UAE AI investor MGX moves closer to strategic stake in TikTok US The state-linked Emirati investment firm is set to acquire a 15% stake in the social media platform's new US business as part of a plan that would avert a nationwide ban starting in 2026. United Arab Emirates
Analysis Gulf investors emerge as key players in US social media giants TikTok, Snap, X With UAE tech investor MGX set to take a stake in TikTok's US operations, investors from the Middle East could cement their role in America's social media landscape. By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
Trump’s AI Gaza video elicits mockery from Middle East social media users The US president’s video depicting a future Gaza under American authority was widely shared on Arabic and Hebrew social media, with many Palestinian users criticizing it. Palestine
In first since regime fall, Syria’s Asma al-Assad breaks silence: What to know In a series of posts on an X account attributed to her, Syria’s former first lady Asma al-Assad wished the Syrian people safety and said she will not intervene in political issues in the future. Syria
Analysis Telegram CEO's arrest spotlights UAE’s investment-based citizenship laws By Jennifer Gnana In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics
Twitter poll spells rejection for second Sisi term Pro-regime TV host Ahmed Moussa is busy defending Egypt's president as his popularity declines, but so far, Moussa's social media efforts have backfired as respondents overwhelmingly express disapproval. Egypt
How social networks are revolutionizing Israeli politics Israeli political parties are losing substance and relevance while direct connections and communication between politicians and the public are growing stronger and more meaningful. Israel
Egyptian authorities ban social media satire pages Egyptian satirists and the public figures they mock play a cat-and-mouse game on the internet. Egypt
Hamas Monitors Facebook Activism Hamas' security services in Gaza are keeping a close eye on Facebook activity for hostile opinions and planned protests. Palestine