Dario Salvi

The official signing is set in three weeks in Washington. Meanwhile, direct telephone services between the UAE and Israel have begun; the international community approves, except for Iran and Turkey. For Bernard Sabella, Israel’s pledge to suspend its annexation plan raises questions. Palestinians need a strong and united leadership to re-establish relations with Arab countries.

Citizenship, the situation in the Nineveh plain and the Christians affected by the explosions in Lebanon at the center of the meeting between the Prime Minister and the Chaldean patriarch. For the auxiliary bishop of Baghdad, the reconstruction of houses and employment are the priorities. Listen to the voice of the young people demonstrating. Al-Kazemi's affection for Pope Francis.

In his Sunday homily, the cardinal attacks a "political class" that only wants to save itself. An emergency executive is useless if it is not the reflection of a "true unity". Parliamentary groups and parties must take up "the challenge of change". The security forces have the task of "protecting" the young people who demonstrate.

As cases mounted, the bishop suspended services. Cultural activities, festivals and meetings with more than 20 people have been banned. Bishop Ðặng appeals to the faithful to follow government preventive measures. Catholics are playing a leading role in promoting pandemic containment practices.

The Chaldean patriarch joins the Maronite Church, which will hold a day of fasting and prayer tomorrow. Card al-Rahi urges the faithful to take part in the day of recollection and repentance for a "wounded nation". India offers her solidarity. The Holy Land will send offerings to the needy. The World Council of Churches extends its compassion to the victims. AsiaNews continues its campaign to "Help devasted Beirut".

Osman Aslan was a volunteer, informing Muslims about anti-coronavirus measures in the mosque. He died on August 2 from an apparent heart attack but the authorities kept the news under the wrap for days. The Istanbul Governor’s Office asks for “mercy from God”.

Most of the illegal border crossers are tourists bound for casinos in north-western Bokeo province’s Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone. The Chinese come in groups of 20, 30 or even 50 people. Authorities also deported 184 undocumented citizens of Myanmar. Laos has reported 20 confirmed cases of the virus and zero deaths.

A survey by Avrasya Research confirms that the move of the “sultan” has not electorally paid off. The ruling AKP party is backed by 35 per cent of voters; 12.4 per cent backs the pro-Kurdish opposition movement HDP. Less than 30 per cent appreciate the work of the president, who is rejected by 40 per cent of survey participants.

The blast damaged Caritas headquarters. The charity is “ready to hand out aid,” said Fr Paul Karam, who stresses that “psychological support" to victims’ families is also fundamental. Some 200 employees and volunteers divided into 15 groups are already at work. Catholic schools and convents are open to those left homeless. AsiaNews and the PIME Foundation are ready to help the victims.

In the wake of tensions with Hezbollah, Israel denies any involvement in the explosion. The Arab League wants to know what caused the blast. The UN offers help to cope with the "horrific tragedy”. US President Trump does not rule out an attack. Iran pledges help "in any way necessary”.

For Bishop Roberto Gaa, efforts to thwart the coronavirus won’t work unless the public does its part. “Let us not pass this responsibility to others” he warned. Starting 1st August, the Archdiocese Manila and the Dioceses of Cubao and Parañaque have suspended public liturgical services for two weeks. So far, the Philippines has reported more than 112,000 cases and 2,115 deaths.

The coming election will be a key test for the Southeast Asian country, under military rule for decades. The economy and peace talks with armed groups dominate the campaign. International charges against Myanmar over the Rohingya tragedy weight heavily as well.