UAE firm’s $1.7B legal threat spotlights Gulf split on Lebanon as Qatar invests Lebanon’s bid to lure Gulf investment into its crisis-stricken economy is facing turbulence as Dubai's Al Habtoor Group threatens legal action over more than $1.7 billion in losses, while Qatar is making an investment push. Lebanon
What’s next for Iraq as Nouri al-Maliki gets nominated for PM? Maliki, who resigned after the 2014 ISIS offensive, has been nominated by Iraq’s largest parliamentary alliance but must still be formally nominated by the next president and form a government that secures parliamentary approval. Iraq
Yemen’s Houthis hint at Red Sea attacks as US-Iran tensions rise: What to know The Houthi warnings come as a US aircraft carrier accompanied by several guided missile destroyers entered Gulf waters amid tensions with Iran. Iran
Israel recovers final Gaza hostage, Rafah crossing set to reopen: What to know The Rafah crossing is expected to allow Palestinians to exit and reenter the Gaza Strip, primarily for those seeking medical treatment. Israel
Syria leans on Jordan, regional gas deals to rebuild energy sector The deal was signed at the Syrian Ministry of Energy between Syrian Petroleum Company and Jordan’s National Electric Power Company, SANA reported. Syria
Turkey detains nurse over hair-braiding video in support of SDF Authorities say the nurse’s social media post amounted to terror propaganda, while critics argue that her symbolic protest falls under freedom of expression as tensions over Syria spill into Turkey’s fragile peace process. Turkey
USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group reaches Middle Eastern waters The carrier's presence gives the White House greater options to authorize strikes deep within Iranian territory while reducing the potential risk of regional blowback. Iran
