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
Syria joins China’s Belt and Road Initiative The admission of Syria into the Chinese economic project is the latest sign of strengthening relations between Damascus and Beijing. News Brief
Two dead after truck plunges into Nile River in Egypt The incident near Cairo was the latest transportation-related tragedy in Egypt. News Brief
Pressure mounts on Iran's health minister amid personal vaccine saga The impeachment motion was triggered by a leaked document showing that the health minister had received an imported vaccine, contradicting his earlier claims that he had been jabbed with a government-promoted, domestic one. Iran
Qatari, Iranian foreign ministers meet in Doha The visit followed the Iranian foreign minister's trip to Oman. News Brief
Protesters block roads in Lebanon as currency hits new low Lebanon’s economic crisis continues to get worse. News Brief
UN extends Syria cross-border aid without challenge from Russia The Biden administration eased restrictions on aid groups working with the Syrian government in November. Syria
Iraqi forces arrest Syrian 'infiltrators' at border Iraq announced a similar incident late last year. News Brief
Egyptian rights group suspends operations after 'hostile' targeting of staff The Arabic Network for Human Rights Information said the decision to close its doors came after "many strenuous attempts to continue to operate, despite the difficult conditions.” Egypt
Iran calls for US to unfreeze Afghan funds amid humanitarian crisis Following a visit by Taliban envoy Amir Khan Muttaqi to Tehran, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said it wasn't ready to formally recognize Afghanistan's new rulers. Iran
Kuwait breaks daily COVID-19 cases record but deaths remain low Coronavirus cases are soaring in several Gulf states, though per capita infections are well below those of other countries. News Brief
Iranian foreign minister visits Oman Oman's top diplomat voiced support for the Iran nuclear deal during the meeting. Iran
UN says Sudan dialogue to resolve coup to begin immediately The talks will bring together protest movement and civil society representatives, rebel groups and the military in hope of restoring Sudan's path to democratic role. Sudan
