The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest begins in Vienna amid a boycott by five countries over Israel's participation. While organisers highlight strong ticket sales and fan support, protests and political tensions threaten to overshadow the seventieth anniversary event.

Eurovision 2026 begins in Vienna amid controversy over Israel’s participation. Five countries are boycotting the contest as tensions linked to the Gaza conflict continue to cast a shadow over the event.

The American Jewish Committee denounced an antisemitic image generated with artificial intelligence targeting Israeli journalist Barak Ravid. The group said the depiction revives longstanding conspiracy theories portraying Jewish people as manipulative puppet masters.

Peru has launched a preliminary investigation into a former Israeli soldier following a complaint alleging war crimes in the Gaza Strip. The complaint was filed by the Hind Rajab Foundation, which has pursued similar cases in multiple countries.

Thousands of sailors remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz as tensions between the United States and Iran persist. With supplies running low and no clear exit plan, crews describe fear and uncertainty aboard their immobilized ships.

United States and Qatari officials met in Miami to advance talks aimed at ending the war involving Iran. Tehran warned it would target American bases and ships if Iranian tankers are attacked.

The Islamic State claimed it assassinated a prominent Shi'ite cleric in a bomb attack in Damascus. The killing highlights the group's continued ability to strike high-profile targets despite heightened security measures.

Fresh clashes near the Strait of Hormuz threaten a fragile diplomatic pause between the United States and Iran. The conflict has left all major players with mixed gains and exposed vulnerabilities, reshaping alliances without delivering a decisive outcome.

Naval clashes between the United States and Iran have left the Strait of Hormuz largely blocked, stranding ships and disrupting global energy supplies. Tensions remain high as other nations consider measures to secure the vital shipping route.

Israel reportedly built a covert base in Iraq to support air operations against Iran, according to American officials cited by the Wall Street Journal. The outpost allegedly housed special forces and was protected by airstrikes after Iraqi troops nearly uncovered it.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa replaced several top officials, including his brother, in a partial cabinet reshuffle. The changes affect key ministries and several provincial governorships.

Measles cases are rising sharply in conflict-affected countries across the Middle East and North Africa as war and aid cuts disrupt immunization programs. Aid groups warn that without sustained funding and access, preventable child deaths will increase.