Trump's dream of retaking Bagram might end up looking like an Afghan re-invasion, sources say Reuters
IEA report: Mideast electricity generation to rise 50% by 2035 as renewables expand The International Energy Agency said that oil and gas remain the main sources of energy in the Middle East and North Africa, but noted the region’s rising investment in alternatives and renewable energy potential. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Turkey, Egypt join forces for first EastMed drills in 13 years The joint exercises signal a thaw in Ankara-Cairo relations after years of tension over regional rivalries and past political disputes. Turkey
Palestine UN envoy: Ramallah bracing for Israeli retaliation amid UN recognition push Palestinians aim to press for recognition and international support at the UN next week, with envoy Riyad Mansour telling Al-Monitor that the coming days will be critical. Palestine
Middle East debt issuance near $200B record amid September borrowing surge A borrowing boom driven by Saudi Arabia and Turkey arrives amid a broader wave of issuances in 2025, underlining the Middle East’s status as one of the busiest and most resilient players in international debt markets. Saudi Arabia
UN special envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen steps down after six years Pedersen is leaving as Syria continues to grapple with political upheaval, humanitarian crises and ongoing conflict. Syria
As EU tries to wean off Russian gas, pipeline imports via Turkey rise The European Union is importing more Russian gas via Turkey despite efforts to end imports from Russia. Turkey
Analysis From Palestine push to Sharaa’s UN debut: What to watch at UN summit The annual international get-together will feature a wave of Palestinian statehood recognition, the Syrian president’s United Nations debut and possible 11th-hour diplomacy with Iran. By Elizabeth Hagedorn In Washington, DC, reporting on diplomacy, regional politics, human rights
