Artistic heart of Iraq's Kurdistan thrives, but wants more public engagement Sulaimaniyah, often called the Kurdistan Region of Iraq’s “culture capital,” has become something of a haven for artists, though obstacles remain for the vibrant and self-sustaining artistic center they envision. Iraq
Libyan artists turn to black comedy to show youth exploitation A play dubbed “Chocolate Egg” uses black comedy to show the exploitation of young Libyans by officials to lure them into military formations. North Africa
Saudi 2030 to expand art scene in Jeddah, Riyadh With Saudi Arabia’s new social reform plan the local art scene is blooming with a plethora of cultural initiatives. Gulf
Gaza's first female beekeeper expands apiary The enclave's first female beekeeper speaks about the challenges facing Gaza's beekeeping profession. Palestine
Turkey's Erodgan cancels weekend curfew despite spike in cases Hours after his government announced a weekend curfew for 15 major cities, a public backlash forced Turkey's president to call off the movement restrictions. Turkey
Iran demanded Florida doctor in exchange for Michael White Former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson says the Iranians conditioned White's freedom on Majid Taheri's release. United States
Egyptian state media accuses doctors of treason for speaking up on coronavirus crisis Egyptian doctors are speaking out against health authorities over increasing coronavirus infections and deaths among medical staff across the country. Egypt
Elderly Turks furious over 'nonsense' lockdown Grumbles are growing from senior citizens in Turkey who remain confined to their homes as curfews are lifted for most other Turks. Turkey
Settlers lash out at Trump, spark war of words with Netanyahu Settler leaders are now attacking the Trump administration as they resist Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's annexation plan, which they fear will lead to the creation of a Palestinian state. Israel
As Turkey gets back to business, doctors warn second wave could follow Cafes and restaurants reopened and intercity travel resumed in Turkey after new cases of the novel coronavirus have steadily declined, though health officials warn failure to follow social distancing measures could lead to new infections. Turkey
Settlers accuse Netanyahu of misleading right on annexation Settler leaders and Yamina are campaigning against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s annexation plan, suspecting the initiative will lead to Palestinian statehood. Palestine
Egyptian archaeologists rely on technology to preserve past Prominent Egyptian archaeologist Monica Hanna is using modern technology, including Google tools, to help protect Egypt’s heritage and teach students. Egypt
Minorities in Turkey on edge amid threats, attacks Vulnerable groups have faced intimidation or worse in recent weeks in what both the government and the opposition warn are efforts to stoke conflict, though they disagree on who’s to blame. Turkey
Israeli museums reopen with a bang after COVID-19 Several museums in Israel are reopening their doors this week, after having been closed for more than two months due to the coronavirus outbreak. Israel
'Palestinian Lives Matter,' shout Israeli protesters over killing of Iyad Hallak The killing of autistic Palestinian man Iyad Hallak is arguably a perfect example of brutality by a police force that sees all Arab civilians as suspects. Israel
Israel apologies after police kill unarmed Palestinian in Jerusalem's Old City Hundreds of mourners called for revenge during processions in East Jerusalem on Sunday. Palestine
