MIDDLE EAST

THE RISE OF ARAB STAND-UP COMEDY

Photo Credit: File Photo

One of the defining characteristics of Arab stand-up comedy is its ability to navigate sensitive topics with wit and insight. Comedians draw inspiration from their own experiences, as well as broader societal trends, to craft routines that resonate with diverse audiences. Through satire and storytelling, they shed light on issues such as politics, religion, gender, and cultural norms, offering fresh perspectives and inviting critical reflection.

Read more ... Add new comment

ISRAELI OFFICIALS CONCERNED ABOUT POSSIBLE ICC ARREST WARRANTS

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Israeli officials appeared increasingly concerned that the International Criminal Court may issue arrest warrants against the country’s leaders, as international pressure mounts over the war in Gaza. Airstrikes overnight into Monday killed 22 people in a southern city, according to hospital records.

Read more ... Add new comment

THE IRAN NUCLEAR DEAL NEGOTIATIONS

Photo Credit: Getty Images

At its core, the JCPOA aims to address concerns over Iran's nuclear activities by imposing strict limits and monitoring mechanisms. In return, Iran was promised relief from economic sanctions that had crippled its economy for years. However, the implementation of the deal has been far from straightforward, with ongoing disputes and disagreements over various aspects.

Read more ... Add new comment

IRAQI TIKTOKER UMM FAHAD SHOT DEAD IN BAGHDAD

Photo Credit: Hussein Faleh/AFP/Getty Images

Tragedy struck Iraq's online community on Friday night as Ghufran Sawadi, a social media personality known as Umm Fahad, was shot dead outside her Baghdad residence. The attack, captured on surveillance camera and shared widely online, has sparked outrage and raised questions about online safety in the country.

Read more ... Add new comment

HAS THE UAE COME TO SOUTH SUDAN’S RESCUE?

Photo Credit:AFP

According to a recent report a Dubai-based firm has agreed to help South Sudan’s government. The company, led by a distant relative of the Abu Dhabi royal family, has agreed to lend South Sudan €12 billion ($12.9 billion) in exchange for repayment in oil.

Read more ... Add new comment

BABY RESCUED FROM DYING MOTHER'S WOMB IN GAZA DIES

Photo Credit: Mohammad Jahjouh

After an Israeli air strike in southern Gaza, a baby was rescued from her dying mother's womb. Sadly the baby has died. Baby Sabreen al-Sakani was delivered by Cesarean section in a Rafah hospital shortly after midnight on Sunday.

Read more ... Add new comment

IRAQ IMPLEMENTS LAWS THAT CRIMINALIZE SAME GENDER RELATIONSHIPS

Photo Credit: Reuters

In a move that has sparked international concern, Iraq’s parliament recently passed a bill criminalizing same-sex relationships. The legislation imposes jail terms ranging from 10 to 15 years for individuals involved in such relationships. Additionally, transgender people could face imprisonment for one to three years under the new law.

Read more ... Add new comment

ABRAHAM ACCORDS A HISTORIC SHIFT IN MIDDLE EASTERN DIPLOMACY

Photo Credit: Getty Images

In a region often characterized by longstanding tensions and conflicts, the signing of the Abraham Accords marked a historic turning point in Middle Eastern diplomacy. This groundbreaking agreement, facilitated by the United States, saw the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab states, namely the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan, and later, Morocco. Signed in September 2020, the Abraham Accords reshaped the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and generated both hope and skepticism across the international community.

Read more ... Add new comment