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
The reform challenge: What Oman (and others) might learn from Egypt Parallels in experience may offer guideposts for managing change. Oman
Despite blockage crisis, Suez Canal achieves record revenues The Egyptian government announced that the Suez Canal has achieved the highest monthly revenue in its history in April, exceeding half a billion dollars, despite obstruction of navigation in late March after a giant vessel went aground on the international waterway. Egypt
Can modernization of Egypt’s railway network avert train accidents? Egypt signed an agreement worth 145 million euros ($177 million) with the African Development Bank as part of its recent plan to improve its railway system to prevent crashes. Egypt
As GCC turns 40, all eyes on post-oil era The GCC alliance hopes for greater future economic growth in the Gulf. Legacy: Gulf
Bread crisis looms in Syria amid low wheat production The bread crisis in Syrian regime areas is expected to become worse in the next few months due to drought and its subsequent impact on wheat crop production. Syria
Egypt to use IMF account to help reduce Sudan’s debt Egypt announced that it will use its share at the International Monetary Fund to help settle part of Sudan’s outstanding debts, as Cairo sees its own stability and security as being correlated with Khartoum's. Egypt
Work in Gulf means short-term gains, transient lifestyle Tax-free incomes offered to migrant workers who play a decisive role in developing Gulf economies are regarded as compensation for no formal route to citizenship or social security. Legacy: Gulf
Protests in Oman over job losses, economy Sultan Haitham has attempted to introduce economic and political reforms in the past year. News Brief
The Takeaway: Erdogan’s incendiary remarks about Israel worsen ties with Washington The fallout of the Turkish president’s comments could compound problems for country’s beleaguered economy; Israel-Palestinian frictions dominate region’s news; Libya’s mercenaries; and more! Turkey
Egypt to complete construction of New Rafah City New Rafah City is becoming a reality in northern Sinai, giving displaced Rafah residents hope for a new and secure life and Egypt a chance to better fight the Islamic State in the border area with the Palestinian Gaza Strip. Egypt
Lebanon loses some electricity after Turkish company ceases operations Karpowership said they stopped providing electricity to crisis-stricken Lebanon due to 18 months of no payments. Lebanon
Egypt's Sisi approves plan to widen, deepen Suez Canal after stuck ship The plan includes widening and deepening the area where Ever Given got stuck in March. News Brief
