Egyptian comedian Bassem Youssef no longer on X: What we know The exiled comic has been a vocal critic of Israel, highlighting the plight of the Palestinians during the Gaza war but has recently been accused of antisemitism. Egypt
CT scans reveal mysteries of ancient Egypt's 'Screaming Woman' mummy Al-Monitor interviewed Cairo University radiology professor Sahar Saleem on her high-tech research into mummy and the ancient process of mummification. Egypt
Middle East athletes rack up 44 medals at Paris Olympics Ten Middle Eastern countries won medals at this year's Paris games. Algeria
From Egypt to Saudi: Meet Middle East's athletes at Paris Olympics Burgeoning Iraqi soccer star Ali Jasim and 2020 Israeli gold medal–winning gymnast Artem Dolgopyat are among the most-known competitors from the region. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Analysis Saudi Arabia's soccer dreams tested as Vision 2030 goal posts move By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
White House opposes sanctioning ICC over request for Netanyahu warrant The White House walked back comments from Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who last week indicated he would support a congressional effort to sanction the world court. Israel
Egyptian fashion enthusiasts create urban fashion runways A group of four Egyptian male models has been holding pop-up photo shoots and catwalks on popular Cairo streets in order to create a fresh, accessible approach to fashion. Egypt
What Iran's elections could signal about potential for US escalation The sudden death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has plunged the country into new uncertainty, but it’s unlikely to derail Washington's quiet push to dial back tensions with Tehran. Iran
Mysterious structure at Egypt’s pyramids could be undiscovered tomb The l-shaped structure was discovered at Giza’s Western Cemetery, known as a burial place for royal family members in ancient Egypt. Egypt
Iranian filmmaker Rasoulof says he's fled country after prison sentence The crew for Mohammad Rasoulof’s latest film, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” was barred from traveling to Cannes for the premiere, their lawyer said. Iran
Gaza’s Orthodox Christians spend grim Easter praying for Palestinian rebirth The few remaining Christians in Gaza are observing a joyless Easter this week. Palestine
‘Written Eye’ exhibit breathes life into Syria's art scene Several young artists showcased their works at a new-concept exhibition held in the heart of the Syrian capital, signaling a revival of the Syrian art scene after years of war. Syria
Crew of Iranian film barred from traveling to Cannes: lawyer Mohammad Rasoulof, the director of "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," has been persecuted for his work by the Iranian government. Iran
Iranian rapper Toomaj sentenced to death over protest support Toomaj Salehi is the latest musical artist to be sentenced in relation to the 2022 anti-government protests in Iran. Iran
After 9 years, first Iranian pilgrims head to Saudi Arabia for umrah The flights carrying Iranian pilgrims are the latest sign of rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran after restoring ties last year. Iran
Saudi Arabia to make debut at Miss Universe pageant The move is a historic first for Saudi Arabia, where women have long faced restrictions under conservative Islamic laws. Saudi Arabia
Iran sentences 'Baraye' singer Shervin Hajipour to three years in jail The singer’s hit "Baraye" became an anthem for the 2022 anti-government protests in Iran and his sentencing is the latest example of the Islamic Republic’s repression of those who took part in them. Iran