Western Asia

Israeli anchor sparks debate on Israeli occupation in West Bank

Israeli anchor, who criticised the ill-treatment of Palestinian detainees, fired a debate on Israeli occupation in West Bank

Damascus or Washington — which side will the YPG choose?

The PKK affiliate YPG has developed relations with the US, Russia and the Syrian regime, claiming significant territories in northern Syria. But a top US general says the time has come for the group to either be with Washington or join its rivals.

Twin bombing kills 17 in Syria's Idlib – monitor

Those killed included four children while scores others were wounded in the explosions in the main city of Idlib. No group has immediately claimed responsibility.

Turkey expects Manbij to be cleared of terror – Erdogan

Turkey has vowed to carry out a counterterrorist operation in Syria, east of the Euphrates, following two similar successful operations since 2016.

Nearly 312,000 Syrians return home after Turkish operations

Turkey has spent more than $32 billion from its own resources to aid and shelter refugees since the beginning of the Syrian civil war.

Istanbul vets make city's stray animals feel at home

Officials are increasing efforts to ensure street animals are healthy through the "Vetbus," a mobile clinic stationed for several days in different neighbourhoods around the city.

Syrian regime carried out over 300 chemical attacks – report

Since the civil war began in 2011, Assad's regime launched 98 percent of such attacks, a German-based institute reports.

Syrian refugee artist pursues passion for calligraphy in Turkey

Hasan Muslim's art focuses on verses from the Quran.

Daesh using civilians as 'human shields' in battle for last Syrian enclave

Nearly 2,000 civilians are being prevented from escaping as remnants of the terror group remain holed up in Deir Ezzor province. The tactics of the YPG-dominated SDF backed by the US-led coalition have come under fire for civilian deaths.

Israel withholds $138M from Palestinians over prisoner payments

Israel says it will cut payments to families of jailed Palestinians while continuing violent attacks on civilians in blockaded Gaza that left at least 19 Palestinians wounded on Sunday, Gaza health sources say.

Yemen warring sides 'agree' deal on first pullback

Yemen's government and Houthi rebels agree on first phase of pullback of forces from Hudaida port city, a deal UN describes as "important progress."

UN envoy arrives in Yemen to discuss truce around port city

Houthi rebels say their leader, Abdul Malek al Houthi, met with Griffiths on Sunday to discuss the implementation of peace deals from December talks with Yemen's internationally recognised government.