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

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  Rezaei describes Strait of Hormuz as a strategic deterrent, says Iran will protect it

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Iran’s Expediency Discernment Council, said the Strait of Hormuz is one of Iran’s most important strategic assets, describing it as “more important than dozens of nuclear bombs.” Rezaei said the waterway serves as a powerful strategic deterrent and plays a central role in safeguarding Iran’s security and national interests. “The Strait of Hormuz is more important than dozens of nuclear bombs,” he said, adding that Iran would continue to protect it. Commenting on recent regional tensions, Rezaei accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump of crossing what he described as Iran’s “red lines.” He asserted that they “must receive an appropriate response.” Rezaei also argued that, under international law, Iran has

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  Egypt FM rejects unilateral regional plans, says future of Middle East must be based on consensus

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said on Sunday that developments in the Middle East since 7th October 2023, have demonstrated that attempts to impose regional hegemony or redraw the region’s political map through unilateral action will not succeed. According to remarks reported by Al-Shorouk, Abdelatty said that any future regional order must be based on consensus among the countries of the region, including its major regional powers. He argued that no state, regardless of its military or political strength, can successfully impose its will on other countries through force. Asked about proposals or rhetoric concerning a “Greater Israel” and broader plans to reshape the Middle East, Abdelatty said that any project founded on the unilateral imposition of one country’s vision

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  UN warns 825,000 children in Sudan face severe malnutrition

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that an estimated 825,000 children under the age of five in Sudan are expected to suffer from severe malnutrition in 2026, placing them at high risk of death without timely treatment. The warning comes as Sudan’s humanitarian crisis continues to worsen amid the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been ongoing since April 2023. According to the UN, the conflict has caused widespread displacement, disrupted essential services, and significantly increased humanitarian needs across the country. In its report, OCHA described the situation for Sudanese children as among the worst in the world, with millions affected by violence, hunger, and

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  Ben-Gvir’s ministry allocates funding to settlement organisation under international sanctions

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  Israel’s Ministry of National Security, headed by Itamar Ben-Gvir, has approved the transfer of 4 million shekels to the settlement organisation Ahvat Gilad through a tender exemption procedure, according to ministry documents released on Sunday. The funding will support a project that the ministry says is intended to reduce violence and establish a network of mentors to work with young people living in settlement outposts, referred to in Israel as “farms,” across the occupied West Bank. The contract provides funding for approximately 18 months, with an option to extend the agreement for an additional 18 months under a similar budget. The allocation comes despite the fact that France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Norway, Australia, and New Zealand imposed sanctions on

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  Hamas offers condolences following the death of former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) has expressed its condolences following the death of former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, extending sympathies to Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Qatari ruling family, the government and people of Qatar, and the wider Arab and Islamic world. In a statement issued on Sunday, Hamas described the late Sheikh Hamad as “a great national and Arab leader” and credited him with leading Qatar’s modern development. The movement prayed for God’s mercy and forgiveness upon him and praised what it described as his lasting contributions to his country, the Arab world, and humanitarian causes. Hamas said Sheikh Hamad had consistently supported what it called just causes, particularly the Palestinian cause,

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  Two Clocks, Two Egos, and the Gods Who Are Never Late

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  Sophocles put it in four words the Chorus never had to repeat: “Pride breeds the tyrant.” Twenty-five centuries later, two men who believe themselves the smartest people ever to occupy their offices are proving the old Greeks right in real time, on two different continents, on two different election clocks — and both are running out of road. Start with the arithmetic of vanity. Donald Trump has called his own brainpower “off the charts” so many times it has become a campaign liturgy, the sequel to his 2018 boast of being a “very stable genius.” Genius, in Trump’s flowery language, apparently means picking a fight with the Strait of Hormuz in an election year. But a strait does not care

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  Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Dr. Joe Macaron: Lebanon-Israel Framework Agreement, Who Won?

  by Mehdi Editor on July 13, 2026

  WATCH: Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Osama Abu Irshaid: Panicked and Cornered, What Will Netanyahu Do Next?

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  Israeli panel approves bill to suspend detention of ultra-Orthodox draft evaders

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  An Israeli parliamentary committee approved a bill on Sunday to suspend the detention of ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jews who evade mandatory military service, paving the way for final votes in the full Knesset later this week, according to local media, Anadolu reports. The Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee approved a temporary order freezing the detention of draft evaders studying at religious seminaries, or yeshivas, Israel’s Yedioth Ahronoth daily reported. The newspaper said the governing coalition intends to press ahead with the hot-button legislation despite a legal opinion concluding that the bill “does not achieve balance, but rather deepens inequality.” The bill is expected to be brought before the Knesset for its second and third readings later this week. Under the

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  Saudi Arabia, Iraq reject use of states’ territory to threaten regional security

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  Saudi Arabia and Iraq reaffirmed on Sunday their rejection of the use of any country’s territory to threaten the security and stability of other states, stressing respect for sovereignty, good-neighbourliness, and non-interference in internal affairs, Anadolu reports. The remarks came in a Saudi Foreign Ministry statement following talks in the kingdom chaired by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein, with senior officials from both sides in attendance. According to the statement, the top diplomats reviewed bilateral ties and ways to strengthen cooperation across various fields, in addition to discussing regional developments and issues of mutual interest. The two sides underscored “the importance of respecting national sovereignty, good-neighbourliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and rejecting

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  UAE says Sunday’s missile threats ‘were outside country’s borders’

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said missile threats detected early Sunday “were outside the country’s borders,” Anadolu reports. “National monitoring and tracking systems are operating at the highest levels of readiness and efficiency around the clock,” the UAE Defence Ministry said on the US social media company X. The statement came hours after Tehran said earlier that it launched attacks on US military sites in regional countries in retaliation for attacks by Washington against Iranian targets. The US said late Saturday that it had completed a third round of military strikes against Iran this week following another Iranian attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. READ: Bahrain accuses Iran of ‘systematic aggression’ after attacks

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  Sharaa calls for ‘new chapter’ in Syria’s history as new parliament convenes

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa called for “a new chapter in the country’s history,” as the newly elected parliament held its first session on Sunday, Anadolu reports. “Today, Syria is writing a new chapter in its history — one that reflects its civilisation, values and heritage,” he said in an address to the People’s Assembly as cited by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). “Together, let us build the history of a modern Syria,” he added. He urged lawmakers to make the parliament “a model of responsibility and competence,” while promoting dialogue, the rule of law and respect for state institutions. READ: Qatar, Syria discuss stronger ties, reconstruction, chemical weapons cooperation

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  Pope Leo warns ‘winds of war’ again blowing across Middle East, Ukraine

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  Pope Leo XIV warned Sunday that “winds of war” are once again blowing across the Middle East, Ukraine and other parts of the world, urging continued efforts toward dialogue and diplomacy, Anadolu reports. “Unfortunately, the winds of war are once again blowing in the Middle East, in Ukraine, and in numerous other parts of the world, sowing violence, terror, and death, and striking, once more, so many innocents,” the pope said in a post on the US social media company X. He called for hope for peace to be preserved despite ongoing conflicts. “Let us not allow these winds to extinguish the little flame of hope and peace, even when it seems fragile and flickering,” he said. Pope Leo renewed

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  5 more Gazans killed by Israeli fire despite ceasefire

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  Five Palestinians, including a child, were killed Sunday by Israeli army fire, amid continued violations of a ceasefire in effect since last October, medics said, Anadolu reports. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said two Palestinians were killed in an Israeli strike on a workshop in the Sabra district, south of Gaza City. The bodies of the victims were torn to pieces in the attack that also injured a third Palestinian, the organization added in a statement. Witnesses said an Israeli drone fired at least three missiles at a building housing the workshop in the Al-Rayes neighborhood in the district. A medical source said a 9-year-old girl breathed her last from critical injuries she sustained from Israeli gunfire in the Nuseirat

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  Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died Sunday morning at the age of 74, the country’s Amiri Diwan announced, Anadolu reports. “May God grant him His mercy and forgiveness,” it added in a statement on the US social media company X. Qatar announced four days of national mourning from Sunday. Funeral prayers for Sheikh Hamad will be held after the Maghrib (evening) prayer on Sunday at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in Doha, and he will be laid to rest at Lusail Cemetery, the Diwan said. Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will receive mourners from heads of state, members of the ruling family, dignitaries and citizens at Lusail Palace from Monday, July

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  Bahrain accuses Iran of ‘systematic aggression’ after attacks

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  Bahrain accused Iran on Sunday of launching “systematic aggression” on its territory through missile and drone strikes targeting civilians, Anadolu reports. In a statement, the Bahrain Defence Force said the country’s air defences intercepted and destroyed “several treacherous Iranian aerial attacks” on Sunday. “The armed forces, with all their forces and units, are at the highest level of readiness and ready to fulfil their defence duties in order to protect the country,” it added. The military called on the Bahraini people to exercise caution, avoid approaching suspicious objects resulting from the attacks’ remnants, and to report them immediately. Early Sunday, Tehran said it launched attacks on US military sites in regional countries, including Bahrain, in retaliation for attacks by Washington

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  The man who made the world need Qatar

  by Marwa A on July 12, 2026

  The Father Emir is gone. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died on Sunday at 74, was the architect of modern Qatar. But that description, however apt, undersells the magnitude of what he actually achieved. He did not merely modernise a small Gulf state. He rewrote the operating system of sovereignty itself—proving that a nation of barely 300,000 citizens could achieve global indispensability not through armies, but through a brilliantly brutal recalibration of what power actually means in the twenty-first century. When Sheikh Hamad seized power in a bloodless palace coup in 1995, Qatar was a sleepy backwater, a peninsula that barely registered on the world’s diplomatic radar. Eighteen years later, when he voluntarily abdicated—shattering Gulf tradition in a

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  French court orders town hall to remove Palestinian flag

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  A French court ordered the town hall of Vaulx-en-Velin, a suburb of Lyon, to remove a Palestinian flag flying from its facade, ruling that it breached the principle of neutrality in public services, Anadolu reports. The Lyon administrative court, ruling in an emergency procedure brought by the Rhone prefect, ordered the flag to be removed without delay and imposed a fine of 100 euros ($117) for each day of non-compliance. The Palestinian flag was raised on July 4 during a municipal event and displayed alongside the French and European flags. READ: Israel deports French journalist over criticism of Gaza genocide

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  UN envoy says Yemen parties renew commitment to delayed prisoner exchange

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg said Saturday that he has received renewed commitments from Yemen’s internationally recognized government and the Houthi group to implement a prisoner exchange agreement after its planned execution was delayed, Anadolu reports. In a statement on the US social media company He urged both sides to intensify efforts to complete the remaining technical and operational arrangements as soon as possible, adding that they had “affirmed their commitment to doing so.” The statement came a day after the Yemeni government and the Houthis announced the postponement of the exchange, which had been scheduled for Saturday, with each side blaming the other for the delay. On May 14, the two parties signed the agreement in the

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  Qatar, Syria discuss stronger ties, reconstruction, chemical weapons cooperation

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Qatar’s Minister of State at the Foreign Ministry Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries on Saturday, Anadolu reports. Al-Sharaa received Al-Khulaifi and his accompanying delegation at the People’s Palace in Damascus in the presence of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported. The talks focused on efforts to promote regional openness and cooperation, as well as reconstruction, humanitarian response, and investment opportunities during Syria’s recovery phase, according to SANA. Separately, Al-Shaibani met Al-Khulaifi at Tishreen Presidential Palace, where they discussed expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in the political and economic fields. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the meeting

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  Israeli strike kills 1 Palestinian, injures 2 in central Gaza despite ceasefire

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  A Palestinian was killed and two others injured on Saturday in an Israeli drone strike targeting a civilian vehicle west of the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, Anadolu reports. The attack came amid continued Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement that has been in force in the Gaza Strip since last October. The body of the victim and two wounded Palestinians were taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah after the strike hit a vehicle traveling near Al-Nuwairi Hill, west of the camp, the medical sources said. According to an Anadolu Agency correspondent, citing eyewitnesses, an Israeli drone fired at least four missiles at the vehicle and its surroundings. READ: 12 Palestinians killed, 20 injured in Israeli strikes in Gaza

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  Hundreds in Sweden protest Israeli attacks, ceasefire violations in Gaza

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Hundreds of people gathered in the Swedish capital Stockholm on Saturday to protest Israel’s attacks on Gaza, ceasefire violations, and restrictions on humanitarian aid entering the enclave, Anadolu reports. The demonstrators gathered at Odenplan Square following calls by several civil society organizations. Protesters carrying Palestinian flags chanted slogans against Israel and called for the immediate lifting of the blockade on Gaza. They also accused Israel of violating the ceasefire reached on Oct. 10, 2025. Dror Feiler, a Swedish Jewish activist and chair of European Jews for a Just Peace, told Anadolu that the demonstrators were standing up for Palestinian rights, justice and equality. READ: Spain’s National Court opens probe into Israeli military officials over Gaza flotilla interception “A peace achieved without

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  Iran is China’s indispensable partner, but Beijing will never fight its war

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  There is a seductive myth that China and Iran are allies bound by blood and ideology, that Beijing would ride to Tehran’s rescue the way NATO would for a member under Article 5. Nothing could be further from the truth. What binds Beijing and Tehran is colder, more durable, and in some ways more dangerous than sentiment: mutual utility. China needs Iran. It will not die for Iran. Understanding that distinction is the key to understanding everything Beijing has — and has not — done since the guns of the 2026 war began firing. A partnership without a promise When China and Iran signed the 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Chinese state media hailed it as a civilizational bond. The agreement

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  Pakistani, Saudi top diplomats warn against renewed conflict in MidEast

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Saturday warned that a renewed conflict in the Middle East “serves no one’s interest,” Anadolu reports. In a phone call, the two leaders discussed recent developments in the region and expressed “deep concern” over the recent escalation in hostilities despite the signing of an agreement between the US and Iran last month, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry. They agreed that renewed conflict “serves no one’s interest and undermines efforts toward regional peace and stability,” the statement said. Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of de-escalation and continued dialogue, while Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s call on all parties to “exercise maximum restraint” and allow mediation efforts the

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  Israel launches fresh airstrikes in southern Lebanon despite US-brokered deal

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  The Israeli military on Saturday launched a fresh wave of airstrikes in southern Lebanon despite a US-brokered framework agreement between Beirut and Tel Aviv, Lebanese state media reported. Three airstrikes targeted the al-Mashaa neighborhood in the town of al-Mansouri in the southern Tyre district, according to the National News Agency (NNA). Israeli forces also blew up homes in the town of Houla in the southern Nabatieh district, the agency said. A separate Israeli drone strike targeted the town of Kfar Tebnit, according to the NNA. READ: US military team to visit Lebanon to support ceasefire implementation The attacks came despite Lebanon and Israel signing a US-sponsored framework agreement last month that provides for a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory. Since

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  Iran’s supreme leader vows to avenge slain predecessor Ali Khamenei

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Saturday that avenging his slain father and predecessor, Ali Khamenei, was “the demand of the nation” and “must certainly” be carried out, Anadolu reports. The remarks came in a message delivered during funeral ceremonies for the late supreme leader, according to Iran’s state-run broadcaster IRIB. “We pledge to avenge your innocent blood and all the martyrs of these two wars from the criminal and dishonorable murderers,” Mojtaba Khamenei said in the message. Ali Khamenei was buried Thursday at the Imam Reza Shrine in the northeastern Iranian city of Mashhad, bringing a week of funeral ceremonies to a close. He was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Iran that began on Feb. 28 and were followed

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  Israeli occupiers attack workers, destroy farm in occupied West Bank

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Israeli occupiers on Saturday attacked municipal workers south of Nablus in the occupied West Bank and destroyed a farm northwest of the city in the latest attacks across the occupied Palestinian territory, Anadolu reports. The occupiers attacked municipal workers from Qabalan while they were installing an electricity line in the Ain al-Qasab area, forcing them to suspend the work, the official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported, citing local sources. In a separate incident northwest of Nablus, occupiers attacked a farm in the al-Masoudieh area, on land belonging to Burqa town, destroying its contents, including an agricultural structure, according to Diab Haji, head of the al-Masoudieh Land Defense Committee. READ: Israeli military demolishes Palestinian home in West Bank village In the northern West

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  Israeli army launches incursion, sets up checkpoint in southwest Syria

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  The Israeli army on Saturday raided the vicinity of al-Samdaniyah village in Syria’s southwestern Quneitra Governorate and set up a temporary checkpoint to inspect passersby, Anadolu reports. Israeli forces, consisting of three military vehicles, searched passersby before withdrawing from the area, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported. In a separate incident after midnight, an Israeli force of more than 15 military vehicles advanced into the village of Al-Asha in southern Quneitra, searched a house and a livestock feed warehouse, and later withdrew, SANA added. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the reported incursions. Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime on Dec. 8, 2024, Israel declared the 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria void and moved into

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  From proxy war to Gulf rivalry: Yemen’s new battle for influence

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  For more than a decade, Yemen has been viewed primarily through the lens of a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Tehran’s support for the Houthi movement and the Saudi-led military intervention launched in 2015 transformed the country into one of the Middle East’s most visible arenas of geopolitical competition. The conflict came to symbolize a broader struggle for regional influence between two rival powers seeking to shape the political order of the Arab world. That interpretation remains relevant, but it is increasingly insufficient. While the Houthis continue to dominate much of northern Yemen and Iran remains an important player, the dynamics shaping the country’s future are changing. A new competition is emerging within the Gulf itself, and Yemen

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  Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Osama Abu Irshaid: Panicked and Cornered, What Will Netanyahu Do Next?

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  WATCH: Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Richard Boyd: A Voice of Freedom on Behalf of an Oppressed Nation 

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  Saudi foreign minister, US secretary of state discuss regional issues

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the latest regional developments in a phone call on Saturday, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said, Anadolu reports. The statement, posted on the US social media company X, highlighted the importance of “continuing coordination and joint consultation to achieve security and stability in the region.” No further details were revealed regarding the content of the discussions. Tensions in the Middle East have escalated after the US and Israel began strikes on Iran in late February. In response, Tehran retaliated with strikes on Israel and other regional countries hosting US assets, including Saudi Arabia. In mid-June, Iran and the US reached a Pakistan-brokered memorandum of understanding aimed at

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  US military team to visit Lebanon to support ceasefire implementation

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  A US military delegation is expected to travel to Lebanon in the coming days to help implement a framework agreement aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a media report said Friday, Anadolu reports. Citing two senior Lebanese officials, the Financial Times reported a delegation from the US military Central Command (CENTCOM) is expected to arrive in Beirut ahead of technical talks between Lebanon and Israel scheduled in Rome next week. The discussions will focus on implementing a US-sponsored framework agreement reached on June 26, providing for a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, according to the report. A State Department spokesperson confirmed to Anadolu that CENTCOM is “coordinating closely” with both countries at the technical and logistical levels

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  Saudi crown prince, US president discuss Iran talks

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a call Friday with US President Donald Trump, during which they discussed regional developments, including talks between Washington and Tehran, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Anadolu reports. The SPA reported that the call covered “relations of cooperation between the Kingdom and the United States of America and ways to support them in several fields.” The two sides also “discussed a number of regional and international issues and exchanged views on them,” it said. The call included a review of “current developments in the region, including the talks between the US and Iran.” “Emphasis was placed on the importance of the security of navigation and maritime passages, and support for everything that contributes

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  Netanyahu’s policies, government ‘burden’ for Israel, region, international security: Turkish foreign minister

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Friday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies and government are a strain for Israel, the region and international security, Anadolu reports. “The policies of Netanyahu’s government are not only a problem for us,” Fidan said in an interview with the Abu Dhabi-based The National newspaper. “His policies and his government are a burden for Israel, a burden for the region, and a burden and threat for international security.” Fidan ruled out the possibility that rhetoric between Ankara and Tel Aviv could escalate into an open conflict. “There is no reason to have an open conflict,” he said. Turkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan “is a leader of peace and wisdom” who “wouldn’t be baited into

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  Time as power: Why timing is reshaping energy diplomacy in the Middle East

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  For decades, energy diplomacy in the region has been understood through three familiar dimensions: geography, natural resources and infrastructure. Geography explains where hydrocarbons are found. Resources determine who possesses them. Infrastructure dictates how they are transported to global markets. These three pillars have shaped strategic thinking for more than half a century. Today, however, they are no longer enough.The global energy transition is accelerating. Governments are investing heavily in renewable energy, electric mobility and low-carbon technologies. International climate commitments are gradually reshaping investment priorities, while technological innovation is reducing the long-term dominance of fossil fuels. For hydrocarbon-producing states, the question is no longer simply how much oil or gas they possess. Increasingly, the decisive question is whether they can transform

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  10 Palestinians injured in Israeli occupier, army attacks in occupied West Bank

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  At least 10 Palestinians were injured Friday in attacks by Israeli occupiers and the army in the occupied West Bank, as raids and assaults targeted several Palestinian towns and lands, according to witnesses and sources. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said two Palestinians were injured after being assaulted by Israeli occupiers in the town of Beit Furik in eastern Nablus. Sources told Anadolu that occupiers stormed Palestinian-owned lands in the eastern part of the town and attacked residents, while the Israeli army deployed military reinforcements to the area. Occupiers also entered the vicinity of the Abu Raafat al-Hajj Hussein Mosque in eastern Beit Furik. READ: Israeli military demolishes Palestinian home in West Bank village In a separate incident, occupiers seized land

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  Lebanese president ‘will not back down’ from negotiations with Israel

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Friday he will not reverse his decision to pursue negotiations with Israel, according to a statement from the presidency, Anadolu reports. Aoun made the remarks during a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Baabda in eastern Beirut, with a delegation from the Lebanese Forces’ parliamentary bloc led by party chief Samir Geagea. “Why should the Lebanese people continue paying the price for wars ignited at the behest of external actors and for their interests?” asked Aoun. “I assure you that I will not back down from the decision to negotiate that I have taken,” said Aoun. “I also insist that all my positions include explanations to the Lebanese people about the importance of the path we

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  US eases export controls on UAE, expands access to military, advanced technology

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  The US Commerce Department announced on Friday that it will ease export restrictions on the United Arab Emirates, granting the country broader access to US military, commercial space, and advanced technology items in recognition of its role as a major defense partner, Anadolu reports. The department’s Bureau of Industry and Security said in a statement that it will “significantly upgrade” the UAE’s status under the Export Administration Regulations, citing Abu Dhabi’s support for US national security interests, including cooperation related to Operation Epic Fury against Iran. As part of the change, the bureau will remove the UAE from Export Administration Regulations Country Groups D:3 and D:4, eliminating certain restrictions, including those affecting support for UAE unmanned aerial vehicle programs. READ: US officials

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  Germany criticizes Israel over West Bank, stops short of backing tougher EU measures

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Germany on Friday criticized Israel’s continued expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank but stopped short of backing calls from EU partners for tougher measures, including a trade ban on goods from these settlements, Anadolu reports. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told a news conference in Berlin that Germany’s long-held position on illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories remains unchanged, and that it continues to remind Israel of its obligations under international law. “All German governments to date — and we ourselves — have consistently issued statements to this effect,” Wadephul said, adding that he reiterated Germany’s expectations during his visit to Israel on Tuesday, when he discussed the latest developments with his Israeli counterpart. “International law is the guiding

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  Trump warns 1,000 missiles ‘locked and loaded’ if Iran tries to assassinate him

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  US President Donald Trump threatened to launch thousands of missiles at Iran on Friday should it try to assassinate him, Anadolu reports. Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that “1000 Missiles are Locked and Loaded and aimed at the Islamic Republic of Iran, with thousands of more to immediately follow, should the Iranian Government act on its threat, pronounced in many corners of the Globe, to assassinate, or attempt to assassinate, the sitting President of the United States of America, in this case, ME!” He added that “orders have already been given” and claimed that the US military is “ready, willing, and able” for a one-year period, subject to extension, “to completely decimate and destroy all areas of Iran.” Trump

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  Israeli army preparing to withdraw from parts of southern Lebanon within days: Report

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  The Israeli army is preparing to withdraw within days from areas in southern Lebanon under a framework agreement, ahead of a new round of negotiations between Beirut and Tel Aviv in Rome. Israel’s public broadcaster KAN said Friday evening that “the Israeli army intends to withdraw from some pilot areas in southern Lebanon in parallel with the negotiating session between the Lebanese and Israeli sides in Rome.” Beirut and Tel Aviv signed a US-sponsored framework agreement on June 26 providing for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from all occupied Lebanese territory, beginning with two initial areas that were not identified in the agreement. KAN claimed that the planned withdrawal follows US and Lebanese demands that Israel evacuate the areas before the

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  Colombia’s Petro accuses Israeli cyberfirm BlackCore of election interference

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accused Israeli cyber-intelligence company BlackCore of executing a massive digital disinformation campaign to manipulate the outcome of the country’s recent presidential elections, Anadolu reports. The accusation was made on Friday following a razor-thin victory by challenger Abelardo de la Espriella, a criminal defense attorney openly endorsed by US President Donald Trump. De la Espriella won the June 21 runoff election by a margin of less than 1% over the ruling party’s candidate, Ivan Cepeda. Petro wrote on US social media platform X that BlackCore deployed hundreds of thousands of automated accounts to distort public perception in the run-up to the vote. “BlackCore, the Israeli company, deployed 500,000 bots—fake profiles—to manipulate the Colombian electorate with

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  Sudan’s Burhan says Khartoum will reject any proposal that fails to ensure security, stability

  by Mehdi Editor on July 11, 2026

  Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan stated on Friday that the country would not accept or pursue any proposal that fails to satisfy the Sudanese people or guarantee their security and stability, Anadolu reports. Al-Burhan, who also heads the army, made the remarks while addressing worshippers following Friday prayers at Sheikh al-Tayeb Mosque in Umm Marrahi, north of Omdurman and west of the capital Khartoum, according to the Sudanese News Agency. “The armed forces are advancing in this battle based on the Sudanese people’s support and the strength of their determination and will,” he said, referring to the conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). “We will never let the people down, and we will hand over this

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  Speaking to Iran’s president, Pakistani premier urges US-Iranian commitment to peace pact

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged the US and Iran to uphold the commitments made under their framework peace deal signed last month, known as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, Anadolu reports. In a telephone call with Iranian President Masoud Pizishkian, the Pakistani leader called on Iran and “all other parties” to exercise restraint and refrain from any action that could jeopardize the “hard-earned” peace gains achieved over the past few months, a statement from Sharif’s office said. Describing the framework pact – reached with Pakistani mediation – as an “enduring” framework for promoting mutual understanding, respect, and shared prosperity in the region and beyond, Sharif expressed “deep” concern over the recent escalation in tensions in the region

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  Spain’s National Court opens probe into Israeli military officials over Gaza flotilla interception

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  Spain’s National Court has opened an investigation into senior Israeli military officials over the illegal detention of activists during the interception of the Global Sumud flotilla, limiting the probe to incidents involving Spanish-flagged vessels, newspaper El Pais reported on Friday. Judge Francisco de Jorge accepted complaints filed by the Communist Party of Spain, United Left Federal and several activists against Israeli military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and Israeli Navy Commander Ram Rothberg. The complaints relate to the interception of the Global Sumud flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip when it was intercepted by Israeli forces on Oct. 1. According to the ruling, Israeli forces boarded several vessels in international waters about 70 nautical miles off

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  Israeli drone attack injures 3 hospital workers in northern Gaza despite ceasefire

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  Three Palestinian hospital workers were injured Friday when an Israeli quadcopter drone dropped a bomb in the courtyard of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, in the latest violation of the ceasefire in force since Oct. 10, 2025, Anadolu reports. Gaza’s Health Ministry called for urgent international protection for medical facilities and health workers, saying the attack was part of Israel’s continued violations of the ceasefire agreement. Three staff members at Kamal Adwan Hospital were injured, including two seriously, when an Israeli quadcopter dropped a bomb while they were working inside the hospital, a medical source told Anadolu Agency. Kamal Adwan Hospital is operating on a very limited basis after Israeli forces stormed and extensively destroyed the facility

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  German upper house advances bill to criminalize ‘denying Israel’s right to exist’

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  Germany’s upper house of parliament voted Friday to advance a proposal that would make it a criminal offense to publicly deny Israel’s right to exist or call for its destruction, Anadolu reports. The measure, introduced by the western state of Hesse, would impose penalties of up to five years in prison or a fine for statements made publicly that deny Israel’s existence or urge its destruction — but only if they encourage “a willingness to commit acts of antisemitic violence or arbitrary acts.” The legislation has drawn sharp criticism from civil rights groups and free-speech advocates, who argue it could chill legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies and erode the broad protections for freedom of expression guaranteed by Germany’s Constitution.

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  Red Ribbons Campaign presses Red Cross to resume visits to Palestinians in Israeli jails

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  The Red Ribbons Campaign, an advocacy initiative campaigning for the release and protection of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons, has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to press Israel to resume regular visits to Palestinians held in Israeli custody. In an open letter published yesterday, the campaign called on the ICRC to use all appropriate humanitarian means within its mandate to secure the implementation of an Israeli Supreme Court ruling overturning the general ban on Red Cross visits. The letter is open for endorsement by Palestinian, Arab and international individuals and organisations supporting its humanitarian and legal aims.   The ICRC is a neutral humanitarian organisation whose work includes visiting people held during armed conflicts, checking their treatment

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  Israel detains Jerusalem grand mufti, bars him from Al-Aqsa Mosque for 1 week

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  Israeli authorities on Friday barred Jerusalem Grand Mufti Sheikh Mohammed Hussein from entering the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound for one week after detaining him following Friday prayers, according to the Jerusalem Governorate. In a statement, the governorate said Israeli forces detained Hussein after he delivered the Friday sermon and led prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem. It said authorities later released the grand mufti after issuing an order barring him from entering the mosque compound for one week. READ: Israeli forces raided Al-Aqsa Mosque 26 times in June, Palestinian ministry says There was no immediate comment from the Israeli police. Israeli authorities have issued similar bans against Al-Aqsa Mosque preachers in recent years. Earlier Friday, tens of thousands of

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  Israeli army begins major reduction of reserve soldiers amid budget strain

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  The Israeli army has begun a broad reduction in reserve call-ups, Israeli media reported Friday, days after reports that the military was facing financial strain. Yedioth Ahronoth said the move reflects what it described as fighting winding down on multiple fronts. “In accordance with the latest operational assessment, it has been decided to reduce the reserve force and the number of Order 8 call-up notices,” the newspaper cited the army as saying. Order 8 is an emergency mobilization mechanism that allows the Israeli army to rapidly call up reservists during war or other national emergencies. The system has been widely used since the start of Israel’s genocidal war against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 8, 2023. The army

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  Iraq sentences 12 tax employees in ‘heist of the century’ corruption case

  by Mehdi Editor on July 10, 2026

  Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council said Friday that courts sentenced 12 employees of the General Commission for Taxes to prison for helping businessman Noor Zuhair withdraw state funds in the country’s so-called “heist of the century” corruption case, Anadolu reports. In a statement carried by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the council said the convictions were part of broader efforts by specialized anti-corruption courts to prosecute those involved in financial crimes while recovering stolen public funds. The council said Iraqi courts had also sentenced Zuhair in absentia to 10 years in prison after he stopped repaying the remaining funds he owed to the state and left the country. An extradition file has been prepared, and the Arab and International Police Directorate