Druze sisters in the Golan Heights have been able to see each other in person for the first time in 22 years after the fall of Syrian President Bashar Assad's regime.

The 'Common Ground' festival celebrates the cultural similarities between Saudi Arabia and Iraq through art, music, and folklore.

Residents of Damascus joined forces to clean up neighborhoods and restore a semblance of normalcy following the overthrow of the regime. Civil society groups and community leaders organized cleaning campaigns, largely funded through their own contributions. The volunteers expressed a genuine desire to rebuild their country and create a better future for Syria.

The UK calls for harnessing the momentum from Assad's fall and the Lebanon ceasefire to end the war in Gaza and address the humanitarian crisis.

Amal-Amelia Lecrafi, a member of parliament representing French citizens living abroad, visited Jeddah to explore opportunities and strengthen collaboration between France and Saudi Arabia. She expressed a strong interest in contributing to the goals of Vision 2030, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, smart cities, and cultural industries.

Cairo-Jeddah named second-busiest international air route for 2024, contributing to Saudi Arabia's aviation sector growth and tourism goals.

Outside interference in post-Assad Syria is inevitable, and the new government must navigate a perilous geopolitical situation to manage foreign interference.

The need to recognize the state of Palestine now

Transactions in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and venture financing fell globally during the first 11 months of the year. The Middle East and Africa region experienced the smallest decline in deal activity, with a 5 percent decrease.

The article examines the occurrence of weddings in Gaza despite the ongoing war, highlighting the resilience and determination of the people in the face of conflict.

Efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are intensifying, as Israeli strikes kill 16 Palestinians.

Five Palestinian families sue the US government over military aid to Israel, demanding enforcement of US rules to curb arms flows due to allegations of human rights abuses.

Bashar Assad's fall has allowed for expanded US strikes on Daesh militants, but there is a risk that the group may exploit the power vacuum in a post-Assad Syria.

The mother of missing American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria 12 years ago, urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pause airstrikes on Syria so that rescuers can search safely for her son.

Israeli forces violate ceasefire by bulldozing roads and destroying houses in Lebanese border towns. Lebanese army set to retrieve bodies of Hezbollah fighters. Disputes over withdrawal and establishing borders being discussed. World Bank meeting with Lebanese officials for reconstruction programs. Lebanon's government deciding on disposal sites for debris from Israeli attacks.

The US veto of a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza has sparked renewed calls for reform of the Security Council.

Israeli warplanes conducted heavy strikes on military sites in Syria's coastal Tartus region, according to a war monitor.

Saudi Arabia's inflation rate holds steady at 2% in November, driven by higher housing costs.

Ukraine's President Zelensky has instructed the government to set up supply mechanisms to deliver food to Syria following President Assad's fall. Ukraine, a major grain exporter, has not been exporting to Syria. Russia's wheat supplies to Syria have been suspended, causing uncertainty and payment delays.

Syrian Americans in the Detroit area are celebrating the overthrow of the Syrian government and hoping to safely return to their home country.

US General Michael Kurilla visits Israel to discuss regional security issues, including the situation in Syria. Israeli military conducts strikes in Syria and prepares for prolonged presence. Kurilla also visits Jordan, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon. Israel is suspicious of rebel groups in Syria and monitors withdrawal of troops in Lebanon.

Jordan to host high-level talks on Syria after celebrations in Damascus and nationwide rejoicing at the ouster of president Bashar Assad.

Lebanon's Prime Minister condemns Israeli airstrike on Khiam as 'treachery' and demands action against Israeli aggression. Amnesty International calls for an investigation into Israeli airstrikes, alleging war crimes.

The Billboard Arabia Music Awards celebrated the regional music scene in Riyadh, honoring top artists and songs in the region.

The head of the OPCW warns that strikes on Syrian chemical weapons sites could contaminate evidence and risk losing control over dangerous chemicals or equipment.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accuses the US, Israel, and a neighboring country, likely Turkey, of planning the toppling of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Iran-backed Assad's overthrow is seen as a setback for the 'Axis of Resistance' alliance. Khamenei asserts that Iran will become stronger despite opposition.

The Kremlin dismisses the significance of Assad's fall on Russian influence in the Middle East, emphasizing its focus on Ukraine and maintaining contact with the new rulers of Syria.

Humanitarian aid to North Gaza has been blocked for 66 days, leaving tens of thousands without basic necessities. The UN has called for political will to address the worsening crisis.

Three suspected Islamist extremists arrested in Germany for planning to attack Christmas markets in Frankfurt or Mannheim.

After the fall of Assad's regime, Syria faces the challenge of determining who will govern the country amidst various factions and the influence of regional and global powers.

The Music Cities Awards were held in Riyadh as part of Riyadh Music Week, recognizing initiatives and foundations for their work in transforming communities through music. Winners included the city of Salvador in Brazil and the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra Foundation. The event also marked the start of the two-day Music Cities Convention.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on trial for charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The trial has divided the Israeli public and has had a significant impact on Israeli politics.

SADAFCO and Hyperview have partnered to drive the adoption of hydrogen-powered logistics in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

Loud explosions were heard in Damascus following Israeli air strikes on Syrian territory, targeting key military installations across the country.

Footballco has opened a new regional headquarters in Riyadh to serve fans, brands, and rights holders across the Middle East and North Africa. The company aims to better understand the growing fandom in the region and work with brands and rights holders to drive growth.

Syria experienced a historic day as forces led by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham took control of Damascus, leading to the overthrow of President Bashar Assad. Saudi Arabia called for efforts to prevent Syria from falling into disarray.

Rebels seize Damascus, Assad flees to Russia, marking a turning point for the Middle East. International community welcomes the end of Assad's autocratic government. Rebels face the monumental task of rebuilding a war-torn country.

Israel conducted air strikes on weapon depots and positions in Syria's east following the fall of Bashar Assad's government.

The Misk Foundation headquarters in Riyadh has received the WELL gold certificate for its innovative urban design, recognizing its commitment to health and well-being.

Saudi Arabia and the UK are deepening their partnership in finance, trade, tourism, and innovation, aiming for economic growth and diversification. Recent discussions have focused on increasing bilateral trade and fostering cross-industry synergies. The UK government reports that total trade with Saudi Arabia reached £17.6 billion ($22.4 billion) in the year ending March 2024. The goal is to increase bilateral trade to £30 billion ($39.6 billion) by 2030. The partnership has expanded beyond defense to include tourism, people-to-people relations, and sports.

The fall of Syria's Bashar Assad marks the end of an era after his family regime ruled Syria for over half a century.

Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, the secretary-general of the Gulf Cooperation Council, emphasized the commitment of Arab Gulf countries to dialogue and diplomacy despite China-US competition.

Saudi Aramco has slashed its January oil prices for Asian buyers, reducing the pricing for Arab Light crude oil and other grades.

Israeli forces shell Gaza hospital, damaging equipment and disrupting surgeries. Broad Israeli airstrikes kill at least six Palestinians. Palestinians claim Israel is creating a buffer zone, while Israel denies this.

The White House is focused on preventing a resurgence of Daesh in Syria and avoiding a humanitarian catastrophe, according to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.

Hezbollah has withdrawn from Qusayr and their convoy was hit by Israel.

President-elect Donald Trump and President Joe Biden's national security adviser both say the US should stay out of the conflict in Syria as opposition forces advance on the capital.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer heads to the Gulf to attract investment and strengthen ties, with a focus on regional conflicts and long-term growth.

The US's reaction to the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants against Israeli leaders highlights its double standards and blind support for Israel. The world is shifting from a unipolar to a multipolar reality, with the erosion of America's status as the sole superpower.

Russian war bloggers warn that two strategically-important Russian military facilities in Syria, the Hmeimim air base and the naval facility at Tartous, are under threat from advancing insurgents.

The death toll in the war between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza has risen to 44,664, with 52 deaths reported in the past 24 hours.

Israeli military strikes 'Hezbollah fighter' in southern Lebanon.

Qatar's prime minister says talks for a truce and hostage exchange deal in Gaza have regained momentum following the election of Donald Trump as US president.

Donald Trump returns to the world stage at Notre-Dame reopening in Paris, offering French President Emmanuel Macron an opportunity to mediate between Trump and Europe.

Australia defends its actions against antisemitism after Netanyahu criticizes its policies following an arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne.

IMAX announces plans for its first Arabic-language feature film and the opening of a new cinema in Jeddah in partnership with Muvi Cinemas.

Israeli troops forced Indonesian medics to leave the Kamal Adwan Hospital in north Gaza, resulting in heavy casualties.

Turkish diplomat Feridun Sinirlioglu has been named as the next leader of the OSCE, following tense talks in Malta. Sinirlioglu hopes to act as a bridge and facilitator between participating states and has called on Russia to release three OSCE officials held in Russian-controlled Ukraine.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has impacted efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the Budapest Memorandum and the future of global nonproliferation efforts.

Israeli strikes targeted Kamal Adwan hospital in north Gaza, resulting in casualties and a lack of surgeons.

The United Nations reports that fighting in Syria has displaced 280,000 people in just over a week, with the potential for numbers to reach 1.5 million. The World Food Programme is working to provide aid and assistance, but more funding is needed.

UAE's Rashid Al-Dhaheri and Chloe Chambers set fastest times in respective practice sessions at Formula 4 Middle East Trophy and F1 Academy.

Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar believes there may be a chance to secure a deal for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza by Palestinian militants.

Hezbollah and Iran have allocated $77 million to assist Lebanese families displaced by the war with Israel, with $57 million already paid to 172,000 families. The World Bank estimates $5.1 billion in economic losses and significant damage to physical structures and housing units.

Saudi Arabia is leveraging artificial intelligence to tackle land degradation and find solutions to reverse environmental degradation.

An Israeli court rejects Netanyahu's request to limit the number of days he'll have to testify in his corruption trial.

Israeli military spokesman apologizes for criticizing bill that would protect soldiers who disclose classified information to the prime minister.

Saudi Arabian universities dominate the Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings, with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology securing first place for a second consecutive year. Saudi Arabia claims all top three places and five universities in the top 10.

Saudi Arabia has launched its first Japanese equity mutual fund in partnership with Albilad Capital and Japan's SBI Holdings, providing Saudi investors with access to Japanese equities for the first time.

Saudi Arabia ranks third globally in post-pandemic tourism, with arrivals increasing by 61 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels. The Middle East has recorded the strongest growth globally, with international tourism recovering 98 percent of its pre-pandemic activity.

Amnesty International accuses Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza war, a claim that Israel denies. This accusation follows the International Criminal Court's issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense chief for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza conflict.

Palestinians accuse Israeli forces of raiding West Bank hospital and arresting injured patient accused of involvement in a shooting attack.

Nearly 76 million people are currently displaced within their own countries, highlighting the growing crisis of internally displaced persons. The UN is shifting its approach to focus on long-term solutions and government leadership, with a recognition of the need for international support.

Israeli Prime Minister announces recovery of hostage's body from Gaza Strip

Israeli forces advance in Khan Younis area of south Gaza, 47 killed

Israeli settlers raid West Bank towns, injuring a Palestinian and setting buildings on fire, following the eviction of a nearby settlement outpost by Israeli forces.

A conversation with the AI chatbot ChatGPT reveals its deep understanding of Gaza's humanitarian crisis and the resilience of its people.

Saudi Arabia launches second phase of air bridge to Lebanon to provide humanitarian aid to those affected and displaced by Israeli strikes.

Oil prices inch up on geopolitical tensions and OPEC+ supply, despite weaker demand signals.

The UN General Assembly has called for Israel to withdraw from occupied Palestinian territories and support the creation of a Palestinian state.

Saudi driver Dania Akeel makes history as the first female winner of the FIA Middle East Baja Cup, showcasing remarkable consistency throughout the championship.

Medics and rights groups are calling for the immediate opening of a humanitarian corridor from Gaza to allow the urgent evacuation of patients to hospitals in east Jerusalem.

German authorities are seeking to bring a 100-year-old former Nazi camp guard to trial for aiding and abetting murder in over 3,000 cases.

Hamas and Fatah are nearing a deal to appoint a committee of independent technocrats to administer Gaza after the war, ending Hamas' rule and aiding ceasefire talks with Israel.

Israeli military kills three Hamas members in West Bank air strike, Palestinian health ministry accuses Israeli forces of raiding hospital.

Nine protesters have been jailed pending trial after disrupting President Erdogan's speech in Istanbul, accusing his government of continuing oil exports to Israel despite an embargo.

Formula 1 has experienced a surge in popularity, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, with a global fanbase now exceeding 750 million. The sport has gained 50 million fans since 2021, fueled by rising interest in the Middle East region as well as among young female fans.

Saudi Arabia is reaping economic rewards from its shift to renewables, thanks to its economic approach, feasibility studies, and partnerships. The country has low methane and carbon intensities and plans to tender 20 gigawatts of renewable capacity in 2024. The energy minister stressed the importance of energy security and expressed confidence in Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia and France will collaborate on three renewable energy projects as part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to lead the global transition toward sustainable energy. Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih emphasized the importance of green finance and highlighted key areas such as water management and combating desertification. Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global hub for green investment, backed by robust demand, investor trust, and stable governance.

An Israeli air strike targeted a car on the road to Damascus International Airport, resulting in an explosion.

Israel's far-right minister accuses arrests of being a coup and an attempt to bring him down, criticizing the attorney general and urging Netanyahu to end her mandate.

Israel has called for the evacuation of areas in the southern Gaza Strip due to ongoing rocket attacks by Palestinian militants.

Lebanon's Parliament Speaker accuses Israel of ceasefire violations as Israeli strikes kill two in southern Lebanon.

Saudi Arabia is opening five new hospitals by 2025, aiming to enhance access to care and improve healthcare infrastructure across the Kingdom. The government is also prioritizing expanding health coverage, upgrading hospitals and clinics, and implementing advanced technologies to improve the well-being of its citizens and residents.

Pro-Iranian militias have entered Syria from Iraq to support the Syrian army in their fight against insurgents. The lack of manpower has contributed to the retreat of Syrian forces and the withdrawal from Aleppo city. Israel has increased its strikes on Iranian bases in Syria and launched an offensive in Lebanon to weaken Hezbollah.

US Navy destroys Houthi missiles and drones targeting American ships in the Gulf of Aden.