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Trending Middle East
Trending Middle East brings you the top news stories, field reports, and in-depth insights from the Middle East and beyond, produced by The National News.
Episodes
Trump says Iran deal is close, Emaar unveils megaproject and World Bank cuts Gulf outlook
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, President Donald Trump says the US has reached a “great settlement” with Iran and that a formal agreement could be signed within days, potentially leading to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite that optimism, tension remains high after US forces intercept two Iranian attack drones that officials say appeared to be targeting commercial shipping
World Cup round-up: Three red cards and a host nation off to a flying start
The 2026 Fifa World Cup opened with a result, record and refereeing performance nobody will forget quickly.
Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with Julian Quinones opening the scoring after just nine minutes before Raul Jimenez headed home a second in the 67th minute.
The match will be remembered as much for what happened off the ball as on it. Brazilian referee Wil
World Cup 2026: Daily round-up trailer
The Fifa World Cup 2026 is here, and Trending Middle East is covering every match day.
Join sports journalist Mina Rzouki for your daily morning roundup of results, highlights, and the moments that matter, with a special focus on the Arab teams.
New episode drops every weekday for the full tournament.
US-Iran strikes escalate, Dubai launches longevity authority and UAE businessman supports crash victims
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US has carried out a second consecutive night of strikes on Iran, while President Donald Trump warns Tehran to accept a deal or face further military action. Iran responded with attacks on US military targets in the region, prompting security alerts in Bahrain and the temporary closure of Kuwaiti airspace.
At the UN, Iran says no sustainable agreemen
Iran and US exchange strikes, Israel orders residents to leave Tyre, and new rules for Dubai visa
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran says it launched attacks on US military targets across the region in response to American strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. US officials say most incoming missiles and drones were intercepted.
Israel orders residents to leave parts of the southern Lebanese city of Tyre, including its Christian quarter, as military operations intensify and air strik
Violence grips Lebanon, Houthis issue Red Sea threat and Etihad predicts summer recovery
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran and Israel halt attacks against each other after the heaviest exchange of strikes in weeks, but fighting continues in Lebanon.
We also look at signs of a new phase in the regional conflict, as Yemen’s Houthi rebels resume operations against Israel. An Iran-backed Iraqi militia warns it could attack US interests if Washington "intervenes in the war".
Israel and Iran exchange attacks, regional airspace closures and Trump seeks to calm tensions
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, a fragile regional ceasefire comes under renewed pressure after Israel launches strikes across Iran in response to overnight Iranian missile and drone attacks.
Several neighbouring countries respond by tightening security measures, with Iraq closing its airspace, Syria suspending flights in parts of the country and Jordan activating air-raid sirens.
US P
Lebanon truce faces hurdles, UAE tightens wage rules and Dubai launches SME initiative
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the latest ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel faces an early test as Iran and Hezbollah insist any lasting agreement must include a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
We also look at mounting pressure on Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, where US military aircraft are occupying large parts of the country’s main aviation hub, disrupting operati
Kuwait releases airport strike footage, Lebanon ceasefire agreed and UAE confirms no Ebola cases
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Kuwait releases CCTV footage it says shows a missile striking Kuwait International Airport, as authorities expel Iranian diplomats and step up their response to the attack.
Lebanon and Israel said they agreed to implement a ceasefire after negotiations in Washington aimed at ending months of fighting, although violence continues on the ground and Iran in
Iran strikes Bahrain and Kuwait, ceasefire hopes fade in Lebanon, and Abu Dhabi renters get relief
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran launches missile and drone attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait and civilian shipping in the Gulf, while US forces intercept projectiles and carry out strikes on an Iranian military site on Qeshm Island.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says any peace agreement will require Iran to accept long-term limits on its nuclear programme, with further negotiations e
Trump intervenes to halt Lebanon attacks, Iraq cracks down on corruption and UAE approves weight-loss pill
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump says Hezbollah and Israel have agreed to stop attacking each other after efforts by Washington to prevent a major Israeli escalation in Beirut.
We also look at growing uncertainty around US-Iran diplomacy after Tehran reportedly suspended indirect talks because of Israeli military operations in Lebanon.
In Iraq, authorities arre
Missiles over Kuwait, US-Iran strikes continue and some UAE rules change
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Gulf faces renewed security tensions after Kuwait’s air defences intercept missile and drone threats, forcing flight diversions.
We also look at fresh military exchanges around the Strait of Hormuz, where the US says it carried out self-defence strikes on Iranian sites and Tehran claims it responded by attacking a facility linked to American operatio
US and Iran reach tentative deal, Lebanon and Israel hold talks and Eid attacks grip Gaza
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, a tentative agreement has been reached in negotiations between the US and Iran, but it still requires the approval of President Donald Trump.
A fourth round of talks between Israel and Lebanon is to take place today at the Pentagon. The disarmament of Hezbollah is expected to be the focus of the discussions.
In Gaza, Israeli strikes across the enclave me
Kuwait responds to missile attacks, US shoots down Iranian drones and flood warnings in Syria and Iraq
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Kuwait said its air defences responded to missile and drone attacks on Thursday morning. It came after US forces carried out new strikes on Iranian drones.
The Israeli military ordered the mass displacement of all of southern Lebanon, telling residents to move north of the Zahrani River.
Iraqi cleric Moqtada Al Sadr said his armed faction, Saraya Al Sala
UN condemns Barakah attack, Israel's invasion in Lebanon and Assad-era chemical weapons found
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the UN Security Council has condemned the drone strike on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant, calling it a flagrant violation of international law.
In Lebanon, Israeli troops have deepened their invasion, advancing beyond the so-called "yellow line” marking their occupied territory.
As talks between Tehran and Washington progress, the fate of 24 billi
US launches 'self-defence' strikes, Iran set to restore internet and UAE hotels predict staycation surge
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, US forces have carried out what a Central Command spokesman described as self-defence strikes in southern Iran.
Israel’s military says it has conducted a wave of attacks across Lebanon, despite a ceasefire that has been in place since April.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the restoration of international internet access after months of r
US-Iran talks make progress, Syria set for first parliament meeting and UAE delivers Eid aid to Gaza
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump tells negotiators to "take their time" as a deal between America and Iran moves closer.
In Bahrain, the High Criminal Court has sentenced nine people to life in prison for collaborating with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
At least 16 people have been killed in a bomb blast on a railway track in Quetta, Pakistan. The e
Mediators prepare for US-Iran talks, energy shortages grip Tehran and Dubai launches Dh1.5bn relief package
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, mediators led by Pakistan are working to narrow differences between Iran and the US before possible direct talks resume next week.
Iran could cut power to government offices as the prolonged conflict causes energy shortages.
In Helsinki, Finnish President Alexander Stubb proposes a security framework for the Middle East after the conflict that brings tog
Iran studies US proposal, GCC trade deal with UK and prisoners pardoned for Eid
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Tehran receives Washington’s latest proposal to end the war and is reviewing its terms, Iranian media has reported.
Iraq announces a new committee in co-ordination with the UAE and Saudi Arabia to investigate recent drone attacks originating from its territory.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir faced backlash from his own government afte
Barakah attack dubbed 'red line', US Senate advances resolution to end Iran war and Ebola travel bans begin
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, The UAE tells a UN Security Council meeting that an attack on its Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant is a "red line" that constitutes a dangerous escalation.
In Washington, the US Senate has advanced a war powers resolution on Iran that would require President Donald Trump to obtain congressional authorisation to resume the military campaign beyond 60 da
Trump pauses Iran attack plans, Hormuz toll proposal unveiled and Iraq probes drone incident
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump says he delayed planned military strikes on Iran after appeals from Gulf leaders to allow more time for negotiations.
Iran has submitted a new 14-point proposal aimed at ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz through talks mediated by Pakistan.
Tehran has also unveiled plans for a new authority to manage passage throu
Barakah drone attack condemned, Trump weighs Iran options and new Gulf logistics route
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, world leaders condemn a drone attack near the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant after authorities intercept two drones and report a fire outside the site’s inner perimeter.
Saudi Arabia also intercepts drones entering its airspace from Iraq, as Gulf states warn they reserve the right to respond to threats against their security.
In Washington, US Preside
Modi in UAE, Trump warns Iran and Lebanon-Israel talks resume
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump suggests the US could resume military operations against Iran, even as US commanders say Tehran’s offensive capabilities have been heavily weakened.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in the UAE for talks focused on regional security, energy and the impact of the Strait of Hormuz crisis.
The UAE condemns the sinking of
Trump-Xi talks, Gaza reconstruction concerns and UAE health breakthrough
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump begins talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, with trade, Iran, energy and the Strait of Hormuz on the agenda.
We also look at rising tension in the Gulf after Iran demands the release of four suspected Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps operatives detained by Kuwait after an alleged infiltration attempt.
On Gaza, th
Trump’s China visit, Hormuz tensions, Gulf states tighten security measures
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump heads to Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with Iran, energy and the Strait of Hormuz expected to dominate discussions.
We also look at growing pressure around the strait, as Washington signals it is prepared to maintain a prolonged blockade, while Russia and China oppose a US-backed UN resolution targeting Ir
South Lebanon faces 'wanton destruction', Houthis expand arsenal and Abu Dhabi launches $15bn projects
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, analysis reviewed by The National shows nearly 100,000 civilian structures in southern Lebanon have been destroyed or damaged by Israel's campaign of "wanton destruction", with legal experts warning it could amount to a war crime.
We also look at an investigation into Houthi weapons networks in Yemen, where advanced missiles and drones linked to Iranian
Trump criticises Iran's response, renewed drone attacks in Gulf and UAE pupils return to school
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump calls Iran’s response to American proposals for ending the conflict “totally unacceptable” as negotiations continue through Pakistan and tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz.
We also look at renewed drone attacks across the Gulf, including strikes intercepted by the UAE and an attack on a cargo vessel travelling towa
US and Iran exchange fire near Hormuz, the UAE deals with attacks and Lebanon prepares for talks
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran comes under renewed strain after both sides exchange fire near the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington waits for Tehran’s response to a proposed framework aimed at ending the conflict.
In the UAE, the Ministry of Defence says air defence systems have engaged with further drone and missile threats from Iran thi
Iran response awaited, Israel hits Beirut and France moves to help reopen Hormuz - Trending
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the world is awaiting Iran’s response to a US proposal aimed at ending the war, as Washington and Tehran move closer to a possible framework agreement covering sanctions, shipping and Iran’s nuclear programme.
We also look at France’s efforts to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz by sending the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the region and discussi
US pauses Hormuz escorts, Gulf states push UN action and first Etihad Rail station complete
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US pauses its “Project Freedom” escort mission in the Strait of Hormuz while maintaining its naval blockade on Iran, as mediation continues through Pakistan.
We also look at a new UN Security Council resolution drafted by the US and Gulf states aimed at protecting shipping routes and removing sea mines from the waterway.
In Washington, Secretary of
UAE attacks condemned, Hormuz tensions rise, schools move online
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, tensions are rising around the Strait of Hormuz after renewed Iranian attacks on the UAE, drawing widespread international condemnation.
We look at the UAE’s response, including intercepted missiles and drone strikes that caused damage in Fujairah, as officials warn the country will not be intimidated.
In the Strait of Hormuz, maritime incidents contin
Make it in the Emirates starts, US to escort ships in strait, Iran receives response on peace plan - Trending
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US prepares to begin escorting foreign vessels through the Strait of Hormuz under a new initiative aimed at easing pressure on global shipping.
In Tehran, Iran says it has received a US response to its 14-point peace proposal aimed at ending the war within 30 days.
In Abu Dhabi, policymakers and industry leaders gather for the Make it in the Emirates
Sudan arms smuggling case, Senate blocks Iran war vote and Gulf travel recovers
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, 13 suspects are set to stand trial in the UAE over a multimillion-dollar plot to funnel weapons to Sudan’s army through the country’s financial system.
In Washington, the US Senate blocks an attempt to force President Donald Trump to end the war in Iran.
In the UAE, authorities ban citizens from travelling to Iran, Iraq and Lebanon, citing continuing reg
Lebanon's hunger crisis, US-Iran legal deadline and Dubai's financial crime crackdown
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, UN-backed forecasts warn that almost a quarter of Lebanon's population could face acute hunger, as the conflict continues despite ceasefire efforts.
US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin discuss the war in Iran and a possible ceasefire in Ukraine during a phone call.
The US conflict with Iran is approaching a legal deadline tha
Opec exit marks new phase in UAE oil production strategy – Trending
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the UAE confirms its exit from Opec as a long-term strategy to gain greater flexibility in oil production and meet higher output targets.
We also look at Adnoc’s progress towards producing five million barrels per day, as the energy sector adjusts to disruption caused by the Iran war.
In Washington, British King Charles III defended Nato during an addres
Iran containment ‘failed miserably’, UAE official says
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Dr Anwar Gargash said Gulf efforts to contain Iran have failed, warning the region must prepare for a long-term threat from Tehran.
We also hear that Iranian arms supplies have continued to Islamist-aligned factions in Sudan, highlighting deeper regional links.
In Bahrain, authorities revoked the citizenship of dozens of people accused of supporting Iran
Iran puts forward new plan for Strait of Hormuz amid renewed diplomatic push
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran puts forward a new proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the war, as diplomatic activity intensifies.
In southern Lebanon, Israeli strikes kill at least 14 people, with continued exchanges of fire despite continuing ceasefire pressures.
In Washington, new details emerge after a gunman opens fire outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinn
Lebanon-Israel ceasefire extended
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is set to be extended as talks in Washington show signs of progress.
In the Strait of Hormuz, tensions remain high as the US and Iran warn of further escalation, with concerns over potential sea mines and risks to global shipping.
In Tehran, Iranian officials say the country has begun collecting tolls from vessels
Lebanon-Israel talks to resume and Hormuz risks remain
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Lebanon and Israel are set to resume talks in Washington amid continuing efforts to extend a fragile ceasefire, after renewed violence in southern Lebanon.
We also look at developments in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran says the waterway cannot reopen under the current conditions, with new incidents involving vessels adding to risks for global shipping.
In th
US extends ceasefire with Iran – but regional tensions persist
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US extends its ceasefire with Iran while maintaining the naval blockade of Iranian ports. The announcement comes as Tehran accuses Washington of breaching the truce and signals it will defend its interests.
In Lebanon, the crisis escalates again as Israel reports rocket and drone attacks launched from Hezbollah-controlled areas, testing the ceasefire
Uncertainty grows over US-Iran talks as ceasefire deadline looms
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, uncertainty surrounds US-Iran talks as the ceasefire deadline approaches, with President Donald Trump sending mixed signals amid a lack of clarity on whether a new round of negotiations will go ahead in Islamabad.
Tensions are also rising at sea, as Iran demands the release of a seized cargo vessel and warns of escalation. Shipping through the Strait of
Iran accuses US of ceasefire breach as talks set to begin in Islamabad
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, tensions rise in the Gulf as Iran accuses the US of breaching the ceasefire, following the interception of an Iranian-flagged vessel in the Gulf of Oman. Tehran has warned it will respond, while Washington says it is enforcing a naval blockade.
But talks on ending the Iran war are to be held in Islamabad, with Washington offering a deal but warning of fu
Israel-Lebanon 10-day ceasefire begins and Gulf pushes for a Hormuz resolution
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon comes into effect after intensified fighting, with both sides signalling caution as the truce begins.
At the United Nations, Gulf states prepare to reintroduce a resolution aimed at protecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, warning of risks to global trade and food security.
In Syria, the government t
US-Iran talks back in focus as naval pressure builds in Strait of Hormuz
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, diplomatic efforts intensify to revive US-Iran negotiations, as Pakistan delivers new messages to Tehran ahead of a looming ceasefire deadline.
We look at growing military pressure in the Gulf, where the US is preparing a major naval operation to enforce a blockade on Iranian shipping, even as vessels continue to transit the Strait of Hormuz.
The global
Trump signals progress with Iran as IMF cuts Middle East growth forecast
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US has signalled possible progress in talks with Iran, with President Donald Trump saying negotiations in Islamabad could move forward within days and potentially expand to Europe.
In Washington, US-brokered diplomacy brings Israel and Lebanon together for their most significant talks in decades, as efforts continue to move beyond the current ceasefi
US enforces blockade on Iranian ports, as Lebanon and Israel prepare for talks
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US begins enforcing a blockade on Iranian ports, increasing tension in the region amid efforts to protect a fragile ceasefire.
Iran is set to lose a significant amount of oil revenue as a result of the move, as the cost of the war climbs for the US.
We also look at rare direct talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington, where expectations remain
US moves to blockade Strait of Hormuz after talks fail
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US moves to enforce a blockade around Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz after talks with Iran ended without a deal.
We break down what happened in Islamabad, where both sides made progress but failed to bridge key differences over Iran’s nuclear programme and control of the strait.
Meanwhile, Israel signals that a peace deal with Lebanon could b
Israel and Lebanon to hold rare direct talks – and US-Iran negotiations 'suspended'
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Israel and Lebanon are set to hold rare direct talks in Washington, even as attacks are carried out on cities including Beirut. Israel says strikes against Hezbollah will continue, while the Iran-backed group has rejected negotiations without a halt to the attacks.
Iran has reportedly "suspended" talks with the US until Israel stops its attacks on Lebano
Lebanon strikes kill hundreds as ceasefire dispute deepens
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Israeli strikes across Lebanon have killed hundreds and injured more than a thousand people as the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran hangs by a thread.
We look at the growing disagreement over whether Lebanon is included in the ceasefire, with Iran insisting it is and the US and Israel saying it is not.
In the UAE, senior officials outline the c
US and Iran agree to two-week conditional ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz to reopen
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with negotiations set to begin on a broader deal. US President Donald Trump announced Washington will suspend its attacks, while Tehran said it will halt operations if strikes stop. Pakistan is to mediate talks between the sides in Islamabad on Friday.
We also look at what the agreement could mean for
Trump's deadline for Iran looms and Security Council to vote on Strait of Hormuz
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East podcast, another deadline set by US President Donald Trump for Iran to accept a deal is drawing closer, with Washington warning of severe consequences if Tehran does not comply.
At the United Nations, the Security Council is preparing to vote on a resolution addressing Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
We also look at the growing impact on global en
Iran ceasefire talks under way as strikes on Gulf infrastructure escalate
In today’s episode of the Trending Middle East podcast, diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war with Iran are gathering pace, with talks reported to be under way about a potential 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a longer-term agreement.
But even as negotiations continue, US President Donald Trump has renewed threats of further strikes on Iranian infrastructure.
We also learn the latest st
UN Security Council to vote on Hormuz crisis as attacks and disruption grow in the region
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East podcast, the UN Security Council prepares to vote on a Bahrain-backed resolution addressing Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, as Gulf states push for measures to protect global shipping and maintain the flow of trade.
We also cover the latest security developments, including missile attacks on Israel claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. In Iran, US Pr
Trump says US close to achieving objectives in Iran
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, we look at US President Donald Trump's suggestion that Washington is close to achieving its core objectives. While he pointed to a possible end to operations, questions remain over how the conflict will conclude and what comes next.
We also look at the UAE’s response, as officials reject reports suggesting the country could take part in efforts to reopen
Trump suggests new timeline for Iran war as regional attacks escalate
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, we look at signs of a shift in the trajectory of the US-Israel war on Iran, after US President Donald Trump suggested the conflict could end within weeks.
We also look at the economic impact of the conflict, as rising oil prices drive sharp increases in fuel costs across the UAE. Governments across the region, including Egypt and Jordan, have also raised
Ceasefire to begin in Gaza, hostages release timeline announced
A ceasefire in Gaza is set to begin as the Israeli cabinet in the early hours of Friday voted to accept the framework of the plan for the release of all hostages.
With the agreement coming into effect, Israel’s military has 24 hours to move to a pre-determined line within Gaza, after which a 72-hour period begins in which Hamas must surrender living and dead hostages.
Foreign leaders convened in P
Israeli opposition meets and Gaza ceasefire optimism grows
Israeli opposition pledges to take down government.
There is mounting optimism for a ceasefire deal in Gaza.
Nearly 55,000 children under five in Gaza are estimated to be malnourished.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Israeli opposition makes plans to bring down Netanyahu within months
Top US envoys join Gaza talks in Egypt as optimism grows over deal
This episode features Thomas Helm,
Gaza militias on the rise and tension in Aleppo
A new obstacle to peace is taking root in Gaza. Tension rises in Aleppo. French companies spot an opportunity in Syria.
On this episode of Trending Middle East:
New generation of militias steps out of Hamas's shadow to fill Gaza power vacuum
Frenchman who would build 37 bridges across Syria seeks Gulf financing
Syrian defence minister says 'comprehensive' truce agreed with SDF after Aleppo clashes
Israel's grinding war on Gaza reaches two-year milestone, and Syria's new parliament
Today marks two years since the Hamas attack on Israel that started the devastating war on Gaza. Syrian authorities announced the winners of a parliamentary election. Iran said it has no immediate plans to resume nuclear talks with European nations.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Netanyahu insists Israel is winning the war but reality tells a different story
Syrian election results co
Missing hostages in Gaza, and Fadel Chaker turns himself in
The search for missing hostages is one of the sticking points in the Israel-Hamas talks. Syria held its first parliamentary elections since the fall of the Assad regime. Fadel Chaker surrenders to Lebanese authorities.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Search for missing hostages among sticking points in Israel-Hamas talks, sources say
Apathy and doubts cloud Syria’s parliamentary poll
L
Outrage as Israel blocks flotilla, and deadly UK attack
There’s been global outrage after Israel intercepted boats of an aid flotilla bound for Gaza. At least three people have died after a ramming and stabbing attack at a synagogue in the UK. Dozens of countries are working together to ensure a peaceful race to the Moon.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Nations condemn Israel's interception of Gaza aid flotilla
Two dead and suspect shot in
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Trump promises Qatar security, and Lebanon works with Syria
US President Donald Trump has issued an executive order to guarantee Qatar’s security. Lebanon and Syria are preparing the ground for rebuilding relations. Iraq's Prime Minister expects to win parliamentary elections in November.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Any attack on Qatar is security threat to US, says Trump
'No drama': Lebanese Deputy PM says resetting ties with Syria on trac
Hamas's next move, and UK ministers back US Gaza plan
Hamas is not expected to reject the US plan to end the war in Gaza. British ministers have voiced support for the proposal. Afghanistan faces a communications blackout.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Hamas cornered but may drag heels on Trump ceasefire plan
UK ministers back Trump plan as Blair is handed role
'We are blind without phones and internet': Taliban cut Afghanistan's teleco
Trump's plan for Gaza, and central Syria instability
Donald Trump has unveiled a detailed plan to end the war in Gaza. Gunmen have killed four Alawite workers in central Syria. The UAE has unveiled a series of changes to visas.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
White House releases plan for immediate end to Gaza war
Four Alawite villagers killed as Syria seeks greater overseas support for stability
UAE launches new AI specialists visa and
UN sanctions Iran, and Israeli retaliation
The UN has hit Iran with sanctions for the first time in decades. Israel could retaliate against allies who recognised Palestine. A top UN diplomat says the prospects for peace are closer now than ever.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
UN sanctions on Iran to add inflationary pressure as currency crisis deepens
How Israel could retaliate against allies who recognised Palestine
Gaza ceas
Abbas at UNGA, and the deadliest place for journalists
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas speaks at the UN. The National investigates killings of journalists in Gaza. Donald Trump is expected to meet Ahmad Al Shara.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
'Palestine is ours,' says Abbas as he condemns Israel and Hamas in UN speech
How (and why) Gaza has become the deadliest place in the world for journalists
Donald Trump to meet Syria's
SDF under pressure, and what comes after Palestine recognition
There is growing pressure on the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in Aleppo. The war in Gaza continues after a series of countries recognised the state of Palestine. Israel blames migration to Europe for an increase in criticism.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Syria’s Al Shara warns of regional turmoil without Israel security deal
The question of Palestine: Is recognition the answ
Trump's provocative UNGA speech and Israel closes West Bank crossing
US President Donald Trump delivered an extraordinary attack on the UN during his address to the General Assembly. Iran and European powers engage in a last-ditch effort to avoid the reimposition of UN sanctions.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Trump lambasts friend and foe alike in UN address
Iran and European powers to hold talks in New York in bid to avoid restart of sanctions
Israel
Palestine recognition at UNGA, and US envoy says peace an 'illusion'
France has joined a list of countries newly recognising the state of Palestine. Syria's president called for a new chapter in ties with Washington. US special envoy Tom Barrack has said Middle East peace is an illusion.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
UNGA 2025 live: France recognises Palestine at landmark UN meeting
Peace in the Middle East is an illusion, says Trump envoy Tom Barrack
UN high-level talks begin, and Israel pushes on in Gaza
The UN General Assembly high-level talks kick off today in New York. Syria's Druze leadership has invited UN investigators to probe violence in Sweida. Israel's latest offensive in Gaza has added to the burden on the remaining hospitals.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
France and nine other states to recognise Palestinian statehood as landmark UN conference looms
Syrian President Al Sh
Syria-Israel talks, and Trump disagrees with Starmer on Palestine
Syria’s talks with Israel could result in something tangible soon. Donald Trump is in disagreement with the Keir Starmer on recognising Palestine. The closure of Carrefour stores across the Middle East could be down to a number of factors.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Syria's Ahmad Al Shara says Israel talks could bring results 'in coming days'
Trump 'disagrees' with Starmer on Pale
Egypt preps military, and Iraqi weapons sovereignty
Egypt is shoring up security in the Sinai and mobilizing its forces. State control of weapons is a top priority for Iraq. A US-brokered deal brings relative peace to Sweida.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
State monopoly over weapons a top priority, Iraqi PM says
Egypt seeks US guarantees that Israel will not attack exiled Hamas leaders again
Sweida tensions subside but troops remain a
UN inquiry finds genocide in Gaza, and Trump in the UK
Independent experts commissioned by the UN have concluded Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Lebanon marks one year since the so-called pager attacks on Hezbollah by Israel. US President Donald Trump has started his state visit to the UK.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Explained: The four acts of genocide Israel is accused of committing in Gaza
Pager attack: Hezbollah fighters bli
Arab, Islamic states condemn Israel, and talks on Nato-style alliance
Qatar has accused Israel of lying and making Gaza unliveable. Arab nations consider a proposal to establish a joint military force. Lebanese authorities foil a drug-smuggling plot.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Qatar summit condemns Israel's 'aggressive practices' as threat to Middle East peace
Israel's attack on Qatar is part of 'strategy of expansionist ideology', says Palestinian
Emergency Arab-Islamic begins, and Qatar sends aid to Sweida
Qatar's emergency Arab-Islamic summit kicks off today. Israeli soldiers raided the home of the Oscar-winning director Basel Adra. Qatar has sent aid to Sweida.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Arab and Islamic foreign ministers gather in Doha to chart path for Israeli deterrence
West Bank home of Oscar-winning Palestinian director raided by Israeli army
Qatar sends aid to embattled Syri
Qatar to host emergency summit, and Hamas presence in Turkey under spotlight
Qatar will host an emergency Arab-Islamic summit on Sunday and Monday. Turkish politicians consider the possibility of an Israeli strike on their territory. A French delegation visits Lebanon.
On Today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Qatar to host emergency Arab-Islamic summit on Sunday to discuss Israeli attack
Hamas presence in Turkey under spotlight after Israeli air strike on Doha
French de
Gulf-Qatar solidarity, and EU to pause support for Israel
GCC leaders are rallying behind Qatar after an unprecedented Israeli attack on its capital. The European Commission is pausing support for Israel. And Egypt is seeking US guarantees that Israel will not attack exiled Hamas leaders again.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
European Commission to pause support for Israel, says von der Leyen
President Sheikh Mohamed reaffirms UAE’s solidarit
Israel strikes Qatar, and attacks near Khartoum
World leaders condemned Israel's attack on Doha. A wave of RSF drone strikes hit Khartoum. Egypt's president ordered officials to study the possibility of pardons for seven jailed activists.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
Israel's attack on Qatar: What we know
RSF drones hit key sites near Sudan's army-held capital
Egypt's President Fattah El Sisi orders government to review pre-trial
Jerusalem settlement shooting and Abraham Accords 'overturned'
At least six people have been killed in a shooting in an illegal settlement in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. A UAE official says the Abraham Accords have been derailed. Oil prices are up after what is seen as a modest increase in production.
On today's episode of Trending Middle East:
At least six killed in shooting attack in Jerusalem settlement
Abraham Accords 'overturned' by Hamas and Israeli
