Middle East News Highlights, 11 August 2025: Israeli forces push into central Gaza city previously spared from ground operations

Israeli military forces have launched a ground operation into parts of a city in central Gaza, an area that had previously been mostly spared from the intense ground combat seen elsewhere in the Strip, as per a report in AP. This new push is part of the ongoing war that commenced following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7. The incursion into central Gaza, which is densely populated and shelters many internally displaced persons, is worsening the severe humanitarian crisis in the region.

Israel's Histadrut labor union has decided not to join a general strike planned for August 17, which was urged by families of hostages protesting the government's Gaza war strategy, as per a report in The Times of Israel. The union argued that a strike would not help end the war but confirmed it would support employees who wish to participate in a related rally. In contrast, other influential groups, including technology firms and the Israel Bar Association, have stated they will participate in the strike.

A former Mossad official who is participating in hostage deal negotiations is reportedly under investigation for connections to the 'Qatargate' affair, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. The investigation centers on the official's alleged business ties with Qatar. The report also claims that Israeli security officials, including from within the Mossad intelligence agency, were previously unaware of these business connections.

An indictment has been issued against a man for breaking into and stealing from the home of a family in Israel that had evacuated due to Iran attacks, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. The suspect was arrested approximately two weeks ago, shortly after the burglary took place. At the time of the arrest, authorities seized objects in his possession that belonged to the evacuated family.

Dr. Bishara Bahbah, a Palestinian-American academic involved in unofficial diplomatic channels, has called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and a resumption of negotiations, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. He stated that ongoing military actions are deepening the human toll in Gaza and risking the lives of the hostages. The report notes Bahbah's role as a mediator, although factual clarifications indicate he is not an official envoy of the US government but has been involved in past Track II (unofficial) diplomacy.

Two UAE endurance riders, Sheikh Khalifa Al Hamed and Issa Al Khiyari, tied for first place with an American rider and a British rider in the 1,000 km “Mongol Derby” endurance race, Gulf Today says in a report. The eight-day race across Mongolia, described as the world's longest of its kind, recently concluded. Sheikh Khalifa Al Hamed stated that the extremely challenging conditions—including varied terrain and the difficulty of riding unfamiliar Mongolian horses for about 12 hours a day—made simply finishing the race a significant accomplishment. He added that they were determined to finish to demonstrate the capabilities of Emiratis, noting that dozens of other riders withdrew during the event.

A civil lawsuit in the United Arab Emirates for Dh100,000 regarding a car fire has been dismissed by the judiciary, Gulf News said in a report. The court's decision was based on the plaintiff's failure to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate their claim.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has issued a direct public warning to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, stating he should "look up and listen to every buzz," The Times of Israel said in a report. The statement was a response to an alleged Iranian propaganda graphic that reportedly marked Gallant, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other top Israeli officials for assassination. This latest exchange of threats reflects the ongoing tensions between the two countries, with the rhetoric echoing a period of heightened conflict in June.

Lufthansa is set to resume its direct flight service between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Munich, Germany, beginning in October 2025, according to a report in Arabian Business. The reintroduction of this route represents a significant expansion for the airline's operations in the region, increasing its total passenger capacity to Saudi Arabia by 50 percent. The new service aims to enhance air connectivity between the two countries.

The United Arab Emirates is sending teams to Albania to help combat ongoing forest fires, according to a report in Khaleej Times. The assistance includes necessary aircraft, specialized equipment, and other firefighting materials to support the efforts of Albanian authorities in controlling the blazes.

French President Emmanuel Macron described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as a "disaster waiting to happen" and called for the establishment of a UN mission to address the crisis, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The statement comes in response to the severe humanitarian conditions and mass displacement resulting from ongoing military operations, particularly concerning the situation in Rafah. Any potential UN mission would require authorization via a UN Security Council resolution.

King Saud University Medical City in Saudi Arabia has successfully performed the first smart cochlear implant surgery in the Middle East and Africa, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The procedure, conducted at the major public academic medical center, marks a significant medical and technological event for the region. A 'smart' implant in this medical context refers to advanced technological features like enhanced digital signal processing and connectivity to optimize a user's hearing.

A widespread power blackout has struck central and southern regions of Iraq, impacting major population centers, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The outage highlights the country's chronic and severe electricity shortage, a decades-long issue that consistently worsens during the peak heat of summer months. These recurring blackouts are a major source of public frustration over the lack of reliable basic services and have historically fueled protests.

A 27-year-old man from Jerusalem, identified as a Haredi man, has reportedly been ordered into psychiatric hospitalization after being arrested for allegedly spraying "Holocaust in Gaza" graffiti on the Western Wall, as per a report in The Times of Israel. The act of vandalism at the holy site drew widespread condemnation from officials and politicians across Israel's political spectrum.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman Academy is launching new initiatives focused on enriching Arabic-language content for children, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The state-affiliated institution's programs aim to develop and distribute new educational, cultural, and entertainment materials. This effort aligns with the cultural and educational objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 strategic plan.

The Abu Dhabi Family, Civil and Administrative Cases Court has ordered a guardian to pay Dhs74,081 in damages after their minor son, who did not have a driving licence, stole and crashed a car, according to a report in Gulf Today. The ruling followed a lawsuit filed by the car's owner after the vehicle was deemed a total loss. A court-appointed expert determined the compensation, which includes Dhs65,000 for the car's market value, Dhs1,081 for release fees, Dhs5,000 for loss of use, and Dhs3,000 for moral damages. The court rejected a larger claim for rental car expenses because the owner provided a price quote instead of actual rental invoices as proof.

A minor fire broke out in a residential building located in Dubai Investments Park 1 (DIP 1), a mixed-use development in the UAE, Gulf News said in a report. The incident was described as minor, suggesting it was contained without significant damage or disruption.

Dubai Police are appealing to the public for help in identifying a deceased man whose body was discovered within the jurisdiction of the Al Qusais Police Station, Gulf Today said in a report. The individual was found without any identification documents, and authorities have not received any missing person reports that match the case. The body has been moved to the Forensics Department for examination to ascertain the cause of death. Officials have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Dubai Police Call Centre.

Travelers bringing prescription medication into the UAE must adhere to strict regulations, as a prescription from a home country is often insufficient, Gulf News says in a report. Many medications, including certain common painkillers and antidepressants, are classified as controlled substances and require prior online approval from the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP). To avoid severe penalties under the country's zero-tolerance drug policy, individuals must carry proper documentation and ensure they have the necessary pre-approval before traveling.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially adopted a new smart platform aimed at reducing traffic congestion and delays across the city, according to a report in Gulf News. The initiative is part of Dubai's broader strategy to integrate advanced technology into its urban infrastructure. The platform is designed to improve traffic flow and enhance the efficiency of the transport network for residents and commuters.

Heavy rains have occurred in northern Oman, leading to a notable drop in local temperatures, as per a report in Gulf News. The precipitation affects the northern parts of the country, providing a respite from the typical heat of the region.

The United Arab Emirates is bracing for a period of severe weather, with intense heat and dust storms forecast to affect the country through August 24, according to a report in Gulf News. The weather event is expected to bring challenging conditions, including high temperatures and reduced visibility due to airborne dust, prompting warnings for public safety and health.

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg announced a new initiative to send an aid flotilla to Gaza, which she described as the "biggest attempt" to break the Israeli blockade, The Times of Israel said in a report. The flotilla, named the "Global Sumud Flotilla," will reportedly consist of dozens of boats and include activists from 44 different countries. The announcement signals a significant new effort to challenge the maritime blockade on the Gaza Strip.

Sharjah's ruler and Supreme Council Member, Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, has directed the construction of a new 'Social Care Complex' in the Al Ruwaidat area, Gulf Today said in a report. The complex will consolidate several facilities, including a women's support center, a home for the elderly, a mental health facility, and a children's care home. A new grant program was also announced to provide financial aid to 3,162 registered families, with the goal of increasing their monthly income to a standard of Dhs17,500.

Emirates NBD's zero-commission trading service for UAE stock exchanges has processed more than 300,000 trades with a total value of $1.4 billion within its first year of operation, according to a report in Arabian Business. The initiative was launched to provide investors with commission-free trading on local exchanges in the UAE.

The government of Sharjah has approved the creation of 700 new government jobs for 2025, according to a report in Arabian Business. In addition to the new positions, the emirate has allocated $8.3 million (Dh30.5 million) to fund promotions and salary increases for current government staff. This initiative is part of Sharjah's broader spending plans aimed at enhancing public sector employment and employee compensation.

Saudi Arabia is on alert for continued heavy rain and potential flood risks in various regions, Gulf News says in a report. National authorities and civil defense services have been mobilized to manage the situation and ensure public safety. These recurring extreme weather events, which experts increasingly link to climate change, are seen as a significant challenge, testing the resilience of the nation's infrastructure, particularly in the context of major urban development projects associated with the Vision 2030 initiative. Past incidents of severe flooding have previously brought public scrutiny to infrastructure adequacy and emergency response capabilities.

Jordan's King Abdullah II will meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss pressing regional issues and bilateral cooperation, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The discussions are expected to cover the ongoing Gaza conflict, coordination on humanitarian efforts, and broader regional stability. The meeting takes place as Jordan addresses economic challenges and its custodianship of holy sites in Jerusalem, while Saudi Arabia pursues its diplomatic objectives and Vision 2030 goals.

Following the establishment of a new Islamist government in Syria, residents of Damascus are navigating a period of significant change, according to a report in The New York Times. The transition from the former Assad regime has raised concerns among many in the capital who fear that the secular social environment and personal freedoms they were accustomed to are now at risk. These tensions between past norms and the new government's vision for the country are reportedly creating a climate of uncertainty about Syria's future direction.

The United Arab Emirates' ministry has issued new travel guidelines for its citizens due to heightened regional instability, according to a report in Gulf News. The advisory is a response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, and broader proxy conflicts that have contributed to an unpredictable security environment in the region.

Abu Dhabi's artificial intelligence (AI) sector has experienced a 61% surge and is now home to more than 670 AI-focused companies, according to a report in Arabian Business. This significant growth has established the emirate as the fastest-growing innovation hub within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, reflecting its strategy to embrace and develop AI potential.

Israel's Environmental Protection Ministry has issued a hazardous air pollution warning for Jerusalem amid a record-nearing heatwave, The Times of Israel says in a report. The ministry specifically advised the elderly, pregnant women, children, and other sensitive individuals to avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors due to the poor air quality.

Authorities in the UAE seized over 17.6 million illegal goods in the first half of 2024, according to a report in Khaleej Times. The confiscated items included 11.52 million packs of tobacco that lacked the mandatory Digital Tax Stamps and were not registered in the Federal Tax Authority's electronic system, representing a significant enforcement action against illicit trade and tax evasion.

Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has published a new document to provide clarity on private school fee structures, according to a report in Gulf News. The guidelines categorize all potential charges into three distinct types: mandatory tuition fees, optional fees for services like transportation and school trips, and additional fees for activities outside the standard curriculum. This initiative aims to increase transparency for parents regarding the total costs associated with their children's education in the emirate's private school system.

A coalition of Western nations, including the UK, Canada, and Germany, along with the European Union, has issued a joint statement urging Israel not to implement a new registration system for international NGOs, according to a report in Gulf Today. The new rules require aid organizations to share sensitive personal data of their Palestinian staff, with a deadline of September 9th for compliance. The United Nations and the coalition warn that failure to comply could force the withdrawal of international staff and halt critical aid to Gaza and the West Bank, as non-registered NGOs are already prohibited from sending supplies to Gaza.

A consortium led by Saudi-based ACWA Power has been awarded a $4 billion project to build a new integrated power and water plant in Kuwait, according to a report in Arabian Business. The facility is set to become the largest of its kind in the country, with a planned capacity to produce over 2,700 megawatts of energy and at least 120 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) of desalinated water.

Israeli police have arrested a father and his son on suspicion of plotting terror attacks, according to a report in The Times of Israel. The son, a Jewish convert to Islam, was allegedly recruited by his father and sought to carry out attacks, including a shooting at a nightclub and killing a pilot, after being rejected from a combat role in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). A third suspect has also been arrested in connection with the alleged plot.

Initial public offerings in the Middle East raised a total of $2.5 billion during the second quarter of the year, with activity dominated by listings in Saudi Arabia, according to a report in Arabian Business. The largest single listing was that of budget airline flynas on the Tadawul Main Market, which alone contributed 44% of the total proceeds raised in the region during the period. The success of these IPOs, particularly in non-oil sectors like aviation, is a key indicator of progress for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.

The mayor of the northern Israeli town of Shlomi, Gabi Naaman, expects 95% of residents evacuated due to Hezbollah attacks to return as the community looks to recover from the recent conflict, according to a report in The Times of Israel. Naaman stated that the town is addressing 'collective traumas' from the war and promised 'hope and security' for returning residents. The mayor's confidence is based on the assertion that Israeli troops are now protecting the border from inside Lebanon.

The ongoing cyber conflict between Iran and Israel persists as a key front in their broader shadow war, with both nations reportedly engaging in reciprocal attacks on critical and governmental systems, according to a report in the Jerusalem Post. This cyberwarfare, which is part of a larger pattern of indirect confrontations, involves state-sponsored operations targeting critical infrastructure, government networks, and private companies. These actions contribute to heightened regional tensions and instability, although definitive public attribution for specific attacks often remains challenging.

A coordinated Day of Action by pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel groups across Greece resulted in small protests without any major incidents being reported, according to a report in The Times of Israel. The demonstrations, which took place in the popular tourist destination, concluded with no immediate reports of altercations between protesters or with authorities.

A Palestinian-American mediator, noted for their role in the past release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander, has separated from the Witkoff team involved in private hostage negotiation efforts, the Jerusalem Post reported, citing Israeli news outlet N12. The departure marks a change within the informal groups working to free hostages held by Hamas. Alexander was released in November 2023 as part of an earlier exchange deal.

Arab political parties in Israel, including Hadash, Ra'am, and Ta'al, are holding meetings to discuss reuniting into the Joint List electoral bloc, according to a report in The Times of Israel. The talks come in response to the parties' poor performance in the 2022 elections after running on separate tickets. A key point of contention is the leadership of the revived alliance, with the Hadash party advocating for its politician, Yousef Jabarin, to take the top spot. Despite this dispute, both the Ra'am and Ta'al parties have reportedly signaled a willingness to compromise to ensure the alliance is re-established.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has blocked the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of a popular classifieds website that has nearly 38 million active users, the Jerusalem Post said in a report. The action was reportedly taken because the company's chairman is considered "outspoken" and "independent-minded" and has been critical of the Iranian government. This move by the IRGC prevents the major online platform from raising capital through a public stock launch.

The United States has sanctioned an international procurement network for allegedly supplying Iran with components for its drone program, the Jerusalem Post said in a report. The sanctions target an individual based in Iran as well as corporate entities located in China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. This action is part of a broader US effort to disrupt Iran's military capabilities and its proliferation of drone technology to regional proxies.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is reportedly considering a unilateral move to declare statehood at the UN General Assembly, as per a report in the Jerusalem Post. This consideration follows a long-stalled peace process and the recent recognition of a Palestinian state by several European nations. While the General Assembly cannot grant full UN membership, which requires a recommendation from the Security Council, such a declaration would serve as a significant political step, building on Palestine's successful 2012 bid to achieve non-member observer state status.

A court in the United Arab Emirates has ordered a bank to refund a total of Dh149,467 to a retiree, as per a report in Gulf News. The ruling was made in a consumer dispute case, requiring the financial institution to return the specified amount to the individual.

A recent Houthi attack in the Red Sea sank the MV Tutor, a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier, resulting in the death of one Filipino crew member, according to a report in The Washington Post. The vessel, which was transporting coal from Russia to India and had no apparent links to Israel, was struck by an uncrewed surface vessel, causing it to take on water and eventually sink. This incident is part of the Houthis' ongoing campaign targeting maritime shipping, which they claim is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. However, the attack on the MV Tutor underscores the significant and often fatal risks faced by seafarers of neutral nationalities, particularly Filipinos, who make up a large portion of the global maritime workforce.

Dubai-based investment firm Amanat has finalized a deal to sell a plot of land designated for a school for Dh453 million, equivalent to approximately $123.3 million, according to a report in Gulf News. The transaction highlights significant investor confidence and continued growth within Dubai's specialized real estate and private education markets. This deal aligns with the UAE's broader economic diversification strategy, which aims to strengthen non-oil sectors like education and finance, and underscores the high demand for educational infrastructure in the city.

New rental contracts in several Dubai neighborhoods, including Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), The Greens, and Arjan, have shown a decrease in rent prices since July, Gulf News says in a report. This trend affects newly signed agreements in these specific residential areas, indicating a shift in the local real estate market.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday that his country will recognize a Palestinian state, AP says in a report. The decision follows weeks of urging from within his Cabinet and the Australian public, and amid growing government criticism of Israeli actions. Albanese cited the ongoing "humanitarian catastrophe" in Gaza as a key factor in the policy shift, aligning Australia with other nations that have recently made or signaled similar recognitions.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into an incident involving a radar malfunction and a runway close call, as per a report in Gulf News. The official probe aims to determine the root causes of the technical failure and the circumstances surrounding the near-miss event. The investigation underscores the focus on regulatory oversight and the importance of maintaining robust aviation safety standards and infrastructure in the region.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday that his country will recognize a Palestinian state, as per a report in AP. The decision follows similar signals from the leaders of France and Britain, and comes as Canada's new government under Prime Minister Mark Carney is also being watched. The move comes after weeks of internal pressure from within Albanese's Cabinet and growing public criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Australian government has also recently criticized unspecified plans announced by Israel.

A Gulf state has updated its residence card options and fees, streamlining the renewal process for 1.8 million expatriates, according to a report in Gulf News. The changes are part of broader reforms across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations aimed at modernizing administrative processes. These initiatives seek to attract and retain foreign talent and investment by improving the living and business environment for the large expatriate population that is crucial to the region's economic diversification efforts.

Dubai Police have announced a Dhs400 fine for driving below the minimum speed limit allowed on roads, as per a report in Gulf Today. Brigadier Juma Salem Bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic, stated the fine also applies to drivers who fail to yield to faster vehicles from behind. He emphasized that driving too slowly, especially in the left lane, is as dangerous as speeding because it disrupts traffic flow and often leads to hazardous overtaking from the right. Brigadier Bin Suwaidan urged motorists to adhere to designated speeds for each lane and to use signals when changing lanes to ensure road safety.

Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif has been killed in an Israeli strike in Gaza City, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The incident reportedly occurred near al-Shifa hospital, where al-Sharif was in a tent used by journalists. The event adds to the significant number of media professionals killed during the ongoing conflict in the region.

Saudi Arabia is actively promoting investment opportunities to a global audience at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, through a dedicated Saudi Business Center, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The initiative is a key component of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to diversify the national economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues. The effort at the international event seeks to attract foreign direct investment into non-oil sectors such as technology, tourism, and entertainment, while also strengthening economic ties with Japan.

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have detailed the list of items that are banned or restricted in travelers' hand baggage at Dubai and Sharjah airports, according to a report in Khaleej Times. The regulations serve as a guide for passengers to ensure compliance with airport security rules. These measures align with global aviation security standards designed to ensure passenger safety and are part of the UAE's efforts to maintain its status as a secure international travel and business hub.

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck Turkey's north-western Balikesir province, resulting in at least one death and the collapse of 16 buildings, according to a report in BBC. The event occurred in a region known for high seismic activity, renewing focus on the country's disaster preparedness and the enforcement of building codes, which have been a persistent concern following previous major earthquakes.

The Pakistan Medical Centre in Dubai has announced plans for an expansion that will increase its capacity to offer free medical treatment to more residents, according to a report in Khaleej Times. This initiative will enhance the community-funded facility's ability to serve more people, particularly targeting low-income individuals within the Pakistani expatriate community and other residents in need of care.