China warns US not to interfere with Iran trade: What to know China's Foreign Ministry said Beijing was firmly opposed to what it called “illegal unilateral sanctions” and would take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its rights. Iran
Large UAE delegation set to arrive in Lebanon in major investment push A large Emirati delegation of around 70 business leaders and government officials is heading to Beirut, in the latest sign of thaw between the United Arab Emirates and Lebanon. Lebanon
France, Saudi Arabia announce more than $10B in deals on MBS visit Among the deals included a 6 billion euro ($7 billion) pledge from the Public Investment Fund in three manga-themed amusement parks on the outskirts of Paris. Saudi Arabia
China slams Trump over economic war on Iran: What to know China’s once significant oil imports from Iran have been impacted by the war in the region and increasing US sanctions. Iran
Lapid’s greatest election challenge will be skyrocketing cost of living Prime Minister Yair Lapid has only four months to show Israelis he can do something about the continuously-increasing cost of living and high housing prices. Israel
Saudi fast food giant ready to challenge KFC in Egyptian market The introduction of Saudi fast food chain Albaik to Egypt is part of the $7.7 billion investment package announced during the recent visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Cairo. Saudi Arabia
Egypt’s growing fintech ecosystem transforms country’s finances A population of over 100 million, young, largely unbanked, with a high penetration of internet and mobile subscriptions paves the way for innovation in Egypt's fintech sector. Egypt
Abu Dhabi port operator acquires stake in Egyptian shipping firms Gulf countries are interested in buying Egyptian assets as the country’s economy falters. Egypt
Egyptian trade delegation visits Israel for first time in decade Economic ties between Egypt and Israel seem to be on the right path amid growing cooperation in various fields. Egypt
World Bank official: Lebanon, Yemen, Syria most food-insecure in region Many states across the Middle East and North Africa meet the criteria for food insecurity, experts said at a US Institute of Peace event. Syria
Saudis side with Egypt on Nile dam Saudi Arabia has explicitly and officially voiced its support for Egypt in the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam crisis. Egypt
Outrageous prices keep Lebanese from swimming Many Lebanese have been complaining about high entrance fees to swimming pools and water resorts amid low salaries due to the local currency depreciation. Lebanon
UAE to increase exports to countries in West Africa The Emirates is one of the biggest investors in Africa. Turkey, Qatar and Israel have significant interests on the African continent as well. Legacy: Gulf
Imports up pressure on Morocco’s foreign reserves Energy and food imports alongside a growing trade deficit put pressure on Morocco’s foreign currency reserves. North Africa
Suez, Panama canals sign cooperation agreement to boost investments The Suez and Panama canals’ economic zones seek to attract more investments through a cooperation agreement to exchange experiences and information. Egypt
Egypt, Turkey hold firm on interest rates Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is adamantly opposed to raising interest rates, but some observers expected Egypt to raise rates in line with Gulf banks and the US Federal Reserve. Egypt
