Iraq to receive gas from Turkmenistan Iraq is largely dependent on Iran for gas, despite having its own sizable reserves. The relationship has been complicated by US sanctions on Iran, and Iraq is also seeking international help to utilize its gas reserves. Iraq
Prigozhin’s death spells end of Wagner, but Russia won't abandon its missions With the Wagner Group's top leadership reportedly dead in a likely assassination, Moscow is continuing to quietly replace the private mercenary outfit in its overseas operations. Syria
Can US-Iran prisoner deal build trust for broader talks? Experts say the release of five Americans held in Iran could lay the groundwork for a resumption of nuclear talks between the longtime adversaries. Iran
Fossil fuel subsidies in Middle East nearly doubled since 2020, says IMF The fund said that fossil fuel companies globally benefited from $13 million in subsidies per minute last year. Gulf
Hard-line Christian group attacks queer-friendly bar in Lebanon The LGBTQ community in Lebanon has faced increasing violence in recent weeks amid a rising wave of hate speech against them. Lebanon
4 Arab Israelis arrested for Hezbollah ties, smuggling Iranian explosives The Shin Bet announced today that four Arab Israelis suspected of involvement with Hezbollah's smuggling activities were arrested last month. Israel
Protests in southern Syria gain momentum, spread to Aleppo Anti-government protests in government-held areas have been driven by a fuel price hike on top of the generally dismal economic situation in war-torn Syria. Syria
Turkey’s Central Bank shifts gears, hikes interest rates to 25% The 750 basis point rise was higher than analysts' expectations, prompting lira to rebound from a record low. Turkey
Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE to join BRICS The Shanghai-headquartered New Development Bank, or so-called “BRICS bank”, had already admitted the UAE and Egypt as shareholders. Iran
UAE places technology at top of COP28 agenda in Dubai The UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, UAE Space Agency and COP28 signed an agreement in July to coordinate on technology-focused sustainable solutions ahead of the major climate change conference in Dubai later this year. United Arab Emirates
