Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party held internal elections to select candidates for the October 27 general election, navigating a competitive political landscape where the right-wing party confronts tightening race prospects.
Iran and Oman are completing a landmark accord on maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz, introducing new shipping corridors through Iranian territorial waters. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi indicated Tehran may seek transit fees and signalled potential progress in negotiations with the United States.
Israel heads toward a tightly contested election on October 27, with former military chief Gadi Eisenkot positioning himself as the leading challenger to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's continued leadership.
Egypt and Russia are intensifying their strategic partnership through multiple joint ventures, including a logistics corridor for grain and petroleum, completion of nuclear power plant construction, and planned seasonal flights to boost tourism between the nations.
Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei has declared US President Trump's signature invalid after accusing Washington of breaching a peace memorandum signed in June, escalating already volatile Middle East tensions.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has rejected US President Donald Trump's proposal to impose a 20% toll on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, reasserting Tehran's role as guardian of the strategic waterway.