Voices from the Arab press: Pope Leo and the Shi'ites
A weekly selection of opinions and analyses from the Arab media around the world.
Middle East
UN General Assembly adopts resolution demanding Israel cooperate with UNRWA
Egyptian President Sisi to visit Washington for Trump meeting, may meet with Netanyahu - report
Lebanese FM claims Israel intends to carry out military operation in Al Jazeera interview
Gaza demilitarization may begin as early as next month, US officials say
US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz noted that the Security Council authorized the ISF to demilitarize Gaza by all means necessary, which may mean the use of force.
Heavy rains flood Gaza shelters, killing 12 and displacing thousands
Israel says it is meeting its obligations and accuses agencies of inefficiency and failing to prevent theft by Hamas, which the terror group denies.
IDF strikes in Lebanon, no changes in northern security measures
The IDF is striking in southern Lebanon, the military announced on Friday.
Iran's Araghchi to visit Beirut after Lebanese foreign minister declines trip to Tehran
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will travel to Beirut for talks following a formal invitation from Lebanon’s FM, after the latter declined to visit Tehran due to "current conditions."
Iranian cyberwarfare officer led double life, spied for CIA, 'Atlantic' investigation reveals
Mohammad Hossein Tajik shared secrets with the CIA, providing information that led to the killing of top terrorists, until he was murdered while attempting to escape to Turkey.
Some 60% of journalists killed in Gaza were part of terrorist organizations - study
“The issue of Hamas’s propaganda is a high priority, and it uses a lot of media outlets abroad to talk about it,” said Shlomo Mofaz.
Iraq must free itself from Iran or risk losing US aid, Congressman Joe Wilson warns
The Congressman shared, “Iraq has an opportunity to thrive if it changes its behaviour. Congress is ready to back up President Trump with new provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act."
Jordan’s ancient Mehras olive variety makes UNESCO heritage list
Jordan's Mehras olive tree, known for its drought resistance and high oil yield of up to 30%, is an ancient variety with centuries-old traits, making it one of the world’s most productive olives.
US deepens cooperation with Syria as CENTCOM expands anti-ISIS operations - analysis
The US and Damascus have been cooperating against ISIS since 2025, especially after Syria said it would join the coalition against ISIS in November.
US opens door to Syria's reintegration with repeal of Caesar Act - analysis
In many cities such as Homs, Hama, Aleppo and Damascus, there has been a week of celebration, something unique for Syria after people suffered under more than a decade of war.
