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
Fire breaks out at Kuwaiti petroleum coke plant It is unclear if the fire, which has been brought under control, will have an effect on energy prices in the Gulf state. News Brief
Turkish Central Bank announces it will stop cutting interest rates The decision could help stop rising inflation in Turkey, which is taking a toll on the economy. News Brief
Democrats urge Biden to overhaul drone strike policy Democratic lawmakers called on Biden to bring US counterterrorism policy in line with international law. News Brief
Rare snowstorm hits Iraq and Syria Many people in the Kurdistan Region rejoiced while playing in the snow, but such conditions can be dangerous for others, especially those living in displaced people camps. Iraq
Saudi Aramco inks deals with Korean companies South Korean President Moon Jae-in went to Riyadh for a Saudi-Korean investment forum. News Brief
UN agency seeks urgent support for Palestinian refugees in Lebanon The UNRWA said $87.5 million in new funding is needed to continue operations in crisis-ravaged Lebanon. Palestine
Biden's Yemen envoy to visit Gulf after Houthi-claimed UAE attack In the wake of aerial attacks on United Arab Emirates claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, the US special envoy for Yemen will travel to the Gulf this week. Yemen
More than 200 charged in Qatar for not wearing masks COVID-19 cases are skyrocketing in Qatar, though hospitalizations remain low. News Brief
Dubai Expo records 10 millionth visitor The international cultural forum held in the United Arab Emirates’ largest city has experienced significant participation from countries around the world. News Brief
Crimean, Syrian ports sign cooperation agreements A Syrian government delegation visited the Russian-backed breakaway republic this week. News Brief
US sanctions Hezbollah's alleged financial facilitators in Lebanon The US Treasury Department designated Adel Diab, Ali Mohamad Daoun and Jihad Salem Alame as well as their travel company. Lebanon
Oil prices reach highest point in seven years High oil prices are a victory for Saudi Arabia, but a blow to the United States and China. News Brief
