Saudi Arabia
Turkey Islamist group calls for art expo's closure for 'blasphemy,' LGBTQ 'propaganda' Islamist media and AKP members attacked Istanbul Municipality’s inaugural exhibition of top Turkish artists at Feshane, a recently renovated 19th-century factory. Turkey
Former US envoy to Israel Dan Shapiro named Abraham Accords adviser Shapiro's appointment to the newly created position comes as the Biden administration seeks to boost Israel's ties in the Arab world, particularly with Saudi Arabia. Israel
Iran, Yemen, Saudi Arabia follow close behind China in VPN blocking China led the ranking, blocking about 73% of all attempts to access VPN providers, with Iran and several Gulf Arab countries following close behind. Gulf
Middle East condemns, protests Quran burning in Sweden by Iraqi refugee Quran burnings in Sweden have damaged the potential NATO member’s relationship with Turkey. Turkey
Analysis Israeli government postpones interest rates bill for checking accounts The postponement of the bill was decided after an unusually harsh letter by Bank of Israel Gov. Amir Yaron, warning such a move would harm the bank's independence. By Rina Bassist In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs
Analysis US sanctions on UAE Wagner Group affiliate could impact Libya operation A brief mutiny in Russia last weekend by the Wagner Group has shifted the spotlight back on the mercenary organization. By Jack Dutton In Bristol, reporting on regional business, climate change, AI, tech
Blinken: US warned Israel that West Bank tensions could undermine Saudi normalization Secretary of State Antony Blinken said it would be tough, if not impossible, to deepen and expand the Abraham Accords if the violence continues in the West Bank. Israel
