White House envoy McGurk heads to Jordan, UAE ahead of Netanyahu’s US visit President Joe Biden is expected to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week as Washington doubles down on its pursuit of a cease-fire in Gaza and initial steps toward Palestinian statehood. Palestine
Women activists face 'severe sentences' in Iran, as new president vows easing of restrictions A woman labor activist was sentenced to death in Iran for allegedly belonging to an outlawed Kurdish group, as authorities continue their crackdown against any type of dissent. Iran
Israel’s Netanyahu gambles on Gaza cease-fire with new conditions New Israeli demands in the cease-fire talks with Hamas risk prolonging the delicate negotiations and the remaining hostages' time in captivity. Israel
Iraq’s first lady blasts Turkey’s assault against PKK in Kurdistan Region The first lady's own family history and the upcoming parliamentary elections are likely behind her decision to speak up now. Iraq
Vance’s voting record: How Trump VP pick could sway Middle East policy Trump’s running mate voted to repeal Iraq War authorizations and rejected coupling aid for Israel and Ukraine. Israel
Analysis Is Houthi expansion in Iraq a genuine threat or smoke screen? Iraq's relations with Saudi Arabia are called into question as the Houthis seek to expand their influence in the region. By Francesco Schiavi In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance
Israel must control Gaza border with Egypt, Netanyahu says in Rafah On a rare visit to Rafah in the Gaza Strip, Israel's prime minister repeated his demands that Israel maintain control there in any deal. By Rina Bassist In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs
Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping wipe $2B off Suez Canal annual revenue The Suez Canal Authority said revenue for fiscal year 2023/24 fell to $7.2 billion, down from $9.4 billion the preceding year. Yemen
Turkey’s Erdogan praises Trump’s 'bravery' in call with former president The Turkish president became one of the few world leaders to speak with the former US leader following the assassination attempt. Turkey
Trump adds to Gulf portfolio with Dubai tower deal The Trump Organization and Dar Global have unveiled a new development, adding to others in Oman and Saudi Arabia this year. United Arab Emirates
Saudia inks deal for electric flying taxis from Germany amid airline order spree The agreement to purchase 50 jets, with an option for 50 more, was made with Lilium, headquartered outside Munich. Saudi Arabia
Analysis What’s behind Islamic State’s first attack in Oman? ISIS has not affected Oman as much as it has other Gulf countries, in part due to the sultanate’s strong security and lack of radicalism, according to one expert. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
