Iran picks new president at turbulent time

Efforts to reach a Gaza truce and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas have seen recent progress, with optimism rising due to US President-elect Donald Trump's push for a deal before January 20. Negotiations facilitated by Qatar, Egypt, and the US have reached advanced stages, with the proposed agreement involving a phased release of hostages and a ceasefire, alongside Israeli military withdrawals and reconstruction efforts. However, key sticking points remain, including the governance of...

Lina al-Hathloul, a Saudi human rights activist, spoke at a UN forum in the kingdom via video link, criticizing the suppression of dissent under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Her appearance was described as "historic" by Human Rights Watch, with a moment of silence held for detained government critics. Despite social reforms, Saudi Arabia continues to imprison individuals for online speech, with Hathloul highlighting the kingdom's surveillance apparatus and the potential dangers of a UN...

The first commercial flight post-Assad's ouster from Damascus to Aleppo symbolizes hope for a war-torn Syria, with new rulers promising justice and integration. HTS, rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch, aims to dissolve its armed wing and ensure unity under the new leadership. International engagement, calls for political process, and concerns over ongoing conflicts highlight the challenges faced by Syria's transitioning administration. Full Article

Britain, France, and Germany have accused Iran of increasing its stockpile of high enriched uranium to "unprecedented levels" without a valid civilian reason, urging Iran to reverse its nuclear escalation. The International Atomic Energy Agency has reported that Iran now possesses uranium enriched to 60 percent, a significant step towards the 90 percent needed for an atomic bomb. Amid concerns over Iran's nuclear program, the E3 countries are considering reimposing sanctions as part of the...

Bashar al-Assad's overthrow has allowed for increased US strikes against the Islamic State group in areas previously protected by Syrian and Russian air defenses, with Washington hitting over 75 IS targets to prevent their resurgence following Assad's fall. Despite the improved access for US military action, there is concern that IS militants could exploit the power vacuum left by Assad's departure, potentially leading to a resurgence of the group in a post-Assad Syria. The United...

The military chief of Syria's Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham stated they would dissolve their armed wing and integrate into the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of unity in the country. They rejected federalism and emphasized that Syria will not be divided, including Kurdish-held areas. Additionally, they called for international intervention to address Israeli strikes and incursions in Syrian territory, while also urging Western governments to lift the terrorist designation on HTS and its leader...