 "Israel-Iran ‘12-days war’: How West Asia is on a strategic reset")
 "West Asia News Live: Ancient DNA study reveals genetic link between Egypt and Mesopotamia")
Tensions and uncertainty continue to dominate West Asia with the prolonged absence of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei sparking succession fears while espionage arrests and diplomatic statements keep the Iran-Israel standoff in focus. In Gaza, doctors warn of rising infant mortality amid baby formula shortages under Israel’s blockade. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia advances its space ambitions and misinformation around Gaza’s war toll spreads online. Across the region, geopolitics, humanitarian crises and strategic narratives remain deeply intertwined.
West Asia News Live: Israel reportedly running low on weaponry and munitions
FP News Desk
• June 27, 2025, 06:15:07 IST
West Asia News Live: Welcome to your hub for real-time updates from West Asia. Stay informed on regional geopolitics, energy markets, diplomacy, security tensions, economic reforms, civil movements and religious dynamics. Track how key players like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Israel handle ongoing dicey situations, global negotiations and domestic challenges:
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Tensions and uncertainty continue to dominate West Asia with the prolonged absence of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei sparking succession fears while espionage arrests and diplomatic statements keep the Iran-Israel standoff in focus. In Gaza, doctors warn of rising infant mortality amid baby formula shortages under Israel’s blockade. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia advances its space ambitions and misinformation around Gaza’s war toll spreads online. Across the region, geopolitics, humanitarian crises and strategic narratives remain deeply intertwined.
Succession fears, Gaza crisis and shifting alliances grip West Asia
West Asia News Live: Welcome to your hub for real-time updates from West Asia. Stay informed on regional geopolitics, energy markets, diplomacy, security tensions, economic reforms, civil movements and religious dynamics. Track how key players like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Israel handle ongoing dicey situations, global negotiations and domestic challenges:
June 27, 2025, 06:15:07 (IST)
Fewer than two dozen hostages from October 7 attacks are believed to be alive in Gaza
Intelligence assessments indicate that fewer than two dozen hostages are believed to still be alive in Gaza, according to a report in The Washington Post. The remaining hostages, who were abducted by Hamas and other militant groups during the October 7, 2023, attacks on southern Israel, reportedly include a mix of civilians—such as a student, a software tester, and a bartender—as well as several soldiers. This number represents a significant reduction from the more than 240 people initially taken captive.
June 27, 2025, 06:15:07 (IST)
Israel's defence minister threatens to eliminate Iran's leader, claims US approval for strikes
Israel’s Defence Minister Katz has threatened to ‘eliminate’ Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and claimed that Israel has a ‘green light’ from the Trump administration to attack Iran, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The minister stated that such a strike would be conditional on Tehran making ‘progress’ with its nuclear program. This direct threat against Iran’s head of state and the assertion of US backing for military action represent a significant escalation in the rhetoric between the two West Asian nations.
June 27, 2025, 06:00:03 (IST)
New poll shows Likud leading as Yesh Atid drops to four seats
A new Direct Polls survey conducted for i24NEWS indicates a significant shift in the Israeli political landscape, with Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party leading at 33 potential Knesset seats, according to a report in Israel National News. The poll shows a dramatic decline for Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party, which would receive only four seats, a sharp drop from the 24 seats it won in the 2022 election. The survey also placed Benny Gantz’s National Unity party at five seats, a figure noted as a significant outlier compared to other recent polls.
June 27, 2025, 05:45:03 (IST)
Syrian authorities arrest officer linked to 'death checkpoint' near Damascus
Syrian authorities have arrested an officer linked to a notorious ‘death checkpoint’ near Damascus, a site known for systematic abuses during the country’s civil war, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The checkpoint, located in close proximity to the capital, was reportedly a location where extrajudicial killings and torture were carried out by regime forces. The arrest concerns an officer allegedly involved in the activities at this specific location.
June 27, 2025, 05:31:12 (IST)
Türkiye backs 5% NATO defense spending goal, plans nationwide air shield
Türkiye has backed a proposed 5% defense spending goal for NATO members, a significant increase over the alliance’s long-standing 2% of GDP target, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. In addition to supporting the higher spending benchmark, the country also announced plans to create a comprehensive ‘nationwide air shield.’ The move signals a heightened commitment to the alliance and is seen as a response to evolving regional security threats.
June 27, 2025, 05:30:05 (IST)
Oil prices hold steady as market attention turns to demand indicators
Oil prices are remaining stable as the market’s attention shifts from geopolitical supply risks in West Asia to global demand signals, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This stability is underpinned by ongoing production cuts from OPEC+ nations, which are currently balancing concerns about a potential global economic slowdown impacting oil consumption. Despite persistent regional tensions, including attacks in the Red Sea, investors are primarily focused on macroeconomic indicators from major economies like the US, Europe, and China to gauge future energy demand.
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June 27, 2025, 05:30:05 (IST)
Mass deportation of Afghans from Pakistan creates humanitarian challenge in Afghanistan
Pakistan’s ongoing mass deportation of undocumented Afghans is creating a severe humanitarian crisis as hundreds of thousands return to an economically devastated Afghanistan, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The policy, which Pakistan initiated in October 2023 citing national security and economic pressures, has forced the return of Afghans to a country many barely know, with some having been born in Pakistan. These individuals face dire conditions, including a lack of shelter, food, and employment opportunities. The situation places immense strain on the Taliban-led government, which has limited resources to absorb the massive influx of people amid Afghanistan’s ongoing economic collapse since the August 2021 takeover.
June 27, 2025, 05:02:21 (IST)
Argentina orders trial in absentia for suspects in 1994 Jewish center bombing
An Argentine judge has ordered a trial in absentia for 10 Iranian and Lebanese nationals suspected in the deadly 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, according to a report in The Guardian. The attack, which killed 85 people, remains the deadliest in Argentinian history. While the bombing has never been officially claimed, Argentina and Israel have long accused Lebanon’s Shiite group Hezbollah of carrying out the attack at Iran’s request.
June 27, 2025, 05:01:19 (IST)
Trump says China can buy Iranian oil but urges purchase of US crude
President Donald Trump stated on June 25 that China is permitted to purchase oil from Iran, but also strongly encouraged Beijing to buy US crude instead, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The remarks were made amid ongoing US sanctions against Iran’s energy sector and a stated administration goal of promoting American energy exports.
June 27, 2025, 05:01:19 (IST)
Saudi national airline Saudia rises to 17th in global rankings
Saudi Arabia’s national airline, Saudia, has risen to 17th place in global airline rankings as part of the country’s economic diversification strategy, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The improved ranking for the state-owned carrier is attributed to significant investment in fleet modernization, service quality, and overall passenger experience. This development supports Saudi Arabia’s broader goals under its Vision 2030 plan of diversifying the economy, increasing international tourism, and positioning itself as a global logistics hub. Saudia’s rise also heightens the competition for market share among the major airlines in the Gulf region.
June 27, 2025, 05:01:19 (IST)
Argentina to try 10 Iranian and Lebanese nationals in absentia over 1994 AMIA bombing
Argentina is set to try 10 Iranian and Lebanese individuals in absentia for their alleged roles in the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, which killed 85 people, according to a report in The Times of Israel. This legal action follows decades of accusations from Argentina, the United States, and Israel, which have consistently held Iran and its proxy Hezbollah responsible for the attack. The trial will proceed without the defendants being physically present, a significant step in a case that has seen previous legal efforts, including the issuance of international arrest warrants for several former Iranian officials.
June 27, 2025, 05:00:09 (IST)
Qatar receives international support following attack attributed to Iran
International leaders have expressed solidarity with Qatar following an attack in the region that has been attributed to Iran, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The expressions of support come in response to the incident, which has heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The report highlights the diplomatic backing for Qatar from the international community following the alleged aggression.
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June 27, 2025, 05:00:09 (IST)
Deals signed for hotel development at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah
New agreements have been signed for hotel development at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The project is a key component of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil dependency and bolster the tourism and entertainment sectors. Developing this hospitality infrastructure is considered essential for supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to host more major international sporting events and entertainment activities at the venue, thereby transforming the nation into a global tourism hub.
June 27, 2025, 03:15:08 (IST)
Seven arrested as protesters attempt to block roads in Tel Aviv
Seven people were arrested in Tel Aviv for disturbing public order after dozens of demonstrators marched through unauthorized routes in an attempt to block major roads, according to a report in Israel National News. The incident occurred following a protest held in the city’s Rabin Square, which prompted police to disperse the crowd and make the arrests.
June 27, 2025, 03:00:05 (IST)
IAEA says return of inspectors to Iran's nuclear sites is top priority
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has declared that restoring full access for its inspectors and surveillance equipment to Iran’s nuclear sites is its “number one priority,” Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This call for renewed monitoring comes as Iran continues to enrich uranium to 60% purity, far exceeding the limits of the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal, and has restricted IAEA access since the 2018 US withdrawal from the agreement. The UN’s nuclear watchdog’s ability to verify the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program is significantly hampered by these restrictions, raising international concern amid stalled negotiations to revive the accord.
June 27, 2025, 03:00:05 (IST)
Iran executes three more individuals accused of spying for Israel
Iran has executed three more people who were accused of spying for Israel, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This action represents a recent development in the ongoing and often clandestine conflict between the two West Asian nations. The executions are consistent with Iran’s established practice of using capital punishment for individuals accused of espionage, particularly those alleged to be working for Israeli or US intelligence services.
June 27, 2025, 02:45:07 (IST)
US military nominee says troops are needed in Syria to prevent ISIS resurgence
The nominee to lead the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has asserted that American troops must remain in Syria to prevent a comeback by the ISIS terror group, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This position was stated during a confirmation hearing, where the nominee outlined the strategic necessity of the ongoing US military presence. The justification for the deployment is to continue advising and assisting local partner forces in counter-terrorism operations against ISIS sleeper cells and to prevent the group from regrouping. The statement underscores the view that despite its territorial defeat in 2019, ISIS remains a persistent insurgent threat in the region.
June 27, 2025, 02:30:05 (IST)
Researchers claim Gaza's true death toll may exceed 100,000
The death toll in Gaza, as reported by the Palestinian Health Ministry, significantly understates the true scale of the crisis, researchers say in a report in Haaretz. The research suggests the actual number of fatalities could be as high as 100,000. This higher estimate accounts for indirect deaths resulting from the broader humanitarian catastrophe, including fatalities from hunger and disease, which are not factored into the official casualty counts focused on direct conflict deaths.
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June 27, 2025, 02:19:29 (IST)
Libya and Türkiye sign memorandum for offshore geological and geophysical surveys
Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Türkiye to conduct geological and geophysical surveys in offshore areas, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This new agreement is a direct follow-up to the controversial 2019 maritime delimitation deal signed between Türkiye and Libya’s Tripoli-based government. The MoU aims to facilitate energy exploration in contested maritime zones in the Eastern Mediterranean, which are subject to overlapping claims from other regional nations, including Greece and Cyprus.
June 27, 2025, 02:18:22 (IST)
Gulf financial markets rebound strongly following regional ceasefire announcement
Financial markets across the Gulf region have experienced a strong rebound following a recent ceasefire announcement that has lowered regional geopolitical tensions, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The positive market reaction is attributed to a significant reduction in geopolitical risk, primarily stemming from de-escalation efforts in the Yemen conflict and a broader diplomatic rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Analysts suggest the improved stability has boosted investor confidence, making the region more attractive for foreign capital and supporting long-term economic diversification goals. The sustainability of the market rally is considered dependent on the ceasefire holding and progress in political negotiations.
June 27, 2025, 02:17:17 (IST)
World Bank to provide $146 million in financing to restore electricity in Syria
The World Bank has approved $146 million in financing to restore critical electricity infrastructure in Syria, a country facing a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by prolonged conflict, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The funding aims to address chronic power outages and improve access to essential services for the Syrian population. This move navigates a complex political landscape, as significant international sanctions, including the US Caesar Act, remain in place against the Syrian government. The financing is likely structured through a special trust fund or humanitarian window to ensure the aid is used for specific ‘early recovery’ projects, focusing on basic needs rather than broad reconstruction, and to mitigate risks of fund diversion.
June 27, 2025, 02:17:17 (IST)
Arab Golf Federation launches elite scholarship camp in Riyadh
The Arab Golf Federation has launched a new elite scholarship camp based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This initiative is designed as a long-term investment to identify and train talented young golfers from various Arab nations. The program’s objective is to nurture future golf professionals and support the growth of the sport throughout the region.
June 27, 2025, 02:16:12 (IST)
Saudi Arabia to host Toyota hill climb challenge in Taif's mountainous terrain
The mountainous city of Taif will be the location for the upcoming Saudi Toyota Hill Climb Challenge, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The selection of Taif leverages its unique highland terrain for the motorsport event. This challenge is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy under its Vision 2030 plan, which seeks to diversify the national economy beyond oil by developing and promoting its tourism, sports, and entertainment sectors.
June 27, 2025, 02:16:12 (IST)
World Bank approves $250 million project for reconstruction in Lebanon
The World Bank has launched a new $250 million project to initiate reconstruction in Lebanon, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The project is a response to the country’s dire situation, which has been exacerbated by an ongoing economic crisis since 2019 and the devastating Beirut port explosion in August 2020. This funding is intended to address the severe decay in Lebanon’s public infrastructure, including electricity and water services, as well as housing and social services, which have suffered from years of underinvestment and the financial collapse.
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June 27, 2025, 02:15:07 (IST)
Saudi crown prince and Iranian president discuss regional de-escalation and ceasefire
Saudi Arabia’s crown prince and the president of Iran have discussed regional de-escalation and welcomed a recent ceasefire in a significant high-level communication, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The dialogue is a key step in the ongoing rapprochement between the two West Asian powers, which follows the China-brokered restoration of diplomatic ties in March 2023. The talks are viewed as crucial for reinforcing stability in the region, particularly in relation to the peace process in Yemen, and are part of a wider trend of diplomatic engagement aimed at reducing long-standing tensions.
June 27, 2025, 02:15:07 (IST)
Israel's Leviathan gas field to resume operations
Operations at Israel’s major offshore Leviathan natural gas field are set to resume following a temporary halt, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The field, a cornerstone of the country’s energy supply, was likely paused due to security threats stemming from the ongoing conflict in the region. Operated by Chevron in partnership with Israeli firms, the Leviathan field supplies natural gas for Israel’s domestic use and is a key source of exports to neighboring countries, including Egypt and Jordan.
June 27, 2025, 02:03:24 (IST)
Saudi Arabia's national archive highlights rare historical documents
Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, also known as Darah, has highlighted a collection of rare historical documents, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The foundation is a prominent national institution in the Kingdom dedicated to preserving and documenting historical materials related to Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. The initiative is presented as part of the country’s broader cultural preservation efforts under its Vision 2030 framework, which aims to strengthen national identity and heritage.
June 27, 2025, 02:02:18 (IST)
Executive bureau of Arab justice ministers council holds 74th meeting
The 74th meeting of the Executive Bureau of the Council of Arab Justice Ministers has been held, chaired by the justice minister, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This meeting is part of ongoing efforts by Arab states to strengthen legal collaboration and harmonize laws under the umbrella of the Arab League. The Executive Bureau’s role is to prepare the agenda for the full ministerial council meetings and follow up on resolutions. Discussions at such forums typically address common regional challenges, including strategies to combat cybercrime, money laundering, and terrorism financing, aiming to standardize legal frameworks and facilitate cross-border judicial processes.
June 27, 2025, 02:01:13 (IST)
Britain's Co-op to stop sourcing from Israel
The UK-based consumer cooperative, Britain’s Co-op, has announced it will stop sourcing products from Israel, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The decision is connected to the global Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, which advocates for economic pressure on Israel over its policies concerning Palestinians.
June 27, 2025, 02:00:05 (IST)
Saudi Space Agency announces 'Madak Space' experiments for International Space Station
The Saudi Space Agency has announced the upcoming launch of its ‘Madak Space’ initiative, which will send a payload of scientific experiments to the International Space Station (ISS), according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The mission is a component of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to advance technological development and diversify the nation’s economy. The ‘Madak Space’ name refers specifically to the research experiments being sent, which will be facilitated through international cooperation with partners of the ISS program.
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June 27, 2025, 02:00:05 (IST)
Iranian Hajj chief praises Saudi Arabia's management of pilgrimage
The head of Iran’s Hajj organization has praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving pilgrims, a significant positive development in the relationship between the two West Asian nations, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This public commendation is seen as a tangible outcome of the ongoing diplomatic rapprochement that began with a China-brokered agreement in March 2023 to restore ties. The cooperation during the Hajj is particularly noteworthy given that the pilgrimage has historically been a sensitive and sometimes contentious issue between Tehran and Riyadh, indicating a deliberate effort to depoliticize the event and foster stability.
June 27, 2025, 01:46:17 (IST)
Saudi foreign minister meets with US envoy to discuss Syrian conflict
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister met with the US Special Envoy for Syria, Ethan Goldrich, to discuss recent developments concerning the Syrian crisis, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The discussions focused on coordinating joint efforts to achieve a political solution in Syria that aligns with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and contributes to regional stability. This meeting occurs amid Saudi Arabia’s ongoing diplomatic re-engagement with Damascus, which contrasts with the official US policy of not normalizing relations with the Assad regime while maintaining sanctions.
June 27, 2025, 01:46:17 (IST)
Tehran confirms death of top revolutionary guard commander from injuries
Tehran has confirmed that a top commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has died from injuries, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The death of the high-ranking officer in the IRGC, a powerful military force in Iran, is a significant development for the country and its operations in West Asia.
June 27, 2025, 01:45:11 (IST)
Saudi Arabia provides $30 million in financial support to Palestine
Saudi Arabia has provided $30 million in financial support to Palestine, a move that marks a notable resumption of direct aid to the financially-strained Palestinian Authority (PA), according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This contribution represents a significant increase in direct support after a period in which Saudi financial aid to the PA had been considerably reduced. The aid is being provided amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts concerning potential normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, with Riyadh consistently stating that progress on the Palestinian issue is a prerequisite for any such agreement.
June 27, 2025, 01:32:19 (IST)
US expands military base in Saudi Arabia to serve as supply hub against Iran
The United States has expanded a once-idle military base in Saudi Arabia near the Red Sea, turning it into a supply hub aimed at countering Iran, according to a report in The New York Times. A recent analysis by the newspaper found a significant burst of activity at the military site, which had been mostly dormant for several years. The expansion transforms the location into a key logistical center, enhancing the U.S. ability to support its operations and deter perceived threats from Iran in the region.
June 27, 2025, 01:31:13 (IST)
Russia and Ukraine confirm prisoner swap following talks mediated by Turkiye
Russia and Ukraine confirmed they have completed another prisoner-of-war exchange, with both sides announcing the return of their respective soldiers, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The swap was successfully mediated by Turkiye, continuing its role as a key diplomatic facilitator between the two warring nations. Officials from Moscow and Kyiv have not yet specified the exact number of prisoners who were released in this latest exchange, which represents a significant humanitarian development in the ongoing conflict.
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June 27, 2025, 01:31:13 (IST)
Israeli strike at Gaza market kills 18 Palestinians, witnesses say
An Israeli strike in a Gaza market has resulted in the deaths of 18 Palestinians, according to a report in BBC. Citing a doctor and witnesses at the scene, the report states that Israeli drones fired at individuals identified as Hamas police members. These members were reportedly dressed in civilian clothing and wearing masks at the time of the attack.
June 27, 2025, 01:30:09 (IST)
Netanyahu visits ZAKA headquarters to meet with volunteers
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the ZAKA headquarters in Jerusalem, where he met with senior officers, commanders, and volunteers of the organization, Israel National News says in a report. The visit was intended to recognize the challenging work performed by the volunteer-based group, which specializes in recovering and identifying human remains following attacks and disasters. Netanyahu’s visit specifically acknowledged the efforts of ZAKA volunteers in the aftermath of the October 7th attacks.
June 27, 2025, 00:45:05 (IST)
Details emerge of US proposals for Iran nuclear deal
Details have emerged regarding new proposals from the Trump administration for a nuclear deal with Iran, which are being discussed in ongoing indirect talks, according to a report in CNN. The proposals are understood to be a modified version of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) rather than an entirely new agreement. Key points of contention remain the scope of sanctions relief for Tehran and the verification mechanisms, including the level of access for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). These diplomatic efforts are taking place against the backdrop of Iran’s significant advancements in its nuclear program since the US unilaterally withdrew from the original pact in 2018.
June 27, 2025, 00:45:05 (IST)
Standoff between Armenian prime minister and Church escalates amid arrests
The political standoff between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the influential Armenian Apostolic Church has intensified, involving arrests and allegations of a coup plot, according to a report in the BBC. The escalating conflict is rooted in the political fallout from the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war and recent government decisions on border delimitation with Azerbaijan, which have been strongly opposed by the Church. Amid the tensions, Pashinyan has made a statement interpreted as an offer to reveal sensitive information concerning his opponents. This confrontation highlights deep societal divisions and raises concerns about political stability in the country.
End of Liveblog