Feature As sectarian tensions rise, what future awaits Syria's Alawite community? In post-Assad Syria, the Alawite community, long associated with the fallen regime, faces deepening insecurity and sectarian anxiety. By Danny Makki In London, reporting on Syrian politics and culture
Venture capital funding in Middle East falls by 29% in 2024 Saudi Arabia, which saw $750 million in venture capital funding last year, saw a 44% drop in funding volume in 2024 compared to 2023. Saudi Arabia
Italian journalist Cecilia Sala lands in Rome after release from Iranian prison After more than three weeks of detention, Cecilia Sala has been released from Tehran's Evin Prison and was met at the airport in Rome by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Iran
As Trump praises Erdogan, Turkey says ready to take control of ISIS prisons in Syria The top Turkish diplomat said Turkey is prepared to take control of the Islamic State detainee camps as he downplayed Israeli support for the Syrian Democratic Forces. Turkey
What to make of Iran's IRGC drills near Natanz nuclear site amid Israeli threats The exercise, which was part of larger-scale drills, tested the capabilities of several air defense systems designed to thwart potential strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Iran
Exclusive Syria's new Islamist rulers reduce Iraq's appetite for US troop withdrawal Iraq's prime minister is heading to Iran to discuss concerns about Syria's new rulers, as Baghdad is considering the delay of the US troop withdrawal to address regional instability. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Israeli, Emirati foreign ministers meet in Abu Dhabi, discuss Gaza humanitarian crisis Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar met in Abu Dhabi, marking the first official high-level meeting between the two states since Oct. 7, 2023. Israel
