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
Palestinian factory workers strike in West Bank industrial zone Palestinian workers at the Yamit factory in a West Bank industrial zone are striking for their first substantial raise in decades. Palestine
Iran offers to help Iraq reconstruct damaged archaeological masterpiece Iran has expressed interest in helping repair the Taq Kasra, the remains of a pre-Islamic Persian palace in Iraq with a historically significant archway. Iraq
How Capitol Hill riots will complicate Turkey-US ties The violence on Capitol Hill promises to further complicate Turkey-US relations as the incoming US administration’s tolerance of those who show contempt for democracy and rule of law diminishes. Turkey
Khamenei's vaccine ban paints dismal picture of Iranian health care The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed shortcomings in health care systems across the globe, and Iran is no exception. Iran
Turkish former NBA star denies falling out with Erdogan Basketball star Hidayet Turkoglu has denied quitting the top post of the Turkish Basketball Federation and his firing as an adviser to the Turkish president for refusing to move his money to Turkey. Turkey
Women missing from top roles as Israeli election takes shape The Knesset race is painting a sad picture of gender equality in Israel, with no party led by a woman. Israel
Syria's journalists live in constant fear of arrest, assassination Syria remains one of the world's most dangerous places for journalists, who face repression and violence from the Syrian regime as well as opposition forces. Syria
Why Erdogan needs to conquer Bogazici University Historical Bogazici University has long been an ivory tower out of the control of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his party. Turkey
Young Israeli singer wins over fans with Moroccan Arabic voice Israeli artist Ron Peretz embraces the Moroccan Arabic she learned at home in hip hop music that is conquering hearts in Israel and the Arab world. Israel
Turkey awash with schadenfreude over Capitol takeover A large number of Turks feel deep animosity toward the United States, and as sense of just desserts prevails as the world reels from yesterday's rioting in the Capitol. Turkey
Iran reports first case of new COVID-19 strain The infected individual reportedly returned from the United Kingdom recently. Iran
Turkey arrests students protesting Erdogan's university head pick Police raided the homes of at least 17 students after they protested the Turkish president's appointment to lead a top university in what supporters say was a blatant and violent attempt to crush their dissent. Turkey
