China warns US not to interfere with Iran trade: What to know China's Foreign Ministry said Beijing was firmly opposed to what it called “illegal unilateral sanctions” and would take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its rights. Iran
Large UAE delegation set to arrive in Lebanon in major investment push A large Emirati delegation of around 70 business leaders and government officials is heading to Beirut, in the latest sign of thaw between the United Arab Emirates and Lebanon. Lebanon
France, Saudi Arabia announce more than $10B in deals on MBS visit Among the deals included a 6 billion euro ($7 billion) pledge from the Public Investment Fund in three manga-themed amusement parks on the outskirts of Paris. Saudi Arabia
China slams Trump over economic war on Iran: What to know China’s once significant oil imports from Iran have been impacted by the war in the region and increasing US sanctions. Iran
Russia keeps eye on Kurdish oil contracts, referendum Russia has been boosting its presence in Middle East oil via the Kurdish Regional Government, but is also waiting to see what the potential impacts might be of the KRG’s independence referendum. Iraq
Border crossings bring in cash for Free Syrian Army factions The Turkey-backed Free Syrian Army is racking up serious sums of money from fees it charges at border crossings in northern Syria. Syria
Online portal offers Palestinian diaspora piece of home A Palestinian businesswoman has adopted the tradition of gift baskets to bring a taste of homeland to Palestinian diaspora. Palestine
Iranians rail against Apple, Google over pulling of apps US tech giants Apple and Google have removed Iranian-developed apps from their online stores, sparking a backlash. United States
Turkey hopes to pounce on big piece of Mosul reconstruction Despite their government's past gaffes, Turkish firms want, even expect, substantial contracts to help rebuild Iraq's Mosul, which was reduced to rubble during the long battle to exorcise the Islamic State. Iraq
Jordanians brace for tough times ahead amid tax changes under IMF deal Under an agreement signed with the IMF, Jordan is seeking to raise additional revenues, raising fears about the worsening economic situation in the kingdom. Jordan
Turkey’s shopping mall boom going bust Turkey’s shopping mall boom has been hit by economic problems stemming from the lira's decline against the dollar and poor planning. Turkey
PA struggles to stop gas smuggling in the West Bank Smuggling adulterated fuel from Israel into the Palestinian territories has been on the rise. Palestine
Could energy deals warm relations between Egypt, Israel? Speculation about Egypt possibly privatizing some of its electricity distribution companies is sparking fears of expanded normalization with Israel. Egypt
Sanctions give Moscow, Tehran something to talk about US sanctions are indeed drawing Russia and Iran closer, but the question now becomes just how close. Russia
Russia takes renewed interest in Palestine Russia seems to be increasing its cooperation with the Palestinians recently in several areas, including the economy, politics and tourism. Palestine
What's behind Turkish economic miracle? Under Turkey's emergency law, big business may benefit while the middle class is fast disappearing. Turkey
