Spain investigates Saudi Arabia’s 9.9% acquisition of Telefonica Saudi Arabia’s STC Group announced a 9.9% purchase in the $2.1 billion telecom company, but the Spanish government must approve the plan. Saudi Arabia
Who are Ennahda leaders arrested in Tunisia's latest crackdown? The arrests are the latest against figures opposed to President Kais Saied, who has cemented his one-man rule since July 2021. North Africa
US sanctions Sudan paramilitary leader Hemedti's brother for human rights abuses Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo's Rapid Support Forces have been widely accused of abuses during the fighting in Sudan. North Africa
Flash floods in Turkey kill at least 10 people Flooding has ravaged several parts of the country this week. Turkey
Analysis Israelis of Ethiopian origin suffer discrimination, racism, over-policing Decades after arriving to the country, Israelis of Ethiopian origin still face distrust, discrimination and police brutality. By Mazal Mualem In Tel Aviv, reporting on politics
Hamas, Hezbollah lash out at Bahrain as Israeli FM concludes visit Hamas criticized the visit as Israel’s relations with the island kingdom continue to improve, despite historically high tensions with the Palestinians. Israel
Turkey’s Fidan, NATO chief discuss Sweden’s bid, Ukraine grain deal The phone call comes a day after the meeting in Sochi between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. Turkey
Turkey's Erdogan eggs on Syria's Arab tribes against US-backed Kurds Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria "poses a threat to its national security." Syria
Saudi Arabia, Iran exchange ambassadors as thaw continues The exchange of ambassadors between Saudi Arabia and Iran is the first since 2016 and follows the resumption of relations between the two countries in March. Iran
Iran shuts down reformist outlet Entekhab as crackdown intensifies Iran's already stifling media environment and the crackdown on outspoken journalists have only stiffened under hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi. Iran
Western diplomats visit UAE to discuss Russia ties, Ukraine sanctions Western officials landed in the UAE on Monday, reportedly in a bid to keep computer chips, electronic parts and dual-use products away from Russia. United Arab Emirates
Oil prices surge as Saudi Arabia, Russia extend 1.3 million barrel cut through December The production cuts by Saudi Arabia, Russia and the OPEC+ alliance have succeeded in keeping oil prices up but have also had some negative effects on the Saudi economy. Legacy: Gulf
