Erik Prince, founder of Blackwater, believes that US military aid to Israel should end. He proposed flooding Gaza tunnels to neutralize Hamas but faced bureaucratic difficulties. Prince also suggested a humanitarian aid system for Gaza, but the US administration declined the offer. He argues that private security companies could distribute aid in Gaza. Prince is also the founder of Unplugged, an Israeli company that manufactures privacy-focused phones.

Lebanon's Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam extends his hand to Hezbollah and aims to rebuild the country.

Cigarette prices in Israel have increased due to a 1% VAT increase, with prices rising by 3% compared to December.

Azerbaijan foils plan to kill senior figure in local Jewish community

Israelis took a record NIS 13.8 billion in mortgages in December 2024, including a record high of NIS 3.2 billion in 'balloon loans' for new homes.

Lebanon's prime minister-designate vows to rebuild the country and address its economic crisis following a yearlong war with Israel.

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz states that a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas appears to be within reach after lengthy negotiations, emphasizing the need to prioritize the lives of hostages and alleviate suffering in Gaza.

Malaysia has signed a CEPA with the UAE, aiming to enhance economic cooperation and create new investment opportunities. The agreement will lower tariffs, reduce trade barriers, and provide market access certainty for both countries.

Lebanon's new era begins with the election of a president, allowing the country to engage in international dealings and focus on its economy.

The Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha is hosting an exhibition exploring the life and work of painter and sculptor Jean-Leon Gerome. The exhibition, titled 'Seeing Is Believing: The Art and Influence of Gerome,' examines how Gerome's art has shaped depictions of the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia region.

Israeli far-right minister Itamar Ben Gvir opposes Gaza truce deal, but ruling coalition likely to pass it.

Lebanon's economy is expected to recover this year, but it requires international support and adherence to reforms. Public debt remains a major challenge.