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

• 
  Storm damages thousands of tents in Gaza, raising fears of humanitarian disaster

  by EditorMehdi on November 7, 2026

  WATCH: 250 couples celebrate mass wedding in Gaza

• 
  US warns Americans in Middle East of heightened threat from Iran-related attacks

  by Marwa A on November 7, 2026

  The US State Department urged Americans in the Middle East on Friday to exercise heightened vigilance, citing an increased threat of armed attacks by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi group, Anadolu reports. “Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance due to the increased threat of armed attacks by Iranian-supported Houthis and Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region,” it said in an advisory on US social media platform X. The agency also told Americans to be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions in the region. It did not provide details on the alleged threats. Pulling the funding: Trump, Israel and US military assistance

• 
  Pulling the funding: Trump, Israel and US military assistance

  by Marwa A on November 7, 2026

  In a telephone interview on Fox News on the morning of 3rd November, President Donald Trump revealed that a deal had been struck with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease the annual provision of US$3.8 billion in military assistance after 2026.  “We already agreed that by the end of this year, we won’t be paying Israel,” he said.  “Now we’ll help Israel if they need it.”  This was a deal that had been reached “months ago”. The current funding arrangements arose out of a pledge from the Obama administration to supply military assistance to Israel over the period from 2019 to 2028 for a decade, amounting to US$38 billion.  Each year, Washington would supply $US3.3 billion in Foreign Military

• 
  Israeli army preparing for possible resumption of war in Lebanon amid Iran tensions: Report

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  The Israeli army is preparing for a possible resumption of its military offensive against Lebanon if fighting with Iran resumes, Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported Friday. The newspaper said the military is preparing for another round of fighting on the Lebanese front in the event of renewed hostilities with Tehran. Israeli forces are continuing operations along the border with Lebanon, preparing military positions, and updating operational plans ahead of winter, it added. The report said Israel’s security establishment was awaiting a US decision on whether to resume military operations against Iran, noting that the situation could change rapidly depending on developments in Washington. According to the newspaper, the Israeli military has not detected unusual signs of increased US military preparations

• 
  Putin confirms Russia-US-Ukraine talks scheduled for next Tuesday in Abu Dhabi

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed Friday that the next round of trilateral talks between Russia, the US, and Ukraine over the ongoing war is expected to begin next Tuesday in Abu Dhabi, according to Russian state news agency Tass. During a meeting with permanent members of Russia’s Security Council, Putin said he had invited representatives of the Russian delegation set to travel to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, for the talks. The Security Council meeting was attended by Vladimir Medinsky, Igor Kostyukov, Yuri Ushakov, Mikhail Galuzin and Sergei Ryabkov, Tass reported. READ: Putin says trade turnover with Egypt ‘growing steadily’ despite regional tensions “Given that the negotiations are expected to take place on Tuesday, I invited colleagues who

• 
  UN chief reaffirms support for UN agency for Palestinian refugees as it faces $80 million funding shortfall

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remains fully committed to defending the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and its critical work, a UN spokesman said Friday, Anadolu reports. “I can tell you that the secretary-general is fully committed to defending UNRWA in the exercise of its fundamental role in support of Palestinian refugees,” Stephane Dujarric told supporters. “He once again calls for UNRWA’s vital work to be fully funded.” Dujarric’s remarks followed an UNRWA statement Thursday warning that unprecedented financial pressures, declining global contributions, and increasingly restrictive operating conditions are threatening its ability to maintain essential services. READ: Gaza records 260 congenital anomaly cases in 9 months, exceeding 2022 total: Health Ministry The agency said it currently faces an $80 million cash-flow

• 
  Iran continues distributing anti-radiation iodine tablets in Bushehr amid regional tensions

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Iranian health authorities have continued distributing iodine tablets to residents of the southern city of Bushehr, home to the country’s only operational nuclear power plant, as part of an emergency preparedness plan launched before the June 2025 war, the Young Journalists Club (YJC) news agency reported Friday. The deputy head of Bushehr University of Medical Sciences for health affairs said the distribution initially prioritized areas surrounding the nuclear power plant before expanding to cover the entire city. A total of 180,000 iodine tablets have been distributed under a decision by crisis management authorities, the official said. The tablets remain available to residents at comprehensive health centers across Bushehr, according to the official. The distribution program is limited to residents of

• 
  Spain should quit 2030 World Cup if Morocco hosts final, opposition leader says

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Spain should withdraw as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup if Morocco is selected to stage the final, opposition leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo said, Anadolu reports. Feijoo, leader of the conservative People’s Party, made the remarks during an interview with Spanish football programme El Chiringuito broadcast Thursday. “Spain must organize the World Cup final,” he said. “And if it does not organize it, in my opinion, Spain should not participate in organizing the World Cup.” Asked directly whether he would advocate Spain’s withdrawal if Morocco received the final, Feijoo replied: “Yes. The answer is yes.” The People’s Party leader said he would pursue that position if he became prime minister following Spain’s Nov. 29 general election. Feijoo argued

• 
  French presidential candidate pledges to enforce ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu if elected

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  French presidential candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon has pledged to enforce the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if elected in 2027, according to a book published Friday, Anadolu reports. A new edition of “The Common Future,” a book outlining the France Unbowed (LFI) candidate’s official election program. The book sets out around 1,000 pledges covering defense, NATO and the Palestinian issue, among other topics. Under the program, Melenchon promises to enforce the ICC’s arrest warrant for Netanyahu and immediately withdraw France from NATO’s integrated command. He also calls for recognizing the killing of hundreds of Algerians by French police during a peaceful demonstration in Paris on Oct. 17, 1961, as a “state crime.” READ: Rights group

• 
  Occupier terrorism against Palestinians growing bolder under world’s indifference: Turkish president

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday criticized the international community’s failure to address Israel’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territories, warning that the international system is failing to uphold peace and security, Anadolu reports. Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the TRT World Forum 2026 at the Istanbul Congress Center, Erdogan said: “Occupier terrorism, which seeks to forcibly displace Palestinians from their ancestral homeland, is growing more and more brazen by the day under the indifferent gaze of the modern world.” International institutions tasked with ensuring peace, security and stability are once again “watching from the sidelines” as atrocities unfold in Gaza, as previously happened in Rwanda, Srebrenica, and many other places, he said. “They take no action

• 
  Rights group to urge ICC to seek arrest warrants for Trump, US officials

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  A group of human rights lawyers and activists plans to submit evidence to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor next week, urging it to seek arrest warrants for US President Donald Trump and other senior US officials over alleged crimes in Gaza, The National reported. Members of the Taxpayer Alliance Against Genocide (TAAG) are expected to travel to The Hague on Nov. 11 to present material concerning what the group describes as US officials’ alleged role in aiding and abetting genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Palestinian enclave. The group said its submission, prepared after nearly a year of evidence gathering, includes sworn statements from doctors who worked in Gaza, eyewitness accounts, whistleblower testimony,

• 
  Study says Christians’ share of occupied Jerusalem population fell from 25% to 1.56% over century

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  The share of Christians in occupied Jerusalem fell from 25% of the population in 1922 to about 1.56% by the end of 2023, according to a study released by the Jerusalem International Foundation, Anadolu reports. The study said the city had around 15,300 Christians at the end of 2023, including approximately 13,100 Palestinians. It attributed the decline to Israeli policies, economic and social pressures, continued emigration, and low population growth. Israeli residency policies affecting Palestinians in Jerusalem, including revocation of residency permits under the “center of life” criterion, have also contributed to reducing the Palestinian presence in the city, the study said. It also documented attempts to take control of church endowments and property, which it said account for about

• 
  Israeli opposition leader Eisenkot reports progress in talks to form emergency government

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot said Friday that significant progress had been made in negotiations to form a national emergency government, expressing hope that he would receive the mandate to form a government early next week, Anadolu reports. In a statement posted on US social media platform X, Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party, said Israel was facing a “real, tangible and dangerous emergency” and called for a swift transfer of power to prevent outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from remaining in office. He said 74 members of the 120-seat Knesset had not expressed confidence in Netanyahu’s continued leadership, while only 46 supported the outgoing prime minister. Eisenkot said his team had held dozens of hours of negotiations with opposition

• 
  Italian foreign minister says detained Italians in West Bank ‘did nothing,’ calls for their return

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Friday that Italians detained by Israeli authorities in the occupied West Bank had “done nothing,” calling for their return to Italy, ANSA reported. “We are following the case. They did nothing, they were just there carrying out agricultural activities, harvesting olives. We hope they can be sent back to Italy as soon as possible,” Tajani said. The detainees were among 14 international volunteers arrested near Kafr Ni’ma, about 23 kilometers (14 miles) from Ramallah, while helping Palestinians with the olive harvest. READ: Italy monitors situation in Israeli-besieged Palestinian village where 5 Italians reported present Among the Italians was Giorgia Lombardi, a city councilor in La Spezia and a member of the National Council of Europa

• 
  15.4M people in Sudan urgently need shelter as funding shortages threaten aid: UN agencies

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  An estimated 15.4 million people in Sudan urgently need emergency shelter and essential household supplies, but severe funding shortages threaten to halt assistance to millions, two UN agencies warned Friday, Anadolu reports. In a joint statement, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said humanitarian organizations have sufficient resources to prioritize assistance for only 10% of those in need. So far, just 936,000 people have received assistance, leaving millions without adequate shelter or basic necessities, the agencies said. They warned that emergency shelter stocks were running dangerously low and that without urgent funding, more displaced families would face harsh weather, insecurity and heightened risks of violence and exploitation. Sudan remains the world’s largest displacement crisis,

• 
  Iran says US must take concrete steps before new diplomatic talks

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Iran will no longer rely solely on written commitments from the US and expects concrete actions before entering a new phase of diplomacy, a senior Iranian security official said Friday, Anadolu reports. Ali Bagheri, deputy secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Washington had repeatedly disrupted negotiations by violating its commitments over the past 18 months, according to the Iranian state news agency IRNA. “Iran must see practical actions by the US with its own eyes,” Bagheri said, adding that a new diplomatic opening would become possible only after such steps were taken. Bagheri also provided details of Thursday’s meeting between Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, saying the talks lasted approximately three

• 
  Gaza records 260 congenital anomaly cases in 9 months, exceeding 2022 total: Health Ministry

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Gaza’s Health Ministry said Friday that 260 cases of congenital anomalies were recorded among newborns during the first nine months of 2026, surpassing the 184 cases documented throughout 2022, Anadolu reports. Health Ministry Director-General Munir al-Bursh described the figures as a serious health warning and called for an independent international scientific investigation into the reasons behind the increase. The ministry said 322 cases were recorded in 2025, a 75% increase compared with 2022. Bursh expressed concern over the rise amid Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza, starvation, displacement and the collapse of healthcare services. The anomalies requiring surveillance and specialized care include cleft lip and palate, atypical external genitalia that can make determining a newborn’s gender difficult, shortened upper limbs and

• 
  Egypt, Iran foreign ministers discuss efforts to contain regional tensions

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi discussed efforts to contain regional tensions and prevent renewed military confrontation between Washington and Tehran, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said Friday, Anadolu reports. The talks marked the second phone call between the two officials since Tuesday amid continuing regional diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and revive negotiations between the US and Iran. “The two ministers discussed the latest developments on the regional scene and efforts being made to contain the current tensions,” the ministry said. They also reviewed recent developments and concerns over the possibility of renewed military confrontation and its repercussions for regional and international security and stability. Abdelatty stressed the importance of “prioritizing diplomatic solutions” to reach a

• 
  Israeli army, occupiers carry out attacks across occupied West Bank, target olive harvesters

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  Israeli forces and occupiers carried out a series of attacks across the occupied West Bank on Friday, including assaults on Palestinians harvesting olives, the burning of residential tents and farmland, and raids on several areas, according to the Wafa news agency. Israeli soldiers forced dozens of foreign activists and several journalists to leave Abu Falah village, northeast of Ramallah, after they attempted to support Palestinian residents seeking access to their land to harvest olives, Wafa reported. In a separate incident, Israeli occupiers and soldiers assaulted and detained 15 foreign activists who were helping Palestinians harvest olives near Jabal al-Risan, according to the agency. Occupiers also raided a Bedouin community on all-terrain vehicles and drove provocatively among Palestinian homes, Wafa said.

• 
  A third war with Iran will not only be futile but also dangerous

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  It seems that a third round of war between the United States, Israel, and Iran may be approaching. The United States and Israel may be considering another military campaign, hoping to achieve their goals through surprise attacks and a further escalation of tensions. They may believe that a stronger and more extensive attack could weaken Iran’s military capabilities and as Trump has put it, “finish them off” once and for all. However, the conditions have changed. Iran has gained direct experience from the previous wars and has had time to strengthen its internal resilience for another battle, develop its response options, and prepare a realistic and actionable target bank for different scenarios. Therefore, a new conflict would begin under different

• 
  250 couples celebrate mass wedding in Gaza

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  IMAGES: Palestinian journalists urge medical evacuation for colleague in intensive care in Gaza

• 
  ‘Lula must turn his support for Palestine into concrete action,’ Brazilian analyst tells MEMO

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  “This election was a defeat for denialism and lies.” With these words, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, widely known as Lula, celebrated his victory in the presidential election runoff on 25th October 2026, securing a historic fourth non-consecutive term in office. Lula defeated his far-right rival Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, with 51.79 per cent of the vote against 48.21 per cent. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s re-election has reinforced the position of one of Latin America’s most outspoken critics of Israel and strongest supporters of Palestinian statehood, with political observers saying the result could reshape Brazil’s relations with Israel, the United States and the wider Global South. Lula’s victory, however, comes at

• 
  Kafr Qasim at 70: The massacre Israel still hasn’t owned up to

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Israel almost always promises to investigate allegations of misconduct by its military, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which it often portrays as the most moral army in the world. Yet such investigations rarely lead to meaningful accountability, particularly in major cases involving the killing of civilians. They can drag on for months, sometimes years, and when conclusions are eventually announced; they tend to produce one of two outcomes: either no criminal wrongdoing is established, or responsibility is attributed to an individual soldier, usually a low-ranking one, while the commanders and the wider chain of command are spared. A minor disciplinary measure follows, and the case is effectively closed. This pattern is not new. It is deeply rooted in the history

• 
  Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Jeremy Corbyn: A Nation Mutinies: Can Trump Survive His Own War?

  by EditorMehdi on November 6, 2026

  WATCH: Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Michael Ratney: Yemen, the most Difficult and Confounding Nut to Crack

• 
  Gaza faces worsening shelter crisis as winter approaches, with over 162,000 tents unusable

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip face another winter without adequate shelter, as deteriorating tents, widespread destruction of homes and continued displacement leave families exposed to rain, cold and severe weather conditions. Field surveys indicate that more than 162,000 of approximately 270,000 displacement tents have become severely damaged or unusable due to prolonged use and exposure to harsh weather. Many Palestinians continue to live in makeshift shelters or among the ruins of destroyed buildings, with limited protection against winter conditions. Gaza’s Ministry of Social Development has warned of an impending humanitarian catastrophe, estimating that more than 300,000 families urgently require adequate shelter. According to the ministry, the territory needs approximately 200,000 new weather-resistant tents and 300,000

• 
  Iran accuses IAEA chief of sharing information with its adversaries

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi on Thursday of passing information to Iran’s adversaries, amid renewed tensions between Tehran and Washington. Speaking to Russian broadcaster RT, Eslami criticized Grossi’s conduct and questioned the neutrality of the international nuclear watchdog. “The Director General of the IAEA has effectively become an operative for our enemy and their obedient follower, passing information on to them,” Eslami said. The IAEA had not commented on the allegations at the time of the report. Eslami argued that such conduct represented a misuse of the authority granted to international organizations and undermined confidence in their independence and credibility. He also said the

• 
  Vance reportedly criticises Netanyahu’s handling of Iran conflict amid US political fallout

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  US Vice President JD Vance has reportedly criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s assessment and handling of the conflict with Iran, amid disagreements within the Trump administration following the Republican Party’s defeat in the midterm elections. According to a report by Axios, citing informed sources, Vance accused Netanyahu during private discussions of being wrong about virtually every aspect of the conflict with Iran. The vice president reportedly recalled his earlier warnings that the war lacked sufficient public support in the United States and could cost Republicans their congressional majority. His remarks come amid growing internal debate over the political and military consequences of the confrontation with Tehran. Separately, Axios cited US officials as saying that the American military had completed

• 
  Israeli President Herzog says proposed halt to US aid came as a surprise

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Israeli President Isaac Herzog said Thursday that the prospect of ending annual US financial assistance to Israel came as a major surprise to him, amid discussions over the future of American military support. According to the Hebrew-language newspaper Maariv, Herzog expressed astonishment at the reported decision to discontinue the assistance. “The issue of halting the 4 billion shekels in annual US aid hit me like a bolt from the blue,” Herzog was quoted as saying. His remarks come amid uncertainty over the future of US assistance to Israel, which constitutes a central component of the two countries’ strategic and military relationship. The report did not provide further details about the proposed suspension or its implementation. The amount is reported as

• 
  Egypt approves government spending cuts amid regional economic pressures

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  The Egyptian government approved a package of public spending restrictions on Thursday aimed at reducing expenditures and addressing the economic repercussions of ongoing regional tensions, while maintaining essential public services and social protection programs. According to a Cabinet statement, the measures include a 20 percent reduction in electricity and lighting consumption across government institutions and a reduction of at least 30 percent in fuel consumption by government vehicles. The government also ordered the postponement of fuel-intensive projects for at least three months, with implementation to be reassessed depending on developments in the regional crisis. Under the new measures, at least 20 percent of budget allocations for the procurement of goods and services will be frozen. Spending on advertising, events, receptions,

• 
  Israeli opposition leader warns of deepening crisis with US amid planned military aid cuts

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Israeli opposition Democrats party leader Yair Golan warned Friday that Israel’s relations with the US are facing a “deepening” crisis amid planned cuts to American military aid and a widening rift with the US Democratic Party, Anadolu reports. “The crisis with the US is deepening, military aid funds are being cut, and the rift with the Democratic Party is growing ever more severe,” Golan said in what he described as a “situation report.” “This is a real danger to Israel, to its security. And we have no time to waste on political games,” he added. His remarks came days after US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Washington would stop providing financial assistance to Israel by the end of the

• 
  Sudanese army reports territorial gains following heavy fighting with RSF in Kordofan

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Sudanese army forces have reportedly recaptured several areas in the Kordofan region following intense clashes with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), as military operations continue across multiple fronts, according to field sources. The sources said the army regained control of Kazqil and Abu Qa’ud, along with surrounding areas, after heavy fighting with RSF units. In South Kordofan, Sudanese forces also reportedly took control of Al-Hammadi and Al-Dabibat, continuing their advance toward additional positions held by the RSF. According to the sources, the operations are aimed at expanding the army’s territorial control, securing recaptured areas and pursuing remaining RSF fighters. Separately, field sources speaking to RT on Thursday reported that the Sudanese army had regained control of the Shushaya area in

• 
  Israeli army deploys troops to protect settlers after they seize homes in Jericho

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  The Israeli army has redeployed three combat battalions to the West Bank city of Jericho and its surrounding areas to protect settler families who have moved into eight homes in Area C near the city, Hebrew-language media reported. The move came after settlers took over the homes without prior coordination with the army or informing security authorities. The Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the arrival of the Jewish families took the army and the 96th Division, stationed in the Jericho area and along the eastern border, by surprise. This forced the army to redirect troops from other security missions, including efforts to prevent smuggling along the border with Jordan. The newspaper claimed that the settlers had followed a model

• 
  Ehud Barak warns Netanyahu may attack Iran to obstruct formation of new government

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak warned on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could launch an attack on Iran to prevent the formation of an alternative Israeli government. In an interview with Israel’s Channel 12, Barak said Netanyahu was like a wounded animal and might resort to attacking Iran to prevent another government from being formed. “I know how to read between the lines. Netanyahu planned to carry out a provocation in Iran through the Mossad, behind the back of the army’s Chief of Staff,” Barak said. Earlier, Channel 12 reported a disagreement between Netanyahu and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir over an order to carry out a military operation related to Iran. According to the channel, officials within

• 
  Egyptian airports raise alert levels amid regional developments

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  The Egyptian Airports Company announced on Thursday that it had raised alert levels and operational readiness at all airports under its management to deal with any emergency regional developments. In a statement, the company said its chairman and chief executive, pilot Wael Al-Nashar, had ordered the heightened state of readiness and instructed airports to provide the necessary support to airlines in the event of flight schedule changes, alongside measures to rationalise energy consumption and spending. The announcement followed a meeting of the company’s executive committee, chaired by Al-Nashar, to review operational developments and passenger and flight traffic levels in light of the current regional situation, the statement said. The meeting stressed the need to maintain regular flight operations and operational

• 
  Saudi Arabia denies report that Houthis demanded $51 billion and official recognition for ceasefire

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Saudi Arabia on Thursday denied a report by US newspaper The Wall Street Journal that Yemen’s Houthi group had made demands of the kingdom, including financial compensation and official recognition, in return for a ceasefire. Earlier on Thursday, the newspaper, citing sources it described as familiar with the negotiations, reported that the Houthis had demanded $51 billion from Saudi Arabia in compensation for years of air strikes and a blockade, as well as official recognition of the group as Yemen’s governing authority, in exchange for halting its attacks. In a post on X, Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister for Public Diplomacy Rayed Krimly said: “I categorically deny the claims published by The Wall Street Journal regarding demands allegedly made by this

• 
  Israel’s UN envoy says Iran war was US decision, rejects blaming Israel for economic fallout

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has said the United States, not Israel, made the decision to go to war with Iran, describing attempts to hold Israel responsible for the war’s economic consequences as “unfair”. Danon made the remarks in an interview with Israeli broadcaster i24NEWS on Wednesday evening, responding to comments by US Vice-President JD Vance, who linked the Republican Party’s losses in Tuesday’s midterm elections to the war with Iran, amid calls to reconsider US-Israeli relations. “I think it’s unfortunate that many made the link between rising prices, mainly oil prices, and the situation here in Israel,” Danon said. “The decision to attack Iran was the decision of the United States. It wasn’t our decision. We

• 
  Jordan’s king says Israel must not be allowed to continue attacks on Palestine or violate Arab states’ sovereignty

  by Marwa A on November 6, 2026

  Jordan’s King Abdullah II said on Thursday that Israel must not be allowed to continue its attacks on Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, or violate the sovereignty of Arab states. He made the remarks during talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in the capital, Astana, according to a statement from the Jordanian Royal Court. King Abdullah said the two countries agree that a two-state solution is the only way to achieve peace and stability in the region. He stressed that Israel must not be allowed to continue its attacks on Jerusalem, Gaza and the West Bank, or its attempts to violate the sovereignty of Arab states. He called on the international community to assume its responsibilities

• 
  Israel issues tenders for 91 settlement units in occupied West Bank, revises E1 tender schedule

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Israeli authorities issued two new tenders for the construction of 91 settlement units in the northern occupied West Bank and revised the timetable for another settlement tender east of Jerusalem, a Palestinian organization said Thursday, Anadolu reports. The Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission said in a statement that the two tenders cover land in the illegal Oranit settlement, built on land in the Qalqilya governorate. The 91 units are divided among seven compounds, with the first tender covering four compounds for 86 multi-story housing units. The second tender covers three compounds for five low-rise settlement units. Bidding is scheduled to open Nov. 16 and close Dec. 29. The commission also said Israel revised the timetable for Tender No. 460/2025, related

• 
  Egypt, Saudi Arabia urge diplomacy to prevent renewed military confrontations in region

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Egypt and Saudi Arabia on Thursday called for prioritizing dialogue and giving diplomacy more time to prevent renewed military confrontations in the region and their consequences, Anadolu reports. The appeal came during a phone call between Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan, according to a statement by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. Ministry spokesman Nader Zaki said the two ministers discussed joint efforts to restore calm and prevent regional escalation in coordination with regional and international partners, including the US and Qatar. The ministers stressed the need to prioritize wisdom and dialogue, allow more time for diplomatic and political efforts, and encourage the parties concerned to engage in negotiations and demonstrate the necessary flexibility.

• 
  Gaza civil defense warns heavy rains, strong winds threaten nearly 950,000 displaced Palestinians

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Gaza’s Civil Defense warned Thursday that heavy rainfall and strong winds expected Friday could endanger displaced Palestinians living in tents and temporary shelters, as well as families staying in damaged buildings at risk of collapse, Anadolu reports. The warning comes as nearly 950,000 displaced Palestinians live in areas exposed to moderate or high flood risks, according to UN figures. In a statement, the Palestinian Civil Defense Directorate urged residents to take preventive measures to avoid potential dangers associated with the weather system expected to affect the enclave Friday. It particularly warned displaced people living in tents and temporary shelters, as well as families residing in homes damaged by Israeli bombardment, of the risk of partial building collapses due to heavy

• 
  Abdul El-Sayed backs Trump’s call to cut Israel aid, says he is willing to work with president

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Abdul El-Sayed, the first Muslim American elected to the US Senate, voiced support Thursday for President Donald Trump’s remarks about cutting aid to Israel, saying Washington should stop financing a military accused of committing atrocities with American weapons, Anadolu reports. El-Sayed told MS NOW that he agreed with Trump’s position and was willing to work with the president to end US military assistance to Israel. “I agree with him on that. I don’t think we should be continuing to subsidize a foreign military that had done the worst things with our money. I agree. I would love to work with him on doing that,” he said. El-Sayed, who was elected on Tuesday, stressed the need to distinguish Judaism and Jewish

• 
  Arab Joint List formally recommends Eisenkot to form Israeli government, bringing tally to 67

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot received recommendations from 67 lawmakers, a majority in the 120-seat Knesset, after the Arab Joint List formally informed President Isaac Herzog on Thursday that it recommends him to form the next government, Anadolu reports. The Joint List conveyed its recommendation during consultations with Herzog at the Israeli President’s Residence. The delegation included Joint List Chairman Yousef Jabareen, Ahmad Tibi, Bakr Awawdeh, Ofer Cassif, and Maha Sabah Karkabi. “We have decided to endorse Gadi Eisenkot,” the Joint List said. “We reached this decision unanimously, following consultations among the parties that make up the Joint List. It was not an easy decision,” it added. “Despite our determination to oust Netanyahu, the opposition camp led by Eisenkot has

• 
  Turkish, Iranian foreign ministers discuss Tehran-Washington negotiations in phone call

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi spoke by phone, Turkish diplomatic sources said Thursday, Anadolu reports. During the call, the two discussed ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington as the Iran war is now in its eighth month. They also exchanged views on other regional developments, according to the sources. READ: Turkish foreign minister warns new attack on Iran would escalate regional conflict

• 
  Israeli Knesset speaker rejects opposition request for vote to replace him at opening session

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Outgoing Israeli Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana on Thursday rejected an opposition request to hold a vote on replacing him during the new parliament’s opening session next Tuesday, saying such a move would require the signatures of at least 61 lawmakers, Anadolu reports. Ohana, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, addressed opposition leaders Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, Yousef Jabareen, Yair Golan, Mansour Abbas and Avigdor Liberman in a statement on US social media company X. “The customary time for electing a Knesset speaker is when the government is formed,” Ohana said. He said an exception could be made if a letter bearing the signatures of a majority of Knesset members, at least 61 lawmakers, requests an earlier election.

• 
  Lebanon issues arrest warrants for 2 Hezbollah members in explosives truck case

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Lebanon issued arrest warrants Thursday for two detained Hezbollah members as part of an investigation into a truck carrying explosives seized in the eastern Dahr al-Baidar area, according to the country’s National News Agency. First Military Investigative Judge Ghada Abu Alwan issued the warrants for Ali al-Kurdi and Haitham Amhaz after questioning them in the presence of their lawyer, the agency reported. The warrants place the two men under formal judicial detention as the investigation proceeds. Abu Alwan also postponed until Nov. 17 the questioning of six other defendants who remain at liberty after their lawyer filed procedural objections, allowing the military prosecution time to review them and submit its position. Lebanese judicial authorities on Oct. 30 charged 13 people

• 
  A script that fails Palestinians

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  It has been over a year since France recognised the State of Palestine during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in 2025, and diplomacy has not moved beyond symbolism and regurgitated rhetorical efforts. In a meeting held in Ramallah, the Palestinian Authority’s Vice-President Hussein Al Sheikh and the French Envoy for Palestine Andre Parant discussed all the obvious international law violations that have been recurring for decades as a result of Israeli colonialism, such as settler violence in the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem, as well as “the ongoing suffering” in Gaza.  Countless meetings have been held to discuss the same issues without discussing colonialism. However, as reported by the Palestine Liberation Organisation’s Negotiations Affairs Department, Al Sheikh

• 
  Turkiye, Qatar deepen defense ties with joint production goals

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Turkish and Qatari defense chiefs held a high-level meeting in Ankara to evaluate new opportunities to strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries and implement joint production projects, Anadolu reports. Turkish Defense Industries Secretary Haluk Gorgun hosted Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs Saoud Al Thani alongside a Qatari delegation. The meeting followed the signing of the Badr memorandum between Turkiye, Qatar, Pakistan and Indonesia, which aims to promote technological development, research and development (R&D), and defense industry cooperation to strengthen the signatories’ capabilities and lay the groundwork for future joint projects. The ongoing bilateral talks are expected to lead broader multilateral commitments under the Badr pact into concrete joint production projects between Turkiye and

• 
  US intelligence report describes Iran as ’emerging’ space power

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  Iran is “emerging” as a space power capable of challenging US military operations in the Middle East, despite American strikes on key Iranian space-related facilities, according to a Pentagon intelligence report, Anadolu reports. The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) said in the report that Iran took offensive action against US space capabilities during Operation Epic Fury, using land-based jamming systems that can disrupt satellite-based GPS signals. It said that Tehran is expanding its military and civilian space programs to strengthen its military capabilities, economic development and national prestige. “Space is accessible and affordable today,” Brig. Gen. Todd Benson, commander of Space Forces Central, said at a Mitchell Institute webinar last month. READ: Iranian official claims military and political victory over Trump following

• 
  Israeli army demolishes 5 Palestinian homes near Jerusalem, displacing over 20

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  The Israeli army demolished five Palestinian homes in the town of Biddu, northwest of Jerusalem, leaving more than 20 Palestinians homeless, Anadolu reports. The demolitions were carried out without prior notice on the grounds that the homes lacked building permits. The Israeli army also reportedly damaged trees and agricultural land near a military checkpoint at the entrance to the town of Beit Iksa. READ: Israeli army demolishes home housing two Palestinian families near Hebron

• 
  Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Michael Ratney: Yemen, the most Difficult and Confounding Nut to Crack

  by EditorMehdi on November 5, 2026

  WATCH: Podcast by Jasim Al-Azzawi with Ronnie Chatah: Guns, Threats, Diplomatic Apprach, and the Prospect of War!