A second US deportation flight carrying Iranian nationals has arrived in Iran, officials confirmed, raising alarm among human rights advocates who warn that some deportees face persecution, imprisonment, or worse upon return

A toddler’s killing near a displaced families’ camp in southern Gaza has renewed scrutiny of Israel’s ceasefire commitments, civilian safety, and international efforts to transition the war-torn enclave toward a lasting political solution

Bethlehem has lit its iconic Christmas tree once again following a ceasefire linked to the Gaza war. The move signals hope for peace and tourism recovery, even as unemployment, financial strain and regional tensions continue to shape daily life

Seafarers from the sunken Eternity C have been released and evacuated to Oman after being held in Yemen, as renewed Houthi attacks revive fears over Red Sea shipping safety and global trade disruptions amid escalating regional conflict and diplomatic mediation

As motorsport fans descend on Yas Island, hotel rates reach unprecedented highs, with guests paying tens of thousands for stays and facing strict parking rules. Even discounted last-minute deals remain significantly above typical off-peak prices across Abu Dhabi

Max Verstappen says his parents will sit out the Abu Dhabi finale, noting the title fight was never expected late in the season. The Red Bull star enters Yas Marina with renewed championship momentum after McLaren’s Qatar setback

Israel launched new air strikes on towns in southern Lebanon hours after unprecedented direct talks with Beirut, underscoring rising tensions over Hezbollah’s military reconstruction and the fragile ceasefire that has struggled to hold since late 2024

Iran will now attend the World Cup draw in Washington after resolving a visa row with the United States. The reversal follows days of political tension, with coach Amir Ghalenoei and select officials receiving clearance to travel

Public anger over unequal military service is driving Israel toward a critical showdown. A proposed draft law targeting Haredi exemptions has triggered protests, coalition turmoil, and warnings that the crisis may reshape Israel’s political landscape ahead of next year’s elections

The UN Committee Against Torture has released a damning assessment of Israel’s treatment of Palestinian detainees, citing evidence of organised torture, inhumane conditions, and possible crimes against humanity, despite persistent Israeli denials of wrongdoing

Air Arabia is carrying out urgent Airbus-mandated updates on its A320 aircraft to ensure safety, with minimal flight disruption expected for passengers across the UAE

The Trump administration is examining whether to classify Muslim Brotherhood chapters in Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon as terrorist organisations, a step that would impose severe sanctions and travel restrictions, escalating long-running debates over the group’s role in regional instability