All Middle East
First LookIran鈥檚 morality police renew clampdowns on hijab rulesAfter the death of Mahsa Amini sparked widespread protests across Iran, the so-called morality police mostly disappeared from the streets. Now they鈥檙e back to impose a new campaign to force Islamic dress on women.
First LookTraffic halted, strikes threatened: Israelis protest judicial reformThe Israeli government passed an initial bill that would limit the judiciary鈥檚 oversight power, unleashing a wave of protests. Opposition is widespread: Protesters blocked highways and an airport, and the national labor union is threatening to strike.聽
For two days Israel targeted militants in Jenin. What did it achieve?In the name of security, Israel has fought Hamas again and again in Gaza. Now, a large Israeli incursion targeting popular young militants in Jenin seems to be paving the way only for more clashes.
First LookIsrael ends West Bank raid, Palestinians grapple with way forwardIsrael has withdrawn its troops from a militant stronghold in the West Bank after one of the most intense military operations in the occupied territory in nearly two decades. The two-day operation killed 12 Palestinians and an Israeli soldier.
First LookIsrael launches major incursion in Jenin; 8 Palestinians reported killedIsrael launched drone strikes and deployed hundreds of troops in the northern West Bank militant stronghold. The move, pressured by recent attacks on settlers and the largest in many years, resulted in dozens of wounded.
Have Iran鈥檚 hard-liners lost the battle over women鈥檚 headscarves?Iran suppressed sweeping women-led protests last fall. But hijab laws are still being ignored. Hard-liners who see a threat to the regime are at odds on how to respond.
Food as love: In post-quake Turkey, those with nothing share everythingFood and hospitality, both legendary in Turkey, have emerged as signs of rebirth after the country鈥檚 tragic Feb. 6 earthquake.
First LookSyria emerges as bleak new frontier in war against child soldiersAmid Syria鈥檚 ongoing conflict, child recruitment by various armed factions has risen drastically, according to a United Nations report. Syrian activists claim children are forced into service or join due to either聽tribal ties or familial financial needs.
What鈥檚 preventing Syrian refugees鈥� return home? Distrust of Assad.After the Arab League reinstated Syria, some Syrian refugees had dared hope for measures to enable their return home. But in interviews and polls, most say they鈥檝e seen nothing that convinces them that now is the time.
In coffee-crazy Arab Gulf, a pricey pursuit of the perfect potIn the Gulf Arab states, where preparing and serving Arabic coffee to guests is sometimes a daylong ritual, the right pot can carry a luxury price tag. It鈥檚 a price many Saudis are happy to pay.
First LookSpiritual journey revival: Hajj returns to Mecca in forceOver 2 million Muslims are participating in the largest Hajj pilgrimage since pandemic restrictions. The pilgrimage is a deeply spiritual event that symbolizes unity, and tests faith and patience, culminating with the festival of Eid al-Adha.
As violent crime soars, Israeli Arabs ask: Where鈥檚 the government?In Arab towns in Israel, violent crime has been the top concern, and the right-wing government is facing accusations of neglect. Is a recent massacre enough to shock officials into effective action?
First LookAfter deadly West Bank shooting, Israeli settlers rampage againIsraeli settlers set fire to dozens of Palestinian homes and cars in Turmus Ayya, a West Bank village occupied by Palestinians. The attack comes in response to a shooting by two Palestinian gunmen that killed four Israeli people earlier in the week.
First LookFattah unveiled: Iran鈥檚 new hypersonic missile fuels tensions with USIran claims it has a hypersonic missile capable of reaching speeds 15 times faster than sound amid tense United States-Iran relations over its nuclear program. The missile, named Fattah, has a moveable nozzle that makes interception more challenging.
Jordan鈥檚 royal wedding: Joy, politics, and an eye toward the kingdom鈥檚 futureRoyal weddings often highlight tradition and history. In Jordan, celebrations around its crown prince鈥檚聽nuptials are all about the future.
In Turkey, secular women alarmed about future under new Erdo臒an termLiberal Turkish women fear President Erdo臒an鈥檚聽election victory will spell further setbacks for women鈥檚 rights. Their devout Muslim sisters disagree.
The secret behind Jordan鈥檚 national dish? A 鈥榶ogurt that unites.鈥�Jordan鈥檚 national dish, comprising roast lamb, cracked wheat, and hot yogurt sauce, depends on close cooperation among farmers and shepherds.
First LookTurkey's Erdo臒an wins reelection, beating close challengerWith almost all votes counted,聽Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdo臒an declared victory in a runoff election, extending his 20 years as president.
First LookTaliban waging war against women, rights groups say in call for actionReport by two human rights groups, including Amnesty, says Taliban treatment of women is gender-based persecution, a crime against humanity. Imprisonment, torture cited in call to international community to take legal action.
Why quakes that razed homes may raise up Turkey鈥檚 Erdo臒anExpectations that a weak response to earthquakes would cost the Turkish government votes proved false. Political preferences have become identities.
