Archives for July, 2026

US-Iran strikes: latest developments

Iran and US forces traded new military attacks Tuesday, with Tehran warning of "more decisive and powerful" strikes ahead as the conflict threatened to widen with a blockade of Saudi ports by Houthi rebels in Yemen. - Trump warns Houthis - Trump said he would "take care of" the Houthi rebels if the Iran-backed militant group follows through on its threatened blockade of Saudi ports.

Agence France-Presse

Interview

PJAK leader mocks Iran’s claim Turkey spiked US Kurdish-backed regime-change plan

The PJAK co-leader says he does not believe Washington or Israel would abandon a strategic objective as significant as toppling Iran's government because of Turkish objections.

Siamand Moeini

PJAK Executive Council Member

Analysis

Why Mamdani concluded he can’t arrest Israel’s PM Netanyahu

The New York City mayor said he lacks the "legal authority" to arrest the Israeli premier based on the ICC warrant, likely due to laws pertaining to the United Nations and the court, but the ordeal could increase pressure on Israel over the case.

By Adam Lucente

In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change

Syria arrivals surge 111% as government bets on tourism revival

The country welcomed 3.52 million visitors during the first half of 2026, more than double the figure recorded a year earlier, as the government pushes to reconnect to the world and promote tourism as a pillar of economic recovery.

Syria

Explainer-When are Turkey's next elections, and can Erdogan run again?

Reuters

'Interaction' with Iran's injured Supreme Leader increasing daily, president says

Reuters

Turkey's opposition leader to form new party to challenge Erdogan

Reuters

Houthis warn shipping firms to avoid Saudi ports or face attack: What to know

The Houthi militia reportedly emailed multiple shipping companies on Tuesday, warning them of the consequences of visiting Saudi ports.

Yemen

Kuwaitis ration electricity as Iran hits power grid

Residents of Kuwait, one of the world's hottest countries, are cutting their use of air conditioning at the height of summer, as Iranian strikes on power plants turn rationing into a national priority. Energy-guzzling air conditioners are ubiquitous in Kuwait during the summer months.

Agence France-Presse

Houthis warn shipping companies to avoid Saudi ports, email shows

Reuters

US hits Iran, says war cost at $37.5 bn

Fresh US strikes triggered air defences in Tehran on Wednesday after President Donald Trump warned he was "not finished" with a war with Iran that has already cost his nation $37.5 billion. Critics have pointed to the cost of the war that Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth said Tuesday had soared to $37.5 billion, defending a request for tens of billions in additional funding for the military.

Agence France-Presse

Tankers with Saudi crude turn back as Houthis open new front in US-Iran war

Reuters

Global hunger declines across continents but climate, trade risks loom, UN says

Reuters

Analysis

Israel draws line on Houthi attacks, hopes for Trump strike on Pickaxe Mountain

From the perspective of the Israeli military and some politicians, the current situation of the US striking at Iran and Israel staying out of the conflict is ideal.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

Israeli airstrike kills family of six in Gaza, medics say

Reuters

Lebanese army enters southern town after Israeli withdrawal, in first test of US-brokered deal

Reuters