Bells toll for Francis in jihadist-scarred Iraq

US warplanes conducted air strikes in Yemen's capital, Sanaa, targeting the Faj Attan area and a sanitation project, amid ongoing military offensives against the Houthi group. The Houthi-affiliated media reported that recent US strikes have resulted in significant casualties, with claims of 205 civilians killed and 406 injured since March. US President Trump has emphasized a decisive military approach against the Houthis, who have also increased attacks on maritime targets in solidarity with Palestinians amid...

Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, the highest authority in Shiite Islam in Iraq, expressed condolences on the death of Pope Francis, commending his efforts in promoting "peace and tolerance" and interfaith dialogue. Sistani, who met Francis during his historic 2021 visit to Iraq, noted the pontiff's significant role in advocating for the oppressed and fostering solidarity among different faiths. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani also mourned Francis, highlighting his dedication to humanity and the importance...

Following the death of Pope Francis at 88, regional church leaders and officials across the Middle East, including Egypt’s Al-Azhar, expressed condolences and highlighted his legacy of peace. Francis, who passed away after a prolonged respiratory illness, was remembered for his historic visit to Iraq in 2021 and his dedication to promoting interfaith dialogue, particularly in relation to Lebanon and the Palestinian issue. Leaders from Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Turkey, and Palestine praised his commitment to...

Lawyers and relatives have condemned the extensive sentences given to Tunisian opposition figures, labeling them "fabricated" and "unfounded," with plans to appeal. A Tunis court sentenced around 40 defendants, including prominent critics of President Kais Saied, to jail terms totaling 892 years for charges like "conspiracy against state security." The trial has been criticized for lacking key evidence and fairness, prompting Human Rights Watch to state that it did not resemble a fair trial, while...

Yemeni Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani praised US President Donald Trump's foreign policy, particularly recent military strikes against the Iran-backed Houthi militia, calling them a strategic necessity for regional security. He characterized the Houthis as a significant threat, asserting that their advanced military capabilities jeopardize global trade and stability. Al-Eryani contrasted Trump's decisive actions with prior international inaction towards Iranian expansionism, emphasizing the importance of confronting the Houthis to restore stability in Yemen and the...

The Trump administration confirmed the appointment of Merav Ceren to the National Security Council, refuting claims that she worked for Israel's Ministry of Defense. Ceren, a former Senate staffer with extensive experience in national security, participated in an internship related to resource management in the West Bank but was not employed by the Israeli Defense Ministry, according to a spokesperson. Her appointment coincides with ongoing US-Iran nuclear negotiations, amidst heightened tensions regarding Iran's nuclear program...