The United States has struck over 800 targets in Yemen, killing hundreds of Houthi fighters, in an operation to end the threat they pose to vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The US State Department is in touch with India and Pakistan, urging them to work toward a responsible solution as tensions rise following a recent militant attack in Kashmir.

President Donald Trump's first 100 days in office have upended parts of the rules-based world order that Washington helped build from the ashes of World War II. His 'America First' agenda has alienated friends and emboldened adversaries, causing uncertainty and disruption in global affairs.

Houthi media reports two people killed and several injured in US strikes in Yemen's capital Sanaa. Strikes also reported in other parts of the country. US military has been intensifying attacks on Houthi positions.

Oman's Sultan and UK Foreign Secretary discuss Gaza and US-Iran in meeting in Muscat.

Arabic-focused AI technologies and language models offer hope in reviving the regular use of the language and reconnecting the Arab youth with their linguistic heritage.

Pakistan has sent 40 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the 15th aid consignment for the war-affected people.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the country's security chief a 'liar' in court, amid a dispute over the chief's dismissal.

Iran's president visits scene of port blast that killed 28, as authorities treat it as an accident amid years of shadow war with Israel.

Qatar's Prime Minister sees progress in talks for a new truce in the Israel-Hamas war and a potential hostage deal.

The first group of Hajj pilgrims from Bangladesh will depart for Saudi Arabia, with new programs and an app created to assist them during the pilgrimage.

The Israeli military intercepts a missile fired from Yemen, with the Houthi rebels claiming responsibility and targeting an air base in southern Israel. The attacks by the Houthis have intensified in recent months.

The International Court of Justice is hearing from 40 countries on what Israel must do to provide humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The court has been asked to give an advisory opinion on Israel's legal obligations after it effectively banned the UN agency for Palestinian refugees from operating.

For nearly 60 days, Israel has blocked food from Gaza, leaving Palestinians struggling to feed their families. Aid groups are running out of food to distribute and markets are nearly bare.

British Pakistani racer Enaam Ahmed aims to bridge the gap in motorsport between Muslim countries and Europe by training young drivers from the Middle East.

Trump urges 'free' transit for US ships through Panama, Suez canals

Hamas is open to a five-year truce and the release of all hostages in exchange for an end to the war in Gaza, according to an official. The group's negotiators are currently in talks with mediators in Cairo.

Houthi rebels in Yemen report that US strikes have injured eight people, as attacks have increased under President Trump.

Saudi Arabia's financial sector has been transformed through Vision 2030, with reforms in fintech, green finance, and financial literacy.

The UK is demonstrating increased international leadership in clean energy and energy security post-Brexit, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government focusing on renewable energy and closer alignment with the EU. However, the US's opposition to global climate diplomacy may pose a challenge to the UK's vision.

Members of the UK's Board of Deputies express dissent over war in Gaza in a letter published in the Financial Times, calling for frank and honest discussions within the Jewish community and between Jewish diasporas and Israel.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has appointed Hussein Al-Sheikh as his new vice president, making him a front-runner to succeed Abbas. Al-Sheikh, a veteran politician, is unpopular with the general public but has good relations with Israel and Arab allies. He will face pressure to unite the Palestinian leadership amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Spike Lee will lead a new Directors' Program in Jeddah, offering emerging filmmakers the opportunity to enhance their skills and connect with industry professionals.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has seen its assets triple since 2016, reaching $941.3 billion, surpassing its annual target. The fund has revised its 2030 goal, raising its asset management target to $2.67 trillion. PIF's growth has been driven by a diversified investment approach and strategic international investments, contributing to the expansion of priority industries in the Kingdom.

Lebanese youth footballer Celine Haidar is determined to recover and return to the pitch after sustaining a critical head injury in an Israeli airstrike. She has made significant progress in her treatment and rehabilitation and is grateful for the support of her team.

Hundreds of thousands of mourners and world leaders attended the funeral of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church's first Latin American leader, in St. Peter's Square. The funeral was marked by an outpouring of support for the pope, who was known for his compassion and efforts to make the Church more inclusive. More than 50 heads of state, including US President Donald Trump, were in attendance. The funeral was followed by a slow drive through the streets of Rome, and marks the beginning of nine days of official Vatican mourning for Francis.

Markets and businesses in Karachi shut down in response to a strike called by the Jamaat-e-Islami religious party to express solidarity with Gaza.

Palestinian artist Hazem Harb's exhibition in Dubai explores displacement and memory through self-portraits and symbolic artworks.

The Israeli military intercepted a missile launched from Yemen, where Houthi rebels have been targeting Israel. This was the 22nd missile fired since Israel's Gaza offensive resumed.

An Israeli strike in Gaza City has caused four deaths and left more than 30 people missing under the rubble of a house.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemns Israeli blockade on food in Gaza and calls for the resumption of the World Food Programme's work.

Tortoise Media is relaunching The Observer this weekend, with a new website and print edition. The publication will focus on making sense of the headlines and maintain its investigative and internationalist editorial identity. A full relaunch with a mobile app and paywall is expected in the future.

Turkey is working to strengthen its ties with Egypt through NATO, with the goal of enhancing regional stability and addressing common challenges, such as stabilizing Libya and addressing security concerns in the eastern Mediterranean.

Jordan's ban on the Muslim Brotherhood marks a turning point in the country's political history and aligns it with other countries in the region.

A Thousand and One festival, organized by MDLBEAST, is drawing crowds from around the world to Saudi Arabia to enjoy performances by global musicians like DJ Snake and R3hab. The festival features four stages with unique themes and also includes the Bizarre Bazaar, a reimagined Middle Eastern souq.

Saudi and French foreign ministers discuss Gaza crisis and upcoming Palestinian settlement conference.

The WFP has delivered its last remaining food stocks to hot meals kitchens in Gaza, which are expected to run out of food in the coming days.

The Saudi Signage and Labelling Expo, along with the Saudi Paper and Packaging Expo, is returning to Riyadh to showcase the latest products and technologies in the signage, labeling, print, and packaging industries. The events come at a time of significant growth in the Saudi Arabian market for signage and packaging.

Hundreds of Syrian Druze clerics are heading to Israel to conduct a religious pilgrimage to a sacred shrine, marking the second such visit since Bashar Assad's ouster.

Israel's Foreign Ministry deleted a condolence message for Pope Francis after his death, revealing tensions between Israel and the Vatican over Francis' criticism of Israel's conduct during the war in Gaza.

The death toll from an Israeli air strike on a house in Gaza has risen to 23, with 11 bodies recovered. In another strike, a police station was hit, resulting in 11 deaths. Israeli strikes continue, with at least five people killed in a tent strike. Since the resumption of Israel's offensive, 1,978 people have been killed in Gaza.

The Saudi Arabian Museum of Contemporary Art in Riyadh is hosting 'Adaptability,' an exhibition of clay artwork by 11 Arab artists, highlighting the material's adaptability and its connection to human strength and resilience.

Israeli military operations in the West Bank have intensified, causing an increase in Palestinian deaths and displacement of thousands. Settler attacks on Palestinians are occurring daily, and movement between towns and cities has become more difficult due to new checkpoints.

The Palestine Liberation Organization has created a vice presidency under President Mahmoud Abbas, who has not named a successor.

Lebanon amends banking secrecy law to grant regulatory bodies greater access to bank account information, aiming to restore depositors' rights and rebuild confidence in the financial system.

UN envoy meets Houthi officials in Oman to discuss stabilizing Yemen and releasing detained personnel.

Israel's Foreign Ministry deletes message of condolence for Pope Francis after criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank.

Israeli strikes have rendered Gaza's Al-Durrah Children's Hospital inoperable, adding to the 37 hospitals that have been affected by the attacks.

Arab ministers discuss Israeli policies in Jerusalem, condemning violations of international law and emphasizing the importance of preserving Jerusalem's religious identity.

Lebanon's civil society and NGO sector, which has played a crucial role in the country's survival and resilience, is facing a funding crisis due to the US funding freeze and EU aid cuts. The country's homegrown institutions, including NGOs and communal bodies, have been instrumental in providing essential services and support to the Lebanese people, especially during times of crisis. While it is important to restore a functioning state, it is equally urgent to rescue and support these institutions. The Lebanese model of collaboration between the state and civil society has proven to be effective and should be preserved.

The question of whether Hezbollah will peacefully disarm through dialogue is being discussed in Lebanon, with President Joseph Aoun expressing his desire for disarmament. The broader shifts in the region, particularly the dialogue between Iran and the US, are also impacting the situation. The Lebanese state is striving for sovereignty and there is an opportunity for Hezbollah's disarmament to be a point of discussion in the dialogue with the US over the Iranian nuclear file.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa plans to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss strained relations between the two countries. They will also address the peace process in Ukraine and the Russia-Ukraine war.

Saudi Arabia hosts a symposium on downstream decarbonization to advance strategies for curbing emissions in the oil and gas sector, emphasizing the challenge of balancing environmental goals with the strategic role of hydrocarbons.

Spain cancels contract to purchase Israeli ammunition rounds after pressure from coalition partner.

Pope Francis' lessons on humility, service, and peace are crucial for the Middle East to thrive. His passing is a reminder to embrace love and justice and honor the region's significance.

Sudan's civil war is causing immense devastation and displacement, with over 25 million people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. The conflict also poses a threat to regional and international stability, with the potential to destabilize large parts of Africa and disrupt international trade. The international community must take immediate and coordinated action to stop the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Zamzam Al-Hammadi, a rising MMA star from the UAE, has signed with PFL MENA and will compete in amateur showcase bouts.

Japan and the OIC discuss bolstering joint humanitarian programs in Afghanistan.

Syrian filmmaker Ameer Fakher Eldin continues his trilogy on displacement and exile with 'Yunan,' a film that explores the emotional journey of a Syrian writer living in exile in Germany.

Senior Palestinian officials are meeting to vote on the creation of a vice presidency and possible successor to President Mahmoud Abbas.

Supporters gather outside Vermont courthouse to support Palestinian student Mahdawi, who was arrested by ICE agents. Lawyers argue detention is retaliation for speech advocating for Palestinian human rights. Hearing scheduled for May 1 in Louisiana.

Virgin Atlantic's inaugural flight to Saudi Arabia lands in Riyadh, as the airline expands its services and announces a new route to Seoul.

The Cannes film festival will honor slain Gaza photojournalist Fatima Hassouna by screening a documentary about her work at the event next month.

France's foreign minister visits Iraq, praises stability efforts, and discusses the two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

National Wisdom Movement leader Ammar Al-Hakim emphasized the need to consolidate weapons solely in the hands of the Iraqi state. The longer the process is delayed, the weaker the authority of the central state becomes, leading to an increase in the influence of armed factions. There is also a risk of military strikes from Israel.

Saudi Arabia ranks 1st in the region and 6th in the G20 for geospatial, reflecting progress in its spatial sciences sector.

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to stop the shutdown of government-funded news broadcasts, restoring employees and contractors to their positions.

Germany, France, and the UK call on Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza and allow humanitarian aid to reach civilians in need.

Pakistan's religious affairs minister praises minorities' role in the country's progress and condemns Israeli actions in Gaza at a Holi celebration in Islamabad.

Over 400 patients have died in Gaza due to lack of proper treatment during the 18-month conflict, with the blockade imposed by Israel making it difficult for patients to access regular care.

Trump's return has emboldened Israeli leaders to increase military presence in Gaza and pursue annexation of the occupied West Bank.

The Israeli military believes it intercepted a missile from Yemen, with no reported impacts or casualties.

Arab American Catholic leaders mourn the death of Pope Francis, who was a champion of Arab and Palestinian rights. He expressed support for those suffering in the world and specifically addressed the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. The Arab American and Muslim communities also mourned his death, recognizing his humanitarian actions and commitment to social justice.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jeddah strengthened defense cooperation and bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in their growing partnership.

Sultan of Oman, Russian president mark 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties and discuss regional issues, including a planned summit with Arab countries and support for a Palestinian state.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan have called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the establishment of a separate state for the people of Palestine.

Christians in Gaza mourn the death of Pope Francis, who regularly called to check on the community during the Israeli conflict. The pope called for peace and an investigation into the conflict, and his nightly phone calls had become routine during the conflict.

The Israeli government shared and then deleted a social media post offering condolences over the death of Pope Francis, possibly due to the late pontiff's criticism of the war in Gaza.

The Saudi Cabinet discusses real estate measures, praises oil and gas discoveries, and approves key agreements and initiatives.

Palestinian activist detained in Vermont prison says he's 'in good hands' but US Justice Department has not provided a reason for his detention.

Oman and China discuss their bilateral cooperation in political, economic and cultural fields to enhance strategic relations.

The Red Sea Film Foundation and Spike Lee have announced a new mentorship program, the Director's Program, for emerging filmmakers from the Middle East and Asia.

Pope Francis was a force for good and brought an outsider's eye to the Vatican and the church, with a focus on justice, ecology, and humanity.

Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 14 and destroy aid-provided equipment.

Syria has detained two leaders of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, who were involved in the 2023 attacks on Israel from Gaza.

The Philippines and the UAE have signed a new security agreement to combat cybercrime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, marking a milestone in their bilateral relations.

The rare caracal wild cat has been spotted in Pakistan's Cholistan desert, a significant sighting for the region's wildlife conservation efforts.

The record high prices of gold are impacting the demand for gold jewelry in Dubai's Gold Souk, with buyers turning to diamonds and lighter gold jewelry instead.

Pope Francis, a champion of peace and social justice, has passed away. He made historic efforts to engage with the Arab world and promote interfaith dialogue, leaving a lasting impact on the Middle East and inspiring global communities.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the 'limitless potential' of India's growing ties with Saudi Arabia as he arrives in Riyadh for a two-day visit, his third to the Kingdom since 2016.

PepsiCo opens regional headquarters in Riyadh and unveils an $8m R&D center, reinforcing its commitment to the Middle East and its social impact programs.

Pakistani religious parties plan rally and strike in solidarity with Palestinians, calling for boycott of Israeli products.

The chances of a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza seem slim, given the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the demands of both Israel and Hamas.

The crackdown on pro-Palestine voices in the US is raising concerns about the erosion of rights and freedom of expression.

Middle East leaders offer condolences following Pope Francis' death

Pakistan's Prime Minister offers condolences to the Christian community on the passing of Pope Francis, praising his advocacy for interfaith harmony and peace.