Middle East and North Africa region
Palestinian health officials report that Israeli forces have killed a 15-year-old in Ramallah and another teenager in the Qalandia refugee camp after raids across the West Bank. Dozens have been detained, including women, amid rising violence since October 2023. The death toll in the West Bank now exceeds 1,085 with ongoing clashes and arrests.
The film Citizen Vigilante, linked to Uwe Boll and Armie Hammer, has been posted for free by Elon Musk on X, prompting complaints that the platform amplified anti-Muslim content. UK Muslim groups urge Ofcom to assess compliance with the Online Safety Act as questions grow over X’s moderation and the safety of users.
Tehran hosts the mass funeral for Ali Khamenei amid continuing US-Israel strikes and regional tensions. Trump claims Iran is “dying to settle” while talks are framed around Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions. UK, US plan maneuvers in Hormuz as regional powers threaten further actions.
Over 1.5 million Muslims have begun the hajj in Mecca, with pilgrims arriving from around the world amid geopolitical tensions stemming from US-Israel strikes on Iran. Saudi authorities report strong international participation despite security concerns and hot weather.
More than 1.5 million Muslims have arrived for the annual Hajj in Mecca, with pilgrims circling the Kaaba in intense heat. The pilgrimage unfolds against a backdrop of fragile ceasefires in the Iran war and broader regional tensions, while Saudi authorities prepare for launches to Mina and Mount Arafat.
Iraq has secured a historic World Cup berth after a tense qualifying campaign, overcoming political and logistical obstacles. Arnold’s side has battled through stress, war-related disruption, and long travels to reach Monterrey and clinch a place in the finals.
Lebanese army says two officers and a soldier have been killed in an Israeli airstrike on a vehicle on the Khardali‑Nabatiyeh road. Israel says the vehicle was moving toward its forces and that Hezbollah was preparing to fire. The attack comes as regional ceasefire efforts continue under US mediation; Lebanon reports broader Israeli strikes and Hezbollah retaliation.
Israel and Iran have exchanged strikes for the first time since an April ceasefire and then halted offensive action after intense exchanges. Iran fired ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for Israeli strikes on Lebanon; Israel struck military and energy sites in Iran. Both sides have warned they will resume if attacks continue.
The latest round of clashes has seen Israel strike Beirut after Hezbollah drones targeted northern Israel. Iran has warned of further reactions as U.S.-Iran talks face disruption. Civilians face rising tensions across Lebanon, Iran, and Israel.
Saudi Arabia is expanding Riyadh Air as part of Vision 2030, aiming to turn the capital into a global aviation hub and reduce reliance on oil. The first Dreamliner deliveries have begun, with a plan to connect Riyadh to over 100 destinations and boost passenger capacity while expanding airport capacity to support this growth.
The text of a U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding has been released, outlining an immediate end to hostilities on all fronts, respect for sovereignty, a 60-day window to reach a final agreement, and steps to restore trade, sanctions, and economic plans. Drafts from multiple outlets show near-identical provisions, with negotiations urged within the 60-day limit.
[Synopsis]
Progressive candidates tied to the Democratic Socialists of America have won pivotal primaries in New York and Colorado, challenging pro-Israel incumbents and the influence of AIPAC. The victories reflect a shift in how the Democratic base views Israel and Gaza, with winners advocating for ceasefire, Palestinian rights, and a pivot away from unconditional military aid.
The ceasefire in Gaza remains fragile as Israeli strikes persist and Palestinian casualties rise. Multiple incidents near Beit Lahiya and Khan Younis have killed civilians, including a 13-year-old, and drawn international concern. Authorities say casualties continue to mount since the October 2023 war, despite a formal ceasefire.
Syria has announced the remaining 70 appointees to the 210-seat People’s Assembly, boosting female representation and minority presence. The new parliament will convene to elect leadership and begin a 30-month transition toward a new elections law, with debates over representation and a transitional justice framework continuing amid regional security concerns.
A blast near Damascus’s Palace of Justice has killed several people and wounded many more. State media says the explosion came from an improvised device planted in a cafe, while authorities pledge accountability. No group has claimed responsibility; analysts warn the attack targets the judiciary amid ongoing trials from the former regime.
Jihadists and Tuareg rebels have launched a coordinated assault across northern and central Mali, striking towns including Gao, Anefis, Aguelhok, Sevare and a prison near Bamako. The government says it has the situation under control as clashes continue into the day.
OPEC+ has agreed to expand oil production by 188,000 barrels per day starting in August, the fifth straight month of increases. Core members Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria and Oman plan to unwind parts of a 2023 cut as markets rebalance amid shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.