Middle East

Individuals from around the world seeking asylum in the United States were detained, chained, and transferred to Panama by the US military, where they were held in a hotel without access to their passports, phones, or legal representation. Amid challenges posed by President Trump's immigration policies, hundreds of migrants from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa were relocated to Panama, as the country faces pressure to comply with US demands. The fate of these deported migrants now lies in the hands of Panamanian authorities, who plan to repatriate them to their home countries, while legal experts raise concerns about the...

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps dismantled espionage cells in Mazandaran province linked to the US and Israel, targeting individuals posing as foreign nationals or operating under cover of commercial companies. The IRGC commander did not provide evidence of ties to Israel or the US. This operation follows recent arrests of British nationals for espionage and increased threats against Israel and the US over Iran's nuclear program. Full Article

On Wednesday, Israelis eagerly awaited the release of four hostages' bodies by Hamas as part of a Gaza cease-fire deal, following emotional reunions during the truce's first phase involving 25 Israeli captives and the remains of eight others. The expected somber scenes on Thursday will involve the bodies being brought back to Israel by the Red Cross for forensic testing to confirm identities and causes of death, including members of the Bibas family, whose abduction drew global attention. In exchange for the bodies, Israel will release Gazan women and minors, excluding those linked to the Oct. 7 attacks, adhering to...

Azizi Developments is set to launch Burj Azizi, the world's second-tallest tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, with prices starting at AED 10,000 per square foot. The grand launch event on February 18th, 2025, at Coca Cola Arena will feature Jennifer Lopez and showcase the ultra-luxury residences, amenities, and world records the tower will set, emphasizing Dubai's ambition and excellence. Additional sales launch events will be held globally, highlighting the project's significance in redefining luxury living and architectural innovation while shaping Dubai's iconic skyline. Full Article

President Zelensky of Ukraine criticized the exclusion of Ukrainians from recent US-Russian talks on Ukraine's future, leading him to cancel his trip to Saudi Arabia where the negotiations took place. While American and Russian officials discussed improving relations, Zelensky emphasized that any decisions about ending the war in Ukraine must involve Ukraine. He expressed concerns about potential agreements being made without Ukraine's input, highlighting the need for security guarantees and postwar terms to prevent further conflict. Full Article

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu removed Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar from the negotiating team, replacing them with loyalist Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. Dermer is considered to have a direct line to the White House, indicating a shift in the Israeli leadership's approach to negotiations. The move suggests a prioritization of loyalists and a desire for closer ties with the United States in diplomatic efforts. Full Article

Iran is considering relocating its capital from Tehran to the Makran region near the Gulf of Oman due to numerous challenges such as traffic congestion, water shortages, and subsidence. The move is being revived by President Masoud Pezeshkian, sparking debate over the historic significance of Tehran and the strategic advantages of Makran. While Makran offers potential economic growth and reduced vulnerability to earthquakes, concerns remain over the financial burden, logistical challenges, and environmental conditions in the region. Full Article

The UAE ranks among leaders in logistics opportunities and digital readiness, coming in third overall in the 2025 Agility Emerging Markets Logistics Index. The Index highlights the UAE's strengths in public-private partnerships, climate action, and customs performance, with other Gulf countries also emerging as global trade hubs. Survey results show concerns about global recession, protectionism, and shifting production out of China, while country rankings place China, India, and the UAE at the top in various logistics categories. Full Article

Dubai's artificial islands, including Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Islands, Palm Jebel Ali, The World Islands, and Bluewaters Island, showcase the city's ambition and engineering prowess. Accessible by monorail, taxi, boat tours, or helicopter, these islands offer unique attractions like luxury resorts, shopping malls, and water sports activities. Visitors can enjoy a scenic route on the Palm Monorail, thrilling activities like jet skiing, and must-see attractions like Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium for an unforgettable experience in Dubai. Full Article

As the deadline passed for Israeli forces and Hezbollah to withdraw from southern Lebanon, Israel announced it would remain in five strategic points until the Lebanese military fully implements the agreement. The move has raised fears of renewed violence and undermined the fragile truce between the two sides, as Hezbollah has not fully withdrawn from the region and tensions continue to escalate. Lebanon's new president has pledged to bring all arms under state control, challenging Hezbollah's influence, while the Israeli military has been accused of adopting a scorched-earth policy as it pulls out of towns, further complicating the situation in...