Latest in Region Highlight
Latest in Region

Iran summons French envoy over exiles’ rally
The Tehran government has summoned the French ambassador to protest a Paris rally by an anti-regime “terror group.” Former Saudi intelligence tzar, Turki al-Faisal, spoke at the meeting of Iranian dissidents.

Kobler, Hafter in Cairo to discuss developments in Libya
The UN envoy to Libya briefed the new Arab League secretary-general on the current political process

Internally displaced in South Sudan growing
A cease-fire called by South Sudan’s leadership seemed to be holding on Tuesday. Civilians in Juba ventured out of make-shift shelters for the first time in days. Many took advantage of the truce to leave the capital.

In Cartoon: Tony Blair and Iraq war

Israel passes controversial law targeting human rights organizations
Israel’s parliament has finalized a contentious law that will increase the regulation of many Israeli human rights organizations. Critics have denounced the bill for allegedly targeting pro-Palestinian groups

Syria extends ceasefire despite heavy fighting in Aleppo
Damascus has extended a ceasefire for 72 hours, marking the second of its kind since the end of Ramadan. The US’ top diplomat is expected in Moscow as the international community pushes to revive stalled peace talks.

South Sudan’s walk on the brink of disaster
Heavy fighting, hundreds dead, thousands on the run and urgent appeals from the international community for an end to the violence: the story unfolding in South Sudan seems sadly familiar.

After the visit: Egypt coordinates with Palestine, plans Al-Sisi-Netanyahu meeting
We understand Minister Shoukry’s visit to support peace efforts, says Palestinian ambassador

Army announces rescue of 6 abducted Egyptians in Libya
The rescued Egyptians have arrived at Salloum border following their abduction by militants

Baghdad youth find escape in drifting
As Baghdad is rocked by deadly explosions and political chaos, “drifting” is an increasingly popular way for young men in the Iraqi capital to let off steam, reports Florian Neuhof.

US defense chief Carter arrives in Baghdad to plan liberation of Mosul
US Defense Secretary Ash Carter has made an unannounced visit to Iraq to meet US military commanders and Iraqi officials. The visit comes after recent gains in the battle against the self-styled “Islamic State” (IS).

US to increase troops in Iraq ahead of possible Mosul operation
US Defense Secretary Ash Carter has announced the US will send 560 more troops to Iraq to help prepare for an Iraqi-led recapture of Mosul. Iraqi forces have made a series of recent gains against “Islamic State.”

South Sudan fighting could ‘escalate into full-scale war’
Fighting erupted in South Sudan’s capital Juba on Monday between troops loyal to President Salva Kiir and ex-rebel leader Riek Macher. Former UN diplomat Peter Schumann said this may escalate into a full-scale war.

Palestinians cannot suffer in this situation any longer: Foreign Minister
Shoukry told Netanyahu that the two-state solution remains possible but it requires serious intent

Shoukry heads to Israel to revive peace process
The minister will meet with the Israeli prime minister over bilateral relations and regional affairs

In Cartoon: The Israeli intervention in Africa

Shoukry heads to Israel to revive peace process
The minister will meet with Netanyahu to discuss bilateral relations and regional affairs

Two Russian helicopter pilots killed by ‘Islamic State’ in Syria
Helicopter pilots called in action by the Syrian allies were shot down by “IS” militants. The aircraft ran out of ammunition while flying near Palmyra.

MP demands Bush, Blair referral to ICC over Iraq war
Egyptian parliament demands compensation for Iraq after Chilcot report says Iraq war was based on ‘flawed intelligence’

Syrian army extends truce, but fighting rages on
The Syrian army has extended a nationwide ceasefire for three days as pro-Assad forces continue to advance against rebels in the north. Observers have called the truce mostly ineffective since its declaration last week.

Israel to support Ethiopia in developing water resources: Netanyahu
Egypt is investing more than Israel to develop Africa, says analyst

Saudi police arrest scores of suspects following bombings
Saudi authorities have arrested 19 people, including 12 Pakistanis, in connection with Monday’s terrorist attacks. No group has claimed responsibility for the coordinated attacks that left seven people dead.

Dozens killed in ‘Islamic State’ strike on Baghdad Shiite shrine
An ‘Islamic State’ (IS) attack on a Shiite shrine north of the Iraqi capital has killed at least 30 people and injured dozens more. The strike comes just five days after a massive explosion in Baghdad claimed 292 lives.

Syrian refugees build a city in Jordan desert
In a remote location in northern Jordan, Azraq refugee camp has seen its population double in a matter of months. Now, it must transform from a sparse barracks into a thriving community, reports Bethan Staton.

‘World is a better place without Saddam,’ Tony Blair justifies Iraq War
Former British PM Tony Blair has said he accepts full responsibility for the decision to go to war in Iraq. A seven-year inquiry into the UK’s involvement concluded that London failed to exhaust all peaceful options.

‘World is a better place without Saddam,’ Tony Blair justifies Iraq War
Former British PM Tony Blair has said he accepts full responsibility for the decision to go to war in Iraq. A seven-year inquiry into the UK’s involvement concluded that London failed to exhaust all peaceful options.

Location of Egyptians abducted in Libya still unknown: Foreign Ministry
The 6 Egyptians, including 2 siblings, were abducted on their way back to Egypt

Syrian army declares 72-hour halt in fighting
The Syrian regime troops have announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire coinciding with the end of Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The truce applies to the whole country, according to the army’s statement.

UK went to war in Iraq before diplomatic options were exhausted, says inquiry head John Chilcot
A seven-year inquiry into the UK’s involvement has concluded that London failed to exhaust all peaceful options. Ex-premier Tony Blair said he assumes “full responsibility” for any mistakes that arose from the conflict.

Saudi King seeks revenge after deadly suicide attacks
King Salman of Saudi Arabia has vowed to strike back at those who lead youths to extremism, a day after triple suicide attacks in the kingdom. “Islamic State” (IS) militants are being blamed for the bombings.