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
Israel calls US plan to reopen consulate for Palestinians 'bad idea' In an effort to repair ties with the Palestinians, the Biden administration plans to reopen the US Consulate in Jerusalem that had served as a de facto embassy for the Palestinians. Israel
Palestinian killed by Israeli forces in West Bank The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident. News Brief
Libya's FM signals elections could be delayed Foreign Minister Najla al-Mangoush said the Dec. 24 elections could be postponed if lawmakers fail to agree on the electoral law. Libya
Bahraini ambassador arrives in Israel Khaled Al Jalahma met with an Israeli diplomat in Jerusalem and tweeted in Hebrew about his new position. Israel
Iran tests defensive missile system The military exercise was the first since President Ebrahim Raisi took office. News Brief
Two killed in southern Syria explosion There have been a few unclaimed attacks in government-held parts of Syria recently. News Brief
Drone attack on Saudi airport injures 8 The second attack on the Abha airport in 24 hours injured several people, state-run media outlets reported. Yemen
Syrian oil spill could hit Cyprus soon The leakage came from a power plant in Syria's coastal city of Baniyas. News Brief
Congresswoman faces criticism over tweet on Israel holding body of Palestinian Rep. Rashida Tlaib tweeted in support of Mai Afana's family, which has not gotten her body back from Israel after she was killed allegedly attempting to attack Israeli soldiers. News Brief
Pentagon does not dispute civilian deaths in Kabul drone strike The Pentagon says military officials spoke with Taliban contacts to investigate reports of civilian casualties from yesterday's drone strike. News Brief
Iran strikes gold at Paralympics Iranian athletes are currently atop the Middle East in medals won at the international sporting competition for disabled athletes, and one could soon make history in women's archery. Iran
Gantz announces $155M loan for PA following Abbas meeting Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz and PA President Mahmoud Abbas held rare face-to-face talks in Ramallah on Aug. 29. Israel
