Iran's FM hosts Sudan counterpart, eyes larger influence: What we know Iran signaled an increasing presence in Sudanese reconstruction projects, while reports have suggested Iranian drone shipments to the Sudanese military in its fight against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Sudan
Netanyahu taps confidant to lead Gaza negotiations, replacing Mossad chief: What we know Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu removed Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar from the negotiating team, replacing them with loyalist Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, who is seen as having a direct line to the White House. Israel
Pentagon sends B-52 bombers over Middle East as US aims to pressure Iran The US military signals continuity in the region as Saudi Arabia hosts Trump’s push for a dramatic reset with Russia over the Ukraine war. By Jared Szuba In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military
Why Trump turned to Saudi Arabia for US-Russia talks The high-level talks are an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to burnish its credentials as the Middle East's power broker. Saudi Arabia
Analysis Sudan, Russia reach 'understanding' on naval base but hurdles remain A naval base deal that has been more than five years in the making has gained renewed attention after statements from Sudan’s foreign minister while in Moscow. By Rosaleen Carroll In Washington, DC, US, reporting on the Middle East
Mass arrests in Turkey as Erdogan courts Kurds, seeks to eliminate rivals Erdogan is intensifying his crackdown on Kurdish and opposition groups in fear of rivals and political instability ahead of the 2028 elections. Turkey
China's defense companies out in full force at UAE's IDEX: What to know China sent 59 defense and technology companies to the International Defense Exhibition and Conference and the Naval Defense and Maritime Security Exhibition in Abu Dhabi this week. United Arab Emirates
Lebanon extends Iran flight ban, will close airport during Nasrallah funeral The flight suspensions come as Hezbollah supporters had been organizing daily protests around Lebanon’s only civilian airport in protest against a ban on Iranian flights to and from Beirut. Lebanon
Analysis India’s Chabahar dilemma: US sanctions on Iran threaten key port India faces a delicate diplomatic challenge as US sanctions threaten its strategic investment in the Chabahar port, a vital trade link to Afghanistan and Central Asia. By Sabena Siddiqui In Karachi, reporting on South Asia, Middle East, Iran
Iran unveils new drones in military drill: What to know Amid heightened tensions with the United States and Israel, Iran is flexing its military might. Iran
