Analysis Syria state media's Kurdish-language launch: tactical move or real shift? SANA's foray into the Kurdish language is largely symbolic and part of Damascus’ efforts to project an image of compromise amid tense negotiations. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Somaliland fumes over Turkish envoy's meeting with rebel figure: What to know As diplomatic tensions flare between Ankara and Hargeisa after a Turkish envoy met a rebel figure in Mogadishu, Ankara is downplaying the encounter as circumstantial. Somalia
UAE breaks ground on 50 MW solar plant in CAR, expanding Africa footprint Abu Dhabi’s financial footprint has expanded across Africa, making the UAE the continent’s fourth-largest source of foreign capital. United Arab Emirates
Lenovo’s $2B Saudi expansion suggests China to hold ground despite US push Lenovo and Huawei both continue to expand in Saudi Arabia months after US President Donald Trump's landmark Gulf tour delivered tech deals for US giants. Saudi Arabia
Iran plans 20 satellites, test launch by end of 2025: What to know Iran is seeking investment in its space agency and has made progress in developing satellites in the face of sanctions, though reliance on Russia remains a factor. Iran
Factbox-What are the details of Gaza ceasefire deal Hamas has accepted and Israel is considering? Reuters
UAE’s Masdar secures $1.1B for 2 GW Saudi solar megaproject: What to know The Al Sadawi Independent Power Producer (IPP) Project is set to be one of the largest solar plants in the world, according to Masdar. United Arab Emirates
Lebanon PM in Jordan as Beirut pushes Hezbollah disarmament, Iran’s influence wanes Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam headed to Jordan following a similar visit by President Joseph Aoun two months ago, as the two countries seek deeper ties. Lebanon
Turkey, Japan defense chiefs meet as China concerns push Tokyo toward drones The Japanese defense chief’s visit focuses on defense industry cooperation, including a potential drone deal amid Tokyo's growing concerns over China’s naval activity. Turkey
Egypt, Japan sign 12 investment deals as Cairo floats industrial zone plan Egypt has been wooing foreign investment as it recovers from its worst financial downturn in over six decades. Egypt
Analysis In accepting Gaza truce proposal, is Hamas setting 'trap' for boxed-in Netanyahu? Is Hamas really hoping that Israel rejects a deal and goes ahead with the Gaza City offensive, resulting in its further international isolation? By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
Gaza ceasefire proposal agreed by Hamas is "almost identical" to Witkoff's plan, Qatari official says Reuters
