Grappling with Western sanctions, Iran, Belarus strengthen military ties Defense-related cooperation between Iran and Belarus has accelerated considerably in recent years, particularly after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s trip to Tehran in 2023. Iran
‘No one wants to return to war,’ Lebanon’s Aoun tells US general overseeing ceasefire Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged the committee tasked with monitoring the ceasefire that ended last year’s war with Israel to pressure the latter to end its daily attacks on Lebanon. Lebanon
Analysis Turkey strengthens defense, energy ties following Erdogan’s Gulf tour The Turkish president’s Gulf tour saw the signing of over a dozen agreements to strengthen military ties, diversify energy sources and expand economic partnerships amid regional instability. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Egypt discovers 18 oil, gas wells as Cairo looks to up energy output The discoveries support the government's ambition to increase Egypt's domestic energy supply. Egypt
Trump to Israel: West Bank annexation could end US support "It won't happen," President Donald Trump said of annexation. Israel
Culture Gaza artists' unorthodox biennial finds a home in Istanbul The Gaza Biennale — Istanbul Pavillion, themed “A Cloud in My Hand,” reflects Gaza artists’ quest for survival as well as their hopes for a postconflict homeland. Turkey
