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
Emirates to require negative COVID-19 test for transit passengers The United Arab Emirates already required people entering the country to test negative for the coronavirus, but now the rule has been extended to all connecting travel on the Emirates airline. United Arab Emirates
Iraqi army aircraft damaged in rocket attack on Camp Taji The attack is the latest in a long-running series of low-level attacks believed to be carried out by Iran-sponsored militias in Iraq. Iraq
Intel: US calls on Turkey to release jailed philanthropist Osman Kavala The United States today called on Turkey to release Osman Kavala, a Turkish businessman and philanthropist who has spent 1,000 days in detention despite widespread condemnation from human rights organizations. Originals
Israeli settlers firebomb mosque in West Bank Attacks by ultranationalist Jewish settlers in the West Bank have occurred this year amid Israel's planned — but so far unsuccessful — attempts to annex parts of the Palestinian territory. Israel
Iraqi PM calls for investigation after two protesters killed in Baghdad The prime minister said security forces have 72 hours to finish their investigation into the protester deaths. Iraq
Trump loosens rules on armed drone exports amid rivalry with China The new US policy will allow the United States to export armed drones after reinterpreting a 35-nation agreement aimed at limiting the proliferation of rocket-based weapons. Business
Iraq issues 'total curfew' for Eid al-Adha COVID-19 cases have increased to historic highs of around 2,000 a day in Iraq. Iraq
16 fined for trespassing on Saudi holy sites ahead of restricted hajj The violators were each fined 10,000 riyals ($2,666), authorities announced. Saudi Arabia
Iran’s government spokesman tests positive for COVID-19 According to his office, Ali Rabiei has been hospitalized but is in good condition. Iran
Lebanon sees spike in COVID-19 cases Lebanon's daily coronavirus cases have gone up by about a hundred in recent days as the economic crisis continues. Lebanon
Famed Kurdish Iranian journalist receives asylum in New Zealand Behrouz Boochani is known for exposing conditions at Australia's offshore immigrant detention center on Manus Island. Iran
Rockets hit Iraqi base used by coalition troops, no casualties The attack came as the US-led coalition prepares to hand over the base to Iraqi security forces. Iraq
