A drone strike caused a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi, prompting an investigation by the United Arab Emirates. Officials said there were no injuries and no impact on nuclear safety, as regional tensions continue despite a ceasefire.

More than 120,000 Syrian refugees have returned from Lebanon to Syria in early 2026 amid fragile regional ceasefires. Economic pressure and stricter residency rules in Lebanon are driving many to head home.

Iran says the United States has offered no concessions in response to its proposal to end the war, instead presenting five conditions. Tehran has demanded sanctions relief, the release of frozen assets and an end to hostilities, while warning of severe consequences if attacks resume.

A liquefied petroleum gas carrier has docked in Kandla after crossing the Strait of Hormuz during the West Asia crisis. The vital energy route has faced major disruptions amid escalating regional conflict.

Former finance minister Moshe Kahlon will admit to violating reporting duties in connection with financial irregularities at UnetCredit. The plea deal includes a suspended sentence, a fine, and a temporary ban from serving as an officer in a public company, pending court approval.

Reports say Israel built two secret military bases in Iraq's desert during the war with Iran. One base reportedly predated the current conflict and was used in a June 2025 operation.

An Israeli airstrike in Gaza killed Hamas military leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad, identified as a key planner of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks. Israeli officials called the strike a significant achievement in their ongoing campaign against those responsible.

Apartments and houses were sold across central and regional cities, with prices ranging from 1.38 million to 6.4 million shekels. Transactions reflect varied demand in both urban centers and peripheral areas.

Asteroid 2026 JH2 will pass within 91,600 kilometers of Earth on May 18. Though relatively small at 33 meters wide, scientists say it poses no threat and will safely fly by the planet.

Israel has approved a new defense complex in East Jerusalem on the site of the former United Nations Relief and Works Agency headquarters. The project will include a military museum, enlistment office, and offices for the defense minister.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold a security meeting this evening with top ministers and aides in Jerusalem. The discussion will include senior members of the government to address key security issues.

Preliminary results from Fatah's leadership elections show several allies of Mahmoud Abbas, including his son and the intelligence chief, winning seats on the Central Committee. The results are not yet official, and voting for the broader council continues.