Journalist, correspondent, political analyst, commentator.
TV, Radio, online 
Specialist in Palestinian-Israeli affairs as well as European and Middle Eastern affairs

Why do Palestinians not pin their hopes on the Arab League?

15 Oct 2020  |  Middle East Monitor  |  English  |  Middle East Politics

The State of Palestine has abandoned its chairmanship of the Arab League in response to the normalization of relations between Israel and the UAE and Bahrain. This move reflects widespread frustration among Palestinians with the Arab League, which they view as ineffective and influenced by external powers, particularly the US. The article highlights the historical context of the Arab League, its perceived failures, and the disillusionment of Palestinians with the organization's ability to defend their rights. Calls for a new, stronger body to support oppressed nations in the region are also discussed.

Tags:

Bahrain Arab League Palestine Liberation Organisation Fatah Israeli State United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Beirut Egypt Iraq Jordan Lebanon Syria Qatar Kuwait Libya US Administration

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Richard Assheton has half a decade's experience reporting from across Europe, Africa and Asia for news brands including The Times, the Financial Times and the Guardian, covering global events and producing exclusive news and features. His subjects are not always easy interviews: he has sought out ...

Bahraini activist barred from Conservative conference on police advice

02 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  UK-Bahrain Relations

Sayed Alwadaei, a prominent Bahraini human rights activist, was denied entry to the Conservative Party's annual conference in Manchester on police advice, raising concerns about the UK's relationship with Bahrain. Alwadaei, who has no criminal record in the UK, was invited by the charity Freedom From Torture to speak on a panel about global human rights. The decision to bar him has been speculated to be influenced by Bahrain, a country accused of suppressing political dissidents. The incident has sparked criticism from various human rights organizations and highlighted the UK's controversial ties with Bahrain, including arms sales and military cooperation.

Tags:

Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy Conservative Party Greater Manchester Police Freedom From Torture Royal Navy Campaign Against Arms Trade Gulf Cooperation Council Reprieve Bright Blue

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Joyeeta Basu is a NCTJ qualified British journalist with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked with the Express Newspapers (UK), the Mirror Group (UK), BBC UK, Cross Border Group (launched by The Economist) in London, Times of India in Mumbai and Deccan Chronicle in Hyderabad.

Hamas’ terrorism cannot be justified

07 Oct 2023  |  TheDailyGuardian  |  English  |  Israel-Palestine Conflict

India's support for Israel against Hamas' terrorist attacks on 7 October marks a significant stance, despite its historical nuanced position on the Israel-Palestine issue. The article argues that terrorism, exemplified by Hamas' actions, cannot be justified under any circumstances. It highlights India's consistent stand against terrorism, drawing parallels with its own experiences of cross-border terrorism. The text criticizes Western responses, including those from student organizations and lawmakers, for blurring the lines between terrorism and freedom fighting. It also notes the muted or critical responses from various Middle Eastern countries towards Hamas. The article calls for a clear distinction between legitimate resistance and terrorism, emphasizing that the suffering of Palestinians does not justify Hamas' violent actions.

Tags:

Bahrain Hamas United Nations United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Qatar Turkey Pakistan OIC Harvard University

Opinionated

Factuality Scale

Right

Political View

Sabina Castelfranco is a journalist based in Rome, Italy.

Pope Francis in Bahrain boosts Catholic-Muslim fraternity

05 Nov 2022  |  www.rfi.fr  |  English  |  International Relations

Pope Francis visited Bahrain, marking the first time a head of the Catholic Church has done so and his second trip to a Gulf Arab nation. The visit aimed to improve Catholic-Muslim ties, with Bahrain hosting a small Catholic community of mainly Asian migrants. Despite facing criticism for human rights abuses, Bahrain's government denies such charges. During his visit, Pope Francis called for an end to discrimination and human rights violations, while King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa emphasized religious freedom. At the Bahrain Forum for Dialogue, Pope Francis, alongside Muslim, Christian, and Jewish leaders, urged religions to unite for peace and against the use of violence. The forum also saw calls for an end to Russia's war in Ukraine from both King Hamad and the Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb of al-Azhar University.

Tags:

Government of Bahrain Catholic Church al-Azhar University

Informative

Factuality Scale

Armed with ten years of experience on the field as a journalist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I now assume my role as a independent broadcast journalist. I recently hosted for VICE News in Malaysia and when I am not on camera, I produce news packages and documentaries for international news ...

Islamic finance higher education expands worldwide

01 Jan 2022  |  salaamgateway.com  |  English  |  Higher Education

Global demand for higher education in Islamic finance is growing, with a projected 12% increase in turnover for 2022. Key regions for Islamic finance education include Malaysia, Pakistan, Turkey, the GCC, and the UK. Malaysia is a major hub, with institutions like INCEIF leading the way. The AAOIFI and other organizations play significant roles in providing professional qualifications. Despite challenges in attracting students from some regions, the sector continues to expand, driven by the need for skilled professionals in Islamic banking, insurance, and capital markets.

Tags:

University of Bahrain Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance International Council of Islamic Finance Educators Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions Institute of Business Administration Bank Negara Malaysia International Shari'ah Research Academy International Islamic University Malaysia University Malaysia Sabah Malaysian Science University Hamad Bin Khalifa University Oman College of Banking and Finance Dubai Centre for Islamic Banking and Finance Jumeira University Ethica Institute of Islamic Finance Effat University King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University Istanbul University Centre for Islamic Economics and Finance Lahore University of Management Sciences Institute of Management Sciences Cambridge Institute of Islamic Finance Birmingham City University Queen Mary College University of London

Informative

Factuality Scale

I am a London-based writer with extensive experience of writing and editing copy on politics, economics and business. My articles have appeared in many of the world's leading current affairs publications, including The Economist, Bloomberg Businessweek, Forbes, Foreign Policy and others. 

I work ...

Delegates at the 146th assembly of the International Parliamentary Union, held in Bahrain from March 11-15, 2023

17 Mar 2023  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Freedom of Speech

The 146th assembly of the International Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Bahrain has been overshadowed by criticism of Bahrain's human rights record, particularly the imprisonment of Bahraini-Danish citizen Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja since 2011. European MPs, including Danish and Dutch delegates, have been vocal in calling for Al-Khawaja's release and criticizing Bahrain for withdrawing visas from Human Rights Watch staff. The Bahraini authorities have arrested individuals for social media activity ahead of the event, and the IPU has been accused of remaining silent on these issues. The Bahrain government defends its democratic system and deems Al-Khawaja a terrorist. Amnesty International has demanded Al-Khawaja's release, citing his need for medical attention and poor prison conditions.

Tags:

Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy

Salim Essaid is an American TV/online presenter/producer specializing in technology, business, energy and innovation. 

From 2018 to 2020 he was the lead reporter on the Euronews feature program Inspire Middle East, covering topics ranging from culture & the arts to business & innovation in ...

Saudi, UAE theaters to screen Barbie this week, despite earlier push to delay

07 Aug 2023  |  Al-Monitor: Independent, trusted coverage of the Middle East  |  English  |  Censorship

Several Arab countries, including the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, have decided to release the comedy movie 'Barbie' earlier than initially planned, moving the date to August 10, with Saudi Arabia screening it a day earlier on August 9. Other countries like Kuwait, Lebanon, Jordan, Oman, and Egypt are maintaining the delayed premiere date of August 31. The film, which has an age restriction of 18 in some countries, is pending final approval from media councils.

Tags:

Bahrain United Arab Emirates Qatar Saudi Arabia Kuwait Lebanon Jordan Oman Egypt Tunisia Morocco

Informative

Factuality Scale

Álvaro García is a journalist based in Madrid, Spain.

Tomás Miralles and Álvaro García, elite double signing for Vigo

01 Jan 2024  |  elpeloton.net  |  Spanish  |  Sports

Tomás Miralles and Álvaro García join the Vigo-Rías Baixas cycling team, aiming to advance their careers and contribute to the team's success. Miralles, known for his versatility, and García, a strong climber, both have impressive track records and are excited about the opportunities provided by their new team. The article highlights their past achievements, future goals, and the team's strong support structure.

Tags:

Bahrain Cycling Academy Vigo-Rías Baixas Essax Telco Maderas Kometa Caja Rural

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Recently relocated to London, Kit Gillet is a journalist with extensive experience covering Romania/Moldova, writing for The New York Times, Guardian, Economist and others. He's also a regular commentator for the BBC World Service, Monocle radio, Al Jazeera, France 24, Euronews and others.

National Bank of Bahrain embraces digital as it looks to the future

01 Mar 2022  |  www.thebanker.com  |  English  |  Economic Recovery

The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) is optimistic about 2022, driven by Bahrain's Economic Recovery Plan and the bank's digital transformation efforts. The bank launched a new mobile application, accelerating client acquisition and feature additions. The acquisition of a majority stake in Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) has strengthened NBB's retail footprint and access to the growing sharia-compliant market. The banking sector anticipates interest rate hikes in 2022, which is seen as positive for retail banks. Further consolidation and partnerships in the banking sector are expected due to increasing compliance and technology costs.

Tags:

Central Bank of Bahrain Ministry of Tourism

Informative

Factuality Scale

Heba Hashem is a seasoned freelance journalist with over 15 years of experience in the media industry, adept in both Arabic and English. Based between Dubai, UAE, and Niagara Falls, Canada, she has honed her skills in a variety of sectors, including real estate, logistics, retail, finance, and ...

Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait universities innovate on sustainability

24 Nov 2023  |  www.universityworldnews.com  |  English  |  Climate Change

Universities in Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait are actively promoting sustainability through various innovative projects and educational programs. Qatar University is leading initiatives in food waste reduction, biofuel production, and sustainable agriculture. Georgetown University in Qatar is raising awareness through events and partnerships. Bahrain Polytechnic and the University of Technology Bahrain have developed solar-powered vehicles, while Ahlia University and Gulf University are engaged in recycling and conservation efforts. Canadian College Kuwait's student-led app encourages environmental cleanup. These efforts are gaining momentum with the upcoming COP28 summit in Dubai, potentially influencing broader regional practices.

Tags:

University of Bahrain University of Technology Bahrain Bahrain Polytechnic Qatar University Georgetown University in Qatar Qatar Foundation Ahlia University Gulf University Canadian College Kuwait INJAZ Kuwait United Nations University United Nations Development Programme United Nations Environmental Programme

Informative

Factuality Scale

Melinda Healy is a journalist based in Sydney, Australia. She has 20 years of industry experience and has worked within the Australian and Middle Eastern media.  
Mel is a contributor for Conde Nast Traveler, Culture Trip and a destination expert for Telegraph Travel. She has written for ...

Bahrain to host world’s largest culinary tourism event

29 Oct 2024  |  www.connectingtravel.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Bahrain will host the ninth edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in November 2024, marking the first time the event is held in the Middle East. The forum, themed 'Gastronomy Tourism: A Driver of Economic Diversification and Inclusion', will gather over 400 participants, including top chefs and industry experts, to discuss the role of gastronomy in cultural diplomacy and economic diversification. Key topics include destination branding and sustainable practices in gastronomy tourism. The event is organized by the UNWTO, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, and the Basque Culinary Centre.

Tags:

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority United Nations World Tourism Organisation Basque Culinary Centre

Informative

Factuality Scale

Nicolas Keraudren is a French journalist currently based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He is mostly covering Gulf countries.

The "field" is at the heart of its journalistic beliefs.

In Bahrain, religious tolerance as a tool of 'soft power'

03 Nov 2022  |  www.la-croix.com  |  French  |  Human Rights

Pope Francis's first visit to Bahrain, an island in the heart of the Persian Gulf, includes participation in a global interfaith forum aimed at promoting human coexistence. The event, under the patronage of Bahraini King Hamed Ben Issa Al Khalifa and attended by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and other religious dignitaries, highlights Bahrain's use of religious tolerance as a diplomatic tool. Despite being a state with Islam as its official religion and Sharia law in effect, Bahrain's constitution guarantees freedom of conscience and worship. The country has a diverse religious landscape, including a synagogue, Buddhist and Hindu temples, and several Christian churches. Bahrain's strategy of interfaith dialogue, which began in earnest in 2017, has led to the normalization of diplomatic relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords. However, human rights organizations have criticized Bahrain for religious discrimination, particularly against the Shiite majority, which is seen by authorities as aligned with Iran. Bahrain distinguishes between the freedom to practice religion and the politicization of religious identity, the latter of which it opposes.

Tags:

Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) Government of Bahrain Al-Azhar

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Eva Levesque is a journalist and producer based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

‘Does not affect ability to sell’ - Saudi Energy Minister on Cop28 Deal

14 Dec 2023  |  AGBI  |  English  |  Renewable Energy

Saudi Arabia's energy minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, stated that the Cop28 agreement would not impact the kingdom's ability to export oil and gas. The agreement, which calls for a transition away from fossil fuels, faced resistance from major oil producers but was eventually adopted with language that avoided a direct call for a phase-out. Oil and gas companies, including TotalEnergies and Crescent Petroleum, have expressed support for the agreement, seeing it as aligning with their transition strategies. TotalEnergies emphasized the role of gas as a transition fuel and the importance of energy efficiency. Crescent Petroleum highlighted natural gas as a means to reduce emissions. ENI stressed the balance between emission targets and energy security. Arab oil producers, however, believe oil and gas will remain energy pillars for decades, and experts like Iman Nasseri and Omar al-Ubaydli suggest that the actual impact of the agreement may be limited.

Tags:

Bahrain Centre for Strategic International and Energy Studies Al Arabiya AGBI Fact Global Energy Gulf Intelligence

Joe Lo is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom who is available to cover any event in London but specialises in politics and football.

Gulf leaders buy caviar, Rolexes and other gifts for UK ministers

01 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  Human Rights

Gulf monarchies have been giving lavish gifts to UK ministers, including caviar, Rolex watches, and luxury hampers, raising concerns about undue influence on UK foreign policy. Campaigners argue these gifts are attempts to buy political favor and highlight the poor human rights records of the gifting countries. Notable recipients include Boris Johnson and Theresa May, while organizations like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International criticize the repressive actions of Gulf states. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not commented on these revelations.

Tags:

Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy Campaign Against Arms Trade Human Rights Watch Amnesty International Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Florence Massena is a journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon.

After studying journalism and political sciences in France, I took a turn towards Middle East and have been living in Beirut, Lebanon, for over five years. I mostly write in English online about culture, women issues, society and ...

Rights group urges Bahrain to free all political prisoners

19 Apr 2021  |  The New Arab  |  English  |  Health

The Gulf Centre for Human Rights appealed for the release of all prisoners of conscience in Bahrain due to a spike in Covid-19 cases, particularly after an outbreak in Jaw prison. The appeal includes human rights defenders and activists imprisoned for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and assembly. The GCHR highlighted the case of Sayed Nizar Alwadaei, who contracted the virus in detention. Despite authorities promising to release some prisoners, concerns remain among families about the health and safety of the detainees.

Tags:

Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy Gulf Centre for Human Rights

Informative

Factuality Scale

Naba Mohiedeen is a journalist based in Khartoum, Sudan.

Sudan Signs Abraham Accords, Normalizes Relations with Israel

07 Jan 2021  |  Voice of America  |  English  |  International Agreements

Sudan has joined the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations with Israel, which was signed at the U.S embassy in Khartoum. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Sudanese Minister of Justice Nasereldin Abdelbari represented their respective countries. The agreement is expected to have significant cultural and economic benefits for both nations. Sudan's motivation for signing includes removal from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism and access to international loans. Following the removal, the U.S. provided a $1 billion bridge loan to help Sudan clear its World Bank debt. Sudanese economist Waleed El-Noor commented on the positive economic impact for Sudan, including access to annual World Bank loans of $1.5 billion.

Tags:

Bahrain U.S. embassy United Arab Emirates Israel

Erkan Pehlivan is a freelance journalist based in Frankfurt, Germany.

Many years of case reporting experience, with a network of contacts in EU, Turkey, Balkans, MENA, think tanks...
Particularly familiar German, EU and Turkey policy.

Human rights, abductions, turkish intelligence MIT, Islam ...

USA threaten 'direct consequences' after Houthi attacks

03 Jan 2023  |  www.mannheim24.de  |  German  |  Trade

Houthi rebels' attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea have prompted the US and other nations to demand an immediate halt to these actions, warning of direct consequences. The attacks, linked to the conflict in Israel and Gaza, have led to significant disruptions in global trade routes, with many shipping companies rerouting their vessels. The US is considering military action if the attacks continue, while an international military coalition has been formed to protect maritime traffic, though Germany has not yet joined.

Tags:

Bahrain Government Houthi Rebels US Government International Maritime Organization United Nations German Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Josh Poyser is a freelance journalist and photographer based in Leeds, United Kingdom.

Bank ABC launches blockchain payments with J.P. Morgan

27 Sept 2023  |  Fintech Intel  |  English  |  Financial Technology

Bank ABC, in collaboration with J.P. Morgan and the Central Bank of Bahrain, has launched a blockchain-based payment service called Coin Systems. This service aims to facilitate instant cross-border commercial transactions between Bahrain and the US, addressing liquidity needs and offering corporate treasury services. The initiative aligns with Bahrain's strategic vision to digitalize its financial services sector and reduce inefficiencies in traditional cross-border payments.

Tags:

Central Bank of Bahrain

Factual

Factuality Scale

Richie Santosdiaz is a known international trade and economic development subject matter expert - both as a consultant as well as commentator on this realm in both print and also video (live and pre-recorded). He is bilingual (English and Spanish) and has done 100+ pieces/interviews mainly in the ...

Fintech And Economy Middle East And Africa In 2021 And Predictions For 2022

22 Jan 2022  |  thefintechtimes.com  |  English  |  Cryptocurrency

The article discusses the fintech landscape in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) during 2021 and makes predictions for 2022. It covers the impact of COVID-19 on digital economic development and consumer behavior, highlighting the acceleration of e-commerce and digital banking. The article also touches on government priorities in digital transformation, infrastructure development to support fintech growth, and the challenges of cybersecurity. It predicts increased diversity in fintech beyond payments, the importance of remittances, and the rise of cryptocurrencies. The article also mentions significant events like Expo 2020 Dubai and initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritize digital transformation. Finally, it anticipates the continued growth of fintech for good, particularly in Islamic Finance.

Tags:

Central Bank of Bahrain Mastercard Economics Institute The Fintech Times Gulf Cooperation Council Bureau International des Expositions Central Bank of the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority Dubai Financial Services Authority Financial Services Regulatory Authority Saudi Central Bank Fintech Saudi African Export-Import Bank AfCFTA Secretariat Dubai Multi Commodities Centre

Informative

Factuality Scale

Jerome is The Times Africa Correspondent, based in Nairobi. Before that he lived in Afghanistan and worked for various newspapers and broadcasters.

Houthis Vow 'Unimaginable' Revenge After US-UK Airstrikes on Yemen

12 Jan 2024  |  The Scottish Sun  |  English  |  Defence Policy

The article reports on a series of airstrikes conducted by the US and UK against Houthi military targets in Yemen, in response to Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea. The strikes, which hit 60 military targets and killed five militants, were described by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as self-defence and necessary to send a strong signal against the Houthi attacks. US President Joe Biden also supported the strikes, indicating readiness for further action if needed. The Houthis have vowed to retaliate, and the situation threatens to escalate into a full-blown conflict. The article also mentions the involvement of other nations in supporting the strikes and the broader implications for regional stability and global trade.

Tags:

Bahrain's government Houthis White House International Criminal Court Iran's navy Hezbollah Hamas Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Turkey's presidency Australia's government Canada's government Netherlands' government Greece's government Denmark's government Germany's government New Zealand's government South Korea's government United States Central Command UK's National Security Council Cobra Liberal Democrat United Nations Security Council Japan's government USS Dwight D. Eisenhower

Kenneth Thomas is a journalist working between France, India and the United States.

The End Of The Embargo Against Qatar

06 Jan 2021  |  angrybearblog.com  |  English  |  International Relations

Saudi Arabia has announced the end of its embargo against Qatar, with the UAE, Bahrain, and Egypt also agreeing to lift the boycott. Initially supported by Trump and Kushner as part of an anti-Iran alliance, the embargo faced criticism due to its impact on Qatar and the presence of a key US airbase. The move to end the embargo is seen as a strategic decision by Saudi Arabia in anticipation of the Biden administration, which is expected to be less tolerant of Saudi policies. King Salman is credited with the decision, possibly indicating a temporary shift in power from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The resolution includes Qatar withdrawing its complaints to the WTO.

Tags:

Bahrain Saudi Arabia UAE Egypt Trump Administration Biden Administration WTO Al-Jazeera Turkey Obama Administration

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Rosie-Lyse Thompson is a multimedia journalist based in Amman, Jordan and travels throughout the Middle East. She has professional experience in both field and news production and has spent the past five years in the Middle East covering stories focused on the humanitarian and security fallout of ...

The cowboys roaming the deserts of Bahrain

11 Jul 2022  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Subcultures

In Bahrain, a group of cowboy enthusiasts, influenced by Western films and the iconic American cowboy lifestyle, regularly meet to practice horse-riding, prepare traditional food, and share their passion for cowboy culture. This subculture, dating back to the 1970s, has over 300 members who participate in reining competitions and other events. They hope for official recognition of their sport by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation. The community's spirit of brotherhood plays a significant role in its growing popularity.

Tags:

Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation

Factual

Factuality Scale