Middle East Monitor Latest news from the Middle East and North Africa

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  CBS news: At least two US drones shot down by Iranian forces

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  At least two US military drones have been shot down by Iranian forces during recent attacks in the Middle East, CBS News reported, citing unnamed US officials. According to the network, the aircraft were identified as belonging to the MQ-1 family of unmanned aerial vehicles, although the specific model involved was not immediately clear. The officials also did not disclose where in the Middle East the two drones were downed or provide further details about the circumstances surrounding their loss. Different variants of US unmanned aircraft vary significantly in cost and capability. The older MQ-1 Predator has been valued at around $4 million per aircraft, while variants of the Gray Eagle system can cost considerably more. The reported losses come

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  Sudanese army says it has taken control of 11 areas in north Kordofan

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  The Sudanese army said on Thursday that it had taken control of 11 areas in North Kordofan state following fighting with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). In a statement, the army identified the areas as Kajmar, Sharshar, Al-Buniya Al-Kariniya, Al-Qulai’at, Awlad Hazma, Maqouldat, Rishan, Al-Qa’a, Ghabat Al-Laqad, Al-Kukaiti, and the area surrounding Al-Mazroub. The military said the advances followed intense fighting with the RSF and claimed to have inflicted significant losses on the paramilitary force before pursuing its fighters westward toward the outskirts of Darfur. The army also said it had conducted extensive operations in areas west of El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan. It said military operations would continue as part of its campaign to restore government

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  UN General Assembly backs Palestinian participation; Abbas to address session by video

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly backed a resolution Thursday calling on the US to immediately reverse its decision preventing the Palestinian delegation from participating in person in the 81st session, according to the Palestinian Foreign Ministry, Anadolu Agency reported. The ministry said 152 countries voted in favour of the resolution, describing the US decision as a clear violation of the UN Headquarters Agreement. It said Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas would deliver his address to the General Assembly by video at the scheduled date and time. The ministry thanked countries that sponsored and supported the resolution, saying the vote represented a rejection of attempts to prevent Palestine from taking part in the General Assembly. Washington earlier Thursday extended visa restrictions on

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  Italy to deploy navy to protect Italian shipping through Bab al-Mandab Strait

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  Italy will deploy naval forces to help ensure the safe passage of Italian vessels through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said on Thursday, amid heightened security concerns linked to renewed fighting in Yemen. Speaking at a maritime forum, Crosetto said escalating clashes along Yemen’s western coast were disrupting navigation through Bab al-Mandab, a strategically important waterway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. The defence minister said the renewed security concerns in Bab al-Mandab were adding to disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz and increasing the economic impact of wider regional tensions. Crosetto said that, in coordination with Italy’s Chief of the Defence Staff, he had decided to mobilize the Italian Navy and take measures

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  US grants visas to Iranian delegation for UN General Assembly meetings in New York

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  The United States has approved visas for members of Iran’s official delegation to attend the upcoming United Nations General Assembly meetings in New York, despite the continuing conflict between the two countries, according to reports on Thursday. A US State Department spokesperson confirmed that Washington would allow Iran’s principal delegation to participate in next week’s General Assembly proceedings, citing the United States’ international obligations as host country of the UN headquarters. “In accordance with our international obligations, the main Iranian delegation will be able to participate in the UN General Assembly proceedings,” the spokesperson said. Members of the Iranian delegation will, however, face restrictions on their movements and spending while in the United States, according to the State Department. The

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  Macklemore announces $1 million donation to Palestinian relief groups amid tour dispute

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  US rapper Macklemore has announced a $1 million donation to Palestinian relief organizations, amid controversy over his removal from the lineup of British singer Ed Sheeran’s US tour. In a post on X, Macklemore said the money would come from proceeds connected to his planned participation in the tour and described the donation as an expression of solidarity with Palestinians. The rapper said Palestinian lives were “no less valuable than anyone else’s” and described support for Palestinians living under occupation and seeking greater freedom as a humanitarian issue. Macklemore also called on US billionaire and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to make a similar contribution. The announcement follows a dispute over Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s tour lineup. According to

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  Egypt says Gaza deal must be implemented, Israel is obstructing it

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  Egypt has stressed the need for the full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, saying Israel is obstructing its provisions, particularly the entry of humanitarian aid and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty made the remarks on Thursday at a joint press conference with his Portuguese counterpart Paulo Rangel after talks at the Foreign Ministry headquarters in Cairo, the state news agency reported. Abdelatty said the talks covered the Palestinian issue and that the two sides agreed on the “great importance” of implementing US President Donald Trump’s plan, delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and securing an Israeli withdrawal from the Strip. He said Israel was obstructing the full implementation of Trump’s plan,

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  Morocco: Benkirane reiterates opposition to normalisation with Israel

  by Marwa A on September 18, 2026

  Moroccan Justice and Development Party Secretary-General Abdelilah Benkirane has reiterated his opposition to normalising relations with Israel, amid reports that Morocco and Israel are considering upgrading their diplomatic representation. The party’s general secretariat issued the statement on Thursday after an urgent meeting held remotely to discuss the reports. The party said it remains opposed to normalisation and all relations and agreements with Israel, referring to previous statements and its election programme. Benkirane called on party members and activists not to engage with reports circulating inside and outside Morocco about the possible diplomatic upgrade, urging them instead to focus on the election campaign and promoting the party’s positions and programme. The party said its priorities should include citizens’ concerns, combating corruption

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  Israel poses ‘greatest threat’ to regional stability, Syria warns UN Security Council

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Israel represents the greatest danger to stability in the Middle East, Syria warned the UN Security Council on Thursday, Anadolu reports. Permanent Representative to the UN Ibrahim Olabi told council members that Israeli aggression constitutes “the greatest threat facing the stability of the entire region, not just Syria,” pointing to an emergency declaration by 44 nations outside the council chamber that condemned a high-level visit by Israeli leadership to Mount Hermon as an unlawful act and a “blatant violation” of international law. He emphasized that while Damascus approached US-sponsored security talks in good faith, Israel “responded to dialogue with airstrikes, incursions, and violations and attacks.” He underscored that pursuing a diplomatic arrangement does not mean Damascus will “accept occupation or

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  From Tantura to Gaza: History was not falsified, nor was testimony silenced

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The Israeli documentary Naza attracted considerable international media and political attention after winning the Venice Film Festival’s Special Jury Prize, despite not yet having reached the wider public. Following its screening at the festival, the film received a 25-minute standing ovation, an unusual occurrence at such events. The film runs for 80 minutes. Its Hebrew title, Naza, means “collateral damage” that is, the number of civilians expected to be killed or injured when a particular military strike is carried out. The documentary examines the system used to select targets, including the reliance on artificial intelligence during bombing operations in Gaza, and explains the mechanism by which the number of civilians expected to be killed or injured as a result of

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  Weapons stolen from Israeli army warehouses flowing to criminal groups: Report

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Weapons and ammunition stolen from Israeli army warehouses during the war in the Gaza Strip have made their way to criminal organizations, including LAW anti-tank rockets, Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported Thursday. It said the military may not know the full quantity of weapons and ammunition stolen from warehouses and now circulating outside its control. Two incidents involving LAW rockets were recorded this week in the Arab towns of Sajur and Jaljulia, it said. KAN said the nature of recent incidents and falling black-market weapons prices suggest that arms were stolen on a “massive scale” after emergency unit warehouses were opened during the war. It added that missing ammunition can be recorded as having been used in combat, making it

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  Jordan, Saudi Arabia discuss efforts to end regional escalation

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan, discussed efforts Thursday to end regional escalation and restore calm, as Amman reiterated its condemnation of attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, Anadolu reports. The talks came during a call between the two ministers, according to a statement by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry. Safadi affirmed Jordan’s “absolute solidarity with Saudi Arabia in all steps it takes to protect its security, stability and the safety of its citizens and residents.” The call addressed regional developments and efforts aimed at ending the escalation and restoring calm. On relations, they discussed ways to strengthen ties between Jordan and Saudi Arabia, and affirmed continued efforts to develop cooperation in various fields. Safadi also condemned

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  US State Department approves $24.3B F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The US State Department approved a possible $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, it said in a statement on Thursday, Anadolu reports. The package also includes 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, along with cryptographic equipment, electronic warfare support, training and logistics packages, according to the notification sent to Congress. “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region,” the State Department said. The department said the sale “will not alter the military balance in the region” and would not require additional US government or

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  Palestine rejects US extension of visa restrictions on officials, PLO members

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Palestine on Thursday rejected a US decision to extend visa restrictions on Palestinian Authority officials and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York, calling the measure “unjustified” and harmful to efforts to rebuild confidence and advance a two-state solution, Anadolu reports. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the restrictions run counter to efforts to improve Palestinian-US relations and create the political conditions needed for peace and stability in the region. It said the PLO and Palestinian Authority remain committed to peace, international legitimacy and a two-state solution based on the June 4, 1967 borders, “with Palestine and Israel living side by side in security and peace.” The ministry

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  Serbian president opens Israeli-made drone assembly factory

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic inaugurated a factory for assembling Israeli-made drones, which will produce equipment for the Serbian Armed Forces and the militaries of other countries, Anadolu reports. “I opened a factory for the assembly of the most modern Israeli-made drones, which will employ around 100 workers and produce state-of-the-art equipment both for the Serbian Armed Forces and the armies of some other countries,” Vucic announced in a social media post. He noted that at least three more factories will be opened across Serbia with Israeli partners. “Our plans are huge,” Vucic also said. Vucic further told daily Informer that the goal of the factory opening was to preserve peace and stability, and to be strong enough to deter all

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  The Mecca Pact must meet the test of war

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The Mecca Pact is already facing the test that matters: whether its promise of collective defence can shape the response to an actual war. With fighting escalating in Yemen and Saudi Arabia under attack, regional leaders no longer have the luxury of discussing security institutions as a future project. They must show what those institutions can do now. America does not have to leave the Middle East for the region to face a serious security gap. It only has to become more selective. The 2026 National Defense Strategy, published on January 23, assigns regional partners primary responsibility for deterrence and defence. A January 28 US government explanation specifies continued support for Israel and Gulf cooperation. The distinction is between continued

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  Netanyahu responsible for Oct. 7, 2023, must leave office: Opposition leader

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Just weeks before Israel’s Oct. 27 elections, an Israeli opposition party leader said that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bears responsibility for the events of Oct. 7, 2023, and should leave office, calling for all those who were part of the governing coalition at the time to be excluded from the next government. In a video posted Thursday on US social media platform X, Avigdor Liberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, held Netanyahu’s government directly responsible for the failures surrounding the events of that day. “I call on everyone to say things clearly: Netanyahu bears responsibility for Oct. 7, and he must go home,” Lieberman said. He added that those who were partners in the government at the time of

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  There is no real aversion to ethnic cleansing from the international community

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz reiterated the plan to forcibly transfer Palestinians out of Gaza. Noting that 70 per cent of Gaza has been emptied of Palestinians, Katz said that Israel was merely waiting for US approval. “The IDF is prepared, once given the directive to eliminate Hamas, to finish the job so that we can also implement the migration plan,” Katz declared. Speaking during a visit in the Occupied West Bank and contradicting Katz, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said, “I can tell you categorically there is no plan of the Israelis to displace people out of Gaza against their will.” Plans for the Palestinian people’s forced transfer from Gaza had been exposed since the early days of

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  Sudanese army takes control of areas in North, South Kordofan: Military sources

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The Sudanese army made battlefield advances in North and South Kordofan states on Thursday, taking control of several areas following clashes with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), military sources told Anadolu Agency. The sources said the army and allied forces took control of Al-Farshaya and Al-Mamsouka in South Kordofan after fighting with the RSF. The two areas are strategically located on the road linking El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, with Dilling in South Kordofan. The army also took control of Sharshar, northwest of the strategic city of Bara in North Kordofan, according to the sources. Army personnel shared videos on social media that they said were filmed inside Al-Farshaya and Al-Mamsouka after the areas were taken. READ: IOM warns

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  Oman strongly condemns Houthi attack targeting Mecca, backs Saudi measures

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Oman on Thursday strongly condemned a Houthi attack targeting the holy Muslim city of Mecca, Anadolu reports. It expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the measures it takes to protect its security, stability and sovereignty. The Foreign Ministry denounced the “criminal, sinful and treacherous” targeting of Mecca and said it rejects any violation of the sanctity of holy sites or threat to the safety of pilgrims. Muscat also expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia in the steps it takes to safeguard its security, stability and sovereignty. Oman urged countries in the region to intensify cooperation and coordination to address outstanding bilateral, regional and multilateral issues in a way that guarantees the rights of all states to security, stability and a safe and

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  Jordan, France, Lebanon leaders meet in Paris to discuss support for Lebanese army

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The leaders of Lebanon, Jordan and France discussed ways Thursday to strengthen cooperation and support the Lebanese army and Internal Security Forces amid continued regional tensions, according to the Lebanese presidency, Anadolu reports. The talks between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Jordan’s King Abdullah II and French President Emmanuel Macron took place at Les Invalides in Paris, ahead of a preparatory session for an international conference supporting Lebanon’s army and security forces. They discussed ways to deepen coordination and cooperation among the three countries in areas of mutual interest. They also reviewed the importance of France hosting a new round of the Aqaba Process meetings focused on supporting the Lebanese army and strengthening its ability to carry out its duties in protecting

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  Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Gary Samore: Was the War on Iran Inevitable or an Israeli Deception?

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  WATCH: Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with David Miller: The British Employment Appeal Tribunal Verdict: Anti-Zionism is not antisemitism

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  Syrian court issues death, prison sentences for 2025 coastal violence

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  A Syrian military criminal court in the northern city of Aleppo sentenced one defendant to death Thursday, another to life imprisonment and a third to 20 years for deadly violence in the coastal region in 2025, Anadolu reports. A fourth defendant was acquitted. State-run Alikhbariah TV broadcast the proceedings from Aleppo’s Justice Palace. Judge Zakaria Bakkar, head of the Military Criminal Court, presided over the sentencing hearings in the presence of judicial authorities. The rulings covered four of seven defendants, with verdicts for the remaining three expected at a later date, said the channel. Public trials in the coastal violence case began at Aleppo’s Justice Palace on Nov. 18, 2025. At the time, 14 defendants were put on trial. Seven

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  UK taxpayers subsidised therapy for Israeli soldiers committing genocide in Gaza, investigation finds

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  British taxpayers subsidised therapy for Israeli soldiers committing genocide Gaza, according to a new video by Declassified UK. The investigation focuses on UK Toremet, a registered British charity that reportedly channelled donations to projects in illegal Israeli settlements and provided funding to Regavim, a settler group sanctioned by the European Union. The latest video follows Declassified’s investigation published last month, which revealed how British taxpayers subsidised therapy through the Yahalom Foundation, an Israeli organisation supporting serving members and veterans of the army’s elite Yahalom engineering unit. Emails obtained by Declassified show that the Yahalom Foundation told British supporters to donate through UK Toremet, which it called its “registered partner platform in the UK”. Eligible donations through UK Toremet can attract

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  Bab al-Mandeb Strait’s shipping traffic comes to halt amid conflict in Yemen

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Escalating conflict off Yemen’s western coast brought shipping traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to a standstill, threatening a critical chokepoint for global logistics, Anadolu reports. The waterway is facing its quietest days ever, coupled with the crisis in global trade and energy supply due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait carries 10% of global maritime trade and accounts for 12% of crude oil shipments. It has become a weak point in the global supply chain due to the military developments in the region. The resurgence of conflict in Yemen since July altered the map of control of the region, as the Houthis secured the entire province of Hodeidah and advanced westward to Taiz,

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  1 killed, 2 injured by falling Houthi drone debris in western Saudi Arabia

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  One person was killed and two others were injured Thursday by debris from a drone Saudi authorities said was launched by Yemen’s Houthis and intercepted over the western city of Taif, according to the Saudi Press Agency. A Civil Defense spokesperson said emergency teams responded after fragments from the intercepted drone fell across parts of the city, the agency reported. A Yemeni resident was killed, while a Saudi woman and a Pakistani resident were injured, the spokesperson said, adding that the Pakistani national was in critical condition. The falling debris also caused material damage to several buildings and vehicles. Saudi authorities said the drone had been launched by Yemen’s Houthi group, according to the report. READ: Saudi Arabia issues emergency alerts

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  Irish broadcaster confirms Eurovision boycott for 2nd year in row

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Ireland’s public broadcaster said Thursday it will boycott next year’s Eurovision Song Contest, stressing that its position “remains unchanged,” Anadolu reports. In a statement, RTE confirmed that it will boycott the song contest for the second year in a row, noting that it will not participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, nor will it broadcast the competition. “RTE feels that Ireland’s participation cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there which continues to put the lives of so many civilians at risk,” it noted. The statement added: “RTE also remains deeply concerned by the continued denial of independent access to international journalists to the territory.” RTE was among several European broadcasters

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  Netanyahu, wanted by ICC, set to take UN podium while Palestinian leader Abbas unable to attend

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over war crimes committed in Gaza, is preparing to take the podium at the UN General Assembly in New York, while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, whose people are facing genocide, is unable to travel to the city due to Washington’s visa restrictions, Anadolu reports. As it did last year, the US administration has once more denied Abbas a visa, preventing him from attending the UN General Assembly in person. As a result, Abbas is expected to address the General Assembly by video conference again this year. Under the 1947 UN Headquarters Agreement, the US is required to allow representatives of member and observer states to enter New

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  Jordan, France sign defense cooperation agreement

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Jordan and France signed a defense cooperation agreement on Thursday in the presence of Jordanian King Abdullah II and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, Anadolu reports. “I discussed with President Macron ways to advance our longstanding bilateral relations and continued coordination, and we witnessed the signing of a defense cooperation agreement,” King Abdullah said on US social media company X. He did not provide details on the agreement or the areas of defense cooperation it covers. The Jordanian king said he and Macron also met with Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun and stressed the importance of Paris hosting a new round of the Aqaba Process meetings in support of the Lebanese army. “We look forward to continuing our work to achieve

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  Israel’s Eisenkot leads Netanyahu by 9 points as coalition edges opposition by 2 seats: Poll

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot leads Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by 9 percentage points in a new opinion poll on who is better suited to serve as prime minister, while Netanyahu’s governing bloc narrowly leads the opposition in projected Knesset seats, Anadolu reports. The Channel 13 poll, conducted Tuesday in cooperation with Index, Stat-Net, Sample and Askaria, surveyed 886 respondents and had a margin of error of 3.3%. According to the findings, 45% of respondents said Eisenkot, leader of the opposition Yashar party, was better suited to serve as prime minister, compared with 36% for Netanyahu, who leads the Likud party. Israel is scheduled to hold general elections on Oct. 27, with Netanyahu seeking to form a new government to replace

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  Israel reduces number of patients allowed to leave Gaza for treatment in Egypt from 136 to 61

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Israeli authorities on Thursday reduced the number of patients and wounded Palestinians allowed to leave the Gaza Strip for medical treatment in Egypt from 136 to 61 patients and companions, Gaza’s Health Ministry said, Anadolu reports. In a statement, the ministry said “a group of 136 patients and their companions had received official approval to travel before Israeli authorities reduced the number to 72 patients and companions and sent the remaining cases back.” Despite the ministry’s objection to the measure and the start of transporting patients, the Israeli side requested that an additional 11 patients and companions be returned, bringing the final number allowed to leave to 61. The ministry stressed that the patients and wounded Palestinians included in the group

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  Iran orders Swedish diplomat to leave within 48 hours in tit-for-tat move

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Iran on Thursday ordered a Swedish diplomat to leave the country within 48 hours in a reciprocal move after Stockholm expelled an Iranian embassy official a day earlier, Anadolu reports. The Iranian Foreign Ministry said it summoned Sweden’s ambassador in Tehran, Mathias Otterstedt, and informed him that one Swedish diplomat would have to leave Iran within 48 hours, according to the official news agency IRNA. The ministry said the decision came after Sweden ordered an Iranian diplomat working at Iran’s embassy in Stockholm to leave the country. It rejected what it called Sweden’s “baseless” accusations that Iran had interfered in the country’s security affairs and strongly condemned the expulsion of the Iranian diplomat. Tehran described Sweden’s move as “unjustified” and said

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  UN mission finds ‘reasonable grounds to believe US committed war crimes’ in Iran

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  A UN fact-finding mission found on Thursday that the US committed war crimes during airstrikes on Iran, causing the death of civilians, injuries, and damage to civilian objects in Iran, Anadolu reports. The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran issued a report, finding reasonable grounds to believe that the US committed war crimes “during a pair of airstrikes which killed at least 178 civilians, including women and children.” The mission noted that the war crimes included “launching indiscriminate attacks resulting in the loss of life or injury to civilians or damage to civilian objects,” during the US and Israeli attacks in February. The cited attacks involved Tomahawk missile strikes on a primary school in Minab, which killed over 150 and another

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  ‘We are not like everyone else’ laws that bind other nations do not apply to Israel, says Likud lawmaker

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Laws that bind other nations do not apply to Israel, says Likud lawmaker Hanoch Milwidsky, claiming that the Jewish people’s divine calling exempts them from constraints imposed on others. “We are not like everyone else, and that is why all the laws that apply to everyone else do not apply to us,” said Milwidsky. His comments advocating Jewish supremacy was captured on video and has been shared on social media. Hanoch Milwidsky of Member of Knesset for the Likud explains why Israel is a nation blessed by God and therefore does not have to follow any of the laws which bind other nations. As perfect an encapsulation of the Jewish supremacy behind Israeli policy that you can find. pic.twitter.com/E0k7HwWtCI —

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  British university re-enrolls Egyptian student suspended over pro-Palestinian protests

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  King’s College London (KCL) will reinstate an Egyptian student who was suspended after his participation in pro-Palestinian protests, CNN reported Thursday. Usama Ghanem, 22, will return to KCL this fall, nearly 18 months after university officials suspended him indefinitely and moved to withdraw his visa sponsorship over allegations concerning his involvement in student-led pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Ghanem reportedly received an email from the university in late August stating that it continued to uphold its finding of non-academic misconduct against him, while also informing him that he had committed “no breaches” of the terms of his exclusion. “The conditions set have been met and there is no reason for your suspension or exclusion to remain in place,” the email said. “Accordingly, you

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  Houthis release footage purportedly showing wreckage of downed Saudi F-15

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Yemen’s Houthis said Wednesday they had shot down a Saudi F-15 fighter jet over Marib province using a locally manufactured missile, a claim that Saudi Arabia had not immediately confirmed. Video released by the group purportedly shows lights in the night sky followed by burning wreckage and debris on the ground, including what appears to be part of an aircraft wing bearing a Saudi flag. The location and timing of the footage could not be independently verified. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the aircraft was carrying out military operations over Marib when it was hit. He also claimed Houthi forces later engaged Saudi F-15 and Typhoon fighter jets searching for the wreckage and forced them to withdraw. Saree accused

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  Trump to hold Iran talks with Gulf leaders next week in New York: Report

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  US President Donald Trump is expected to meet with Gulf leaders on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York next Tuesday to discuss next steps in the war with Iran, the Axios news site reported Wednesday, citing three sources with direct knowledge, Anadolu reports. Axios said the meeting is expected to focus on US ideas for a postwar strategy, with the Trump administration working on a broader “day-after” plan expected to be finalized after the US midterm elections in November. Leaders or foreign ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries — Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman — are expected to attend, according to the report. READ: Trump says Iran wants deal with US

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  Turkey accuses Greece of militarising demilitarised Aegean islands

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has renewed accusations that Greece is militarising demilitarised islands in the Aegean Sea, a claim Athens rejected as part of an escalation strategy, reviving a long-running dispute between the two NATO members. Speaking in Azerbaijan, Fidan said the militarisation of the islands constitutes “a threat to Turkey,” according to Greek newspaper Kathimerini. Fidan’s remarks come as Turkey faces what Ankara considers more pressing challenges in the Middle East. OPINION: The Aegean’s new arms race isn’t about weapons anymore Greek Foreign Ministry spokesman Panagiotis Giannakoulias quickly rejected claims that Greece was being used as a tool to destabilise the region, saying they “have nothing to do with reality.”  He said Greece, like any other country, ensures

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  Aramco is not the Kaaba

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  There are few political tricks more effective than wrapping the interests of a state in the sanctity of God. Saudi Arabia now says that its air defences intercepted an Ansar Allah drone south of Mecca before it entered the Holy City’s restricted airspace. Ansar Allah denies targeting Mecca or any Islamic holy site. The factual dispute matters enormously. But so does the political reflex the accusation immediately activates: once Mecca enters the sentence, Saudi national security is invited to disappear into Islamic sacred geography, as though the kingdom, the monarchy and the Haram were three names for the same thing. They are not. The Kaaba is sacred. The House of Saud is a ruling family. Confusing the two is not

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  Israel prepares for new ground operation in Gaza

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The Israeli military is preparing to launch a new ground offensive in the Gaza Strip as there are no signs that Hamas is willing to disarm, Israel’s Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper reported. In a report published on Wednesday, 16 September, the newspaper said the military’s Southern Command is strengthening its positions along the Yellow Line and continuing targeted strikes, claiming that Hamas was rebuilding its capabilities. Israel now has wider military control over parts of the Gaza Strip, the newspaper said, but maintaining that control poses complex challenges. READ: Israeli army chief orders investigation into documentary revealing AI-assisted Gaza strikes The newspaper quoted Israeli officials as saying that unless Hamas voluntarily surrenders its weapons under the US-backed framework, the military could eventually

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  US extends visa ban on Mahmoud Abbas and Palestinian officials

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The US State Department has announced that it will extend measures barring visas for Palestinian Authority officials and members of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), including Mahmoud Abbas, ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. “As a consequence of their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace, the United States will extend sanctions that deny visas to PLO members and PA officials,” the State Department said in a statement. During Trump’s first term, his administration imposed a series of restrictions on Palestinian officials, including closing the PLO office in Washington in 2018 and cutting US aid to the Palestinian Authority. READ: 330-foot shroud bearing names of 20,000

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  Ghalibaf: Interest rates cannot reopen Strait of Hormuz or curb US inflation

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Wednesday that changes in interest rates cannot reopen the Strait of Hormuz, ease the resulting energy shock, or curb inflation in the United States. Ghalibaf said in a post on X that the US Federal Reserve’s interest-rate decision would have no effect on the situation, asking whether the Fed, by raising interest rates, could reopen the Strait of Hormuz or produce even one additional barrel of oil. “Let’s see if a hike could open SOH or produce a single barrel,” he stated. He added that neither raising nor lowering interest rates could stabilise inflation expectations in the United States, arguing that they are being affected by a supply shock caused by the closure

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  330-foot shroud bearing names of 20,000 Gaza children killed by Israel displayed at UN Church Center

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  An interfaith coalition unveiled Wednesday a 100-meter (328-foot) memorial shroud bearing the handwritten names of more than 20,000 Palestinian children killed by Israel in the Gaza Strip at the UN Church Center in New York, Anadolu reports. “Not a number, but a name,” organizers emphasized, explaining that the project aims to restore individual identity to every young person killed in the enclave, while demanding an end to Israeli military operations and establishing accountability for war crimes. The Gaza Children’s Shroud memorial was prepared by Doctors Against Genocide, Priests Against Genocide USA, Justice for All and partner groups. READ: Gaza Media Office: Israel has killed 21,500 children, targeted 1,244 mosques since October 2023 The ceremony at the UN Church Center featured the

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  Al-Azhar condemns reported attempt to target Mecca

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Al-Azhar, Egypt’s top Islamic authority, on Wednesday strongly condemned what it described as an attempt to target Mecca, Islam’s holiest city and direction of prayer, saying any attempt to endanger the sacred city was a grave crime and an attack on a sanctity revered by Muslims. In a statement, Al-Azhar warned against expanding the conflict to include Islamic holy sites, stressing that Mecca must not become a battleground or a target of threats. It said the sanctity of Mecca is a fundamental principle of Islam that must not be violated or threatened. Al-Azhar Al-Sharif stressed that the security of the Two Holy Mosques — the Sacred Mosque in Mecca and Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem — is not a political or

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  Israel: Far-right activists protest outside parents’ home of Israeli film Naza director

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Dozens of far-right Israeli activists protested outside the home of the parents of NAZA filmmaker Rachel Szor in Savyon, central Israel, on Wednesday evening, chanting slogans including “death penalty for traitors”, Hebrew-language media reported. The protesters were demonstrating against the film, co-directed by Szor and Yuval Abraham, which features testimonies from Israeli officers and soldiers about alleged war crimes during Israel’s war in Gaza. Hebrew news site Walla reported that dozens of protesters gathered outside Szor’s parents’ home in Savyon, calling for the two directors to be condemned over the film. One protester was quoted as saying the directors “will be ashamed to walk the streets”. Another said: “The directors of NAZA went and presented the fighters who are currently

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  Muslim Brotherhood says it has begun mediation contacts amid Yemen escalation

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The Muslim Brotherhood said it had begun contacts aimed at helping de-escalate fighting in Yemen between the Houthis and Yemeni government and Saudi forces, calling for an immediate halt to hostilities and a return to dialogue. In a statement, the group warned against further casualties and urged the parties to pursue de-escalation amid heightened tensions in Yemen and the wider region. Salah Abdel-Haq, acting General Guide of the Muslim Brotherhood, said the protection of human life should take priority and called for an end to the fighting. “The sanctity of all Yemeni blood—and indeed all Muslim blood—demands an end to the escalation,” Abdel-Haq said. The group called on all sides to halt attacks on Yemeni and Saudi territory and avoid

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  Gaza public works ministry says around 3,000 buildings at risk of collapse

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  Around 3,000 buildings across the Gaza Strip have been classified as dangerous or at risk of collapse, Gaza’s Ministry of Public Works and Housing said on Wednesday, warning that damaged structures pose a threat to thousands of residents. The warning followed the collapse of a residential building in the Rimal neighbourhood of Gaza City early Wednesday. The ministry said the building collapsed while people were inside, resulting in deaths and injuries. According to the ministry, buildings identified as hazardous contain damaged structural components or sections that could fall, placing families who continue to live in or near them at risk. The ministry attributed the problem to extensive structural damage sustained by residential buildings and other facilities during Israeli military operations

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  IOM says 2,776 Yemenis crossed into Djibouti amid west coast fighting

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  More than 2,700 Yemenis have crossed into Djibouti since the beginning of September amid escalating fighting along Yemen’s western coast, while more than 104,000 people have been displaced within Yemen during the same period, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said on Wednesday. According to the UN agency’s latest figures, 2,776 people have crossed from Yemen to Djibouti as the humanitarian impact of the renewed fighting continues to grow. The IOM said it was providing emergency assistance to the new arrivals in Djibouti, including 1,500 hot meals twice a day. Fighting between forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognized government and the Houthi movement has intensified in recent months following a prolonged period of comparatively lower levels of hostilities. Within Yemen,

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  CBO estimates US war with Iran has cost $38 billion, strained munitions stockpiles

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  The United States’ war with Iran has cost approximately $38 billion after more than six months of fighting and has placed significant pressure on US munitions inventories, according to a report by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). The CBO estimate, which covers spending through 1st August, projects that the conflict could add approximately $3 billion per month to US government costs if current operations continue. The report also estimates that the economic effects of the conflict could increase US inflation by around 0.5 percentage points during the first three months of 2027, partly reflecting higher energy prices. The $38 billion estimate is close to the $37.5 billion figure cited by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth during a Senate hearing on

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  The Mangoush affair, three years on: Palestine remains a red line in Libya’s foreign policy

  by Mehdi Editor on September 17, 2026

  When news broke, in 2023, that Libya’s first female foreign minister, Najla Al-Mangoush, had secretly met her Israeli counterpart, Eli Cohen, in Rome, most Libyans were stunned. It was, as far as is publicly known, the first official meeting between the two countries and the first known high-level diplomatic contact between Libya and Israel. It was not an accidental encounter or a chance meeting, but a deliberately arranged session with a specific agenda — apparently, both sides wanted the meeting. That distinction is crucial to understanding what became known as the Mangoush affair. The significance of the meeting was not simply that a Libyan foreign minister had spoken to an Israeli foreign minister. It was that the episode exposed a