Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemns Israeli blockade on food in Gaza and calls for the resumption of the World Food Programme's work.

Tortoise Media is relaunching The Observer this weekend, with a new website and print edition. The publication will focus on making sense of the headlines and maintain its investigative and internationalist editorial identity. A full relaunch with a mobile app and paywall is expected in the future.

Turkey is working to strengthen its ties with Egypt through NATO, with the goal of enhancing regional stability and addressing common challenges, such as stabilizing Libya and addressing security concerns in the eastern Mediterranean.

Jordan's ban on the Muslim Brotherhood marks a turning point in the country's political history and aligns it with other countries in the region.

A Thousand and One festival, organized by MDLBEAST, is drawing crowds from around the world to Saudi Arabia to enjoy performances by global musicians like DJ Snake and R3hab. The festival features four stages with unique themes and also includes the Bizarre Bazaar, a reimagined Middle Eastern souq.

Saudi and French foreign ministers discuss Gaza crisis and upcoming Palestinian settlement conference.

The WFP has delivered its last remaining food stocks to hot meals kitchens in Gaza, which are expected to run out of food in the coming days.

The Saudi Signage and Labelling Expo, along with the Saudi Paper and Packaging Expo, is returning to Riyadh to showcase the latest products and technologies in the signage, labeling, print, and packaging industries. The events come at a time of significant growth in the Saudi Arabian market for signage and packaging.

Hundreds of Syrian Druze clerics are heading to Israel to conduct a religious pilgrimage to a sacred shrine, marking the second such visit since Bashar Assad's ouster.

Israel's Foreign Ministry deleted a condolence message for Pope Francis after his death, revealing tensions between Israel and the Vatican over Francis' criticism of Israel's conduct during the war in Gaza.

The death toll from an Israeli air strike on a house in Gaza has risen to 23, with 11 bodies recovered. In another strike, a police station was hit, resulting in 11 deaths. Israeli strikes continue, with at least five people killed in a tent strike. Since the resumption of Israel's offensive, 1,978 people have been killed in Gaza.

The Saudi Arabian Museum of Contemporary Art in Riyadh is hosting 'Adaptability,' an exhibition of clay artwork by 11 Arab artists, highlighting the material's adaptability and its connection to human strength and resilience.

Israeli military operations in the West Bank have intensified, causing an increase in Palestinian deaths and displacement of thousands. Settler attacks on Palestinians are occurring daily, and movement between towns and cities has become more difficult due to new checkpoints.

The Palestine Liberation Organization has created a vice presidency under President Mahmoud Abbas, who has not named a successor.

Lebanon amends banking secrecy law to grant regulatory bodies greater access to bank account information, aiming to restore depositors' rights and rebuild confidence in the financial system.

UN envoy meets Houthi officials in Oman to discuss stabilizing Yemen and releasing detained personnel.

Israel's Foreign Ministry deletes message of condolence for Pope Francis after criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank.

Israeli strikes have rendered Gaza's Al-Durrah Children's Hospital inoperable, adding to the 37 hospitals that have been affected by the attacks.

Arab ministers discuss Israeli policies in Jerusalem, condemning violations of international law and emphasizing the importance of preserving Jerusalem's religious identity.

Lebanon's civil society and NGO sector, which has played a crucial role in the country's survival and resilience, is facing a funding crisis due to the US funding freeze and EU aid cuts. The country's homegrown institutions, including NGOs and communal bodies, have been instrumental in providing essential services and support to the Lebanese people, especially during times of crisis. While it is important to restore a functioning state, it is equally urgent to rescue and support these institutions. The Lebanese model of collaboration between the state and civil society has proven to be effective and should be preserved.

The question of whether Hezbollah will peacefully disarm through dialogue is being discussed in Lebanon, with President Joseph Aoun expressing his desire for disarmament. The broader shifts in the region, particularly the dialogue between Iran and the US, are also impacting the situation. The Lebanese state is striving for sovereignty and there is an opportunity for Hezbollah's disarmament to be a point of discussion in the dialogue with the US over the Iranian nuclear file.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa plans to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss strained relations between the two countries. They will also address the peace process in Ukraine and the Russia-Ukraine war.

Saudi Arabia hosts a symposium on downstream decarbonization to advance strategies for curbing emissions in the oil and gas sector, emphasizing the challenge of balancing environmental goals with the strategic role of hydrocarbons.

Spain cancels contract to purchase Israeli ammunition rounds after pressure from coalition partner.

Pope Francis' lessons on humility, service, and peace are crucial for the Middle East to thrive. His passing is a reminder to embrace love and justice and honor the region's significance.

Sudan's civil war is causing immense devastation and displacement, with over 25 million people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. The conflict also poses a threat to regional and international stability, with the potential to destabilize large parts of Africa and disrupt international trade. The international community must take immediate and coordinated action to stop the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Zamzam Al-Hammadi, a rising MMA star from the UAE, has signed with PFL MENA and will compete in amateur showcase bouts.

Japan and the OIC discuss bolstering joint humanitarian programs in Afghanistan.

Syrian filmmaker Ameer Fakher Eldin continues his trilogy on displacement and exile with 'Yunan,' a film that explores the emotional journey of a Syrian writer living in exile in Germany.

Senior Palestinian officials are meeting to vote on the creation of a vice presidency and possible successor to President Mahmoud Abbas.

Supporters gather outside Vermont courthouse to support Palestinian student Mahdawi, who was arrested by ICE agents. Lawyers argue detention is retaliation for speech advocating for Palestinian human rights. Hearing scheduled for May 1 in Louisiana.

Virgin Atlantic's inaugural flight to Saudi Arabia lands in Riyadh, as the airline expands its services and announces a new route to Seoul.

The Cannes film festival will honor slain Gaza photojournalist Fatima Hassouna by screening a documentary about her work at the event next month.

France's foreign minister visits Iraq, praises stability efforts, and discusses the two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

National Wisdom Movement leader Ammar Al-Hakim emphasized the need to consolidate weapons solely in the hands of the Iraqi state. The longer the process is delayed, the weaker the authority of the central state becomes, leading to an increase in the influence of armed factions. There is also a risk of military strikes from Israel.

Saudi Arabia ranks 1st in the region and 6th in the G20 for geospatial, reflecting progress in its spatial sciences sector.

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to stop the shutdown of government-funded news broadcasts, restoring employees and contractors to their positions.

Germany, France, and the UK call on Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza and allow humanitarian aid to reach civilians in need.

Pakistan's religious affairs minister praises minorities' role in the country's progress and condemns Israeli actions in Gaza at a Holi celebration in Islamabad.

Over 400 patients have died in Gaza due to lack of proper treatment during the 18-month conflict, with the blockade imposed by Israel making it difficult for patients to access regular care.

Trump's return has emboldened Israeli leaders to increase military presence in Gaza and pursue annexation of the occupied West Bank.

The Israeli military believes it intercepted a missile from Yemen, with no reported impacts or casualties.

Arab American Catholic leaders mourn the death of Pope Francis, who was a champion of Arab and Palestinian rights. He expressed support for those suffering in the world and specifically addressed the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. The Arab American and Muslim communities also mourned his death, recognizing his humanitarian actions and commitment to social justice.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jeddah strengthened defense cooperation and bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in their growing partnership.

Sultan of Oman, Russian president mark 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties and discuss regional issues, including a planned summit with Arab countries and support for a Palestinian state.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan have called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the establishment of a separate state for the people of Palestine.

Christians in Gaza mourn the death of Pope Francis, who regularly called to check on the community during the Israeli conflict. The pope called for peace and an investigation into the conflict, and his nightly phone calls had become routine during the conflict.

The Israeli government shared and then deleted a social media post offering condolences over the death of Pope Francis, possibly due to the late pontiff's criticism of the war in Gaza.

The Saudi Cabinet discusses real estate measures, praises oil and gas discoveries, and approves key agreements and initiatives.

Palestinian activist detained in Vermont prison says he's 'in good hands' but US Justice Department has not provided a reason for his detention.

Oman and China discuss their bilateral cooperation in political, economic and cultural fields to enhance strategic relations.

The Red Sea Film Foundation and Spike Lee have announced a new mentorship program, the Director's Program, for emerging filmmakers from the Middle East and Asia.

Pope Francis was a force for good and brought an outsider's eye to the Vatican and the church, with a focus on justice, ecology, and humanity.

Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 14 and destroy aid-provided equipment.

Syria has detained two leaders of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, who were involved in the 2023 attacks on Israel from Gaza.

The Philippines and the UAE have signed a new security agreement to combat cybercrime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, marking a milestone in their bilateral relations.

The rare caracal wild cat has been spotted in Pakistan's Cholistan desert, a significant sighting for the region's wildlife conservation efforts.

The record high prices of gold are impacting the demand for gold jewelry in Dubai's Gold Souk, with buyers turning to diamonds and lighter gold jewelry instead.

Pope Francis, a champion of peace and social justice, has passed away. He made historic efforts to engage with the Arab world and promote interfaith dialogue, leaving a lasting impact on the Middle East and inspiring global communities.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the 'limitless potential' of India's growing ties with Saudi Arabia as he arrives in Riyadh for a two-day visit, his third to the Kingdom since 2016.

PepsiCo opens regional headquarters in Riyadh and unveils an $8m R&D center, reinforcing its commitment to the Middle East and its social impact programs.

Pakistani religious parties plan rally and strike in solidarity with Palestinians, calling for boycott of Israeli products.

The chances of a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza seem slim, given the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the demands of both Israel and Hamas.

The crackdown on pro-Palestine voices in the US is raising concerns about the erosion of rights and freedom of expression.

Middle East leaders offer condolences following Pope Francis' death

Pakistan's Prime Minister offers condolences to the Christian community on the passing of Pope Francis, praising his advocacy for interfaith harmony and peace.

Israeli opposition leader warns of potential political violence over government's attempt to sack internal security chief.

Israel cancels visas for 27 French left-wing lawmakers and local officials, just days after denying entry to two British members of parliament. The group of lawmakers called the visa cancellations 'collective punishment' and demanded a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron.

The Red Crescent spokesperson denounced the report, stating that it justifies the killing and shifts responsibility to a personal error in the field command.

Protesters in Tangier oppose docking of ship carrying fighter jet parts to Israel and call for severing of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Israel.

Trump tariffs are encouraging political and economic ties between Gulf and Asian nations, leading to increased trade and investment between the regions. This shift is driving renewed interest from European countries and has potential ramifications worldwide.

Dr. Varsen Aghabekian, Palestinian minister of state for foreign affairs and expatriates, calls for international intervention to stop the ongoing conflict in Gaza and emphasizes the need for plans rooted in justice and dignity for the Palestinians.

An Israeli probe into the killings of Palestinian medics in Gaza has found 'professional failures' and a deputy commander will be fired.

Punjab minister urges clerics to denounce attacks on KFC fast-food chain in Pakistan.

A Pakistani religio-political party has moved its Gaza Solidarity March to a different location after road closures in Islamabad. The party has also called for a nationwide strike against Israel's war on April 22.

The Gulf Mercantile Exchange and the Shanghai Futures Exchange have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen economic relations and collaborate on strategic initiatives in commodities trading.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Saudi Arabia to strengthen strategic ties, particularly in the energy sector. The visit will focus on investments, energy security, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Agreement. It will also boost India's role in geopolitics.

Security heightened in Islamabad as routes to Red Zone sealed off for planned Gaza Solidarity March by Jamaat-e-Islami political party.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invites global investors to tap into Pakistan's mining sector and highlights the importance of equipping the youth with modern skills. The exhibition showcased high-tech stalls and saw the participation of 860 foreign delegates.

The father of an American hostage in Gaza is hopeful his son is still alive after Hamas said it could not account for his status. He is urging the US to engage in direct talks for the release of all remaining hostages.

Saudi Arabia is reshaping its healthcare landscape with AI-powered telemedicine and digital innovations, improving access to care and optimizing healthcare delivery.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu vows to bring home hostages in Gaza without giving in to Hamas' demands, stating that ending the war now would embolden the country's enemies.

Startup investment in the MENA region dropped 76% in March due to economic uncertainty from US trade tensions. The UAE led in funding, with fintech as the dominant sector. No female-founded startups received funding.

Turkish intelligence chief meets with Hamas leaders to discuss aid delivery to Gaza and oppose further occupation or annexation of Palestinian territory. Hamas calls for a comprehensive deal to end the war and the lifting of Israel's blockade. The renewed assault on Gaza has resulted in numerous casualties.

Turkiye's intelligence chief met with Hamas leaders to discuss aid delivery to Gaza and opposing Israeli efforts to occupy or annex Palestinian territory.

Lebanese leaders criticize Hezbollah's refusal to disarm as the Lebanese army continues to detonate munitions left over from the Israeli war in southern Lebanon and confiscate ordnance in the area south of the Litani River.

The partnership between Saudi Arabia and the US has long been a cornerstone of international relations, marked by both significance and contention.

Arab News, Saudi Arabia's first English-language daily newspaper, celebrates its 50th anniversary. The late King Faisal played a key role in its launch, and it has since become one of the region's most successful publications. Arab News has evolved into a multimedia platform, embracing technology and adapting to the changing publishing landscape. The newspaper remains committed to its principles of editorial integrity and looks forward to the future.

The strong investment growth in Saudi Arabia's economy has led 50 British companies to set up regional headquarters, joining over 1,300 UK firms already operating in the Kingdom.

Two Japanese naval ships have docked at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base, raising concerns about China's influence in the region.

Pakistan's government vows to take action against those involved in the recent mob attacks on KFC outlets in the country, fueled by anti-US and anti-Israel sentiments.

Pakistani artists are gaining international recognition at Art Dubai, but still face limited opportunities and visibility at home.

A class action lawsuit has been filed to reinstate the legal status of international students affected by the Trump administration's crackdown.

A Tufts University student detained in Louisiana must be transferred back to New England to determine if her detention was illegal. Rumeysa Ozturk's lawyers argue that her detention violates her constitutional rights, including free speech and due process.

Two Republican members of the US Congress visited Syria, the first visit by US legislators since the fall of former President Bashar Assad. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also visited Syria to strengthen relations and discuss regional developments.

Hamas dismisses Israeli proposal to renew truce, demanding a comprehensive deal instead