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.
Palestinians are going to the polls in some 90 municipal councils and more than 280 villages. Elections are also taking place in Deir el-Balah, the only place in Gaza taking part in the vote. For the Catholic leader, today's election is of local rather national importance. The high cost of living and socioeconomic problems exacerbated by war and occupation are the main issues. A conference on the future of Fatah is scheduled for May.
The Patriarchate condemns "encroachments" in Tayasir, stressing that protecting Church properties is a "red line." Following a formal report to Israeli civil and military authorities, action has been taken against those responsible. As violence escalates Pizzaballa appeals for support for the local population. Meanwhile, Israel appointed a special envoy for the Christian world to mend relations.
The meeting between North Korea’s leader and Belarus’s Lukashenko marks a new course. The North Korean regime is managing its isolation as a strategic resource rather than simply enduring it. Pyongyang is choosing its interlocutors, building relationships, and using the diversification of its partners as a tool to maintain its autonomy from Beijing and Moscow with a growing focus on Southeast Asia at the expense of South Korea.
Beirut will not hold direct talks with Israel if the destruction of the south continues. Aoun is to be received by Trump ahead of a possible face-to-face meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. An Arab safety net is being mobilised to reduce Hezbollah to a civilian status, meet Israeli demands and implement the Taif Agreement. A moved crowd at the funeral of journalist Amal Khalil.
The countries of Central Asia are also taking steps within the framework of strengthening regional cooperation in defence systems, a process triggered by the war in the Middle East. Kazakhstan has announced the opening of its airspace to military flights from Turkey. Together with Uzbekistan, it aims to strengthen the alliance between the Turanian states through coordination plans with European nations.
This year, the major pilgrimage to Makkah is set for 24-29 May. The desire to participate outweighs the fear of war, although concerns remain about rising prices, last-minute cancellations, and delayed return journeys. Saudi Arabia is using artificial intelligence to manage security and monitor pilgrims. Two million people are expected to participate.
The Aqaba Port Rail Project is a cornerstone of the economic and logistical transformation of the transportation corridor between the Gulf and Europe. The project is set to begin in 2027 with a five-year construction timeframe. Concerns remain over regional instability, financial sustainability, and coordination among the various stakeholders involved. The construction of a dry port in Jordan’s southern region of Ma'an is also under consideration.
On the first anniversary of Pops Francis’s passing, two accounts from the Philippines and the war-torn Gulf region today recall his attentive gaze towards those who, as they travel the world in search of a future, also carry with them a Christian witness. Cardinal David: “They bring light to the world not out of strategy, but out of fidelity, wherever life may lead them.” Bishop Martinelli: “May his encouragement be a sign of peace even amidst today’s difficulties.”
After weeks of deadlock, Nizar Mohammed Saeed Amidi has been appointed President of the Republic. Political scientist Saad Salloum tells AsiaNews: this choice is a sign of “Kurdish fragmentation” and greater centralisation of power. For the Iraqi scholar, “pragmatism, institutional continuity and conflict management” will be the guiding principles of his four-year term.
The Israeli activist, who has fought for years in Jerusalem against religious intolerance, spoke about the action of an IDF soldier who tore down and smashed a cross in southern Lebanon. Israel’s military and foreign minister have apologised. Harani calls for education, even in the religious sector. She hopes to see an exemplary sentence.
For Netanyahu, it's a "historic deal”. The Shia militia calls the truce a "victory" for Tehran. Warnings (and threats) are issued against the disorderly return of civilians to Israeli-occupied villages south of the Litani River. The Lebanese president refuses to meet with Netanyahu without the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Saudi Arabia is engaged in efforts to keep Lebanon from both Iranian hegemony and Israeli domination.
Some 83 arrest warrants have been issued and 93 Telegram groups blocked following attacks on two schools. Yesterday, nine people were killed (including the attacker) and 13 wounded in Kahramanmaras province. The previous day, a high school in Urfa was attacked. The Ministry of Justice's 2025 report notes that 16.7 million people were under investigation.
Subscribe to the newsletter to receive verified news, analysis and insights from Asian countries every week.
Subscribeto the newsletter
