Analysis Bruised, not broken: Iran’s regime shows no deep structural cracks — yet One of the clearest indicators of regime vulnerability — namely defections among the elite or military positions — has not materialized yet. By A correspondent in Tehran In Tehran, reporting on politics
Turkey's Fidan to visit UAE as Iran unrest, Gulf tensions intensify The top Turkish diplomat’s UAE visit coincides with heightened Gaza diplomacy, growing tensions between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, and escalating unrest in Iran. Turkey
UN chief warns he could refer Israel to world court over action against UN Palestinian refugee agency Reuters
Analysis Trump dials up risky Iran tariffs that would hit China, UAE and others: What to know Any country trading with Iran now faces a 25% tariff, per the White House, but the move is unlikely to ratchet up pressure on Tehran in the short term. By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
UN envoy in Cairo for talks as Sudan war tops 1,000 days: What to know UN-led efforts to end Sudan’s war have stalled, with fighting continuing and negotiations making little headway. Sudan
Syria moves military reinforcements east of Aleppo after telling Kurds to withdraw Agence France-Presse
Trump rejects talks with Iran as protest deaths mount President Trump urged Iranian anti-government protesters to hold the line while promising unspecified US assistance. Iran
Syria declares 'closed military zone' east of Aleppo as Kurds protest The Syrian government accused the Kurdish-led SDF of mobilizing in the area, reflecting ongoing turmoil following a ceasefire. Syria
US designates Muslim Brotherhood chapters as terrorist organizations: What to know The designations of the Brotherhood's branches in Lebanon, Egypt and Jordan follow President Donald Trump's executive order in November targeting the pan-Islamist movement. United States
