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
Iran breaks daily record for COVID-19 deaths three times in a week The coronavirus continues to spread in Iran despite lockdowns as sanctions and a poor economy add to the country's pain. Iran
Hezbollah rejects Lebanese delegation at maritime border talks with Israel Lebanon's two main Shiite parties said the negotiating team in the border talks shouldn't include civilians. Israel
Biden campaign criticizes both Azerbaijan and Armenia in statement on war The US presidential contender also slammed Turkey's role in official remarks on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Turkey
Pompeo calls on Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also raised human rights concerns during a meeting with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Saudi Arabia
Israel approves first West Bank settlement construction since normalization deals Israel’s West Bank Civil Administration gave its final approval for more than 1,300 housing units in the West Bank and more are expected to follow. Israel
Saudi FM to meet with Pompeo for inaugural strategic dialogue Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud will discuss the bilateral relationship Wednesday. Saudi Arabia
Lebanon receives FBI's report on Beirut port explosion The US agency conducted an investigation into what led to the devastating August blast. Lebanon
Qatar extends mandatory travel quarantine through Dec. 31 Travelers from "low-risk countries" must quarantine for at least seven days upon arrival. Qatar
Intel: US condemns Turkey's decision to redeploy ship to Greek waters The State Department called Ankara's plan to redeploy the Oruc Reis drilling ship a "calculated provocation." Turkey
New Jordanian prime minister takes office amid virus spike, struggling economy Bisher Al Khasawneh's government will also oversee the Nov. 10 elections in the country. Jordan
Assad pays rare visit to fire-ravaged western Syria The UN says at least three people have died in the fires that erupted last week in Latakia, Tartus and Homs provinces. Syria
Moviegoers split as Gal Gadot to play Cleopatra The news that Israeli "Wonder Woman" actress Gal Gadot will play Cleopatra in an upcoming film has the internet in a tangle of excitement and outrage. Egypt
