UAE taking advantage of long-term global energy needs by leaving OPEC - analysis
“At a pivotal moment in the process of supporting the stability of global energy markets, the UAE adopted a long-term strategic and economic vision,” one report says.
Middle East
WATCH: IDF dismantles largest Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon
Assad brothers summoned in absentia as Syria opens landmark trial of former security chief
Iranian regime targets diaspora with propaganda, financial appeals, analyst says - interview
The Hormuz digital chokepoint: How does the Iran war threaten subsea cables? - explainer
Subsea cables are fiber-optic or electrical cables laid on the sea floor to transmit data and power. They carry around 99% of the world's internet traffic.
Iran uses improvised oil storage to avoid damage to oil facilities amid blockade - report
This situation stems from the fact that the Iranian extraction and refining systems can't be shut down, with Kharg Island's infrastructure at risk of failure if the oil flow is cut.
Beirut promise to disarm Hezbollah ‘only ink on paper,’ Lebanese Hezbollah expert says - interview
Hanin Ghaddar, previously a journalist for Lebanese newspapers, has personally seen how significantly entrenched Hezbollah is within Lebanon’s military and government.
Trump claims Iran in 'state of collapse' as Iran expected to submit revised proposal to mediators
US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran has informed him that they are in a “state of collapse” as they figure out their leadership situation.
UAE leaves OPEC and OPEC+ in major blow to global oil producers' group
UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei told Reuters the decision was made after a careful look at the regional power's energy strategies.
Iranian embassies openly recruit for ‘sacrificing life’ campaign in the West
Iranian embassies in the UK, Germany, Australia, and Sri Lanka have openly sought recruits for a martyrdom campaign amid ongoing conflict with the US and Israel.
Recording reveals Qatar promised to 'look after' ICC prosecutor Khan if he pursued Netanyahu - WSJ
According to the WSJ report, which cited a witness and an audio recording, Qatar ordered an investigation to discredit the sexual assault allegations brought against Khan.
Iraq names little-known banker Ali al-Zaidi as PM after five-month deadlock
The real story of Zaidi is that he is largely unknown and appears to have been chosen almost by chance, as if Iraq’s politicians simply settled on a random figure to lead the country.
Araghchi visit highlights Iran-Russia coordination during US-Iran conflict tensions - analysis
Iran turns to Moscow as its foreign minister meets Putin, underscoring efforts to secure backing amid stalled US talks and growing uncertainty over the Iran-Israel conflict dynamics.
Egypt’s dangerous pressure game against Israel - opinion
Cairo’s live-fire drills near the Israeli border come as Egypt faces economic pressure, Red Sea instability, and growing questions over President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s regional strategy.
