Mawahib Abdallatif is a journalist based in Khartoum, Sudan.

The inside story of why mediators have struggled with the conflict in Sudan

22 Dec 2023  |  nation.africa  |  English  |  International Relations

Mediators have faced significant challenges in resolving the conflict in Sudan, with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) engaged in a power struggle since the ousting of Omar al-Bashir in 2019. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and millions displaced. Efforts by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) and other international bodies have been undermined by internal disagreements and accusations of falsifying meeting outcomes. The RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (Hemedti), has been accused of brutality and is supported by the UAE, while the SAF is struggling to maintain control and protect civilians. The US has imposed sanctions on both groups, and despite ongoing negotiations, a resolution seems distant.

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Arab League Rapid Support Forces Sudan Armed Forces Intergovernmental Authority on Development African Union United Nations

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Adrian Blomfield is available for comment and analysis on developments in eastern, central and the horn of Africa, the Middle East and the former Soviet Union. Over the past 16 years he has been based in Nairobi, Baghdad, Moscow and Jerusalem. Adrian held the following positions over that time:

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Why the EU cannot rely on Assad to solve its migration woes

19 Oct 2024  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  EU Politics

The article discusses the European Union's consideration of normalizing relations with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to address the ongoing migration crisis. Despite calls from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and some EU leaders to re-engage with Assad, there is widespread skepticism due to Assad's history of human rights abuses and failure to deliver on promises. The article highlights the challenges faced by Syrian refugees, the EU's internal divisions on migration policy, and the potential implications of restoring relations with Assad. It also notes the broader geopolitical context, including the influence of Russia and Iran in Syria and the failed efforts of the Arab League to secure concessions from Assad.

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Arab League European Union International Crisis Group

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Mahmut Bozarslan is a journalist based in Diyarbakır, Turkey.

I worked particularly in East and Southeast of Turkey but especially in Norhern Iraq . During this time, I followed almost all terrorist incidents in the region and I made very successful stories. Because of my Kurdish language skill ...

HÜDA PAR Chairman appears on stage with individuals in Hamas uniforms at 'Support for Aqsa Flood' rally

12 Nov 2023  |  VOA Türkçe  |  Turkish  |  Conflict

HÜDA PAR organized a rally in Batman, Turkey, to support Hamas's attacks against Israel, named 'Aqsa Flood.' HÜDA PAR Chairman Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu criticized the Islamic Cooperation Organization and Arab League for recognizing the Palestine Liberation Organization as the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. The rally featured individuals wearing Hamas military wing uniforms, which drew criticism from other Turkish political leaders, Ümit Özdağ and Öztürk Yılmaz, who called for legal action. Hamas, listed as a terrorist organization by the EU, US, and Israel, has been involved in sending armed men across the border from Gaza, resulting in casualties, and is accused by Israel of using civilians as human shields.

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Arab League HÜDA PAR Hamas Islamic Cooperation Organization

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Alexandra Brzozowski is a Brussels-based journalist specialised in European affairs. For EURACTIV, she covers European security and defence policy, Eastern Europe and Arctic policy. Also occasionally found on Zenger News.

The danger of normalising Russia

28 Nov 2023  |  EURACTIV.com  |  English  |  International Relations

European diplomats are increasingly uneasy about normalizing dialogue with Russia in international forums. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's presence at the UN gathering went largely unnoticed, while Russia's war on Ukraine has exposed the need for a radical reassessment of the UN and its Security Council. The OSCE has been paralyzed in decision-making, with Russia barring Estonia from its rotating chairmanship. Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Ukraine plan to boycott the OSCE ministerial if Lavrov attends. The article questions the potential diplomatic rehabilitation of Russia, drawing parallels with Syria's acceptance into the Arab League.

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Arab League United Nations Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe

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Borzou Daragahi is a longtime foreign correspondent now working full-time for The Independent. He covers Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia and the Arabian Peninsula as well as the Balkans and global issues such as public health, international crime and security ...

Turkey and Egypt bury the hatchet, marking an end to rising third axis in the Middle East

14 Feb 2024  |  PressNewsAgency  |  English  |  Middle East Politics

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Egypt on February 14, 2024, marked a significant diplomatic reconciliation between Turkey and Egypt, ending nearly a decade of political and ideological divergence. The meeting with President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi symbolized the end of an emerging third axis in the Middle East, distinct from both the Saudi-led pro-Western camp and the Iranian-led 'Axis of Resistance.' The thaw in relations follows a period of tension and conflict, including opposing stances in regional conflicts such as the Libyan civil war. The rapprochement is driven by economic interests, regional diplomatic shifts, and changes in Erdogan's political ideology. Trade between the two nations has rebounded, and future relations are expected to focus on energy deals, tourism, and business expansion, with less emphasis on ideological disputes.

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Arab League Muslim Brotherhood Supreme Council of the Armed Forces

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DAN EHRLICH is a journalist based in Los Angeles, United States of America.


Career Highlights:
•	CNN news desk editor 
•	Foreign correspondent
•	TV and radio station news director
•	US radio network correspondent
•	Internationally published travel writer
•	Metro daily newspaper ...

Two State or One State? The Big Post Bibi Question

07 Jul 2024  |  blogs.timesofisrael.com  |  English  |  One-State Solution

Israel's recent land seizure in the West Bank challenges the viability of a two-state solution, with Prime Minister Netanyahu arguing against it post-Hamas attacks. The article explores the potential for a one-state solution, where Jewish settlers and Arabs coexist, a scenario feared by the current Israeli government. Finance Minister Smotrich aims to prevent a Palestinian state, while the article highlights the socio-economic disparities fueling conflict. It suggests that lasting peace requires economic parity and integration of Palestinian Arabs, countering hate and distrust through education and engagement.

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Arab League Hamas Israeli Government

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Jennifer Gnana is a multi-lingual journalist with experience in print and broadcast, currently based in Bahrain. She has extensive experience reporting on economic development in the Middle East, with a focus on GCC and Iran. Her specialty is feature writing and risk analysis. She is fluent in ...

Qatar says ‘renewed interest’ in Gaza talks, wants unified Arab stance on Syria

01 Dec 2024  |  Al-Monitor: Independent, trusted coverage of the Middle East  |  English  |  Middle East Diplomacy

Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari announced renewed interest in ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the need for concessions from both sides. Qatar had previously suspended mediation efforts due to a lack of willingness from the parties involved. The announcement coincides with Syrian rebels taking control of Damascus, ending Bashar al-Assad's rule. Qatar, which has not normalized relations with Assad, is working towards a unified Arab stance on Syria. The Gulf Cooperation Council is also seeking a cohesive position, despite differing approaches among its members. Qatar's involvement in the Syrian civil war began in 2012, supporting opposition rebels.

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Arab League Qatar Hamas United States Gulf Cooperation Council

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Ali Haj Suleiman is a journalist based in Idlib, Syria.

‘The revolution will continue’: Syrian protesters vow ahead of 2024

29 Dec 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Humanitarian Crisis

In Sweida, Syria, demonstrators continue to protest against the Syrian regime, demanding change and accountability. The protests have been ongoing since August, with worsening living conditions and public services sparking increased participation. The Syrian pound's devaluation and the international community's response to the humanitarian crisis are highlighted. Despite normalization efforts with the Arab League, illegal drug trade and violence persist. Activists remain hopeful for accountability through international justice systems. The UN Special Envoy to Syria, Geir O Pedersen, has called for renewed focus on a political peace process. The humanitarian situation is dire, with the World Food Programme ceasing food rations and local organizations struggling to meet needs. The UN estimates 16.7 million Syrians will require aid in 2024, with poverty rates expected to rise if the crisis continues to be overlooked.

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Arab League Syrian regime White Helmets Syrian Civil Defense Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) World Food Programme United Nations Ataa Humanitarian Relief Association

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Ricardo Israel is a journalist, lawyer, and political scientist based in Hollywood, United States of America. He has a long academic career in Chile, United States, England and Sweden. He is a former Chairperson of the Comitee on Armed Forces and Society of the International Political Science ...

Netanyahu in Washington

09 Feb 2025  |  infobae  |  Spanish  |  Israel-Palestine Relations

Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington focused on gaining support against Hamas, addressing the Iranian nuclear threat, and advancing a treaty with Saudi Arabia. The visit was overshadowed by Donald Trump's controversial plan for Gaza, which faced widespread condemnation, particularly from the Sunni Arab world. Trump's approach diverges from traditional solutions, emphasizing fresh ideas but facing criticism for potentially escalating conflicts. The article critiques the lack of effective international response to the Gaza situation and highlights the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

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Arab League Hamas United States Israel United Nations

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Abdulkadir Khalif is a journalist based in Muqdisho, Somalia.

Africa Union dodges the bullet on Ethiopia-Somalia tensions

20 Feb 2024  |  www.theeastafrican.co.ke  |  English  |  International Relations

The African Union has not made significant progress in resolving the dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia, according to a UN official. At a UN Security Council session, the Special Representative to Somalia, Catriona Laing, expressed disappointment that the AU summit avoided the issue, focusing instead on education, science, and innovation. The dispute centers on a memorandum of understanding between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which Somalia opposes. The MoU has led to tensions, with concerns that it could undermine Somalia's recent achievements, such as joining the East African Community and reaching the HIPC completion point. The UK called for dialogue, and the Head of Somalia Mission condemned Ethiopia's actions as a violation of sovereignty. Major international organizations have expressed support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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League of Arab States African Union United Nations Intergovernmental Authority on Development Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Non-aligned Countries European Union

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I'm a Mogadishu based freelance multimedia journalist covering Somalia for the NYTimes. MA in Journalism and communications at Mogadishu university.

Abiy’s port in a storm

23 Jan 2024  |  mg.co.za  |  English  |  Regional Conflict

Somaliland's President Muse Bihi, after a failed attempt to gain recognition in Djibouti, struck a deal with Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to grant Ethiopia access to Somaliland's coastline in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland's independence. This move aims to bolster Bihi's political standing amid internal challenges and delayed elections. Ethiopia, facing its own internal and regional pressures, sees the deal as a strategic win for access to the sea. However, the deal faces significant international opposition, particularly from Somalia, and has yet to be finalized, leaving the region in a state of diplomatic tension.

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Arab League Somaliland Government Ethiopian Government Somali Government African Union Organisation of Islamic Cooperation United States Government European Union Al-Shabaab

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HAMED MOHAMMADI is a journalist based in Berlin, Germany.

All Eyes On Iran

19 Apr 2024  |  Worldcrunch  |  English  |  Arab-Israeli Relations

The article examines the historical and ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, focusing on Egypt's peace treaty with Israel and its impact on Arab unity and identity. It highlights the internal and regional tensions arising from Egypt's diplomatic relations with Israel, especially in light of the Palestinian cause. The piece also discusses the broader implications of the Abraham Accords and the shifting alliances in the region, with a particular focus on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its influence on regional politics.

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Arab League Egyptian Government Jordanian Government

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Faten Omar is a freelance journalist, works for several Arabic and English news agencies.Currently, she works for Xinhua, Chinese news agency. Previously she was a reporter at Kuwait-based daily English newspaper Kuwait Times, daily Arabic newspaper Al-Kuwaityah, senior editor at Al-Mustagbal ...

Lebanese, Kuwaitis step up to support Lebanon’s recovery

07 Dec 2024  |  kuwaittimes.com  |  English  |  Lebanon Recovery

A donation drive titled 'Kuwait Seeks Your Well-being' concluded at the Lebanese Embassy in Kuwait, gathering essential supplies for Lebanon's recovery following military attacks. The initiative, supported by Kuwaiti and Lebanese volunteers, reflects the strong bond between the two nations. Kuwait has sent military aircraft with medical supplies to Lebanon, with aid distribution overseen by the Lebanese Red Cross and Red Crescent. Kuwaiti officials reaffirmed their support for Lebanon's political stability and independence, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation under the United Nations and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The campaign highlights the enduring ties and mutual respect between Kuwait and Lebanon.

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Arab League Lebanese Embassy in Kuwait Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lebanese Red Cross Red Crescent United Nations Gulf Cooperation Council

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Mohamed Sheikh Nor

I am Mohamed Sheikh Nor, a Somali-born multimedia journalist based in Mogadishu, the nation's capital, where I work as a journalist.

Over the course of my career, I have worked with a wide variety of international media outlets, including the Associated Press, CNN, ...

Somalia Blocks Ethiopian Flight to Somaliland Amid Port Dispute

17 Jan 2024  |  leaderpost.com  |  English  |  Aviation

Somalia's government denied a flight carrying Ethiopian officials to Somaliland entry into its airspace, escalating tensions over a proposed port deal. Ethiopian Airlines flight ET8372, which included VIP Ethiopian delegates, was turned back by the Somalia Civil Aviation Authority. The incident follows Ethiopia's announcement of recognizing Somaliland as a sovereign state and a deal to lease land for military and commercial maritime purposes. Somalia, which claims sovereignty over Somaliland, has threatened military retaliation. Support for Somalia's sovereignty has been expressed by Egypt, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, and the Arab League. The US expressed concern that the deal could disrupt efforts against the Islamist military group al-Shabaab.

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Arab League Somalia Civil Aviation Authority US National Security Council

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Cláudio Silva is a journalist based in Luanda, Angola.

Mustapha Tossa is a journalist based in Paris, France.

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Mustapha Tossa est un journaliste franco-marocain né à Marrakech au Maroc le 28 mai 1963.

Il est diplômé de l’Institut supérieur de journalisme à Rabat1 promotion ...

Saudi Arabia Convenes the Arab, Muslim, and African Worlds!

11 Nov 2023  |  aujourdhui.ma  |  French  |  International Relations

Saudi Arabia is set to host three significant summits involving the Arab League, African Union, and Organization of Islamic Cooperation to address the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The summits aim to halt the war in Gaza, propose political and military solutions post-ceasefire, and send a global message advocating for peace. The article highlights the strategic importance of these meetings in the context of international diplomacy and the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Various scenarios for Gaza's future governance, including the involvement of the Palestinian Authority and United Nations forces, are being considered.

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Arab League African Union Organization of Islamic Cooperation United Nations

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Multimedia journalist based in İstanbul. Focuses on Turkish politics and foreign policy and economy. Also interested in labour rights and feminism.

Arab countries condemn Israeli incursion in Syria and support peaceful transition after Assad's fall

14 Dec 2024  |  www.elmundo.es  |  Spanish  |  International Relations

Arab countries convened in Jordan to support a peaceful political transition in Syria following Bashar Assad's regime fall, condemning Israel's recent incursion. The meeting emphasized the need for inclusive Syrian elections under UN supervision. The Arab League criticized Israeli military actions near the Golan Heights, while Hayat Tahrir Al Sham's leader condemned Israel's intervention. The interim Syrian government appealed to the UN Security Council over Israeli sovereignty violations. The summit also addressed ongoing tensions in northeastern Syria involving Turkey and the US, with discussions on humanitarian aid and diplomatic normalization efforts.

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Arab League United Nations Hayat Tahrir Al Sham European Union United States Turkish Government

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Cassandra Vinograd is a freelance journalist and producer specializing in conflict, human rights and migration. She previously worked for NBC News, The Associated Press and The Wall Street Journal. Her reporting has taken her throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East. 

She is HEFAT certified....

U.S. Vetoes Palestinian Bid for Recognition as Full U.N. Member State

18 Apr 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Middle East Conflict

The United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution to recognize Palestine as a full member state, emphasizing that statehood should come through direct negotiations with Israel. The resolution, supported by 12 countries including China, faced opposition from the U.S. and abstentions from Britain and Switzerland. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in significant casualties and destruction, complicates the Palestinian bid for statehood. The U.S. and its allies imposed new sanctions on Iran following its missile and drone attack on Israel, while urging Israel to avoid actions that could escalate the conflict. Efforts to mediate a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continue amid international diplomatic tensions.

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Arab League United Nations U.S. State Department Israeli Government Palestinian Authority Hamas Iranian Government European Union Hezbollah Qatari Government

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Anchal Vohra is a Beirut-based TV and Print journalist. She is a freelance Correspondent for AJ English and a writer on the Middle east for Foreign Policy. She also contributes to the Times, the Atlantic, the Telegraph, the New Statesman, and Berlin Policy Journal. Ms Vohra has been Deutsche Welle ...

Syria Has Never Really Cared About Israel

12 Nov 2024  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Israel-Hamas Conflict

The article explores Syria's strategic stance in the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting President Bashar al-Assad's decision to remain uninvolved despite pressures and historical ties. It discusses Syria's use of Israel as a public relations tool while prioritizing regime survival and regional diplomacy, particularly with the UAE and Arab monarchies. The piece also examines the complex dynamics involving Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia, noting Syria's balancing act between placating Iran and avoiding direct conflict with Israel. The analysis underscores Syria's pragmatic approach, prioritizing political survival over ideological commitments.

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Arab League United Arab Emirates Syrian Government Hamas Hezbollah European Commission Russian Forces

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