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
Intel: Libya’s Sarraj suspends interior minister, fracturing Tripoli government Fathi Bashagha has requested an investigation into his alleged conduct be televised. Libya
Lebanon taps diplomat Mustapha Adib as next prime minister The country's ambassador to Germany has promised to immediately implement government reforms. Lebanon
US government seizes control of websites allegedly involved in Iran-Venezuela oil deal The seizure follows the US interception of fuel tankers from Iran en route to Venezuela this month amid increased US pressure on both countries. United States
Report: US plans to freeze aid to Ethiopia amid Nile River dam dispute Foreign Policy reported the proposal by the US State Department could affect up to $130 million in aid as negotiations with Egypt and Sudan on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam continue. Egypt
First commercial flight from Israel to UAE follows historic deal The flight is a first step in a normalization process between the countries as an official signing of the agreement is expected next month. United Arab Emirates
Turkish human rights lawyer dies after hunger strike Ebru Timtik died on the 238th day of her strike, which she launched to draw attention to what rights groups have described as an unfair trial. Turkey
Lebanon's central bank to take over banks that cannot boost capital The central bank is giving Lebanese banks until February to increase their capital by 20% or give their shares to the government amid fears that people's deposits are at risk. Lebanon
Intel: US plans to reduce troops in Iraq The Pentagon plans to reduce its current troop presence in Iraq by about one-third as President Donald Trump heads for November's vote on his reelection amid a campaign promise to end US military involvement in conflicts abroad. Iraq
Child dies in sectarian firefight near Beirut Hours of fighting in a town south of Beirut left at least two dead and several injured. Lebanon
Egypt arrests Muslim Brotherhood leader in Cairo Egyptian security forces arrested Mahmoud Ezzat during a raid on an apartment east of Cairo. Egypt
Israeli foreign minister in Berlin pushes arms embargo on Iran After meeting with his German counterpart in Berlin, Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi said that Germany supports Israel on arms embargo on Iran. Israel
French armed forces minister visits Iraq following turnover of US base French Defense Minister Florence Parly's visit coincides with discussions between Iraq and the United States on the future of American troops in the country; France is a part of the US-led anti-IS coalition in Iraq. Iraq
