Israel emerges from the vote with yet another comeback for Netanyahu, who, however, lacks the numbers to govern. The concept of a Zionist alternative has been defeated, and the prospect of a national unity government appears difficult. A commission regarding the events of 7 October could serve as an initial testing ground for an understanding between the Eisenkot-led faction and the Arab parties.
Israel's Higher Planning Council has unilaterally assumed authority over construction, approving a new dormitory. The World Council of Churches condemns the expropriation of land adjacent to the Orthodox monastery of Saint Onuphrius in Silwan. Eight Arab and Muslim countries slam the burning of two mosques in the West Bank. Bedouin herding communities are also targeted.
Leo XIV spoke to the participants to the plenary assembly of the Reunion of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches (ROACO), lamenting the "exodus" of Eastern Christians caused by instability that always falls “hardest on the poor.” For the pontiff, God is always “The source of goodness”. The pontiff also slammed those who waste money on killing, and “seek monologues”, while “you create dialogue”. “The Christian East can only be preserved if it is understood”.
This is the finding of a study by an Austrian university, which refutes the equation between faith and terrorism within the diaspora. Faith and culture are closely intertwined amongst refugees. Anti-Islamic sentiments also affect Christians. Polak: radicalisation increases outside communities, amongst those who are alone and encounter religion on social media.
Yesterday, the Turkish leader received the ecumenical patriarch at the presidential complex. One of the issued discussed was finding ways the historic school, closed in 1971, could reopen after the inauguration next September of the newly renovated building complex. Trump, expected at the NATO summit in July, has pushed for Ankara to give the green light. Renewed tensions with Greece over maritime borders lurk in the background.
Attieh Fard, a politician and lawyer who has been in the United Kingdom for years, spoke to AsiaNews about the signing of an agreement that leaves international tensions and critical issues in the country unresolved. Iran’s hardliners could block signing, while the regime could use the moment to strengthen stability and its grip on power. The call for a "free" Iran may still lead to fresh street protests.
In the last few hours, a few displaced people have started to go home, but the situation in the south remains critical. The Jewish state has no intention to relinquish the territories it has occupied. Furthermore, the plan leaves the issue of Hezbollah's disarmament open and unresolved. Uncertainty and unresolved issues surround the future of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon.
Amidst the red mountains of southern Jordan, archaeologists have unearthed Ayn Abu Nukhayla, one of the most important Neolithic settlements in the Middle East. The research tells the story of the emergence of the first settled communities, revealing a history far more fascinating than the legends that have fuelled the desert’s imagination for centuries.
Three Indian nationals died in a US attack on a tanker carrying Iranian oil. Despite the public outrage, New Delhi is keeping a low profile to avoid angering Washington: in the background, a possible meeting between Trump and Modi on the sidelines of the G7. Meanwhile, the White House announced a deal with Tehran. Saudi Arabia reboots trade with Lebanon.
Israeli arms exports reached a record US$ 19.2 billion in 2025, with purchases nearly doubling in the Asia-Pacific. Vietnam is one of Israel’s main partners, making it, its the second-largest supplier after Russia. Nguyễn Thị Thanh Nhàn, a businesswoman who fell out of favour with the authorities and was sentenced in absentia to 30 years in prison, played a key role in this. India, Thailand, and Singapore are also nurturing military ties with the Jewish state in order to develop their own capabilities.
From the FIFA Peace Prize to Trump to short-term visas for Iranian players, the 2026 edition will be the biggest with 48 teams and 104 matches, but also very controversial. Nine Asian teams will take part, with two newcomers: Jordan and Uzbekistan. The hopes of a continent rest with South Korea and Japan. Despite billions invested in football, China failed to qualify.
The Israeli activist, a participant in the Gaza peace talks, slams the leadership of a “desperate” prime minister who, beyond the never-ending war, has “no successes to present on any front." The country, which will go to the polls in October, is at a “turning point”. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is still "terrible," while talks continue for a diplomatic solution.
The vicar of Arabia spoke to AsiaNews about the uncertainty and fragility caused by the war between Israel (and the United States) and Iran. In the migrant community, their presence is seen as short-term. Setting roots and a stable presence are hard to do. While the truce had given rise to the illusion of a possible return to "normalcy”, Bahrain and Kuwait have been hit again in recent days in new attacks.
Subscribe to the newsletter to receive verified news, analysis and insights from Asian countries every week.
Subscribeto the newsletter
