Former prisoner revisits Syrian airbase ordeal

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he will not participate in the upcoming Club World Cup, denying rumors of a transfer to one of the teams involved. The Portugal captain stated that while he has been contacted by several clubs, he is not interested in a short-term deal to join the competition, emphasizing that his decision about his future is "almost final." With his contract at Al-Nassr expiring in June, Ronaldo's future remains uncertain as he prepares for...

SummaryIsrael has recovered the body of Nattapong Pinta, a Thai national taken hostage during the October 2023 Hamas attack, during a special operation in Rafah, Gaza. The 35-year-old agricultural worker was believed to have been killed shortly after his capture by the Mujahideen Brigades. This recovery follows the retrieval of two Israeli Americans' bodies and highlights the ongoing plight of hostages, with 54 still believed to be in captivity, prompting calls for negotiations for their...

SummaryInternational Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi expressed that Iran is his "biggest preoccupation" regarding nuclear capabilities, highlighting a new report indicating increased uranium enrichment nearing weapons grade. He noted that while Iran currently lacks a nuclear weapon, it possesses the necessary materials and warned of potential catastrophic consequences if negotiations fail, possibly leading to military action. Grossi also mentioned concerns about nuclear proliferation in the Middle East and criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's threats...

AL-Monitor is an award-winning independent media outlet that focuses on the Middle East, recognized for its diverse coverage and in-depth analysis. It serves a wide readership that includes high-level decision-makers in the US, international bodies, and the Middle East, along with influential figures in media, academia, and business. The outlet's reputation is built on delivering valuable insights, making it a key resource for those engaged in regional and global issues. Full Article

Benjamin Netanyahu's efforts to conceal his creation of a "third-force" to counter Palestinian resistance have been exposed, leading to significant backlash and international condemnation. This clandestine group, led by criminal Yasser Abu Shabab, has been implicated in violent acts, including looting humanitarian aid, while operating under Israeli military protection. Netanyahu justified this controversial strategy by claiming it aimed to save IDF soldiers, but it has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and raised parallels to South...

On June 06, 2025, Palestinians in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, and East Jerusalem celebrated Eid al-Adha amidst ongoing Israeli bombardment, military raids, and severe restrictions affecting their communities. The event was marked by prayers held on the ruins of destroyed homes and mosques in Gaza City, illustrating the profound impact of the conflict on daily life. The images captured by Mohammad Asad for the Middle East Monitor highlight the resilience of the Palestinian people...