All Middle East
Palestinians see fewer paths to safety amid violence with IsraelFeeling abandoned amid the West Bank’s latest explosive cycle, how do Palestinian civilians protect themselves? Even as some embrace mutual aid, others resort to violence.
First LookBlinken, in Israel, urges restraint as he condemns recent violenceU.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Israel to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The visit comes amid escalating turmoil in East Jerusalem and the West Bank.
First LookBurst of Israeli-Palestinian violence casts shadow ahead of Blinken visitMr. Blinken, who is arriving Sunday, is expected now to focus on lowering tensions after an Israel raid in the West Bank Thursday killed nine, and a Palestinian attack outside an East Jerusalem synagogue Friday night killed seven.
In Valley of the Kings dig, an all-Egyptian team makes its markFor decades, as leading archaeologists dug into the rich history buried in Egypt, locals were the laborers, never the discoverers. But not this dig.
First LookIsraeli PM Netanyahu makes an unexpected visit to Jordan's KingIsraeli Prime Minister Netanyahu paid an unexpected trip to King Abdullah II, his first visit since taking power in December. They talked about “regional issues” and security cooperation with Jordan, according to Mr. Netanyahu’s office.
Court tells Netanyahu to fire ally, intensifying fight over democracyThe brewing battle over Israeli democracy is now centered on Netanyahu ally Aryeh Deri, a convicted felon. Which takes precedence, the “will of the people” or the rule of law?
Cairo’s ‘Garbage City’ rebranded: It’s recycling ... and a livingResidents of Cairo’s Manshiyat Naser neighborhood were once referred to as zabaleen, garbage people. But today’s push for a green economy and the demand for recycled plastic is changing perceptions of their work.
First LookLebanon saves Syrian refugees from sea, hands over to Syrian armyA boat carrying more than 200 migrants sank off the coast of Lebanon on New Year’s Eve. All but two of the passengers were rescued, but they were taken to the Syrian border and handed over to the Syrian army.
First LookFemale athletes in Afghanistan face new opponent: Taliban ruleNoura had always been an all-star athlete until the Taliban barred Afghan women from playing sports. Many women and girls who once played sports have been intimidated into submission through visits to their gyms, warning phone calls, and detainment.
Together they can: In Palestinian village, a model of self-sufficiencyFrom homegrown food to home improvement, a West Bank village is blending a cooperative tradition with modern volunteerism to enhance its autonomy from Israel and the inefficient Palestinian Authority.
First LookIranian actor jailed for supporting protests has been releasedTaraneh Alidoosti, one of Iran’s most famous actors, was among several celebrities to post messages in support of the anti-government protests. She was jailed for nearly three weeks for her support but has now been released on bail.
How Egyptians face a food crisis: With creativity ... and half a loafHow much can a belt be tightened? In Egypt, families are cutting back, shrinking portions, and creatively trying to ensure their families are fed amid Ukraine war food prices and soaring inflation.
First LookNetanyahu takes office, remains on trial for corruption, fraudAfter being ousted last year, Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in again as prime minister Thursday for his sixth term as Israel's leader.
Far-right coalition in Israel sparks furor over education and valuesThe naming of a religious anti-LGBTQ extremist to a new education post is roiling the public over fundamental questions of Israeli identity and Jewish values.
First Look'Is being a girl a crime?': Taliban closes university doors to womenThe Taliban have banned female students from private and public universities in Afghanistan in its latest edict cracking down on women’s rights and freedoms in the country. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the decision.
First LookArgentina wins World Cup. Messi led team with assists as well as goals.Argentina’s victory Sunday brings Europe’s run of four straight World Cup winners to an end. Lionel Messi led with assists that were as memorable as his goals during the tournament.
How to defy an authoritarian? In Tunisia, election is a battle cry.Confronting the autocratic Tunisian president’s plans to put a weakened parliament firmly under his thumb, opposition groups are putting aside differences. Their tools are limited.
On banks of the River Jordan, an interfaith haven is plannedJordan’s Hashemite royal family, custodians of the baptism site, hope the complex will be more than just a center for Christian pilgrims, but a showcase for interfaith harmony.
First LookTourists return to Bethlehem for Christmas history, photos, souvenirsThe Christmas season is peak time for tourism in the historic city of Bethlehem. For the past two years, the number of visitors have plummeted due to the pandemic, but now the city is busy again as tour groups and holiday activities return.
Gulf leaders find new partner in China, challenging US dominanceFor decades Washington has been the unquestioned patron and protector of its allies in the Gulf. Now the Gulf states want to diversify their ties: Enter China.
