West Asia News Live: Welcome to our live blog bringing you the latest developments from West Asia. Stay updated on key shifts in regional geopolitics, oil and energy markets, diplomacy, security tensions, economic reforms, civil movements and religious dynamics
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Tensions remain high across West Asia today, with fresh developments from Israel, Gaza, Syria and beyond. In Israel, new military enlistments and political infighting deepen societal divides over ultra-Orthodox exemptions. Meanwhile, Gaza’s health system is on the brink, the WHO warns, as journalists face escalating threats. In Syria, opposition groups are pushing for post-Assad accountability, while reports of Iranian intelligence efforts and US legal actions add to the region’s fraught geopolitical landscape. Stay here for the latest updates and analysis:
West Asia today
West Asia News Live: Welcome to our live blog bringing you the latest developments from West Asia. Stay updated on key shifts in regional geopolitics, oil and energy markets, diplomacy, security tensions, economic reforms, civil movements and religious dynamics
August 8, 2025, 04:36:55 (IST)
Bennett accuses Netanyahu aides of ‘betrayal’ over Qatar policy, calls for prime minister’s resignation
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has publicly accused aides of current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of ‘betraying’ the state over its policy toward Qatar, as per a report in Haaretz. The accusation centres on the long-standing Israeli policy of permitting Qatari funds into Gaza, a strategy critics argue strengthened Hamas ahead of the October 7, 2023 attacks. Bennett’s call for Netanyahu’s resignation adds to the political pressure on the current government, which has faced demands for accountability since the attacks. The public dispute could also complicate relations with Qatar, which is a key mediator in hostage negotiations with Hamas.
August 8, 2025, 04:34:17 (IST)
Israel reportedly weighs defence and security cuts with UK over Palestine recognition plans
Israel is reportedly considering a withdrawal of defence and security cooperation with the United Kingdom if the British government moves forward with its plan to formally recognise a Palestinian state, as per a report in Israel National News. Diplomatic sources have warned of significant security and economic fallout from such a decision, which would impact extensive intelligence sharing, joint military exercises, and defence trade between the two nations. The potential Israeli action is a response to indications from UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron that Britain could recognise a Palestinian state before a final peace agreement is reached, a shift from its long-standing policy. This development highlights a potential diplomatic and economic rift between the two allies amid renewed international pressure for a two-state solution.
August 8, 2025, 04:34:11 (IST)
Saudi Arabia advances development of Jafurah shale gas field to diversify economy
Saudi Arabia is pushing forward with the development of the Jafurah field, one of the region’s largest unconventional non-associated gas reserves, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This initiative is a cornerstone of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, representing a strategic pivot from the kingdom’s historical reliance on oil. The project aims to utilise the gas for domestic power generation and industrial feedstock, which will in turn free up significant volumes of crude oil for export. The development positions Saudi Arabia to become a major player in the global gas market, potentially impacting liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices and increasing regional competition with established exporters such as Qatar. This move enhances the kingdom’s energy portfolio and geopolitical influence while supporting its long-term economic diversification goals.
August 8, 2025, 04:31:40 (IST)
Israel seeks 20th delay for hearing on Red Cross access to Palestinian prisoners
Israel is seeking to delay a judicial hearing concerning access for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to visit Palestinian prisoners for the 20th time, according to a report in Haaretz. The repeated requests for postponement prevent a definitive court ruling on the matter, which is mandated under the Geneva Conventions to ensure humane treatment and monitoring of detention conditions. This ongoing legal situation highlights a persistent dispute over international humanitarian law and oversight, potentially increasing political risk and impacting international relations and investor perceptions of regional stability.
August 8, 2025, 04:30:12 (IST)
Lebanese army says its forces killed three wanted drug dealers
Lebanon’s army announced that its troops have killed three of the country’s most wanted drug dealers, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This security operation takes place as Lebanon continues to grapple with a severe economic crisis that has fueled illicit activities, including the drug trade. The country has faced significant international pressure, particularly from Gulf nations, to curb the production and trafficking of drugs such as Captagon, which are often smuggled into the region.
August 8, 2025, 04:20:57 (IST)
Top Jewish philanthropists say Netanyahu government is causing lasting damage to world Jewry
Prominent Jewish philanthropists have stated that the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government are causing ‘lasting damage’ to the relationship between Israel and global Jewish communities, as per a report in Haaretz. The criticism reportedly stems from several key issues, including the controversial judicial overhaul initiated in 2023, the government’s handling of the war in Gaza, the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, and policies viewed as undermining religious pluralism. These actions are said to be alienating significant portions of the Jewish diaspora, particularly liberal and non-Orthodox communities concerned about Israel’s democratic character.
August 8, 2025, 04:19:28 (IST)
Persistent food scarcity in Gaza heightens geopolitical and economic risks in West Asia
The severe and persistent hunger in Gaza, where residents are struggling with meagre food supplies, signals a deepening humanitarian catastrophe with considerable economic and geopolitical consequences for West Asia, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The ongoing conflict and intensified blockade have crippled Gaza’s food systems, leading to UN warnings of famine and creating a situation that threatens broader regional stability. This sustained crisis places immense pressure on international relations, particularly for Israel and key Arab states, and introduces significant volatility into regional markets. The potential for further escalation and the massive cost of humanitarian aid and future reconstruction represent substantial economic risks and challenges to investor confidence across the area.
August 8, 2025, 04:15:08 (IST)
Inaugural Tar festival to celebrate Saudi musical heritage in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of the inaugural Tar Festival in Riyadh, an event designed to celebrate and promote the country’s traditional musical heritage, Asharq Al-Awsat said in a report. The festival, which spotlights the ‘Tar’, a traditional stringed instrument, is a key component of the kingdom’s broader cultural development strategy. This initiative aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy beyond oil by fostering new sectors such as tourism and entertainment, and is part of a series of social reforms aimed at expanding cultural and public life within the country.
August 8, 2025, 03:21:44 (IST)
Israeli strikes in Lebanon kill six, escalating regional tensions amid US diplomatic push
Israeli airstrikes in eastern Lebanon have resulted in at least six deaths and ten injuries, significantly heightening geopolitical risk in West Asia, Al Jazeera says in a report. This military escalation comes at a critical time, occurring just as the Lebanese government formally endorsed a US-backed diplomatic proposal aimed at the disarmament of Hezbollah. The incident undermines these de-escalation efforts and injects fresh uncertainty into regional markets. For businesses and investors, the continued conflict between military actions and diplomatic initiatives exacerbates Lebanon’s severe economic crisis, further damaging investor confidence and highlighting the profound instability that threatens any potential economic recovery in the nation and poses a wider risk to the region.
August 8, 2025, 03:15:09 (IST)
Palestinian footballer killed in an Israeli attack in southern Gaza, football association says
The Palestine Football Association (PFA) announced that footballer Suleiman al-Obeid has been killed in southern Gaza, according to a report in The Guardian. The PFA alleges that al-Obeid, known as the ‘Palestinian Pelé’, died on Wednesday when Israeli forces attacked a group of civilians who were waiting to receive humanitarian aid.
August 8, 2025, 03:00:06 (IST)
Over 200 writers call for boycott of Israel until Gaza receives adequate aid
More than 200 writers, including prominent figures such as Zadie Smith, Michael Rosen, Irvine Welsh, and Jeanette Winterson, have signed a letter demanding an “immediate and complete” boycott of Israel, as per a report in The Guardian. The letter advocates for the cessation of all “trade, exchange and business” with the country. This action is called for to continue until the people of Gaza are provided with adequate food, water, and humanitarian aid. Other signatories mentioned include Hanif Kureishi, Brian Eno, and Elif Shafak.
August 8, 2025, 02:57:37 (IST)
Sudan’s military claims it destroyed a UAE plane carrying alleged mercenaries
Sudanese state television has claimed the country’s military destroyed an aircraft from the United Arab Emirates that was allegedly transporting Colombian mercenaries to support the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF), as per a report in Al Jazeera. The incident, occurring within Sudan’s protracted civil war, amplifies allegations of the UAE’s direct intervention and support for the RSF, posing significant geopolitical and reputational risks for the West Asian nation. Colombian President Gustavo Petro confirmed his government is investigating the number of Colombian nationals involved. This escalation underscores the growing geopolitical instability in the region, which could impact investor confidence and risk perceptions concerning the UAE’s role in foreign conflicts.
August 8, 2025, 02:53:56 (IST)
Iran faces severe water crisis amid prolonged drought and policy failures
Iran is facing a significant water crisis after five straight years of drought have left the country’s water resources critically low, according to a report in Foreign Policy. While the prolonged drought is a primary cause, the situation is severely worsened by what experts describe as decades of unsustainable water policies, including excessive dam building, inefficient agricultural practices, and the over-extraction of groundwater. This scarcity has become a major source of social unrest, leading to significant water-related protests in several provinces. The crisis also has regional implications, contributing to diplomatic tensions with neighbouring countries like Afghanistan over shared water resources.
August 8, 2025, 02:45:08 (IST)
Advocacy group calls on Sephora to end Huda Beauty partnership over founder’s alleged comments
Advocacy group StopAntisemitism is calling for retailer Sephora to end its commercial partnership with Huda Beauty, Israel National News said in a report. The demand follows allegations that the brand’s founder, Huda Kattan, posted a video on TikTok with comments perceived as antisemitic, reportedly blaming Israel for major global events. The situation presents a significant commercial and reputational risk for both companies, placing Sephora in a difficult position where any decision—either retaining or dropping the popular brand—could lead to consumer backlash and boycotts from opposing sides of the highly-polarised issue. This incident highlights the increasing financial risks for global consumer brands navigating sensitive geopolitical conflicts.
August 8, 2025, 01:04:04 (IST)
Egypt ends decades-old rent control system in major economic policy shift
Egypt has abolished its long-standing rent control system, a move officials state will rebalance a housing market distorted by decades-old regulations, as per a report in The New York Times. The policy change is part of a wider economic reform programme aimed at attracting real estate investment and liberalising key sectors of the economy. While the government’s objective is to stimulate new construction and allow market forces to dictate prices, the termination of the controls is anticipated to have severe consequences for low-income and middle-class residents who face displacement and sharply increased housing costs. For property owners and developers, the new law presents significant financial opportunities, allowing them to charge market rates and redevelop properties that were previously unprofitable, potentially unlocking substantial investment in the housing sector.
August 8, 2025, 01:01:18 (IST)
Haredi leader’s visit to jailed draft refusers highlights Israeli coalition’s political fragility
The 95-year-old leader of the Lithuanian Haredi community has visited detainees in Beit Lid military prison to show support for those refusing to enlist in the Israeli military, according to a report in Israel National News. This visit occurs amidst a contentious national debate over a new conscription law, an issue that poses a significant threat to the stability of the current governing coalition. The Haredi community’s firm stance against mandatory service, now publicly reinforced by its leadership, clashes with growing public and judicial pressure for equal burden-sharing, particularly as the military faces increased manpower needs. For investors and markets, this deep-seated social and political conflict represents a notable risk, as a potential coalition crisis could disrupt policy-making and impact economic sentiment.
August 8, 2025, 01:00:13 (IST)
US official’s secret meeting with Haredi leaders on draft law raises political stability concerns in Israel
An official from the current Trump administration, also described as an envoy for Senator Marco Rubio, held clandestine meetings in Bnei Brak with senior Degel Hatorah leaders Rabbi Dov Lando and Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, Israel National News said in a report. The discussions reportedly centred on potential US intervention in Israel’s ongoing Haredi military draft crisis, a deeply divisive issue that threatens the stability of the governing coalition. This act of unofficial diplomacy bypasses established state channels and introduces significant political uncertainty. For investors, this development elevates the political risk profile for Israel, as any event that could precipitate the collapse of the government has direct implications for economic policy, market sentiment, and the stability of the Israeli shekel.
August 8, 2025, 00:47:48 (IST)
Trump calls for all Middle Eastern countries to formalize ties with Israel
President Donald Trump has stated his desire for all nations in the Middle East to establish formal diplomatic relations with Israel, urging them to join the Abraham Accords, as per a report in Al Jazeera. In his remarks, Trump invoked the threat from Iran’s nuclear program, referencing past attacks on its nuclear sites as a rationale for countries in the region to form a united front with Israel.
August 7, 2025, 23:59:19 (IST)
Former Israeli PM Olmert supports Barak’s call for civil disobedience
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has endorsed a call by fellow former PM Ehud Barak for civil disobedience to bring down the current government, according to a report in Israel National News. In an interview with foreign media, Olmert expressed his support for the action and claimed that the government is effectively run by ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich.
August 7, 2025, 23:55:13 (IST)
UN reports over 12,000 children are malnourished in Gaza, with more than 2,500 severely affected
The United Nations has reported a severe health crisis among children in Gaza, with over 12,000 identified as malnourished, according to a report in Haaretz. The data highlights the gravity of the situation, specifying that 2,562 of these children are suffering from severe malnutrition, a critical condition requiring immediate medical intervention. These findings underscore the dire humanitarian conditions in the region resulting from the ongoing conflict and disruptions to essential aid.
August 7, 2025, 23:51:04 (IST)
Türkiye’s finance minister reaffirms commitment to disinflation process
Türkiye’s Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek has affirmed the government’s commitment to seeing its disinflation process through for long-term stability, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This statement underscores the country’s ongoing shift towards more orthodox economic policies, which are aimed at curbing persistently high inflation that has remained around 70%. The economic pivot is also intended to restore confidence amongst international investors and address the domestic cost of living crisis, a key issue that influenced recent local election outcomes.
August 7, 2025, 23:46:34 (IST)
Saudi Aramco maintains dividend payouts, funding key national projects
Saudi Aramco is continuing its substantial dividend payouts despite global economic h