Middle East Experience

Surveillance team attacked by drone fleet in hostage siege, says FBI tech chief
Source: ITP.net
Full Article: Criminals used drones to block FBI observers

Despite pushback from senior figures such as Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, the politicization of clerical ranks in Iran continues unabated.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: In Iran, religious titles lie at heart of political games

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has posted an English-language video to YouTube laying out Iranian positions on the nuclear deal, including why Tehran will not be revisiting the agreement despite threats by US President Donald Trump to exit it if it is not reopened and other issues addressed.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Iran's FM takes to YouTube to reject renegotiating nuclear deal

The Ephesus joint combined military exercise — the Turkish military’s most prominent annual display — will reveal much about the operational effectiveness of the country's armed forces in the aftermath of the July 2016 coup attempt.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Turkey gears up military might to host live-fire war games

The head of the Saudi-based Muslim World League, Dr. Mohammad Alissa, discussed the path toward a moderate and tolerant Islam in a US think tank discussion this week. In a conversation with the
Source: Al Arabiya
Full Article: WATCH: Muslim World League chief talks path to moderate, tolerant Islamic world

The Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation has big plans to expand in the Middle East and around the world to spread news about the Palestinian cause.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Palestinian news group growing internationally

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' April 30 PNC speech was widely condemned and faced accusations of anti-Semitism, and it may indicate he no longer feels political restrictions.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Was Abbas' speech at top Palestinian council meeting his last?

Gang of 11 arrested for sending phone messages to deceive recipients into thinking that they had won prizes
Source: ITP.net
Full Article: Abu Dhabi Police arrest gang over UAE phone fraud

Twitter tells users to change passwords after internal leak
Source: ITP.net
Full Article: Twitter warns users to change passwords

Beirut - As Lebanese voters head to the polls, many will undoubtedly find fresh faces on their ballots as independent groups attempt to challenge the country’s political elites and
Source: Al Arabiya
Full Article: Independents court voters amid divisions as Lebanon gears up for elections