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
Facebook takes down hacker network linked to Palestinian intelligence Facebook said another network created a fake Palestinian election website in order to steal people's information. News Brief
Loud explosion heard in central Israel, followed by airstrikes in Syria The Israel Defense Forces said a missile was fired towards Israel's Negev desert from Syria, prompting an Israeli military response. News Brief
Greece to loan Patriot missile units to Saudi Arabia Athens is lending a hand to help defend Saudi Arabia amid continued barrages as the United States moves its assets elsewhere. Saudi Arabia
Syria gets new central bank head The last central bank governor was fired as the Syrian pound remains at historic low points against the US dollar. News Brief
Israelis clash with police in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv Police clashed with protesters in a religious neighborhood in Jerusalem and a mixed part of Tel Aviv. News Brief
UN experts urge UAE to release princess who claims she's hostage UN human rights consultants have expressed alarm over videos alleging the 35-year-old princess is being held against her will. News Brief
Erdogan is MENA’s most popular leader, Arab Barometer finds Turkey's promotion of cultural heritage, including through its tourism and entertainment sectors, is one reason for Erdogan's popularity. However, the perception of the Ottoman legacy is gradually shifting from one of praise to one of condemnation toward Turkish policies. News Brief
Israel lifts outdoor mask requirement, acquires more vaccine doses A majority of Israelis have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. News Brief
Turkey nearly leading the world in daily COVID-19 cases Turkish authorities also expanded vaccine eligibility today. News Brief
Bahrain's Gulf Air to offer direct Israel flights starting in June The announcement comes less than a year after the two countries agreed to establish formal ties as part of the Abraham Accords. Bahrain
11 dead in another Egyptian train crash Egypt's rail network suffers from mismanagement and poor maintenance, according to state media outlets. News Brief
21 migrants drown off Tunisia's coast Rescue crews have located three survivors and are still searching for the boat's remaining 17 passengers. News Brief
