Dario Salvi

Initially the site in al-Jawf was thought to be 2,000 years old. New research found life-size images of camel carved in red sandstone to date back 8,000 years. Increasingly focusing on tourism, Saudi Arabia plans to build a 50,000-square-metre resort in the al-Baha region. The goal is to reach 10 per cent of GDP.

Fr Palinuro’s ordination is scheduled for 7 December in a ceremony led by Card Sandri with his entrance in the Cathedral of Holy Spirit 11 days later. Fr Andrea Santoro’s legacy means remembering that evangelization is "a risk" to be taken "without fear" while keeping "doors open". He can start with an established relationship with the ecumenical patriarch while the dialogue with Islam will be a great challenge.

Cambodia extends vaccination campaign to children under six. The aim is to immunize 91 per cent of the population and reopen the tourism sector. China and the UAE plan to vaccinate three-year-old. Hong Kong lawmakers turn to Pfizer for a third jab after no antibodies detected from Chinese vaccine.

WHO director general is in Lebanon today and tomorrow to vet the country’s “unprecedented complex crisis”. In August, dozens of cancer patients protested in front of the UN offices. For Caritas director Fr Abboud, the basic problem is “corruption” in a nation “plundered” by politicians. Yet, hope lives on, as does solidarity.

The measure affects some 30 prisoners for crimes of opinion or thought. A recent amendment by the monarch provides for alternative sentences to prison at any time of sentencing. Some detainees had ended up in cells while still underage. Of 3,800 total detainees, at least 1,400 are political prisoners.

A document published by a UN panel of experts speaks of worsening violence and human rights violations. Government forces responsible for arbitrary detentions and abuses, even in areas controlled by rebels and extremist groups. A decade after the beginning of the conflict, the parties "continue to perpetrate war crimes".

The new vicar succeeds Bishop Rubén Tierrablanca González, who died in December from COVID-19 after three weeks in intensive care. A fidei donum priest from Italy’s Campania region, Bishop Palinuro has lived in Turkey for nine years. This is excellent news, according to Bishop Bizzeti. The new vicar is an expert, ready to contribute to the growth of “a diocesan Church”.

For the first time in 10 years an Israeli premier is on official visit to Egypt. The meeting took place in the tourist resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Israeli leader speaks of "the foundations for deeper ties in the future". The energy sector of strategic interest, with the agreement on natural gas exports from 11.3 billion euros.

Opposition lawmaker slams government claims about positive second quarter economic growth (21.7 per cent). For Veli Ağbaba, neither companies nor shopkeepers have benefit from touted growth. About 35 per cent of closures occurred in the summer after restrictions were eased. No-vax protesters take to the streets against restrictions and immunisations.

Compromise reached on maintenance of monitoring equipment during a visit by Director Grossi to Iran. A positive element in view of further meetings between the Islamic Republic and the West on the JCPOA. IAEA: a "constructive" trip, but not a "permanent solution". For experts, Iran's concessions are "modest".

The new facility, which aims to boost Israel's presence in maritime trade, has been operational since September 1. A $1.7 billion investment managed by the Shanghai International Port Group. The aim is to become a regional hub, counting on growing ties with Arab nations. Washington against the Beijing-Jerusalem axis.

Msgr. Hinder has lived in the area since 2004 and has experienced tensions and dangers in the years following the attacks on the Twin Towers. Little interest in a historical revisionism, concerns are about economy and development. From the Emirates positive steps in inter-religious dialogue. Christian witness in the social sphere.