Saudi Arabia, most other Sunni Arab states to start Ramadan Saturday

Jordan's interior ministry announced the closure of the Jordanian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood and banned its ideology and membership, following the arrest of 16 members accused of plotting attacks. Interior Minister Mazen Farraya linked the ban to alleged activities threatening national security, including attempts to destroy documents during the arrests. Despite the ban, the Islamic Action Front (IAF) plans to continue its work, asserting compliance with Jordanian law, while rights groups express concern over...

Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas called on Hamas to release all hostages, stating their captivity gives Israel justifications for its attacks, which resulted in at least 25 deaths from Israeli strikes on Gaza. Despite ongoing negotiations in Cairo, efforts for a new ceasefire have stalled, with Abbas criticizing Hamas for exacerbating the situation while a Hamas official labeled his remarks as insulting. The humanitarian crisis intensifies as Germany, France, and Britain urge Israel to lift its...

Jordan Bans Muslim BrotherhoodOn Wednesday, Jordan outlawed the Muslim Brotherhood and confiscated its assets after alleged links to a sabotage plot were discovered, according to Interior Minister Mazen Fraya. The government arrested 16 members who were reportedly planning attacks using rockets and drones, and the ban prohibits all activities associated with the group, including publishing and operating offices. Despite the Brotherhood's denial of involvement in the plot, it has faced increasing restrictions amid a broader...

On January 23, Iran and Tajikistan signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance security cooperation, focusing on combating organized terrorism, human trafficking, and smuggling. This agreement marks a continuation of Iran's efforts to strengthen ties with Central Asian nations, following the opening of a drone factory in Tajikistan in May 2022 and previous discussions regarding drone usage in regional conflicts. Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni expressed optimism that the MoU would bolster security in...

Dozens of former Israeli female soldiers protested outside the Ministry of Defence in Tel Aviv, demanding the release of Matan Angrest, an occupation soldier captured in Gaza since October 7, 2023. The demonstration, titled “All eyes on Nahal Oz,” featured 70 participants wearing uniforms similar to Angrest's, covering their faces with red paint to symbolize blood and bandaging their hands to represent his injuries. Organiser Amit emphasized the urgency of bringing Angrest home, as he...

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani expressed strong support for Cardinal Louis Sako to succeed Pope Francis as the head of the Roman Catholic Church. He highlighted Sako's respect and contributions to peace and interfaith tolerance, emphasizing Iraq's historical significance as a homeland for Christians. Following the announcement of Pope Francis's death at 88, Al-Sudani reiterated that Iraq embodies unity among various religious communities, with Sako being the sole nominee from the Middle East for...