Raisi: Iran 'never has hope' in Vienna talks Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has struck a pessimistic tone commenting on the nuclear talks between Iran and world powers. Iran
Iraq receives 145% more foreign visitors in 2021 Iraq waived the visa requirements for citizens of many economically powerful countries last year in a bid to attract tourists and businesspeople. News Brief
Saudi Arabia building support for Expo 2030 bid The kingdom wants to host the international cultural forum, which is currently being held in Dubai. News Brief
Saudi IT industry to work with German software firm SAP on cloud technology The memorandum of understanding is the latest to come out of the LEAP technology forum in Riyadh, and reflects the kingdom’s diversification efforts. News Brief
Israel to start human trials of coronavirus vaccine next week The first phase of the trial will test 80 volunteers between the ages of 18 and 55. Israel
Boycotts of French goods launched in Kuwait, Qatar over prophet cartoons Following controversial comments made by France's president, calls are growing in Muslim countries for boycotts of French goods. Kuwait
Guatemala designates Hezbollah a terrorist organization The United States praised the Latin American country's decision as it tries to get more states to designate the Iran-backed Lebanese group terrorists. Lebanon
Intel: Sudan's Ministerial Council weighs in on Israel normalization Sudan's leaders anticipate economic benefits from the agreement, which is opposed by opposition parties. Israel
Talks on Nile River dam to resume on Tuesday The African Union-led talks begin amid continued tensions Sudan and Egypt have with Ethiopia over the massive hydroelectric dam. Negotiations have been on hold since August. Egypt
Russian strikes kill dozens of Turkey-backed rebels in Syria's Idlib The strikes on Monday reportedly targeted a training camp run by the Failaq al-Sham group. Syria
Australia condemns intrusive search of women before Qatar Airways flight Authorities in Doha reportedly searched women's private parts without consent after an abandoned newborn was discovered before a flight to Sydney. Qatar
UK to return 5,000 ancient artifacts to Iraq Included in the repatriation is a 4,000-year-old Sumerian relic discovered in an online auction. Iraq
Democratic senators demand inquiry into alleged Turkish and Azerbaijani human rights abuses Turkey has responded to some of the recent criticisms it has received from Democrats in Washington. The recent call from the Senate focuses Turkish support for Azerbaijan in the war with Armenia. Turkey
Intel: US drone strike kills at least 10 at al-Qaeda meeting in Idlib Some of the dead were reportedly rivals of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Syria
US Embassy in Turkey warns of terror threat against Americans The statement urged US citizens to avoid crowds and keep a low profile in areas frequented by foreigners. Turkey
Israel, UAE agree Emiratis can stay without visas for 90 days Diplomats from the two Middle East countries also struck agreements on investment and aviation. United Arab Emirates
