US signs off $425 million sale to upgrade Kuwait’s Patriot air defenses Washington's second Patriot upgrade for Kuwait in a month comes amid fears of a potential regional conflict should the US and Israel strike Iran's nuclear sites if diplomatic overtures fail. By Jared Szuba In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military
Can new US general advance Hezbollah disarmament in Lebanon? The Pentagon has assigned a new general to oversee the Lebanon-Israel ceasefire as the Trump administration continues to pressure the Beirut government to hasten the disarmament of Hezbollah. Lebanon
Interview Qatar’s digital future offers opportunities in AI, energy, says head of US-Qatar Business Council Talent, not just capital, is key to sustainable growth, says Sheikha Mayes Al Thani. Sheikha Mayes Al Thani Managing Director, US-Qatar Business Council
Switzerland to ban Hamas on May 15, allowing expulsions: What we know Historically neutral Switzerland moved to ban Hamas after the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks, mirroring actions taken by others on the continent. Palestine
Turkey convicts Swedish journalist of insulting Erdogan with terror trial next Joakim Medin will remain behind bars awaiting prosecution on terror-related charges that press freedom groups say aim to silence the free press. Turkey
On first state visit, Aoun lauds UAE-Lebanon ties, says 'past behind us' The Lebanese president’s visit to the UAE is the first by a head of state in years, as ties between the two countries became increasingly strained during Hezbollah’s growing influence in Lebanon. Lebanon
Meet Omer Siddig, Sudan's new foreign minister, former ambassador to China General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has appointed veteran diplomat Omer Siddig as Sudan's new minister of foreign affairs, filling the role following the dismissal of his predecessor, Ali Youssif, in mid-April. Sudan
Turkey’s Erdogan rebukes Syrian Kurds over decentralization calls, but keeps tone mild The Turkish president's restrained comments hint at an evolving strategy toward Kurdish forces in Syria. Turkey
Iran unveils new navy ship amid regional tensions, nuclear talks Iran has been expanding its naval fleet in recent years amid tensions with the United States and Israel, though the Islamic Republic is currently engaged in negotiations with Washington. Iran
China JV wins $1.13 billion contract to relocate Saudi university facilities The KSU deal marks the latest in a series of large contracts awarded by the Diriyah Company, which is overseeing the city project. Saudi Arabia
