US top diplomat for Iran Brian Hook steps down Hook was a key figure in the Trump administration's pressure campaign against Iran. Iran
Turkey to use 'all available' tools as currency plunges Turkey’s Central Bank says it's ready to use “all available instruments” to calm the market as the Turkish lira drops to new depths, and an interest rate hike is one of the most obvious. Turkey
Etihad Airways reports massive decrease in passenger flights The number of passengers served and passenger flight revenues went down for the Abu Dhabi-based airline in the second quarter of 2020. Originals
In Beirut visit, France’s Macron promises reform in 'new political pact' The French president said he would meet with Lebanon's political elite to propose a series of reforms that would ensure aid does not go to waste. Lebanon
Journalists in Yemen attacked ‘from all quarters,’ UN rights chief says Since the beginning of April, the United Nations has documented an abduction, a killing and a number of physical attacks and threats against journalists operating in war-torn Yemen. Yemen
Israel prepares to resume air travel in mid-August Israel’s coronavirus cabinet has decided to reopen Israeli skies on Aug. 16. Israel
IRGC says Iran to ‘mobilize’ to help Lebanon after blast Iranian officials and media have offered condolences after the explosion that rocked Beirut. Lebanon
No quick fix for Iraq's electricity crisis Previous Iraqi governments' failure to solve the electricity crisis was one of the reasons for the popular protests. Iraq
Israel struggles to reach out to Lebanon after blast Not all Israelis were pleased with Tel Aviv's gesture of solidarity with Lebanon, with quite a few saying that lighting the city hall up like the Lebanese flag went too far. Israel
Ethiopia angered by Egypt’s alleged plan to establish military base in Somaliland Egypt has reportedly discussed with the Somaliland government Cairo’s suggestion to establish a military facility in the country, raising the anger of Ethiopia. Egypt
Al-Madaq: A new virtual archive documenting Cairo’s history An Egyptian historian created a website that reviews the history of Cairo through several historical maps, texts and photographs. Egypt
Moscow boosts ties with Tehran as US-Iran tensions escalate While Iran and Russia are trying to limit US influence in the Middle East, the United States lacks the leverage to counter China’s and Russia’s growing influence in the region. Russia
US to submit UN resolution to extend Iran arms embargo next week: Pompeo The arms embargo is set to expire in October as part of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major world powers. United States
Pentagon contradicts Trump’s claim on Beirut ‘attack’ US Defense Secretary Mark Esper contradicted Donald Trump's suggestion that the explosion in Beirut was an "attack," saying instead that it was likely caused by an accident. Lebanon
Turkey mulls withdrawing from violence against women treaty Turkey would be the first member state to withdraw from the Council of Europe's 2011 Istanbul Convention. Turkey
To you A poem reflecting on Beirut's latest tragedy, and the evergreen resilience of its people. Lebanon
