Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid airport sets record with 3.9M passengers in July Air travel is a part of the Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy, though challenges remain in attracting tourists and catching up to other Gulf airports. Saudi Arabia
Pentagon awaits White House decision to help ramp up Gaza humanitarian aid The White House has not yet signed off on proposals to have the US military support humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza as the enclave's population faces spreading starvation. United States
Lebanon cabinet backs Hezbollah disarmament as US urges year-end deadline Lebanon’s cabinet approved Thursday the goals outlined in a US proposal on the complete disarmament of Hezbollah in exchange for the end of Israeli attacks on the country. Lebanon
Analysis Turkey’s military shake-up: Adapting to new threats or political meddling? A new personnel law reflects growing political influence over military decision-making, raising concerns about the military's meritocracy and autonomy. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Analysis As Kuwait modernizes military, will China rival US as key defense partner? Kuwait and China are finalizing a joint ammunition factory as the Gulf state maintains its longstanding US security alliance. By Sabena Siddiqui In Karachi, reporting on South Asia, Middle East, Iran
Turkey-France rivalry disrupts US-led mediation between Damascus, Syrian Kurds Ankara is pressuring Damascus to cancel talks in Paris, fearing French support will tilt negotiations in favor of the Kurds, regional officials told Al-Monitor. Turkey
