Dario Salvi

Yesterday hundreds of people protested against unemployment and lack of essential services. Crisis and tensions push Christians to flee: at least one family a month leaves the city. Msgr. Habib: demonstrations and armed clashes between tribes, there is a precarious situation. But the faithful want to celebrate Advent, with masses and prayer meetings.

Doha withdraws membership from the oil exporting countries as of January 2019. The emirate will continue to comply with production commitments like other non-OPEC nations. The choice is the result of an industrial plan, untied by the dispute in progress with Saudi Arabia.

The 26th Conference of the Patriarchs of the East, held for the first time in Iraq, came to an end yesterday. Participants called on the faithful to hold fast onto their faith and contribute to the region’s development. In their final statement, the prelates look at the situation of each country and its challenges. The next meeting is set for November 2019 in Cairo.

Sharing experiences and creating bonds between people of faith, ethnicity and different origins to overcome the traumas of the war and the confessional divisions. The school of Medaa, in the Ghouta, and the meeting with hundreds of young Muslim students. From fear to the joy of overcoming prejudice.

The Latin Patriarchate protests ownership of properties in the northern Jordan valley. For over 40 years it has been used as a training camp; the appeals in court were declared null and void. Vicar of Jerusalem: Rumors of diseases and deaths among civilians, even children, caused by the weapons used in the exercises.

The conflict has separated people and divided entire communities. The region that was the symbol of violence near Damascus is the starting point for rebuilding solidarity networks. Help has been provided to hundreds of students at a school reduced to rubble in Medaa. Scout groups from the capital are also involved in the initiative.

The US government has signed a contract for the supply of the Thaad missile defense system. For Washington it reinforces security in the Gulf in an anti-Iranian key. The Senate passes a motion (63 in favor and 37 against) asking to "withdraw" support for the Arab coalition led by Riyadh.

Three of the five most dangerous countries in the world are in the Middle East (Syria, Yemen and Iraq). Iran has focused on tourism to boost its economy. Despite US sanctions, the number of foreign visitors in Iran rose by 51 per cent in the first six months of the current fiscal year. Such growth is "unprecedented".

In the area the temperatures have increased by two degrees in the last 30 years. The visible damage in the Tannourine forest in the north of the country. Many skeletons of dead trees. The government has promoted a program of grafting, but proceeds slowly. Hopeful environmentalists: Cedars will be able to adapt.

The 26th Patriarch’s Conference is underway, held for the first time in Iraq, from 26 to 30 November. In his opening address, Card Sako spoke about problems and challenges, to be faced working together. He hopes for a better future of peace, stability and a prosperity.

For Esmail Nasr Al Deen, the reference violates the principle of equal rights and opportunities. Employers hire on the basis of religion. The proposal meets resistance in Parliament, among Muslims and even among Orthodox Copts. Spokesman Catholic Church: "The parliamentary debate will not be quick, there are many obstacles".

Demonstrators critical of the number two of the Saudi kingdom, for involvement in Khashoggi's death. Journalists' union join civil society protests. More scheduled today, coinciding with the arrival of the crowned prince.