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
Killings on the rise in Syria's al-Hol camp There were far more deaths than usual in the camp for Islamic State families in January amid calls from the United Nations and Kurdish forces for countries to take back their citizens. Syria
UN calls for Yemen aid, warns Houthis’ Marib offensive ‘must stop’ With millions of Yemenis "just one step away from famine," the UN called on countries to pledge generously at next month's donor conference. Yemen
Israel and Syria close to completing prisoner exchange The deal was held up on Wednesday when two Golan Heights residents refused to be sent to Syria. Israel released two shepherds on Thursday in a bid to finalize the transfer. Israel
US, EU diplomats meet to salvage Iranian nuclear pact Secretary of State Antony Blinken met virtually with his European counterparts as the United States seeks to revive diplomacy with Iran. United States
US citizen Bilal Abdul Kareem released from prison by HTS in Syria The American activist and self-styled journalist spent six months in the jihadist group's notorious prison system. Syria
Biden, Netanyahu hold 'friendly and warm' call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the hourlong call discussed peace, Iran and other issues. Israel
Snow covers parts of the Middle East as winter storm rages on Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Jordan have all received several centimeters of snow. Syria
Bahraini phone app launches vaccination certificate Users of the BeAware Bahrain mobile application can receive a certificate proving they have received the vaccine against COVID-19. Originals
UN: Houthi attack on Marib may displace hundreds of thousands The potential for a Houthi offensive poses a major test for the Biden administration. Originals
Iran's supreme leader demands US action, not talk on nuclear deal As the new administration tries to revive diplomacy with Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Wednesday that "words and promises are no good." United States
Gaza receives first batch of vaccines Israel approved the shipment after reportedly considering tying the delivery to the release of Israeli captives in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory. Palestine
Intel: US announces missile sale to Egypt after American activist’s relatives detained The Biden administration appears to be sending mixed signals to Cairo as it vows a firm stance on human rights abuses in the Middle East Egypt
