Middle East News Highlights, 28 July 2025: Sydney mayor and MP support pro-Palestine march on Harbour Bridge

The total number of registered companies within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has increased by 25 percent, reaching 7,700 firms, Khaleej Times says in a report. This marks a significant expansion for the financial free zone located in Dubai, reflecting its continued growth as a business hub in the Middle East.

Sydney's Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, has described a potential pro-Palestine march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge as a "powerful symbol" that should be permitted if community support is significant, according to a report in The Guardian. Echoing this sentiment, New South Wales Labor MP Anthony D’Adam has rejected the state premier's assertion that such a demonstration would cause chaos. D'Adam has urged police to facilitate the march within the next two to three weeks.

Volunteers in Lebanon conducted a beach clean-up campaign on Monday, collecting garbage and plastic waste from the shoreline, as per a report in AP. The citizen-led initiative addresses the accumulation of refuse on the country's beaches, a visible consequence of Lebanon's long-standing waste management crisis.

The US State Department announced that the Trump administration will not participate in a United Nations initiative from France and Saudi Arabia supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, according to a report in The Hill. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the administration views the conference as harmful to current ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hamas.

A UK court has ordered the Foreign Office to reconsider its decision regarding a Palestinian family in Gaza who have a relative in the UK, BBC says in a report. The ruling stated that the family is at a "constant risk of injury or death" due to the ongoing conflict. The court's decision does not compel the government to bring the family to the UK but requires the Foreign Office to review the case again in light of the court's finding of extreme danger.

Palestinian journalist Nasser al-Laham has accused Israeli prison guards of beating him and filming him naked during a nine-day detention at Ofer Prison, according to a report in The Times of Israel. Al-Laham, who was held for nine days before being unconditionally released without any charges, stated that in the prison, "it doesn't matter if you're guilty or not guilty."

Senator Angus King (I-Maine) stated on Monday that he will oppose 'any' US support for Israel in response to the severe hunger crisis in Gaza, according to a report in The Hill. King, an Independent, declared he would advocate and vote against all forms of US support for the current Israeli government until there is a 'demonstrable change' in its policies regarding the humanitarian situation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is temporarily filling all cabinet positions that were vacated by ministers from Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties due to a significant political row over military conscription, The Times of Israel says in a report. This move is a stopgap measure as Netanyahu has not yet made a final decision on how to permanently redistribute the ministerial portfolios. According to Hebrew media reports, numerous members of Netanyahu's own Likud party have expressed interest in taking over the vacant posts, adding to the internal political pressure. The resignations stem from the long-standing and contentious debate over drafting Haredi men into the military.

A released Israeli-Argentinian hostage is advocating for his brother still held captive by Hamas, stating that the welfare of hostages is directly linked to the amount of humanitarian aid entering Gaza, as negotiations for their release have once again collapsed, according to a report in AP. Iair Horn, who spent a year and a half in captivity, said that captives could tell when more aid was available because they would receive more food. His public campaign for his brother coincides with Israel announcing new steps in its Gaza operations and the failure of the latest round of mediated talks.

The United Arab Emirates is seeing a significant influx of high-net-worth individuals, with a new millionaire settling in the country approximately every hour, according to a report in Gulf News. This trend is attributed to the nation's economic diversification strategy and initiatives such as the 'Golden Visa' program, which offers long-term residency to investors and entrepreneurs. The report defines a 'millionaire' as an individual with at least $1 million in investable assets, and the influx reflects a global migration of wealth towards regions perceived as stable and economically attractive.

Yemeni authorities have reportedly waived the death sentence for Indian national Nimisha Priya, according to a report in Gulf News. The decision was reportedly made by the Houthi-led authorities in control of the capital, Sana'a, where Priya has been on death row. The waiver follows prolonged diplomatic efforts and appeals for clemency in her case, which relates to the death of a Yemeni citizen.

The price of gold has dropped by 4 UAE Dirhams in Dubai, a significant global hub for the precious metal, as per a report in Gulf News. Price movements for gold in the region are often influenced by a variety of global factors, including international interest rates, the strength of the US dollar, and overall investor sentiment regarding geopolitical stability.

Digital Dubai has launched an initiative to highlight the dangers of online misinformation and its potential to cause harm, according to a report in Gulf News. The government entity is focusing on educating the public on how to identify and avoid spreading false or inaccurate information circulating on digital platforms. This move is part of the UAE's broader efforts to govern the digital space and ensure the reliability of online content.

Emergency services in Abu Dhabi successfully controlled a fire that broke out in a number of Al Saad trees in the Al Ain area on the evening of July 28, as per a report in Gulf Today. Teams from the Abu Dhabi Police and Abu Dhabi Civil Defence responded to the incident and have since extinguished the blaze. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were sustained as a result of the fire.

Israeli human rights group B’Tselem has declared in its latest report that Israel is committing genocide with its actions in Gaza, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The accusation from the prominent Israeli-Palestinian organization supports claims made in the ongoing genocide case filed by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). B'Tselem's report reportedly cites Israel's military operations, the high civilian death toll, the severe humanitarian crisis, and certain statements by Israeli officials as evidence for its declaration, a claim the Israeli government denies.

BBC's international editor, Jeremy Bowen, reported from a Jordanian flight as it dropped humanitarian supplies into Gaza, BBC said in a report. The flight is part of an international effort to deliver aid via airdrops in response to the severe humanitarian crisis and difficulties with land-based delivery routes. The report documents the process of the aid drop, an alternative method being used to get essential supplies to the Palestinian population amid the ongoing conflict.

President Donald Trump announced a new foreign policy initiative aimed at delivering food aid directly to Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis, according to a report in Bloomberg. The initiative represents a direct US intervention intended to address the severe food shortages in the region.

Heavy rains and tornado-like dust storms were reported in some areas of the United Arab Emirates, Khaleej Times says in a report. These weather events, identified as 'gustnados,' are less destructive than full-scale tornadoes but are capable of kicking up significant sand and debris. The resulting conditions created poor visibility and posed safety risks for motorists in the affected regions.

While global hunger levels fell for a third consecutive year in 2024, food insecurity has intensified in the Middle East and Africa, Al Jazeera says in a report. A new United Nations report identifies ongoing conflicts and significant climate shocks as the primary drivers behind the deepening crises in these regions. These factors disrupt food supply chains, displace populations, and damage agricultural infrastructure, leading to a rise in the number of people without reliable access to sufficient and nutritious food, despite the overall global improvement in chronic undernourishment.

Light to heavy rain was reported in various areas of Al Ain, UAE, on Monday, including along Hatta Road and in North Shoka, according to a report in Gulf Today. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast clear to partly cloudy and dusty weather for Tuesday, with clouds expected to form over eastern and southern regions. Winds are predicted to be light to moderate, occasionally becoming active and causing dust storms with speeds up to 40 km/h. The forecast for the remainder of the week anticipates similar conditions, with increasing humidity at night, a possibility of light fog in coastal areas, and continued active winds causing dust and poor visibility at times.

An infant is among at least 14 people who have died from malnutrition over a 24-hour period in Gaza, a hospital source said, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The deaths occur amid a severe humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing conflict and siege, which has heavily restricted essential supplies since October 2023. The report highlights recent comments from US President Donald Trump, who warned of 'real starvation' in the Palestinian enclave. This situation confirms dire warnings previously issued by United Nations agencies and international aid organizations about the risk of famine in the region.

Spain is set to airdrop 12 tons of food into Gaza, with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez calling the famine in the region "a shame for all of humanity," The Times of Israel says in a report. This action follows similar airdrops conducted by Middle Eastern countries including Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. The report also notes that Israel has conducted airdrops and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have initiated daily "humanitarian pauses" to facilitate aid delivery.

Amid growing discontent over the Gaza war, Arab political parties in Israel are considering reviving the 'Joint List' political alliance, as a recent poll shows broad public support for Arab participation in a future government coalition, according to a report in The Times of Israel. The Hadash party is reportedly leading the push to re-establish the united ticket, which had previously dissolved before the 2022 elections. This consideration is seen as a strategic response to the fragmentation of the Arab vote and aims to increase the bloc's political leverage, moving beyond opposition to potentially becoming part of a ruling coalition.

Israel's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) stated that an image of a 5-year-old Gazan child, Osama al-Rakab, is being used to falsely smear the country, The Times of Israel says in a report. The Israeli Defense Ministry body clarified that the child, who has a genetic illness, was evacuated in June and is currently undergoing treatment in Italy. COGAT also reported that 120 humanitarian aid trucks entered Gaza on Sunday, with another 180 scheduled to enter on Monday.

Master Sgt. (res.) Ariel Meir Taman, an Israeli reservist who served in the Military Rabbinate identifying bodies following the October 7th attacks, has been found dead in a suspected suicide, The Times of Israel said in a report. Taman is survived by his wife and four children. Following his death, there have been calls for the Knesset Defense Committee to discuss a reported rise in suicides within the Israel Defense Forces amid the ongoing war.

The European Union is considering suspending Israel's access to research funding amid the severe humanitarian aid crisis in Gaza, according to a report in The Times of Israel. The potential move comes as Germany's chancellor informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Berlin is "prepared to increase the pressure if progress is not made" on the aid situation. In response to international demands, Israel has recently implemented temporary humanitarian pauses to facilitate food distribution within the territory.

The UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has issued a directive urging users of electronic services to deal exclusively with official government portals, according to a report in Gulf News. The advisory is intended to safeguard the public against fraudulent websites and phishing scams by guiding them to use only the sanctioned, secure platforms for accessing government services and conducting transactions. This measure aims to enhance cybersecurity and ensure the accuracy of information and services provided to residents.

The Al Ain Civil, Commercial and Administrative Cases Court has obligated a man to refund a Dhs4,000 down payment to a plaintiff who had paid for a promised job and residence for his sister, Gulf Today said in a report. The defendant failed to secure the visa and job as agreed upon in a deal worth a total of Dhs8,000. While the plaintiff had initially filed a lawsuit seeking Dhs26,000 to cover additional expenses such as airfare and rent, the court's ruling focused on the return of the initial payment, which the defendant had acknowledged receiving but stated he could not complete due to circumstances beyond his company's control.

State-owned Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has signed a purchase agreement with United Airlines for 10 Boeing 737-9 aircraft, according to a report in Arabian Business. The acquisition brings DAE's total owned, managed, or committed fleet to 750 aircraft, of which 225 are manufactured by Boeing.

The Dubai Reef project has deployed 3,660 artificial reef modules as part of a larger plan to install a total of 20,000 by 2027, according to a report in Arabian Business. Recent underwater footage from the site in Dubai shows that fish populations and marine habitats are beginning to develop around the newly installed structures.

Abu Dhabi Police arrested several unlicensed young motorists in the Liwa area of the Al Dhafra Region for reckless driving, performing dangerous stunts, and fleeing from officers, Gulf Today said in a report. Brigadier Mohammed Dahi Al Humairi, Director of the Central Operations Sector at Abu Dhabi Police, confirmed the arrests and stated that reckless driving is a primary cause of serious accidents, urging young people to follow traffic laws. Brigadier Mahmoud Yousef Al Bloushi, Director of the Traffic and Security Patrols Directorate, called on parents to monitor their children's behavior. Authorities also encouraged the public to report any dangerous practices via the Aman service.

A United Arab Emirates humanitarian aid convoy of 38 trucks entered the Gaza Strip on Monday via the Rafah border crossing as part of its "Operation Chivalrous Knight 3" mission, Gulf Today said in a report. The convoy included 18 trucks with food, medical aid, and infant formula, while 20 trucks carried equipment to build a new 7-kilometer water pipeline. This pipeline is designed to connect a UAE-established desalination plant in Egypt to displacement areas between Rafah and Khan Younis. This delivery completes the transport of all necessary components for the water project, and the UAE also resumed its "Birds of Goodness" airdrop missions on Sunday.

Israel's defense ministry body, COGAT, reported that over 120 truckloads of food aid were distributed by the UN and other agencies in the Gaza Strip on the first day of a "tactical pause" in military operations, Gulf Today says in a report. COGAT also stated that an additional 180 trucks have entered the territory and are awaiting collection by aid groups. The report comes amid warnings of famine from UN agencies and international pressure for a ceasefire in the 21-month-old conflict. Israel's government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has denied accusations of using hunger as a weapon of war and has accused aid agencies of failing to distribute the aid that has been delivered to Gaza's border. Before the conflict, Gaza required approximately 500 trucks of aid and commercial goods daily.

Two prominent Israeli human rights organizations have, for the first time, formally accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, challenging the government's assertion that its war is only against Hamas, The New York Times says in a report. The accusation from the well-known Israeli groups, which have historically been critical of state policy, adds internal pressure to the international scrutiny Israel faces. This includes an ongoing case at the International Court of Justice where Israel is also accused of genocide.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, in a televised address on Monday, has called on US President Donald Trump to end the ongoing war in Gaza and permit the entry of humanitarian aid, according to a report in Middle East Eye. Sisi stated that Trump "is the one who can stop the war in Gaza" and directed a special message asking him to "exert all efforts to end this war." The report also notes that Egypt has recently increased its crackdown on pro-Palestine activism amid domestic criticism regarding the country's alleged role in Israel's blockade of Gaza.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the second phase of a project to upgrade five marine transport stations, according to a report in Arabian Business. The current phase of the initiative includes improvements at the Al Fahidi, Baniyas, Al Seef, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Bluewaters stations. This project is part of a wider effort to enhance the public marine transport infrastructure and connectivity within Dubai.

Residents in the United Arab Emirates are increasingly shifting funeral timings to the evening or after sunset prayers to avoid the country's extreme summer heat, according to a report in Khaleej Times. This community-led adaptation is a response to the health risks faced by mourners who participate in outdoor burial rites and prayers for extended periods in high temperatures. The change aims to ensure the well-being of family members and other attendees during a sensitive time, reflecting a practical response to the region's harsh climate conditions.

The cost for using debit and credit cards issued in the United Arab Emirates for overseas purchases is scheduled to rise starting September 22, according to a report in Gulf News. This change will affect cardholders using their cards while traveling abroad and for international online transactions. The increased costs are expected to be applied through higher foreign transaction fees or less favorable currency exchange rate markups by financial institutions.

Authorities in Sharjah, UAE, have revealed the findings of a forensic report into the death of a woman from the Indian state of Kerala, Gulf News says in a report. The investigation and subsequent legal proceedings fall under the jurisdiction of the UAE's legal system. The forensic report is a critical component of the investigation, which aims to formally determine the cause and manner of death.

During a recent safety drive, Dubai Police issued 431 fines and seized 41 jet skis for various violations of maritime safety regulations, as per a report in Gulf News. The enforcement campaign was focused on ensuring public safety and adherence to local laws governing recreational watercraft in the city's waters. This operation is part of ongoing efforts by local authorities to maintain order and safety standards in areas popular with tourists and residents.

A court in Abu Dhabi has ordered a former employee to pay her previous company Dhs50,000 as compensation for leaking confidential information in breach of a non-disclosure agreement, according to a report in Gulf Today. The case began after the company discovered the employee had transferred sensitive data from her work email to her personal email after she resigned. Following an initial criminal court ruling that convicted and fined the woman Dhs30,000, the company pursued a civil case for damages. The Abu Dhabi Family, Civil, and Administrative Cases Court ruled that Dhs50,000 was sufficient compensation and also ordered the former employee to cover all legal fees and expenses.

Two US citizens visiting family are reportedly among several members of the Jewish community arrested in Iran, according to a report in The Times of Israel. The detentions, which also include three local Iranian Jews, are said to have occurred after the war with Israel broke out last month. Efforts are reportedly underway to secure the release of all those who were taken into custody.

A former senior official from Israel's Mossad intelligence agency has been questioned as part of the ongoing Qatargate corruption investigation, according to a report in The Times of Israel. A court permitted the publication of this development but has imposed a strict gag order on all other details of the case. The order, issued due to security concerns, prevents the disclosure of the official's identity and the specific nature of the probe.

The Omani passport now provides its holders with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 88 countries, enhancing global mobility for its citizens, as per a report in Gulf News. This diplomatic achievement is seen as a result of Oman's long-standing neutral foreign policy, which has fostered strong international relations. The increased passport strength also aligns with the country's 'Oman Vision 2040' plan, which aims to boost tourism and foreign investment by diversifying the economy away from oil.

UAE-based developer Arada awarded a $16.3 million (AED60 million) contract to Sharjah-based contractor Intermass to build the central retail hub at the Masaar megaproject, Arabian Business said in a report. The contract is for the main retail and entertainment complex within the forested community in Sharjah. Intermass is reportedly already engaged in constructing several residential phases of the same project.

In the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has fined 40 domestic worker recruitment offices for committing 140 legal violations during the first half of 2025, according to a report in Emirates 24/7. The action is part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to enforce labor regulations and ensure compliance within the domestic worker recruitment sector.

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister has reaffirmed the kingdom's strong support for achieving Palestinian peace through a conference focused on a two-state solution, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The statement emphasizes this approach as the fundamental path to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This position is consistent with the kingdom's long-standing policy that links broader regional normalization efforts to tangible progress toward an independent Palestinian state, a stance that has gained renewed urgency amid ongoing regional developments.

Dubai's commercial property sales surged by 50% to a total of $8.4 billion in the second quarter of 2025, according to a report in Arabian Business. The office segment was a key driver of this growth, with sales reaching AED 2.62 billion, marking a 93% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

The United Arab Emirates' Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has fined 40 recruitment offices for committing legal violations, Gulf News said in a report. The violations reportedly included charging prospective workers illegal recruitment fees, which employers are required to pay, and engaging in contract substitution, where employment terms are changed after a worker's arrival. This enforcement action aligns with the UAE's recent labor law reforms aimed at protecting migrant workers and ensuring a regulated and transparent labor market.

Archaeologists in Egypt have found a rare, 4,000-year-old handprint, BBC says in a report. The discovery was made ahead of an upcoming exhibition that will focus on the lives and work of the ancient Egyptian craftspeople who created the civilization's famous artifacts.

Residents in the UAE are actively seeking out older series of dirham banknotes at places like groceries and supermarkets, as these notes are gradually phased out of circulation by the UAE Central Bank, according to a report in Khaleej Times. This hunt for 'vanishing dirhams' is driven by a growing community of collectors who value the notes for their historical and cultural significance. These enthusiasts often use online forums and social media groups to trade the banknotes, where they discuss the condition of the currency and negotiate prices.

A court in the United Arab Emirates has revoked a mother's physical custody of her child due to what was termed a "moral offence," Gulf News said in a report. In the UAE's legal system, where personal status and family laws are primarily derived from Sharia principles, judges have significant discretion in determining what constitutes an offence that renders a parent unfit for custody. This type of ruling distinguishes between 'hadana' (physical custody), which was removed from the mother, and 'wilaya' (legal and financial guardianship), which often remains with the father.

Saudi Arabia-based ACWA Power has successfully completed a $1.9 billion rights issue, a capital-raising effort aimed at existing shareholders, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The company, which is majority-owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is a key developer of power generation and water desalination plants. This capital infusion is intended to support the funding of large-scale infrastructure and renewable energy projects, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.

Saudi Arabia's Theater and Performing Arts Commission, a government body under the Ministry of Culture, has announced its participation in the 2025 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The move is part of the Kingdom's broader cultural initiatives associated with its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to develop the arts and entertainment sectors. The participation is an effort by the country to showcase its cultural productions on an international stage at the open-access festival.

Tunisia is experiencing a severe economic crisis marked by high unemployment and inflation, which has led to a noticeable increase in the number of people resorting to informal work like plastic collecting, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. These deepening economic hardships are also the primary driver behind a surge in irregular migration attempts from Tunisia to Europe, as citizens seek opportunities abroad. The situation is compounded by ongoing political instability under President Kais Saied and stalled negotiations for a crucial loan from the International Monetary Fund, which hinders efforts to stabilize the economy.

Saudi Arabia is set to introduce a 30-day grace period for visitors whose visas have expired, covering all visa categories and designations, Arabian Business said in a report. This new policy will allow individuals to remain in the country for an additional 30 days post-visa expiration without facing penalties. The implementation of this new rule is scheduled to begin on the 1st of Safar, 1447 AH.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the country will halt all coal exports to Israel due to its military operations in the Gaza Strip, Al Jazeera says in a report. This move represents a significant diplomatic action by President Petro's government, which has been a vocal critic of Israel's conduct in the conflict. The decision adds to the international pressure on Israel regarding the war, though its direct economic impact may be mitigated by Israel's ongoing efforts to phase out coal power.

A court in Dubai has sentenced a man to a ban from using the internet and confiscated his mobile phone following a conviction for defamation over a WhatsApp message, Khaleej Times said in a report. The ruling was made under the UAE's strict cybercrime laws, which can be applied to online speech and private digital communications deemed defamatory or in violation of public morals.

Syrian authorities have conducted an operation in the coastal city of Latakia, dismantling several armed cells reported to be loyal to Maher al-Assad, the brother of President Bashar al-Assad, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The operation took place in Latakia, a key stronghold for the regime and the traditional heartland of the Alawite community. Maher al-Assad is the commander of the elite 4th Armoured Division of the Syrian Army, and the targeted groups are described as factions operating under his influence.

Property brokers in Dubai's real estate market are projected to generate nearly $880 million (AED 3.23 billion) in commissions during the first half of 2025, according to a report in Arabian Business. The number of female brokers active in the market has reached 10,100, and they have reportedly made a substantial contribution to the sector's projected performance.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani has inaugurated new gas projects designed to capture and process natural gas that is currently burned off, or flared, during oil extraction, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The initiative is a significant step in Iraq's plan to end the wasteful and polluting practice of gas flaring, for which it is one of the world's top offenders. The captured gas is intended to be used for power generation to help alleviate the country's chronic electricity shortages and reduce its dependence on energy imports. This move is part of a broader strategy to modernize the energy sector, reduce carbon emissions, and generate new revenue for the state.

The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Turkey has advised its citizens currently in the country to be cautious and stay away from areas affected by forest fires, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The advisory urges Emiratis to follow safety instructions issued by local Turkish authorities to ensure their well-being amid the natural disaster.

Senior pro-Israel Republican lawmakers in the US Congress and officials in the White House have reportedly pressured the Israeli government to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, The Jerusalem Post said in a report. According to two sources familiar with the matter, the message was delivered from both these senior political groups, indicating concern over the humanitarian situation from key segments of Israel's main ally.

The Netherlands has listed Israel as a threatening state actor alongside Iran, Russia, and Turkey in a new security report, as per a report in The Jerusalem Post. A report from the Dutch National Coordinator for Terrorism and Security (NCTV), released on July 17, identifies Israel as one of the countries that aims to "control public opinion and political decision making." The classification specifically relates to concerns about foreign influence operations rather than direct military threats.

A Turkish embassy staffer has been arrested in Tel Aviv after allegedly being caught photographing underage girls in a beach locker room, according to a report in the Times of Israel. The suspect was reportedly found hiding in a stall to take photos of girls aged around 13. Following the arrest, Turkey is said to have requested that the staffer be held on embassy grounds, but Israeli authorities reportedly denied this request, asserting local jurisdiction over the alleged crime.

An employee in the United Arab Emirates has won a legal case against their employer over unpaid wages, according to a report in Khaleej Times. A court ruled in favor of the employee, ordering the company to repay a total of Dh1.33 million in salary arrears.

The Israeli government intends to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara on August 4 and subsequently boycott her from cabinet meetings, The Times of Israel says in a report. This strategy is reportedly designed to bypass a potential High Court of Justice injunction that would freeze the dismissal while its legality is under review. The plan involves not inviting the Attorney General to subsequent government meetings, effectively circumventing the court's authority and escalating the ongoing conflict between the executive and judicial branches.

Former President Obama on Sunday called for immediate action to address what he termed the "preventable" starvation occurring in the Gaza Strip, according to a report in The Hill. He stated that while a permanent solution to the crisis requires the return of all hostages and a cessation of Israel’s military operations, the reports of starvation underscore the urgent need for intervention to prevent further suffering.

Google's earthquake warning system failed to alert approximately 10 million people ahead of the catastrophic 7.8 magnitude quake in Turkey in 2023, according to a report in BBC. The technology company has acknowledged that only 469 serious warnings were successfully sent out before the devastating earthquake, which occurred on February 6, 2023. The failure of the Android-based alert system highlights issues with the technology's reliability during one of the deadliest natural disasters in the region's recent history.