Analysis The Takeaway: Mideast economies face ‘predominantly downside’ prospects due to Ukraine war Former Kurdish fighter helps Swedish PM survive confidence vote; Israel pushes Iran shadow war further into shadows; Gulf remittances are lifeline for Sudan; Israel expands trade, business dealings in Gulf; questions over missing lower half of ‘half mummy.’ By Andrew Parasiliti , Elizabeth Hagedorn
Iraqi parliament passes urgent food security bill The Iraqi judiciary had blocked a previous version of the legislation, which empowers the government to address rising food prices and shortages resulting from the Ukraine war. Iraq
Russia remains committed to Syria’s Assad despite Ukraine war, Pentagon says Reports that Moscow has been readying tens of thousands of Syrians to fight in Europe are "disinformation," senior US defense official tells Congress. Syria
Venezuela’s Maduro receives warm welcome in Turkey Turkey and Venezuela have good relations, much to the chagrin of the United States. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Russia expresses 'understanding' for Turkey’s security concerns in north Syria Receiving Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Ankara, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu maintains that the creation of a safe maritime corridor for Ukrainian grain exports should be accompanied by the easing of sanctions against Russia. Turkey
Iran turns off nuclear site cameras in response to IAEA Iran and the IAEA continue escalatory measures. Iran
Iran moves on from India's Prophet Muhammad controversy Iranian diplomats have praised India’s response to members of its ruling Bharatiya Janata Party who insulted Islam. Iran
Yemen truce brings relief but no path to lasting peace Yemen's UN-sponsored truce is a priceless relief for civilians and a diplomatic success for the UN envoy for Yemen. But because the root causes remain unsolved, a permanent peace is still doubtful. Legacy: Gulf
