Raisi: Iran 'never has hope' in Vienna talks Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has struck a pessimistic tone commenting on the nuclear talks between Iran and world powers. Iran
Iraq receives 145% more foreign visitors in 2021 Iraq waived the visa requirements for citizens of many economically powerful countries last year in a bid to attract tourists and businesspeople. News Brief
Saudi Arabia building support for Expo 2030 bid The kingdom wants to host the international cultural forum, which is currently being held in Dubai. News Brief
Saudi IT industry to work with German software firm SAP on cloud technology The memorandum of understanding is the latest to come out of the LEAP technology forum in Riyadh, and reflects the kingdom’s diversification efforts. News Brief
'They always accuse us': Netanyahu responds to killing of Iranian nuclear scientist Israeli Prime Minister also doesn't deny reports that he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Israel
Israel receives advanced warship amid heightened tensions with Iran The Saar 6 can fire missiles, launch helicopters and deploy Israel's Iron Dome technology. Its arrival comes following the killing of an Iranian nuclear scientist, allegedly by Israel. Israel
Biden reaffirms pledge to revive Iranian nuclear deal In an interview with The New York Times, Biden said rejoining the landmark agreement is the best way to avoid a nuclear buildup in the region. United States
Israel transfers over $1 billion in tax revenues to Palestinians The Palestinian Authority suspended the transfers in May, worsening the cash-strapped government's financial woes. Israel
Iranian president rejects bill calling for breaches of nuclear agreement Hassan Rouhani said the bill would harm Iran's diplomatic efforts. Parliamentarians put forward the initiative following the killing of an Iranian nuclear scientist. Iran
Egypt carried out ‘execution spree’ in past two months, Amnesty International says The rights group confirmed 57 executions in October and November alone, nearly double the number of prisoners killed in all of 2019. Egypt
Oman to issue tourist visas after 8-month suspension Travelers whose trips are organized through hotels or tourism companies can apply for visas. Oman
Israel's Blue and White party plans vote to dissolve Knesset Defense Minister Benny Gantz said there will be early elections unless the government passes a budget. Israel
Swedish-Iranian academic faces 'imminent' execution in Iran Rights groups are urging Iranian authorities to halt their planned execution of Ahmadreza Djalali. Iran
Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar tests positive for COVID-19 The 58-year-old Hamas official was tested after experiencing symptoms. Palestine
Lebanese GDP to decrease by nearly 20% in 2020 The World Bank has proposed several reform measures as Lebanon continues to struggle with currency depreciation, the COVID-19 pandemic and more. Lebanon
Iranian commander killed in airstrike on Iraq-Syria border No one has yet taken responsibility for the bombing that killed the IRGC commander. Iraq
