US Congress: Rashida Tlaib introduces Nakba resolution

Congresswoman says measure aims to recognise forced displacement of Palestinians during the establishment of the Israeli state. “The Nakba is well-documented and continues to play out today,” Tlaib, who is of Palestinian descent, wrote on Twitter. “We must acknowledge that the humanity of Palestinians is being denied when folks refuse to acknowledge the war crimes and human rights violations in apartheid Israel.” The Democratic congresswoman said the resolution is cosponsored by her fellow progressives Betty McCollum, Marie Newman, Ilhan Omar and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (Read more at Aljazeera).

Huckabee visits Yad Vashem

Mike Huckabee, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, visited Yad Vashem on Thursday to pay tribute to the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust (Read more at JNS).

Trump ends Mideast tour with synagogue visit in Abu Dhabi

U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his Middle East tour on Friday with a visit to the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, an interfaith complex housing a mosque, church and synagogue (Read more at JNS).

Anti-Israel protesters busted in NYC ‘Nakba Day’ march

Eight anti-Israel protesters were busted during a wild march late Thursday – and cops are still hunting a ski mask-wearing agitator who bashed an NYPD cop in the face with a metal barricade, police said (Read more at AOL).

Trump's AI deals in the Persian Gulf stir China fears back home

President Trump announced multibillion-dollar AI deals between U.S. companies and Gulf countries this week even as many in Washington continue to fear that China could gain backdoor access to advanced AI chips and worry that critical AI infrastructure could end up based outside the U.S (Read more at Axios).

Trump: Iran has to ‘move quickly’ on new nuclear deal proposal

“Iran wants to trade with us, okay, if you can believe that. And I’m OK with it,” the president told host Bret Baier. “I’m using trade to settle scores and to make peace. But I’ve told Iran we make a deal.” Trump confirmed to reporters on Air Force One on his way back to Washington from the Middle East that the U.S. has given Iran a formal proposal for a new nuclear agreement, adding, “more importantly, they know they have to move quickly.” (Read more at The Hill)

Trump acknowledges starvation in Gaza as Israeli airstrikes kill more than 100

The President says the US will ‘take care of’ the situation in Gaza on the final day of the Persian Gulf tour in Abu Dhabi. Israeli officials have consistently denied that the tight blockade imposed on the devastated territory more than 10 weeks ago has caused hunger, and Trump’s comments will be seen as further evidence of tensions between Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel’s closest ally (Read more at Guardian).

US builds up military presence in Middle East

The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier rerouted from the South China Sea to the Middle East on Monday, a move that will put two U.S. aircraft carriers in the region as the conflict worsens between Israel and Iran. Dozens of Air Force refueling aircraft also left their U.S. bases this weekend in a new deployment to Europe, a preventative measure to support any operations in the Middle East (Read more at Politico).

UN will not take part in US-backed aid effort in Gaza

United Nations: The United Nations said on Thursday it will not take part in a US-backed humanitarian operation in Gaza because it is not impartial, neutral or independent, while Israel pledged to facilitate the effort without being involved in aid deliveries (Read more at deccanherald).

Trump touts 'freedom zone' plan for Gaza

"Gaza has been a territory of death and destruction for many years," Trump said. "I have concepts for Gaza that I think are very good — make it a freedom zone. Let the United States get involved and make it just a freedom zone." (Read more at NPR)

US targets Hezbollah with new sanctions

The United States targeted two senior Hezbollah officials and two financial facilitators with new sanctions on Thursday for their role in coordinating financial transfers to the Iran-backed group, the Treasury Department said (Read more at Reuters).

Elimination of Hamas is what achieves peace, Rubio says in Turkey

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized “the deep U.S. commitment to its historic relationship with Israel and the ironclad U.S. support for Israeli security” in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, according to Tammy Bruce, the State Department spokeswoman (Read more at JNS).

Republicans urge Trump to reject any Iranian nuclear enrichment

House and Senate Republicans urged U.S. President Donald Trump to reject any nuclear deal with Iran that allows the Islamic Republic to continue enriching nuclear material. “The scope and breadth of Iran’s nuclear buildout have made it impossible to verify any new deal that allows Iran to continue enriching uranium,” House and Senate Republicans wrote (Read more at JNS).

US hits Iran’s ballistic missile programme with new sanctions

The US on May 14 unveiled fresh sanctions against six people and 12 firms – including several Chinese nationals – for their support of Iran’s ballistic missile programme. The May 14 sanctions are aimed at organisations involved in “efforts to help the Iranian regime domestically source the manufacturing of critical materials needed for Tehran’s ballistic missile programme”, according to the US Treasury Department (Read more at Straits Times).

Trump Says No Golf, Real Estate Talk In Saudi Meetings

U.S. President Donald Trump, whose family has major business interests in the Gulf countries he is visiting this week, said there was no talk of building a Trump Tower in Syria or golf during his meetings in Saudi Arabia. Trump’s family has forged multi-billion dollar business deals in the Gulf, moves that Democrats and other critics say could open pathways to improperly influence the president (Read more at AOL).

Turkey to discuss roadmap with U.S., Syria after U.S. lifted Syrian sanctions

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Thursday he will discuss the U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria and the roadmap ahead in a meeting with his U.S. and Syrian counterparts later in the day (Read more at Investing).

Trump says US close to nuclear deal with Iran, but key gaps remain

“We’re not going to be making any nuclear dust in Iran,” he said. “I think we’re getting close to maybe doing a deal without having to do this.” Trump said he was basing his optimism on new statements by Iran. “You probably read today the story about Iran. It’s sort of agreed to the terms,” he said (Read more at Aljazeera).

Trump says Qatar will invest $10 billion in US airbase

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Qatar will invest $10 billion in coming years in the Al Udeid Air Base southwest of the country's capital Doha, the largest U.S. military facility in the Middle East. In a speech to U.S. troops at the base during his tour of the Gulf, Trump also said Qatari defence purchases signed on Wednesday are worth $42 billion (Read more at Awani).

Oil prices settled down 2% on expectations for US-Iran nuclear deal

An Iranian official told NBC News in an interview published on Wednesday that Iran was willing to agree to a deal with the U.S. in exchange for lifting economic sanctions (Read more at Reuters).

US-backed aid group to start work in Gaza by end of May under heavily criticized plan

A U.S.-backed humanitarian organization will start work in Gaza by the end of May under a heavily-criticized aid distribution plan, but has asked Israel to let the United Nations and others resume deliveries to Palestinians now until it is set up. No humanitarian assistance has been delivered to Gaza since March 2, and a global hunger monitor has warned that half a million people face starvation - a quarter of the population in the enclave where Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas have been at war since October 2023 (Read more at MSN).

Trump's Syria announcement surprised his own sanctions officials

In Washington, senior officials at the State Department and Treasury Department scrambled to understand how to cancel the sanctions, many of which have been in place for decades, according to four U.S. officials familiar with the matter. The White House had issued no memorandum or directive to State or Treasury sanctions officials to prepare for the unwinding and didn’t alert them that the president’s announcement was imminent, one senior U.S. official said (Read more at Astroawani).

As Trump snubs Israel, Gulf states flex their lobbying for an Iran deal

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said an Iranian nuclear deal would increase regional investment, while Trump credits Qatar for pushing talks. Trump also said that Iran should say a “big thank you” to Qatar for lobbying him to strike a deal. Qatar and Iran share the world’s largest natural gas field. “Iran is very lucky to have the emir [of Qatar] because he is actually fighting for them,” Trump said (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Ben & Jerry's co-founder says US-funded 'slaughter' of Gaza not 'American way'

One of the co-founders of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream said that he could not call himself an American without putting his “body on the line” after he was arrested during a Senate health committee hearing for protesting against US support for Israel’s war on Gaza (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Israeli and US officials concerned Trump could push F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia

Trump unveiled an arms sales package to Saudi Arabia worth nearly $142bn this week. A White House statement called it "the largest defense cooperation agreement” in American history. Although it didn’t specify which arms the US would sell Saudi Arabia, F-35s are on the table, the officials said (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Jordan's king warned US against assassinating Syria's Sharaa before Trump meeting

US senator says Trump foreign policy officials may have floated 'option' of assassinating President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The remarkable statement by a US senator reveals the deep hostility toward Sharaa in some circles of the Trump administration. It reaffirms Trump's own statements that he has been lobbied directly by foreign leaders to give Sharaa a chance, while his own advisors are sceptical (Read more at Middle East Eye). 

Biden officials "awed" by Trump's rule-breaking Middle East moves

Biden administration veterans who spoke with Axios raised questions about Trump's motivations but grudgingly saluted his boldness. "Gosh, I wish I could work for an administration that could move that quickly," one admitted. "He does all this, and it's kind of silence, it's met with a shrug," says Ned Price, a former senior State Department official under President Biden. "He has the ability to do things politically that previous presidents did not, because he has complete unquestioned authority over the Republican caucus." (Read more at Axios)

Trump meets Syria’s al-Sharaa, eyes normalisation of ties with Damascus

“With the support of the great leaders in this room, we are currently exploring normalising relations with Syria’s new government,” Trump said, confirming his brief meeting with al-Sharaa (Read more at Aljazeera).

Netanyahu, US envoy Witkoff discuss ongoing hostage talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has concluded a series of extended meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and members of the negotiating team regarding the ongoing efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza (Read more at JNS).

Saudi fully supports US-Iran nuclear talks, hopes for positive results

“If, for instance, the US and Iran can successfully conclude their nuclear negotiations, that will remove a huge burden of risk in our region, and will open up significant avenues for even greater cooperation, greater regional integration, greater region cooperation, trade, investment,” in very significant ways, Prince Faisal stated, adding that Kingdom “fully supports” the current nuclear negotiations between US and Iran (Read more at Iran Front Page).

Saudi PIF strikes multibillion-dollar deals with top US asset managers

Saudi Arabia’s PIF, one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds with over $900 billion in assets, sits at the heart of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s economic transformation agenda. Saudi Arabia is in a race to secure more outside money to keep ambitious plans to diversify its economy on track. The country set itself a lofty target to attract $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment by the turn of the decade (Read more at Investing).

US, Qatar deals to generate $1.2 trillion in ’economic exchange’, White House says

The agreements include a $96 billion deal with Qatar Airways to buy up to 210 Boeing (NYSE:BA) 787 Dreamliner and 777X airplanes with GE Aerospace engines, the fact sheet said. They also include a statement of intent that could lead to $38 billion in investments at Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base and other air defense and maritime security capabilities, it said (Read more at Investing).

Pezeshkian says Iran will ‘not bow’ to bullying from Trump

“He [Trump] thinks he can come here, chant slogans, and scare us. For us, martyrdom is far sweeter than dying in bed. You came to frighten us? We will not bow to any bully,” Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said (Read more at Aljazeera).

Trump gives tech stocks their first Gulf-driven rally

A new "Trump trade" is driving the stock market during US President Donald Trump's visit to the Gulf. Chipmakers' shares are soaring as investors bet that Gulf sovereign wealth funds are set to spend billions on their products, which Trump just freed from export controls (Read more at Middle East Eye).

US pro-Palestine group faces 'baseless' legal challenge after winning lawsuit

A Virginia court issued an injunction for a nonprofit group advocating for Palestine to turn over financial documents as part of an investigation by the state’s attorney general (AG) into whether they have provided material support to "terrorist" organisations (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Trump Says It’s His ‘Wish’ For Saudi Arabia to Recognize Israel

President Donald Trump urged Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords while giving a speech in the country on Tuesday as part of his first overseas trip in his second term (Read more at MSN).

Saudi Arabia’s crown prince gives Trump a lavish royal welcome

As Air Force One approached Riyadh, Saudi pilots in six American-made F-15 fighter jets escorted the plane. After a traditional coffee ceremony inside the royal terminal at the airport, Trump’s limousine was flanked by riders on white Arabian horses carrying American and Saudi flags. An honor guard was lined up with golden swords (Read more at AP).

Houthi ceasefire followed US intel showing militants sought off-ramp

US intelligence started picking up indications the Yemeni fighters were looking for an exit after seven weeks of relentless US bombings, four US officials said. US Central Command recommended a campaign lasting at least 8 months. Iran played a significant role in encouraging Houthi negotiations (Read more at Business Standard). 

Nvidia gains 5.6% on AI chip deal with Saudi Arabia, net worth surges to $120 billion

Nvidia stock gained 5.6 per cent on news that it would supply 18,000 AI chips to Saudi Arabia. The company's market value touched $3 trillion (Read more at Livemint). 

Trump lavishes praise on Saudi crown prince

"Saudi Arabia has proved the critics totally wrong," Trump said. Complimenting the gleaming skyscrapers in the desert capital, Trump said: "The transformation that has occurred under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad has been truly extraordinary." "I've never seen anything at that scale happen before," he said (Read more at Jakarta Post).

U.S. new anti-Iran sanctions not compatible with nuclear talks: spokesman

Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei slammed U.S. officials for their "contradictory" remarks about what they sought to achieve in the talks, stressing that the other side should regulate their minds and refrain from making contradictory comments. Baghaei said Iran is steadfast in the negotiations and its positions are "determined, clear and unchangeable," adding that Iran has entered the talks seriously as "we have always entered negotiations to achieve results, not to use talks as a tool to waste time." (Read more at Xinhua)

Trump envoys see better chance for hostage release in Gaza

US Special Envoy Adam Boehler and Steve Witkoff, US special envoy to the Middle East, met families of hostages for almost two hours in Tel Aviv on Tuesday. Of the 58 hostages held in Gaza, about 20 are said to be alive. US officials told families of hostages still held in Gaza they see a better chance of a deal for their release after Washington reached an accord with militant group Hamas for an American hostage that largely bypassed the Israeli government (Read more at MSN).

US and Saudi Arabia agree to $142bn weapons sale during Trump visit

Tuesday’s agreement is designed to help modernise the Saudi military with “state-of-the-art warfighting equipment and services from over a dozen US defense firms”, according to the White House fact sheet. “The first key component of this is upgrading the defence capabilities of Saudi Arabia.” (Read more at Aljazeera).

U.S. Trump, Saudi crown prince sign economic partnership agreement

The partnership includes agreements for energy, mining, and defense (Read more at Reuters).

Saudi Aramco to sign MoUs 6.2M tons of U.S. LNG

Saudi Aramco will sign memoranda of understanding with Sempra and NextDecade for the supply of ~6.2M tons of liquefied natural gas from the U.S., Aramco CEO Amin Nasser said (Read more at MSN).

Israel very worried about ‘state of play in Syria,’ says Graham

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) arrived in Turkey on Tuesday for “the express purpose of assessing the situation in Syria,” the senator stated. Although he would support relieving sanctions on Syria under the “right conditions,” Graham said that it is vital to remember that “the current leadership in Syria achieved its position through force of arms, not through the will of its people.” (Read more at JNS)

Dems against delinking Saudi nuclear agreement from Abraham Accords

Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) led eight other House Democrats who are Jewish in a letter yesterday urging U.S. President Donald Trump to keep cooperation with Saudi Arabia on a civilian nuclear program “explicitly” tied to the kingdom’s normalization with Israel (Read more at JNS).

US weighs letting UAE buy over a million advanced Nvidia chips

This quantity far exceeds limits under Biden-era AI chip regulations. The deal, which is still being negotiated and could change, would let the UAE import 500,000 of the most advanced chips on the market each year from now to 2027, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter. While one-fifth would be set aside for the Abu Dhabi AI firm G42, the rest will go to U.S. companies building data centers in the Gulf nation (Read more at MSN)

Trump says US adding $1 trillion of investment with Saudi trip

"With this trip, we're adding over $1 trillion more in terms of investment into our country and buying our products," Trump told the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh (Read more at Reuters).

Israel ‘normalisation’ takes backseat as Trump announces Saudi deals

United States President Donald Trump says that forging formal relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel would be a “dream”, but he wants the kingdom to do it on its “own time” (Read more at Aljazeera).

Ben Shapiro, Laura Loomer lead rare MAGA backlash to Trump's Qatari jet

Top MAGA influencers Ben Shapiro, Laura Loomer and Mark Levin broke sharply with President Trump Monday over his decision to accept a $400 million private jet from the Qatari government. The revolt marks one of the few times since Trump's return to power that key voices in his base have publicly questioned his judgment — revealing cracks in a MAGA coalition built on unwavering loyalty (Read more at Axios).

Hamas approached pro-Trump activist for secret talks that freed Edan Alexander

The backchannel talks that led to the release of Edan Alexander began with a message from a Hamas official to Bishara Bahbah, the former leader of "Arab Americans for Trump," (Read more at Axios).

Trump calls Iran the 'most destructive force,' vows it won't get nuclear weapon

Offering what he described as both a final warning and a potential opening for diplomacy, Trump said Iran has a choice between continuing its "chaos and terror" or embracing a path toward peace. "I want to make a deal with Iran," he said. "But if Iran's leadership rejects this olive branch..., we will have no choice but to inflict massive maximum pressure." (Read more at AOL)

Trump seals deals and slams Western 'interventionists' in Saudi Arabia visit

Trump's speech excoriating Western 'nation builders' revived memories of Obama's famous Cairo speech. Time will tell if it ages as poorly. Trump stole the show using his time to lay out a vision for a new world order that discredits an entire class of “interventionists” on the left and right in his own country. “The gleaming marvels of Riyadh and Abu Dhabi were not created by the so-called ‘nation builders,’ neocons, or liberal non-profits like those who spent trillions and trillions of dollars failing to develop Baghdad, so many other cities,” Trump added (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Trump announces lifting Syria sanctions

If followed through, it would mark the first time since 1979 Syria was not under US sanctions and could spark a reconstruction boom. "I will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria in order to give them a chance at greatness," Trump said to applause and a standing ovation during a speech in Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh (Read more at Middle East Eye).

US military replaces B-2 bombers that were sent amid Middle East tensions

Trump announced last week that a deal had been reached to stop bombing Yemen's Houthi group. The B-2 bombers had been used to carry out strikes against the Iran-backed group (Read more at Reuters). 

US approves $1.4 billion weapons sale to UAE ahead of Trump’s Middle East visit

The package includes six CH-47F Chinook helicopters and related equipment valued at $1.32 billion, which the State Department said would support U.S. foreign policy and national security interests. According to officials from the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, the helicopters are intended for use in search and rescue, disaster relief, humanitarian support, and counterterrorism missions (Read more at Daily Observer).

Trump says it would be 'stupid' not to accept Qatari plane

Despite concerns raised over the president accepting the $400m gift, Mr Trump told reporters on Monday: "I think it's a great gesture from Qatar." The jet is currently sitting at San Antonio International Airport. It is the same plane the US leader toured at Palm Beach International Airport on 15 February (Read more at Skynews).

No Ceasefire or Prisoner Release in Exchange for US-Israeli Hostage: Netanyahu

Negotiations for a possible deal to secure the release of all hostages in Gaza would continue “under fire, during preparations for an intensification of the fighting,” Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. Hamas on Sunday said it would release Edan Alexander, a US-Israeli soldier held in Gaza, as the group revealed it was engaged in direct talks with the United States towards a ceasefire (Read more at Defense Post).

US sanctions individuals, entity with ties to Iranian nuclear-related research

These sanctions are intended to “delay and degrade” Iran’s ability to research and develop nuclear weapons, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. Those sanctioned are involved in activities that currently or could potentially materially contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (Read more at JNS).

Elon Musk invited to attend investment summit in Saudi Arabia

Musk’s reported invitation comes on the sidelines of United States President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East. Elon Musk’s relationship with Riyadh has notably improved since the start of Trump’s second term as United States president. Highlighting this improvement was Tesla’s launch in Saudi (Read more at Teslarati).

Iran says fourth round of ‘difficult’ nuclear talks with US ends in Oman

After about three hours of negotiations on Sunday, spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei described the talks as “difficult but useful talks to better understand each other’s positions and to find reasonable and realistic ways to address the differences” (Read more at Aljazeera).

Israel fully endorses Trump's plan for Gaza aid

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Sunday that Israel fully endorses U.S. President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza aid. Trump recently repeated a U.S. pledge to help get food to Palestinians in Gaza. A U.S.-backed mechanism for getting aid into Gaza should take effect soon, Washington's envoy to Israel also said (Read more at MTV).

Trump Tower Damascus? Syria to charm Trump for sanctions relief

A Trump Tower in Damascus, a detente with Israel and U.S. access to Syria's oil and gas are part of Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa's strategic pitch to try to get face time with U.S. President Donald Trump during his trip to the Middle East. Jonathan Bass, an American pro-Trump activist, who on April 30 met Sharaa for four hours in Damascus, along with Syrian activists and Gulf Arab states has been trying to arrange a landmark - if highly unlikely - meeting between the two leaders this week on the sidelines of Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (Read more at MSN).

Hamas says it will release US-Israeli captive Edan Alexander

The group confirmed it was engaged in direct talks with the United States towards securing a ceasefire in the war-ravaged enclave and getting aid flowing again to a suffering Palestinian population (Read more at Aljazeera).

Qatar calls reports of pending jet gift to Trump inaccurate

The president might end up with a luxury jumbo jet, but it won’t happen this week. ABC News reported earlier Sunday that a super luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet would become available for President Donald Trump as Air Force One and then donated to his presidential library foundation so he could use it after leaving office. The possible transfer of an aircraft for temporary use as Air Force One is currently under consideration between Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense, but the matter remains under review by the respective legal departments, and no decision has been made (Read more at Politico).

Qatar leads Syria search for bodies of US hostages killed by ISIL

Qatar’s International Search and Rescue Group began the search on Wednesday, with the help of several US nationals who wished to remain anonymous. So far, three unidentified bodies have been found by the group, according to the sources. The mission’s focus was on locating the body of aid worker Peter Kassig, who was beheaded by ISIL in 2014 in Dabiq, northern Syria (Read more at Aljazeera).

US imposes Iran-related sanctions on third China 'teapot' refinery, port terminal

The U.S. Treasury designated the Hebei Xinhai Chemical Group refinery and three companies for operating a terminal at Dongying Port in Shandong province. It said they had purchased or facilitated the delivery of hundreds of millions of dollars worth of Iranian oil. It was the latest independent Chinese refinery targeted by the Trump administration after it re-imposed a policy of "maximum pressure" that aims to cut off Iran's export revenue to pressure Tehran into a deal to curb its nuclear program and stop the funding of militant groups across the Middle East (Read more at Iran Oil Gas).

Under Trump, Saudi civil nuclear talks delinked from Israel recognition

The United States is no longer demanding that Saudi Arabia normalise ties with Israel as a condition for progress on its civil nuclear programme. Under former President Joe Biden, nuclear talks were an element of a wider US-Saudi deal tied to Riyadh’s goal of a defence treaty with Washington (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Gulf-US summit to take place in Riyadh next week

Major investments, Israel-Gaza war, Abraham Accords and tariffs are expected to dominate the agenda. Saudi Arabia's King Salman has invited leaders of the Gulf Co-operation Council to attend a Gulf-US summit in Riyadh during US President Donald Trump’s visit to the region next week (Read more at The National).

US says solution for Gaza aid is 'steps away' as aid groups raise alarm

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce gave few details about the new mechanism but referred to a "charitable foundation" that she said would be carrying out the plan. "I was hoping to introduce it today, but the foundation will be announcing this shortly," Bruce said (Read more at Reuters).

Trump met Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Dermer

They discussed nuclear talks with Iran and Israel’s war in Gaza. Dermer met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday and had several meetings in the White House (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Israel not involved in US plan to distribute food in Gaza

"The Israelis are going to be involved in providing necessary military security, because it is a war zone, but they will not be involved in the distribution of the food, or even in the bringing of the food into Gaza," Washington's ambassador to Israel, Huckabee told reporters in Jerusalem (Read more at France 24).

Republican senators say dismantling nuclear program only acceptable outcome of Iran talks

Iran can have a peaceful nuclear program if the Islamic Republic doesn’t enrich uranium, according to Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.). (Read more at JNS)

US-Houthi ceasefire deal does not include Israel

"As long as they announced the cessation (of U.S. strikes) and they are actually committed to that, our position was self-defence so we will stop." Mohammed Abdulsalam, the chief Houthi negotiator said. He reiterated they would also carry out strikes against the U.S. if Washington resumes its attacks on Yemen (Read more at Reuters).

Trump says more information coming on potential new Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal

Two Egyptian security sources told Reuters at the end of April that negotiations held in Cairo to reach a ceasefire in Gaza were on the verge of a significant breakthrough. Hamas still insists on its full-package ceasefire deal in return for an end to the war, while Israel doesn’t want to end the war (Read more at Strait Times).

Dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters arrested after Columbia calls in police

The New York police department arrested dozens of pro-Palestinian activists who occupied part of the main library building on Columbia University’s campus (Read more at Guardian).

Saudi Arabia sits on fence over BRICS with eye on vital ties with US

Saudi Arabia has held off formally joining the BRICS bloc of nations despite attending a meeting in Brazil last week. The issue of BRICS membership has been diplomatically sensitive for Saudi Arabia since it was first invited to join in 2023, and remains so with President Donald Trump due to visit next week and Riyadh negotiating nuclear and technology deals (Read more at AOL).

Seafarers Stranded Off Yemen After US-Houthi Ceasefire Deal

Some 200 seafarers aboard more than 15 ships stuck for weeks off Yemen's port of Ras Isa are preparing to offload cargoes and leave thanks to a ceasefire deal between Houthi militia and the U.S. Still, threat levels for shipping remained high given the Houthis' confirmation that Israeli-related assets remained open to attack and the attendant risks to broader shipping, maritime officials said. Ships with no connection to Israel had been targeted in the past with no certainty of safe passage (Read more at Marine Link).

US, Israel Reportedly Discuss US-Led Administration in Gaza

Other unnamed nations "would be invited to take part" in the provisional U.S.-led administration, which "would draw on Palestinian technocrats but would exclude Islamist group Hamas and the Palestinian Authority." (Read more at Common Dreams)

Libyan authorities reject report they will take in US deportees

The National Unity government, which controls western Libya, said in a statement that it rejected the use of its territory as a destination for deporting migrants without its knowledge or consent. Khalifa Haftar’s self-styled Libyan National Army, which controls eastern Libya, also rejected the report, saying that migrants “will not be received through airports and ports secured by the Armed Forces, and that this is completely false and we cannot accept it at all” (Read more at Aljazeera).

Qatari financing of Syrian salaries gets US go-ahead

Qatar, which is among Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's strongest international backers, had been reluctant to act without the blessing of Washington, which imposed sanctions when ousted leader Bashar al-Assad was in power. Two people briefed on the matter told Reuters that Qatar had been informed about the U.S. greenlight and said the U.S. Treasury Department's office of Foreign Assets Control was expected to imminently provide a letter confirming the initiative was exempt from U.S. sanctions (Read more at Global Banking and Finance).

U.S. bombing dents but doesn't destroy Houthi threat in Yemen

The Houthis can survive pretty much any bombing campaign, said one U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity. Michael Knights, an expert on Yemen at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy think-tank, said the group could recover if weaponry continues to flow from its ally Iran (Read more at Street Insider).

US to merge Palestinian affairs office with Israel embassy, says State Department

The US Office of Palestinian Affairs will now report to US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee and will be merged with the other sections of the main embassy to Israel in the coming weeks (Read more at: deccanherald).

Iran-born engineer denied bail ahead of US trial tied to drone strike

It is related to a deadly drone attack on a U.S. military base in Jordan carried out by Iran-backed militants last year. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in Boston ruled, opens new tab that the risk that Mahdi Sadeghi might flee was too great to allow him to be released on bond while he awaited trial on charges that he engaged in a scheme to violate U.S. export control and sanctions laws (Read more at Reuters).

Trump says he is not planning to visit Israel as part of upcoming trip

While the White House has never confirmed that Israel would be part of his upcoming trip, there have been widespread rumors in diplomatic and national security circles that he would extend his trip to visit the U.S. ally (Read more at Reuters).

Biden’s Gaza pier was more dangerous and costly than previously known

The aid mission was beset with challenges from the start, including rough seas that tore the structure apart, ships that ran aground and the death of a U.S. soldier (Read more at Washington Post).

US Navy loses 2nd fighter jet in Red Sea in a week

The F/A-18 F fighter jet was attempting a nighttime landing onto the deck of the carrier when the crew was unable to stop it in time before going off the side, according to the official. When the “failed arrestment” of the aircraft became apparent, the two pilots ejected. Both of the pilots were recovered and early indications are that they suffered minor injuries (Read more at ABC News).

US reviews occupation of University of Washington by pro-Palestinian protesters

The US government said on Tuesday it will review an incident at the University of Washington (UW) in which pro-Palestinian protesters occupied a university building while demanding the school cut ties with Boeing over its contracts with the Israeli military. President Donald Trump's administration labelled the incident as anti-Semitic activity. While it praised university and law enforcement officials for their response, it urged the school to take enforcement actions and make policy changes (Read more at Times Live).

What Donald Trump’s Deal with the Houthis Means

The United States has inked a vague agreement with the Yemen-based Houthi Movement (Ansar Allah) to end their fighting in the Red Sea. The shocking announcement immediately raised many questions, not limited to whether the deal includes all Red Sea shipping and Israel—the latter of which the Houthis continue to strike. Yet, even with limited details and conflicting reports about the substance of the agreement, the decision to end fighting with the group marks a crucial moment for U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East (Read more at National Interest).

Israel Discusses JASSM Missile Procurement With US

Israel’s Ministry of Defense (MoD) is reportedly in “advanced talks” with the US to procure Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM) from Lockheed Martin (Read more at Defense Post).

Sheba Medical Center to open outpost in Boston

Sheba Medical Center, the largest hospital in Israel, announced on Wednesday that it will open its first U.S.-based health-care startup accelerator in Massachusetts in 2026 (Read more at JNS).

Trump administration urges court to prevent release of pro-Palestinian students

The Trump administration urged a U.S. appeals court on Tuesday to allow immigration authorities to continue to detain students at Tufts University and Columbia University who were arrested after engaging in pro-Palestinian advocacy on campus (Read more at AOL).

Humanitarian aid restrictions by Israel may violate US law

Concern about civilians in Gaza has risen since Republican President Donald Trump, who is a staunch supporter of Israel, began his second term on January 20. The six senators - Chris Van Hollen, Dick Durbin, Jeff Merkley, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Peter Welch - wrote to Comptroller General Gene Dodaro asking him to launch an investigation by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office of the U.S. government's implementation of laws regarding the delivery of humanitarian assistance (Read more at AOL). 

Saudi Arabia and US to sign mining deal

This move comes as Saudi Arabia accelerates its drive to become a global hub for battery and electric vehicle manufacturing. The Kingdom is investing heavily in mining and industrial development as part of its broader strategy to diversify the economy away from oil dependence under Vision 2030 (Read more at Mining.com).

Trump says bombing of Yemen to stop

“The Houthis have announced to us that they don’t want to fight any more. They just don’t want to fight, and we will honour that, and we will stop the bombings,” Trump said. Trump claimed that the Iran-aligned Yemeni group “capitulated” and has promised not to carry out attacks on shipping (Read more at Aljazeera).

Meta suit against Israel's NSO offered rare insight into world of cyberespionage

Israel's NSO Group was handed a $168 million penalty by a federal jury in California on Tuesday for hijacking the servers of WhatsApp in order to hack users of the Meta-owned chat platform on behalf of foreign spy agencies. The case caps a six-year battle between the American social media giant and the surveillance firm. It has also cast an unusual amount of light on the inner workings of the spyware industry (Read more at Yahoo Finance).

Turkish bank appeals Iran sanctions decision to US Supreme Court

The Supreme Court had given Halkbank until Monday to file a petition appealing the October 22, 2024, decision by the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan allowing the prosecution (Read more at Business Standard).

Trump teases ‘very big’ mystery announcement before Middle East trip

"Like as big as it gets, and I won't tell you why. And it's very positive," he declared to journalists from the Oval Office on Tuesday, adding, "It is really, really, positive. That announcement will be made either Thursday, or Friday, or the Monday before we leave." (Read more at The Mirror)

Trump set to rename Persian Gulf in major show of deference to Saudi Arabia

Although Trump has the authority to alter the official US designation, he cannot enforce a global consensus on the name. The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), which includes the United States as a member, is responsible for ensuring that all the world's seas, oceans, and navigable waters are uniformly surveyed and charted (Read more at The Mirror).

Trump hails ‘productive’ call with Turkiye’s Erdogan

US President Donald Trump says he wants to work with his Turkish counterpart to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. During the call on Monday, Trump said Erdogan had invited him to visit Turkiye and he had extended an invitation for the Turkish leader to visit Washington, DC. No dates were announced (Read more at Aljazeera).

Window open for Gaza deal during Trump Middle East visit

"If there is no hostage deal, Operation 'Gideon Chariots' will begin with great intensity and will not stop until all its goals are achieved," he said, following a decision by the security cabinet to approve an expanded operation (Read more at Reuters).

Iran says its stance on nuclear talks with US remains constant

The spokesperson added that Tehran was flexible regarding the timing of talks and was waiting for details from mediator Oman regarding the next round of negotiations with the U.S. "What matters for us is the behaviour and stances of the U.S. negotiating team," Baghaei said, adding that contradictory statements from U.S. officials were "unhelpful" and would not impact Tehran's determination to defend its fundamental positions, including its right to enrich uranium domestically (Read more at Reuters).

Houthis Report US Strikes After Israel Vows Revenge for Airport Attack

Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Monday blamed Washington for around 10 strikes in and around the capital Sana. The Houthi-run Saba news agency said the strikes included two targeting Arbaeen street in the capital as well as one on the airport road (Read more at Defense Post).

Iran says it will strike back if US or Israel attack

"If this war is initiated by the US or the Zionist regime (Israel), Iran will target their interests, bases and forces - wherever they may be and whenever deemed necessary," Iran's Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh said (Read more at Business Standard).

US Approves $3.5 Billion AMRAAM Missile Sale to Saudi Arabia

The sale includes 1,000 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs, 50 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM guidance sections, and technical support. RTX is the principal contractor, and no known offset agreement has been proposed. The sale requires the approval of the US Congress to go through (Read more at Defense Post).

Trump says the US will help ‘get some food’ to Gaza

President Donald Trump said Monday the U.S. would help supply food to people in Gaza while blaming Hamas for the dire humanitarian situation in an enclave that has been devastated by more than 18 months of Israeli bombardments. Trump’s statement during a White House news conference came after Israel approved a plan to take more control of aid delivery as part of an effort to isolate Hamas (Read more at Politico).

Trump will only accept "total dismantlement" of Iran's nuclear program

 Trump's remarks in an "Meet the Press" interview aired Sunday are the first time he's publicly announced the ambitious goal since nuclear talks began with Iran a month ago. GOP senators, evangelical leaders and other Trump supporters have called on the president in recent days to make his position clear regarding Iran's nuclear program (Read more at Axios).

Hegseth plans Israel visit ahead of Trump's Middle East trip

This would be Hegseth's first trip to Israel since taking his role. It comes at a time when the U.S. and Israeli governments are divided over the possibility of military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, and with the war in Gaza and the U.S. military campaign in Yemen ongoing (Read more at Axios).

Alleged US plans to deport people to Libya 'inhuman,' rights groups say

CNN has reported that Trump officials discussed with a Libyan delegation the possibility of sending non-nationals with criminal records to the country. One source said that administration officials are also seeking to strike a formal “safe country” agreement with Libya which would allow the US to send asylum seekers apprehended at the US border to Libya to process their claims (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Trump family crypto venture tapped as part of $2B Emirati-backed investment deal

An Abu Dhabi state-backed investment firm is making a major $2 billion investment in a crypto business deal that could serve as a major boost for Trump family crypto venture World Liberty Financial. USD1, World Liberty Financial's so-called "stablecoin" -- a digital asset designed to maintain a stable value -- is expected to be used to complete Emirati investment firm MGX's $2 billion investment transaction in crypto exchange Binance, Witkoff said (Read more at ABC News).

US gives initial approval for $3.5 billion missile sale to Saudi Arabia

The arms sale involves 1,000 AIM-120C-8 advanced medium range air-to-air missiles, guidance sections and other technical support. The missiles will be built by RTX Corp of Tucson, Ariz (Read more at AP).

US, Israel near deal on aid delivery to Gaza

The United States, Israel and representatives of a new international foundation are close to an agreement on how to resume the delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza without it being controlled by Hamas (Resource: Yahoo).

U.S. Forces Withdraw from Two Bases in Eastern Syria

A source told Al Jazeera that a convoy of U.S. forces departed on Friday evening from the Al-Omar and Conoco oil and gas field bases in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, heading toward the Hasakah countryside. The source added that the U.S. forces withdrawing from Deir ez-Zor are repositioning at the Qasrak and al-Shaddadi bases in Hasakah, an area largely controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (Read more at Jordan News).

Iran says US sanctions 'will not change' policy after Trump warnings

"The continuation of these illegal behaviours will not change Iran's logical, legitimate and international law-based positions," a foreign ministry statement said, condemning what it called "pressure on Iran's trade and economic partners". It added that such sanctions have created "deep suspicion and mistrust about the seriousness of America on the path of diplomacy" (Read more at Channel News Asia).

Iraq Receives Two Airbus H225M Multi-Role Helicopters

The Airbus Caracal was developed as a long-range tactical military helicopter designed for troop transport, casualty evacuation, and combat search and rescue. Iraq has received two H225M Caracal medium-lift helicopters from Airbus as part of a 14-helicopter deal signed last year. The next six units are scheduled to arrive between June and October, with the final batch arriving by early 2026 (Read more at Defense Post).

Oil up 2% as Trump threatens new sanctions on Iran

Trump’s renewed hardline stance toward Tehran—issued just as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks stalled—jolted oil traders and triggered a nearly 2% rise in crude prices. The move could further destabilize global energy markets already facing uncertainty from OPEC+ supply decisions and weakening economic signals from the U.S (Read more at Mehrnews).

Iran accuses US of 'provocative statements' ahead of nuclear talks

Iran yesterday accused the United States of “contradictory behaviour and provocative statements” after Washington warned Tehran of consequences for backing Yemen’s Houthis and imposed new oil-related sanctions on it in the midst of nuclear talks. Yesterday, Washington imposed sanctions on entities it accused of involvement in the illicit trade of Iranian oil and petrochemicals (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Jordanian sentenced to six years in US prison for anti-Israel attacks

A Jordanian national in Orlando, Florida, was sentenced to six years in U.S. federal prison for threats against and attacks on businesses over their perceived support for Israel, the U.S. Justice Department said. Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, 44, described by prosecutors as "a Jordanian national residing illegally in Orlando," broke into a solar power generation facility in Wedgefield, Florida, in June 2024, according to prosecutors. He caused more than $450,000 in damage (Read more at MSN).

US says Iran must ‘walk away’ from enrichment

“They have to walk away from sponsoring terrorists, they have to walk away from helping the Houthis (in Yemen), they have to walk away from building long-range missiles that have no purpose to exist other than having nuclear weapons, and they have to walk away from enrichment,” Rubio said in a Fox News interview (Read more at Dawn).

Ex-Obama officials slam Biden’s Gaza policies

Rhodes, who served as deputy national security advisor, says: “Israel doesn’t want to end the war … if they were willing to end the war, they would get the hostages out. The idea that they need to continue to fight the war against Hamas in Gaza - I’m sorry, there’s no security need to do it. You’re just talking about an already traumatised people, including a lot of injured people, who are being bombed in tents with no food and medicine.” (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Saudi Arabia told US to keep Israel normalisation off agenda for Trump's visit

Saudi Arabia has set a ground rule for US President Donald Trump and his entourage ahead of their visit to the kingdom in May: keep talk of normalisation with Israel off the agenda. That was the message delivered by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud during his visit to Washington DC last month to plan Trump’s visit to the kingdom and in follow-up discussions among senior officials (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Palestinian student Mohsen Mahdawi released on bail as he challenges US deportation

Columbia University student Mohsen Mahdawi was released from US immigration custody on April 30, after a judge ruled he should be free on bail to challenge the Trump administration’s efforts to deport him over his participation in pro-Palestinian protests. Mr Mahdawi, born and raised in a refugee camp in the West Bank, was arrested earlier in April upon arriving for an interview for his US citizenship petition. A judge swiftly ordered President Donald Trump’s administration not to deport him from the United States or take him out of the state of Vermont (Read more at Straits Times).

US Says Hit Over 1,000 Targets in Yemen Since Mid-March

In the latest round of its air campaign since March 15, “USCENTCOM strikes have hit over 1,000 targets, killing Houthi fighters and leaders… and degrading their capabilities,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement on Tuesday, referring to the military command responsible for the Middle East (Read more at Defense Post).

Pentagon chief threatens Iran with consequences for supporting Houthis

“Message to Iran: We see your deadly support for the Houthis. We know exactly what you are doing. You know what the US military is capable of, and you have been warned. You will face the consequences at a time and place of our choosing,” Hegseth wrote on social network X (Read more at UATV).

US-Iran talks postponed, new date depends on US approach, Iranian official says

"U.S. sanctions on Iran during the nuclear talks are not helping the sides to resolve the nuclear dispute through diplomacy," an official said. Oman, which mediated earlier sessions of the U.S.-Iran talks, said on Thursday the next round of nuclear discussions provisionally planned for May 3 would be rescheduled for "logistical reasons" (Read more at Reuters).

Trump asked for free passage through Suez Canal

Trump has made no secret of his belief that US vessels should transit the strategic waterway for free. On Saturday, he publicly demanded as much, saying the canal "would not exist without the United States of America”. One Egyptian MP was reported as characterising the Trump administration's moves as blackmail and rubbished Trump's claim about the canal's existence, saying it was "purely Egyptian" (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Emirates executive says no impact seen from US tariffs, but airline remains vigilant

Emirates, the largest airline in the United Arab Emirates and a key contributor to its economy, is the world's biggest operator of Boeing 777 jets and one of the largest cargo carriers globally. "Things are looking quite positive. But it's something, again, you cannot ignore. There are so many uncertainties out there that we need to watch and monitor", the airline's Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim said on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market show in Dubai (Read more at Reuters).

Jordan wins Trump aid carve-out for strategic projects and support

Millions of dollars in US grants for Jordan's largest water desalination project abruptly dried up when President Donald Trump announced sweeping cuts to foreign aid in January. Within two months, support was flowing again, a result of diplomacy that has arguably put the pivotal Middle Eastern state on a more solid financial footing than before the US President’s shock move to reshape global foreign aid in January (Read more at Straits Times).

U.S. backs Israel's ban on the U.N.'s Palestinian aid agency at the World Court

The United States told the International Court of Justice Wednesday that Israel must provide aid to Gaza, but the country does not have to work with the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees (Read more at NPR).

US approves $425 million Patriot equipment and support sale to Kuwait

"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the infrastructure of a major non-NATO ally that has been an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East," the US State Department said in a statement (Read more at Anadolu Ajansı).

Trump's first real estate project in Qatar

The Trump International Golf Course and Trump Villas will be part of the Simaisma beachside development 40 minutes north of the Qatari capital Doha. The $5.5 billion Simaisma development, led by Qatari Diar, is designed as a 7 km-long mega entertainment resort district, anchored by an 18-hole golf course and a Land of Legends theme park (Read more at AOL).

US targets China, Iran-based companies in fresh sanctions

The United States has imposed sanctions on a network based in Iran and China that it accused of procuring ballistic missile propellant ingredients on behalf of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps as President Donald Trump's administration seeks to increase pressure on Tehran. The U.S. Treasury Department in a statement said it was targeting six entities and six individuals as part of the action, which comes as the Trump administration has relaunched negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program (Read more at Iran Front Page).

Syria’s foreign minister met State Dept officials in New York

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani has been in the United States for meetings at the United Nations, where he raised the three-star flag of Syria’s uprising. Damascus is keen to hear a realistic path forward from the United States for permanent sanctions relief while conveying a realistic timeline to deliver on Washington’s demands for the lifting of the sanctions (Read more at Arabnews).

US Senate confirms private equity executive Barrack as ambassador to Turkey

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed private equity executive Thomas Barrack, a longtime friend and backer of President Donald Trump, to be U.S. ambassador to Turkey, a NATO member that in recent years has had strained ties with the United States. The Senate confirmed Barrack by 60 votes to 36, with almost all his support coming from Trump's fellow Republicans, who hold 53 seats in the 100-member chamber (Read more at MSN).

UK and US forces launch joint air strikes on Houthi target in Yemen

Britain said it joined US forces in air strikes on a Houthi military target in Yemen overnight, hitting a rebel drone production facility about 25 km (15 miles) south of Sanaa. Britain and the US have also previously conducted joint operations and strikes in Yemen (Read more at France 24).

US tells ICJ that law allows Israel to attack UN agencies that aren't impartial

On the third day of hearings by the World Court in The Hague examining Israel’s legal humanitarian obligations in occupied Palestine, the US rejected the opinion held by the majority of states that Israel has breached international law in its attacks on UN and international organisations during its war on Gaza since October 2023 (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Ben-Gvir concludes US visit with meetings on Capitol Hill

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir concluded his visit to the United States on Monday with a meeting on Capitol Hill with House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.) (Read more at JNS).

Jordan and US in talks to extradite alleged Jerusalem Sbarro bomber

US officials have entered talks with Jordan about extraditing a high-profile Jordanian citizen who was convicted by an Israeli court for assisting in a deadly attack in Jerusalem. The discussions come at a critical time for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, which has banned the Muslim Brotherhood and is wary of its citizens' anger at Israel over the war in Gaza. Jordan and Israel have had a peace treaty since 1994. The extradition of Ahlam Tamimi is being discussed as part of a broader package of deals that Jordan hopes will allow it to obtain more US economic assistance, which has been curtailed with the dismantling of the US Agency for International Development (USAID). (Read more at Middle East Eye)

US Lost Seven Multi-Million-Dollar MQ-9 Drones in Yemen Area Since March

MQ-9s can be used for both reconnaissance — a key aspect of US efforts to identify and target weaponry the rebels are using to attack shipping in the region — as well as strikes (Read more at Defense Post).

Advanced US Precision Bomb Found Unexploded in Southern Yemen

An unexploded precision glide bomb fired by US forces against Houthi militants was found in Yemen’s southern Shabwah governorate, sparking fears of it falling into enemy hands (Read more at Defense Post).

US glad to work with Syria, will ‘take precautions’ to ensure it’s not being fooled

Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-Ind.) returned from an official visit to Syria this month with more cautious optimism about the country’s new government than Washington and Jerusalem have mustered. Al-Sharaa has engaged the West, indicating openness to joining the Abraham Accords, and Stuztman and the Syrian leader discussed commerce and Syria’s potential to become a central trade and tourism hub (Read more at JNS).

Alleged ISIS terrorist charged with inciting New Orleans truck attacker

An alleged ISIS terrorist has been arrested in connection with the Jan. 1 Bourbon Street car attack that killed 14 people in Louisiana, according to Iraqi officials. The suspect is accused of inciting Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, to carry out the attack, which also left dozens injured on the famed New Orleans street at the height of New Year’s Eve celebrations (Read more at New York Post).

First U.S. State to Use “Judea & Samaria” in Place of West Bank

The initiative was championed by Representative Mindy McAlindon and supported by American Friends of Judea and Samaria (AFJS). Founders Yigal Dilmoni and Rafi Lizerovitz praised the decision, calling it a powerful step in “spreading the historical truth about Judea and Samaria to the world.” Arkansas’ decision may set a precedent for other pro-Israel states across the country. Governor Sanders, daughter of newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, has made clear her strong support for Israel and its historical claims. Similar legislation is reportedly under consideration in Washington State (Read more at 5 Towns Central).

Rubio looks to cut security coordinator role for West Bank, Gaza

Held by a three-star general, the role involves coordinating between political and military officials in Israel and the Palestinian Authority to try to avoid and contain security crises. It has become especially important as the security situation in the occupied West Bank has continued to deteriorate. Sources who spoke to Axios expressed concern that eliminating it could lead to further destabilization in the West Bank at a time when the war in Gaza is still ongoing (Read more at Axios).

Gulf is 'dependent on a strong America', says Trump’s son

Asked about the impact that the tariffs imposed or planned by President Donald Trump’s administration have had on the global economy and the Gulf region in particular, the president’s son said that the UAE was less exposed to tariffs because of its service-oriented, capital-intensive economy. “They can largely avoid that and I think that’s good for so much of the Gulf.” (Read more at Middle East Monitor)

Trump allies say 'Mossad agents' and 'warmongers' trying to derail Iran talks

Last week, conservative talk show host Tucker Carlson featured a senior Department of Defence official who he claimed was ousted because he was seen as an obstacle to the US bombing Iran. Dan Caldwell, a top advisor to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, was removed from the Pentagon earlier this month on charges that he allegedly leaked classified information about Hegseth’s use of a Signal chat (Read more at Middle East Eye).

US strike kills dozens at Yemen migrant detention center

Another 47 people were injured in the strike in the city of Saada, in the northwest of the country. The center housed around 100 African migrants. There was no immediate U.S. comment on the strike (Read more at ABCNews).

Etihad Airways shrugs off US tariff turmoil, sees opportunities

Etihad had recorded strong seat occupancy levels in recent weeks despite the trade tensions, and that the volatility could even create opportunities in some instances. He expects more Europeans, for example, to take advantage of the euro’s recent gains against the dollar and the Gulf region’s dollar-pegged currencies to travel (Read more at Arabnews).

US Treasury Targets Vessels Delivering Oil Derivatives to the Houthis

The Houthis profit significantly from the shipment of goods through ports they control, profiting, in particular, from the discharge of refined petroleum products. Treasury will continue to leverage our tools and authorities to target those who seek to enable the Houthis’ ability to exploit the people of Yemen and continue their campaign of violence (Read more at US Department of the Treasury).

Woodside in Talks With Kuwait Firm for US LNG Project Stake

Woodside Energy (WDS.AX), opens new tab is in talks with an overseas unit of Kuwait Petroleum to sell a stake in its Louisiana liquefied natural gas plant in the U.S. The overseas unit, Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration, is also considering securing LNG supply from the project. Earlier this month, Woodside, Australia's top gas producer, had agreed to sell a 40% stake in its Louisiana LNG plant to U.S. infrastructure investor Stonepeak for $5.7 billion (Read more at Reuters).

Israel favours upgrading US free trade deal, economy minister says

An upgraded trade pact would ease restrictions on data sharing that would enable significant collaboration. Most U.S. goods are already exempt from Israeli tariffs under a 1985 trade deal (Read more at AOL).

Israel Offers US Trade Concession in Effort to Avoid Tariff Pain

Israel told the US, its largest trading partner and closest ally, that it will ease import standards for US goods, the minister said, in line with a similar concession made to the European Union last year. That reform became known as ‘What’s Good for Europe is Good for Israel’ (Read more at Bloomberg).

Iran proposes meeting with Europeans before next talks with U.S

Iran's reach out to Britain, France and Germany, known as the E3, suggests Tehran is keeping its options open, but also wants to assess where the Europeans stand on the possible re-imposition of U.N. sanctions before October, when a resolution ratifying the 2015 accord expires (Read more at AOL).

Israeli minister Dermer says he's confident Trump would reject 'bad' Iran deal

Asked whether Israel would be willing to strike Iran's "military facilities" by itself, Dermer said he would not "talk about operational issues" but that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should be believed when he said he would do whatever it takes to prevent Iran developing a nuclear weapon (Read more at MSN).

US fighter jet falls overboard while avoiding Houthi attack

The military was using the $60 million jet as part of its weekslong campaign against Houthi fighters in Yemen. One sailor was injured in the mishap, which included the loss of a vehicle used to tow the aircraft across the deck. The plane and truck sank. The aircraft’s loss adds to the growing price tag in the effort against the Houthis, which has included seven MQ-9 drones shot down by the Iran-backed group over the past several weeks (Read more at Politico).

New York probes reported counter-protest assaults during Israeli official's visit

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said on Sunday that police were investigating a series of incidents that have erupted from clashing pro-Palestinian protests and pro-Israeli counter-protests, including the reported assault on Thursday of two women by a pro-Israeli crowd. Demonstrations have taken place in recent days during a visit to New York by far-right Israeli national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, a West Bank settler who has pressed for an intensification of U.S. ally Israel's war in the Gaza Strip (Read more at AOL).

US says UNRWA is not immune from lawsuits

The Trump administration has reversed the US government’s longstanding position that the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) was protected from civil liability. The new position was unveiled in a letter the Justice Department filed in federal court in New York on Thursday as part of a lawsuit that aims to hold the agency accountable for the Hamas-led attacks of October 7 (Read more at Aljazeera).

Trump poised to offer Saudi Arabia over $100b arms package

The offered package comes after the administration of former President Joe Biden unsuccessfully tried to finalise a defence pact with Riyadh as part of a broad deal that envisioned Saudi Arabia normalising ties with Israel (Read more at Daily Star).

U.S. says "further progress was made" in third round of nuclear talks with Iran

The senior U.S. official said the third round of talks lasted over four hours and included direct and indirect engagement between the U.S. and Iranian teams. Araghchi said in a briefing with his traveling press that he is satisfied with the progress and pace of the negotiations and stressed both sides are serious. "Some differences are serious, some less so. I'm hopeful about reaching a deal, but yet cautious," Araghchi added (Read more at Axios).

Syrian letter delivers response to US conditions for sanctions relief

In the four-page document, Syria pledges to set up a liaison office at the foreign ministry to find missing US journalist Austin Tice and details its work to tackle chemical weapons stockpiles, including closer ties with a global arms watchdog. But it had less to say on other key demands, including removing foreign fighters and granting the US permission for counterterrorism strikes (Read more at Business Standard).

Iran says US energy sanctions show ‘lack of goodwill’ in nuclear talks

“The continued imposition of sanctions against various economic sectors of Iran is in clear contradiction with the US claim for dialogue and negotiation and indicates the lack of goodwill and seriousness of the US in this regard,” Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei said (Read more at Arab Weekly).

US deports Iraqi man at center of debate on refugee policy

Omar Abdulsattar Ameen, who was granted refugee status in the US in 2014, denied Iraqi charges that he murdered a police officer as a Daesh operative. Ameen was sent to Rwanda earlier this month according to the US official (Read more at Arabnews).

Trump may ease AI chip curbs on some Gulf countries

These restrictions were imposed during the Biden administration to limit the export of American AI chips to the Middle East. They were enacted due to concerns that these semiconductors could be diverted to China and enhance its military capabilities (Readm more at Tech in Asia).

Türkiye says committed to advancing strategic partnership with US

Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek on Thursday said Türkiye was committed to advancing its strategic partnership with the United States in all fields. Şimşek's remarks came following what he said were "productive discussions" with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington. It was not immediately clear whether the officials discussed tariffs that U.S. President Donald Trump announced last month and that went into effect earlier this month (Read more at Daily Sabah).

US leader says he pushed Netanyahu on Gaza aid

No aid has been delivered to the Palestinian enclave since March 2. Israel has said it would not allow the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza until Palestinian militant group Hamas releases all remaining hostages. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked whether concerns about humanitarian aid access came up in his phone call with Netanyahu earlier this week. "Gaza came up and I said, 'We've got to be good to Gaza ... Those people are suffering,'" Trump said (Read more at APA Group).

Iran sees missile programme as main sticking point in US talks

An official reiterated Iran's longstanding position that it would not make any further concessions on its missile programme beyond those agreed in a previous deal in 2015, saying Iran's defensive capabilities "are not up for negotiation". The U.S. State Department declined to comment. The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment (Read more at Yahoo News).

US lists demands at UN as Syria seeks sanctions relief

The U.S. wants Syria's authorities to fully renounce and suppress terrorism, adopt a policy of non-aggression to neighboring states, exclude foreign terrorist fighters from any official roles, prevent Iran and its proxies from exploiting Syrian territory, destroy weapons of mass destruction, assist in the recovery of U.S. citizens disappeared in Syria, and ensure the security and freedoms of all Syrians (Read more at MSN).

Trump open to meeting Iran's leaders

Asked whether he was open to meeting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei or President Masoud Pezeshkian, Trump replied: "Sure." When asked if the U.S. would join a war against Iran should Israel take action, he responded: "I may go in very willingly if we can't get a deal. If we don't make a deal, I'll be leading the pack." (Read more at Straits Times)

US says blast near Yemen UNESCO world heritage site caused by Houthi missile

Houthi officials had claimed that a U.S. strike killed a dozen people in the residential area of Sanaa’s Old City on Sunday. The U.S. Central Command, however, said its nearest strike that night was over 5 kilometers (3 miles) away, and that the explosion was likely caused by a Houthi air defense missile. This conclusion was based on local reports and videos showing Arabic inscriptions on missile fragments at the scene, according to a CENTCOM spokesperson (Read more at anewz).

Trump says effort for Iran nuclear deal going well

Trump made the remarks ahead of technical talks between the US and Iranian delegations in Oman on Saturday. "I think we're doing very well on an agreement with Iran. ... That one is well on its way - we could have a very, very good decision," Trump said (Read more at Mehrnews).

‘Outrageous’: Anti-Zionist group targets Ben-Gvir, Chabad headquarters in Brooklyn, NY

“In total, six individuals were taken into custody,” the NYPD said. “Five of the individuals were issued criminal court summonses, and one was arrested.” (Read more at JNS).

US plans to evacuate its citizens from Gaza ahead of Trump's Middle East visit

The evacuation of US citizens trapped in the besieged Gaza Strip is planned to take place in the coming week and is likely to occur on or before 7 May. Approximately 20 Palestinian Americans will be evacuated from Gaza and bussed to Jordan (Read more at Middle East Eye).

China backs Iran holding nuclear talks with ‘bullying’ US

“China has always been committed to a political and diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue and is opposed to resorting to force and illegal unilateral sanctions at every turn,” China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. Wang said China appreciated Iran’s commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, respected the country’s right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and supported its dialogue with all parties, including the US (Read more at South China Morining Post).

Iran rejects demand from US to rely on imported uranium

If Washington sticks to the position taken by Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, in the third round of talks in Oman on Saturday, the two sides will have hit their first major negotiating hurdle. They are trying to reach an agreement that blocks off Iran’s access to a nuclear bomb in return for relief from economic sanctions. The Rubio plan is an attempt at compromise between those inside the US administration who say the only certain way to close off Iran’s path to a nuclear bomb is to dismantle its entire nuclear programme and those that say Iran should be allowed to enrich low purity uranium subject to a full external inspection. That proposal is similar to the system set up in the 2015 nuclear deal from which Donald Trump withdrew the US in his first term (Read more at Guardian).

Rubio says Iran must give up nuclear enrichment in any deal with the US

“If Iran wants a civil nuclear program, they can have one just like many other countries can have one, and that is they import enriched material,” Rubio said. Iran insists its nuclear program is for civilian energy use and says it does not seek to make weapons-grade uranium to build atomic bombs (Read more at AP).

Iran raised possible interim nuclear deal with U.S

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told White House envoy Steve Witkoff during nuclear talks on Saturday that it might not be possible to reach a final nuclear accord on President Trump's proposed timetable and asked whether the sides should first negotiate an interim deal. If a deal isn't reached, Trump could order a U.S. military strike against Iran's nuclear facilities or support an Israeli strike (Read more at Axios).

US names Michael Anton to lead technical talks with Iran

Anton is a low-profile and increasingly powerful administration official who worked on the National Security Council in the first Trump administration and later served as a fellow at the conservative Claremont Institute. He has not yet staked out a public stance on the Iran file. “He is the perfect man for the job given his experience and intellect. Most importantly, he will ensure that President Trump’s agenda on this file is followed through,” an administration official said (Read more at Politico).

US rebuffs Israeli push to keep troops in northeast Syria

“Israel is opposed to the US withdrawing from northeast Syria,” one former U.S. official told MEE. “They want to see the US extract concessions from Türkiye on demilitarisation before any American boots leave Syrian soil.” The Trump administration’s decision is aimed at shifting from a military presence to a political role in the region (Read more at Turkiye Today).

US aid cuts push Yemeni children into begging

In a makeshift camp located in Yemen's mountainous Taiz province, Ahmed Ghalib, in his 60s, lives with his wife and four children. He fled his home in 2018, leaving everything behind, and has since depended on humanitarian aid for basic services. He added that those who felt ashamed went to beg in far away markets to avoid being recognised by neighbours and relatives. According to the United Nations, 19.5 million Yemenis – more than half the population – including 4.5 million displaced people, are in need of humanitarian aid (Read more at Middle East Eye). 

Lawyers slam Michigan for 'intimidating' pro-Palestinian students with raids

FBI and local law enforcement raided homes of students who participated in pro-Palestinian protests at the University of Michigan. Amir Makled, an attorney representing some of the students who were targeted, called the raids a "witch hunt" designed to deter students from pro-Palestinian demonstrations (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Iran fortifying buried nuclear sites as talks with US continue

Iran is ringing two deeply buried tunnel complexes with a massive security perimeter linked to its main nuclear complex. David Albright, the institute president, said the new perimeter suggested that the tunnel complexes, under construction beneath Mount Kolang Gaz La for several years, could become operational relatively soon (Read more at Yahoo).

US targets Iranian LPG magnate

The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has designated Iranian national and liquified petroleum gas (LPG) “magnate” Seyed Asadoollah Emamjomeh and his corporate network, for his role in shipping hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of Iranian LPG and crude oil to foreign markets.  Emamjomeh’s expansive network includes a vessel, the 2024-built Tinos I, which intended but failed to load cargo last year on its maiden voyage off the coast of Houston (Read more at Splash 247).

Israel optimistic on reaching trade deal with US, economy minister says

"There are a number of things under discussion... but I can tell you that both sides are optimistic that we can reach an agreement," Barkat said in an interview during a visit to Abu Dhabi. The United States is Israel's largest trading partner and closest ally, with bilateral trade worth $34 billion in 2024 (Read more at MSN).

Iran FM speech at Washington nuclear conference cancelled

According to the mission, the cancellation came as a result of the organizer’s decision to shift the format from a solo speech to a debate. The Iranian delegation expressed regret over the change and confirmed that the full text of Araghchi’s prepared remarks would be published at an appropriate time (Read more at Profile News).

Trump speaks to Netanyahu on Gaza hostage deal and Iran

The phone call took place amid a stalemate in the Gaza negotiations after another failed attempt last week by the U.S. and Egypt to put forward a bridging proposal both sides could accept. The Trump administration wants to make another attempt this week to bring about a breakthrough, but Netanyahu has been reluctant to agree to anything beyond an interim deal that does not end the war. I've just spoken to Prime Minister of Israel, Bibi Netanyahu, relative to numerous subjects including Trade, Iran, etc. The call went very well—We are on the same side of every issue," Trump said (Read more at Axios).

Iran hails US talks and eyes investment to revitalise its economy

Tehran has confirmed that the discussions have led so far to an understanding on the broad framework of the negotiations. Iran has praised the continuing talks with the US as the two sides prepare for further meetings, saying it hopes they could lead to investment and help revive its ailing economy (Read more at The National).

Hegseth shared information ahead of Yemen strikes in a Signal chat with wife and brother

He did so after an aide had warned him not to do so. Sean Parnell, the chief Defense Department spokesman, denied that Hegseth had shared classified information. “There was no classified information in any Signal chat,” he said on X (Read more on CNBC).

Turkey’s finance minister to meet with investors and rating agencies in US

He said discussions would include firms exploring supply chain shifts to Turkey in light of recent geopolitical and economic developments, including US President Donald Trump’s newly imposed tariffs. Şimşek said he would attend as many as 15 meetings a day with international investors and financial institutions while in the US (Read more at Turkish Minute).

Did US Ambassador Huckabee admit to using starvation as a weapon of war in Gaza

Many online say the US ambassador to Israel has unmasked US support for Israel's humanitarian blockade of Gaza. The new ambassador to Israel – who served as governor of Arkansas and later as a Fox News commentator – published a video response to the WHO official on Monday, saying: "How about we put the pressure where it really belongs – on Hamas." "When that happens, and hostages are released – which is an urgent matter for all of us – then we hope that humanitarian aid will flow, and flow freely, knowing that it will be done without Hamas being able to confiscate and abuse their own people by not allowing those resources to get to the people who desperately need it." (Read more at Middle East Eye)

UN Chief ‘Gravely Concerned’ About US Strikes on Yemen

Guterres “is gravely concerned about the air strikes conducted by the United States over the course of 17 and 18 April in and around Yemen’s port of Ras Issa, which reportedly resulted in scores of civilian casualties, including five humanitarian workers injured,” spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement (Read more at Defense Post).

'Unlikely is possible', says Oman as US-Iran nuclear talks progress in Rome

Oman’s Foreign Ministry said the talks resulted in an agreement to move towards the next phase of negotiations aimed at sealing “a fair, enduring and binding deal”. The next step would ensure “Iran is completely free of nuclear weapons and sanctions, and maintains its ability to develop peaceful nuclear energy”, it added. “This time we managed to reach a better understanding on a series of principles and goals,” Mr Al Busaidi told Iranian state TV (Read more at The National).

Syria's Christians make case for co-existence to visiting US Congressmen

A Christian businessman said he raised the issue of US sanctions and the need for them to be removed. “Like all Syrians, Christians also want the prosperity of Syria,” he said. He added that the Christians of Sednaya have been stigmatised because they did not join the anti-Al Assad revolt, unlike the surrounding Sunni cities and towns (Read more at The National).

Father of American hostage in Gaza hopeful he is still alive

The armed wing of Hamas said on Saturday it did not know the fate of Alexander, after noting that the guard holding him was killed. Adi Alexander, whose son Edan was serving in the Israeli army when he was captured on October 7, 2023, called on the United States to engage in direct talks to free the remaining hostages – dead and alive – abducted during the deadly attack launched by Hamas two years ago in southern Israel (Read more at Arabnews).

U.S. says China satellite company aiding attacks by Yemen's Houthis

"Chang Guang Satellite Technology Company... is directly supporting Iran-backed Huthi terrorist attacks on U.S. interests," State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told journalists (Read more at The Hindu).

Iran says nuclear deal is possible if Washington is realistic

"Given the contradictory positions we have heard from various U.S. officials over the past few days, we expect the U.S. side to first provide an explanation in this regard and to remove the serious ambiguities that have arisen regarding its intentions and seriousness," Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, said (Read more at Japan Times).

Iran wants guarantees Trump will not quit a new nuclear pact

Former US President Joe Biden, whose administration unsuccessfully tried to reinstate the 2015 pact, was not able to meet Tehran's demand for guarantees that no future US administration would renege on it. While both Tehran and Washington have said they are set on pursuing diplomacy, they remain far apart on a dispute that has rumbled on for more than two decades (Read more at Business Standard).

Iran, US task experts with framework for a nuclear deal after 'progress' in talks

It was agreed that negotiations will continue and move into the next phase, in which expert-level meetings will begin on Wednesday in Oman. The experts will have the opportunity to start designing a framework for an agreement. The top negotiators would meet again in Oman next Saturday to "review the experts' work and assess how closely it aligns with the principles of a potential agreement (Read more at MSN)

Trump says he is not in a rush to attack Iran over its nuclear program

When asked to comment on the possibility of a military action against Iran, Trump said: "I wouldn't say [I] waved off [this option]. I'm not in a rush to do it, because I think that Iran has a chance to have a great country and to live happily without death. And I'd like to see that. That's my first option. If there's a second option, I think it would be very bad for Iran. And I think Iran is wanting to talk. I hope they're wanting to talk. It's going to be very good for them if they do." (Read more at Tass)

US strikes on Yemeni port kill 74 in deadliest attack under Trump

In a statement released on Friday, US Central Command defended the attack, saying American forces had struck to "eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists and deprive them of illegal revenue that has funded Houthi efforts to terrorise the entire region for over 10 years." (Read more at Euronews)

US to screen social media of visa applicants who spent time in Gaza

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered the State Department to review the social media accounts of foreign applicants for United States visas who have visited the Gaza Strip in the past 18 years. The cable covers all immigrant and non-immigrant US visas – including students and tourists – of people who have spent “any length of time in an official or diplomatic capacity” in Gaza on or after January 1, 2007 (Read more at Aljazeera).