Cairo’s in the news as Gaza ceasefire talks and regional tensions heat up, highlighting Egypt’s key role in Middle East diplomacy.
Muslims worldwide are observing the start of Ramadan, with dates varying by country due to moon sighting methods. Saudi Arabia, Iran, and other nations rely on visual sightings or astronomical calculations. Gaza faces hardships amid ongoing conflict, impacting Ramadan celebrations. The month emphasizes fasting, worship, and charity.
Escalating conflict in the Middle East has led to widespread flight cancellations, airport closures, and stranded travelers. The US and European governments are evacuating citizens amid airstrikes and airspace closures, with ongoing disruptions affecting global travel hubs and markets.
As of March 11, 2026, the UK government’s first charter evacuation flight from Muscat, Oman, to London was delayed on March 4 due to technical and operational issues but has since departed. Over 140,000 Britons are registered in the Middle East amid escalating US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The UK is conducting one of its largest repatriation efforts, with commercial and charter flights ongoing.
U.S. and regional mediators have paused efforts to implement Trump's Middle East peace plan due to the escalation of the Iran-backed conflict. Negotiations on disarmament and reconstruction are delayed as regional tensions rise, with ongoing Israeli strikes and Hamas ambushes in Gaza. The pause reflects the broader regional instability.
Multiple drone strikes and missile attacks have targeted Dubai and other Gulf states, causing flight disruptions and casualties. The UAE reports fires at Dubai airport and a missile incident in Abu Dhabi, as Iran's attacks intensify amid regional tensions and ongoing US-Israel strikes on Iran.
Amid ongoing Israeli and US airstrikes on Iran and regional retaliation, the US has engaged in direct talks with Hamas in Cairo to preserve a fragile ceasefire. Israel plans to reopen the Rafah crossing, but violence persists in Gaza, with casualties mounting and diplomatic efforts intensifying.
Two new stuffed-pepper recipes showcase different approaches: one with ground beef, rice, and Creole seasoning, and another with orzo, tomatoes, and mint. A third article offers tips on cooking a small chicken for crispy skin, emphasizing the importance of size and technique. These stories highlight versatile cooking methods and ingredient choices.
Gaza mediators report serious negotiations on a disarmament plan involving Hamas and armed groups, with a focus on weapons decommissioning, police reform, and phased Israeli troop withdrawal. The proposal, supported by the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, is awaiting Hamas's response amid regional tensions.
The US has presented Iran with a 15-point proposal for a ceasefire, including sanctions relief, nuclear restrictions, and regional stability measures. Iran has rejected the plan, continuing attacks and dismissing negotiations. The US is deploying troops to the Middle East as tensions escalate.
Hamas's reaction to a US-backed disarmament proposal for Gaza is pending, with the group expressing reservations. The plan involves phased weapons decommissioning in exchange for Israeli troop withdrawals and reconstruction aid, but Hamas demands guarantees against renewed attacks. The region's stability hinges on this response.
Hamas is set to hold talks with Egyptian mediators in Cairo to address Israeli violations of the Gaza ceasefire. Israel has continued to violate the truce, killing Palestinians, while Hamas demands Israel cease violations, dismantle military positions, and fully reopen border crossings. The talks also focus on a Gaza administrative body and humanitarian aid.
Hamas is preparing to hold leadership elections in Gaza and abroad, with the vote expected in the coming weeks. The elections will reveal whether Hamas plans to continue fighting Israel or shift toward a less aggressive stance. The process is heavily restricted due to ongoing Israeli operations and recent military setbacks, with leadership likely to remain outside Gaza.
Lee Cronin's new horror film 'The Mummy' has been released, drawing criticism for its overlong runtime, tonal confusion, and lack of scares. Critics note it diverges from traditional mummy stories, focusing on gore and visual effects, but fails to deliver suspense or character depth. The film is part of Universal's effort to reboot classic monsters.