Podcast: Beyond the Headlines

Protestors in Malaga, southern Spain, take part in a demonstration against the US operation in Venezuela. AFP

Why the US action in Venezuela is unnerving the Middle East

History of American militarism and threats of escalation keeping the region on edge

The US military launched large-scale strikes against ISIS targets in Syria in retaliation for an attack on its personnel. Reuters.

How serious is the ISIS threat in Syria?

The year in impact: our episodes that resonated the most in 2025

How Yemen’s power balance is shifting again

Egypt

The Zafarana wind farm in Egypt. The country has been struggling with an energy crisis. Victoria Hazou for the National

Egypt signs renewable energy deals worth $1.8 billion

Country seeks to expand share of green sources in its national power mix

Energy

Salah steers Egypt into last four after Afcon thriller against Ivory Coast

Football

Afcon last dance looms for superstar trio Mahrez, Mane and Salah

Football

Pressure on Afcon hosts Morocco, Mahrez still key, Salah plays down chances

Football

Lebanon

The Jiyeh thermal power plant. Lebanon is seeking to develop domestic gas to replace expensive and polluting fuel oil imports. EPA

Lebanon signs offshore gas deal With TotalEnergies, Eni and QatarEnergy

Beirut is also preparing a new offshore licensing round

Business

ColumnTwelve hours too late – an expat’s guilt about missing a final goodbye

Wellbeing

Postcard from BeirutThe beach club sanctuary from Lebanon’s troubles for 73 years

MENA

After Maduro, will Venezuela’s Lebanese diaspora now see the back of Hezbollah?

News

Newsletter

Middle East Today

Middle East Today

Your indispensable round-up of the key developments in the region

PreviewSign up