Dario Salvi

Overnight air raids on the southern suburbs of Damascus. Yesterday, the attacks focused on "dozens" of targets in the Strip, where at least four injured were registered. The new hotbed of tension triggered by the killing of a member of the group along the border.

In Iran, the first case is reported in Qom, possibly a Chinese worker. The authorities appear to have downplayed the issue to prevent a low turnout in yesterday’s parliamentary election. Kuwait stops flights to and from Iran. Crippled by US sanctions, Iran’s health system is a source of concern.

The measure follows the news of the first two victims registered in the Islamic Republic. It is an elderly couple from Qom with past immune problems. Iraqi Airways has also suspended all air connections with the country. The entry ban in force "until further notice".

The complaint contained in an Amnesty International investigation launched in 2011. Cases of 95 people analysed revealing violence and even the use of the death penalty. A "systematic" use to silence dissent. Shiite minority among targets.

The religious guide calls for electorate to vote "to strengthen the nation" in the "battle against enemies". Opposition and civil society, excluded from the race, call for a boycott . In the background, the unsolved problems, from the economy to conflict with the United States.

After eight years, the city's international airport reopened to flights. The reopening of the highway to the capital has been marked with street celebrations. Archbishop Audo sees "positive" signs, but stresses the importance of reconstruction, territorial integrity and international support. Christians want to contribute to reconstruction.

Yesterday the judge acquitted entrepreneur Osman Kavala to trial for (alleged) involvement in the protest. Activists and civil society celebrate a "historic" decision. But just after hours later a new warrent for his arrest is issued by the prosecutor in reference to the failed coup in 2016.

Prosecutors have ordered the arrest of 766 people, including soldiers and Justice Ministry employees. More than a hundred arrests have already been carried out, 71 in Ankara alone. A million people were investigated between 2016 and 2018, says a former Member of Parliament for the ruling party.

For UAE leaders, this is a "historic moment". A local group working with a South Korean firm built the Barakah power plant at a cost of US$24.4 billion. Four reactors are expected to produce 5,600 megawatts.

58 million people out of a total of over 83 million called to the polls. Over 7 thousand candidates are competing for the 290 Majlis seats. Most are an expression of the conservative and radical faction. Moderates and reformists rejected because accused of corruption or unfaithfulness to Islam. Khamenei and Rouhani urge participation.

After years of bans and restrictions by the religious police, young people can now celebrate this day. The word love is no longer taboo. The kingdom’s newspapers offer tips on gifts and restaurants. Yet, despite the overture, repression remains, especially for women.

According to a senior United Nations official, most are women and children. The exodus is expected to continue with entire villages and communities on the move. Snow and intense cold complicate the situation, tires and waste burnt in search of heat. But toxic fumes are deadly.