Iran’s morality police hit with US sanctions as nationwide protests rage The sanctions come less than a week after Mahsa Amini's death in custody of the morality police. Iran
Health of Turkey’s plastic waste workers under threat as European imports grow A report by Human Rights Watch finds Turkish authorities are not enforcing a law to protect vulnerable workers and local residents from toxic fumes. Turkey
In shock move, Turkey cuts interest rates again Inflation is historically high in Turkey, but President Erdogan continues to defy economic wisdom as the country's central bank slashed policy rates further. Turkey
Israeli army chief discusses Lebanon, Iran with French counterparts The visit of IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi to Paris offered Jerusalem the possibility to discuss the security situation in Lebanon, and how France can play a constructive role against the Hezbollah threat. Israel
Palestinian economy falters despite pandemic recovery Despite the end of the coronavirus pandemic, an improvement in the Palestinian economy does not seem very likely given other factors. Palestine
Culture Lebanese band Mashrou’ Leila quits after years of harassment over sexual orientation Mashrou’ Leila, whose main singer identifies as queer, announced it was disbanding, after facing accusations, harassment and threats over their songs. Lebanon
Egypt warns of stalemate in Nile dam dispute Egypt called for the resumption of negotiations over the disputed Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as soon as possible, and warned against the stalemate in the talks. Egypt
