US sanctions hundreds of firms accused of supplying Russia's war machine
The U.S. has imposed sweeping sanctions against hundreds of firms across Russia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, accusing them of providing products and services that enable Russiaโs war effort and aiding its ability to evade sanctions.
US beefs up posture in Middle East, warns an Iran-backed attack on Israel could come this week
The Pentagon says Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered a guided missile submarine to the Middle East and is telling the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to sail more quickly to the area.
Bob Woodward's next book, 'War,' will focus on conflict abroad and politics at home
Bob Woodwardโs next book, continuing a long tradition of election year releases, will focus on the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East and their place in American presidential politics.
US leaders call for calm in the Middle East, even as more American forces head to the region
Top U.S. national security leaders are calling for calm in the Middle East and say they are directly pressing Israel, Iran and others to avoid escalating the conflict.
US to boost military presence in Mideast, sending fighter jet squadron and keeping carrier there
The Pentagon has announced that the U.S. will move a fighter jet squadron to the Middle East and maintain an aircraft carrier in the region.
Israel-Hamas war latest: International calls for cease-fire grow after assassinations in the Mideast
The Pentagon has announced that the U.S. will move a fighter jet squadron to the Middle East and maintain an aircraft carrier in the region.
Helicopter crash that killed Iran's president and others could reverberate across the Middle East
The helicopter crash in which Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, the countryโs foreign minister and other officials were killed is likely to reverberate across the Middle East, where Iranโs influence runs wide and deep.
Gallery: USS Carney heroes return to Mayport after historic 7-month deployment
More than 500 people went to Naval Station Mayport Sunday morning to welcome the heroes aboard the USS Carney who returned after a dangerous and historic seven-month deployment in the Middle East.
USS Carney returns to Mayport after dangerous, historic 7-month deployment
The USS Carney will return to Naval Station Mayport on Sunday morning after a dangerous and historic seven-month deployment to the Middle East.
โYou saved livesโ: USS Carney returns to United States after dangerous, historic 7-month deployment
The USS Carney returned to the United States after a dangerous and historic seven-month deployment from Naval Station Mayport to the Middle East.
Blinken will be the latest top US official to visit China in a bid to keep ties on an even keel
Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to China this coming week as Washington and Beijing try to keep ties on an even keel despite major differences on a range of issue, from the Middle East to opioids.
Big banks warn of uncertain year ahead after mixed financial performances in the first quarter
Big banks warned of an uncertain year ahead after mixed financial results during the first quarter in an environment of stubbornly high inflation and geopolitical clashes in Europe, the Middle East and elsewhere.
In wake of Baltimore bridge collapse, Florida lawmakers, maritime leaders meet to talk port safety, infrastructure
Congressional and maritime leaders met in Miami on Friday to discuss port safety, security and infrastructure.
Iran marks the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution as tensions grip the wider Middle East
Iran has marked the 45th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution amid tensions gripping the wider Middle East over Israelโs continued war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
2 supply ships headed to JAXPORT were canceled due to conflict thousands of miles away
Conflict in the Middle East is having a global ripple effect in trade and shipping, as the Houthis, a group in Yemen, continue to attack ships moving through the Suez Canal, a major route for transporting goods around the world.
Recent strikes are only the beginning of the US offensive in Middle East, National Security Advisor says
The U.S. and Britain hit dozens of Houthi targets in Yemen this weekend, continuing to strike back after attacks on American and international ships in the region by Iran-backed groups.
Mayport-based warship continues missile-attack defense in Middle East; US offensive expected to ramp up this weekend
Local servicemembers are increasingly in the line of fire.
Lawmakers warn Biden must seek authorization before further strikes on Yemen Houthi rebels
A bipartisan group of lawmakers is raising concerns over a series of recent U.S. military strikes against Yemen's Houthi rebels.
Iran is 'directly involved' in Yemen Houthi rebel ship attacks, US Navy's Mideast chief tells AP
The U.S. Navyโs top Mideast commander says Iran is โvery directly involvedโ in ship attacks by Yemenโs Houthi rebels during Israelโs war against Hamas.
Hundreds of first responders prepare for big crowds in Jacksonville for football games, NYE celebrations
Jax is ready: thatโs the word from local officials as they gear up for an incredibly busy next couple of days.
With 'shuttle diplomacy,' step by step, Kissinger chased the possible in the Mideast
Henry Kissinger's legacy in the Mideast is the pursuit of what's possible, not necessarily peace, in one of the world's most intractable conflicts.
Opposition mounts in Arab countries that normalized relations with Israel
Countries in the Middle East that have normalized or are considering normalizing relations with Israel are coming under growing public pressure to cut those ties because of Israelโs war with Hamas.
Russia maneuvers carefully over the Israel-Hamas war as it seeks to expand its global clout
Russia has issued carefully calibrated criticism of both sides in the war between Israel and Hamas.
US developing contingency plans to evacuate Americans from Mideast in case Israel-Hamas war spreads
The White House is developing โprudent contingency planningโ to evacuate Americans from the Middle East in case the Israel-Hamas war spreads into a broad regional conflict.
Pentagon rushes defenses and advisers to Middle East as Israel's ground assault in Gaza looms
The Pentagon has sent advisers, including a Marine Corps general versed in urban warfare, to Israel to assist in its plans to conduct a ground assault in Gaza.
Long lines at gas pump unlikely, but Middle East crisis could disrupt oil supplies, raise prices
Fifty years after the 1973 Arab oil embargo, the current crisis in the Middle East has the potential to disrupt global oil supplies and raise prices.
Biden didn't make Israeli-Palestinian talks a priority. Arab leaders say region now paying the price
The explosion of Israeli-Palestinian violence has Arab leaders faulting a Biden administration policy that moved away from big U.S. pushes for a broad Israeli-Palestinian peace deal.
โItโs good to be homeโ: All members of Fernandina Beach church group arrive safely in States from Middle East
The final members of a group touring Israel with First Baptist Church Fernandina Beach arrived home safely Sunday night after being stuck in the Middle East amid the ongoing turmoil of the war between Israel and Hamas.
Biden postpones trip to Colorado to discuss domestic agenda as the Israel-Hamas conflict intensifies
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are meeting with national security officials as the Israel-Hamas conflict intensifies, according to the White House.
Jewish community comes together to show solidarity for those impacted by the war on Israel
Numerous people gathered at the University of North Florida Monday night to pray and stand in solidarity with Israel after a surprise attack from Hamas caused carnage in the Middle East.
Protestors stand up for Palestinians at courthouse rally, call for US to stop supporting Israel
Several dozen pro-Palestinian people gathered at the Duval County Courthouse Monday to support what they call a Palestinian revolution against Israel.
Who, What, When, Where, Why?: The history and key players in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
As we cover the brutal fighting in Israel and the Gaza Strip, we want to take a moment to go over the key names that are dominating headlines across the globe.
2 Mayport-based ships part of carrier strike group sent to support Israel in Mediterranean
Among the ships accompanying the USS Ford will be two ships from Naval Station Mayport: the USS Carney and the USS Thomas Hudner. Both are guided missile destroyers.
Jill Biden to promote women, youth on trip to Mideast, North Africa, Europe
Jill Biden will promote women and youth empowerment and plans to attend a royal wedding in Jordan during an upcoming trip to the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.
AP Month in Pictures: Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan
This photo gallery highlights some of the most compelling images made or published by Associated Press photographers in the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan in March 2023.
IMF says inflation to slow growth across Mideast this year
Economies across the Middle East and Central Asia will likely slow this year as persistently high inflation and rising interest rates bite into their post-pandemic gains.
Rights group: Mideast governments target LGBTQ people online
A rights group says in a new report that security agencies and government officials across several countries in the Middle East and North Africa have been using social media platforms and mobile dating apps to crack down on LGBTQ people.
Russian arms dealer, son and front firms hit with sanctions
A Russian arms dealer, his son and a group of front companies across Asia, Europe and the Middle East and their leadership have been targeted for U.S. sanctions in an effort to quell Russiaโs access to weapons to continue its invasion of Ukraine.
East Med especially at risk as world heats up, report warns
The eastern Mediterranean and Middle East are warming almost twice as fast as the global average, with temperatures projected to rise up to 5 degrees Celsius (9 degrees Fahrenheit) by the end of the century if no action is taken to reverse the trend, a new report says.
US B-52 bombers fly over Middle East amid tensions with Iran
The United States military says it flew a pair of nuclear-capable B-52 long-distance bombers over the Middle East in a show of force, the latest such mission in the region as tensions remain high between Washington and Tehran.
Food prices soar to record levels on Ukraine war disruptions
The United Nations says prices for world food commodities like grains and vegetable oils have reached their highest levels ever because of Russia's war in Ukraine.
Ramadan kicks off in much of Middle East amid soaring prices
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan โ when the faithful fast from dawn to dusk โ has begun in much of the Middle East, where Russiaโs invasion of Ukraine has sent energy and food prices soaring.
Generals say Afghanistan, Somalia pullouts hurt terror fight
Senior U.S. commanders tell Congress that the complete U.S. military withdrawals from Afghanistan and Somalia last year have made it more difficult for the U.S. to counter terror groups that aspire to attack America and its allies.
Saudi sees Cyprus as bridge between Europe, Middle East
The Saudi foreign minister says his country views Cyprus as a โbridgeโ between the Middle East and the European Union, helping the 27-nation bloc โunderstand whatโs going onโ in the region.
US warships stay in Mediterranean amid Ukraine, Russia fears
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier strike group to stay in the Mediterranean Sea region rather than move on to the Middle East, amid worries about the buildup of thousands of Russian troops near the Ukraine border.
COVID-19 cases rise in Europe for 5th consecutive week
The World Health Organization says the number of coronavirus cases has risen in Europe for the fifth consecutive week, making it the only world region where COVID-19 is still increasing.
![Scientists urge speedy switch to renewables in Middle East](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/aKJ_yXG9cFiGiMQvzT96SHTxhqQ=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/N3KB2RXKQREHVE36CRGRVYRJ4Y.jpg)
Scientists urge speedy switch to renewables in Middle East
A climate change conference will underscore to policymakers in the Middle East and the east Mediterranean that the switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is needed urgently because greenhouse gas emissions are helping to drive up regional temperatures faster than in many other inhabited parts of the world.
![โThis is a special momentโ: Sailor returning to Mayport meets son for 1st time](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/O3dHCkOh8X1wKa2JGjl5mCoHoG8=/800x450/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/J6XXEYRVWVDF3NZQETKW5NXVZ4.jpg)
โThis is a special momentโ: Sailor returning to Mayport meets son for 1st time
Among the tear-filled, joyous reunions Saturday when the USS Thomas Hudner returned to Mayport, News4Jax captured a very special meeting between a father and son.
![EU vows to help Lithuania amid flow of migrants from Belarus](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/32zXXqqy6eSCr36raTqPGUGdVkU=/800x542/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/IDI4DHX4JJEZLD4WEDM6YESON4.jpg)
EU vows to help Lithuania amid flow of migrants from Belarus
The European Union has promised to help Lithuania cope with an influx of migrants from the Middle East and Africa, which the Baltic nation says has been encouraged by authorities in neighboring Belarus as part of their standoff with the West.
![US general: As US scales back in Mideast, China may step in](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/GCSj55EdbODVByYEx4bHZTZEXY4=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/NUXZF2VL2FHKVPMG3ZDAXGCZ5U.jpg)
US general: As US scales back in Mideast, China may step in
A top U.S. commander says that as the United States scales back its military presence across the Middle East to focus on great power competition with China and Russia, it risks giving those two countries a chance to fill the gap and expand their influence around the Gulf.
![US commander says more work needed to counter small drones](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/ni-sKi15UxGuc9c1QLnoSEkp6Rg=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/AVAQGEPIEZFCNN5CIH37BV5GIY.jpg)
US commander says more work needed to counter small drones
The top U.S. commander for the Middle East says finding better ways to counter attacks by small drones across the region is a top priority and that the U.S. is still behind the curve on solutions.
![Violence tests Biden's pullback from Middle East hotspots](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/E75eehHV-p_9AhbIhwqUfucHsaU=/800x553/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/UWERJTDX45ESVKOR6EVX746XCI.jpg)
Violence tests Biden's pullback from Middle East hotspots
Surges in violence and scenes of civilian suffering are testing President Joe Bidenโs resolve to wrench Americaโs foreign policy focus and troops away from the hotspots of the Middle East and Afghanistan.
![US general to recommend post-withdrawal plan for Afghanistan](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/VQVJK1ij7GwbLMX5TRRV1KwoV-E=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/2YXI3UEEY5BQ3DVXONXMRG7KL4.jpg)
US general to recommend post-withdrawal plan for Afghanistan
The top U.S. commander for the Middle East says he will make recommendations to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in early June on how to monitor and fight terrorist groups in Afghanistan from beyond its borders after all American forces withdraw.
![US boosts aid to Palestinians as some in Congress cry foul](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/xYVodKOWH426dzS4KOiKjOCWiDA=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/Y2CGCF4GUNFPHJZLZECLE6WHEE.jpg)
US boosts aid to Palestinians as some in Congress cry foul
The Biden administration is moving again to increase U.S. assistance to the Palestinians as it fires up a new Mideast policy that is directly opposite of the one pursued by its predecessor.
![US gives $15 million to Palestinians to deal with COVID-19](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/8Yrh5OdRNb2GCMjbXjXLVUGmnmM=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/UM7EHGR24ZHIZPBFC35GARATP4.jpg)
US gives $15 million to Palestinians to deal with COVID-19
The United States says it is giving $15 million to vulnerable Palestinian communities in the West Bank and Gaza Strip to help respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a boost to the West Bank where the Palestinian Authority had only secured 10,000 doses of Russiaโs Sputnik V vaccine and 2,000 shots from Israel for the roughly 3 million Palestinians living in the West Bank. But in recent weeks, it has inoculated over 100,000 Palestinian laborers in the West Bank who have permits to work inside Israel and its West Bank settlements. Wennesland said the U.N. and its partners will continue to support Palestinian vaccination efforts, expressed appreciation for Israel's essential role in deliveries, and urged support for the Palestinian COVID-19 response. U.S. envoy Thomas-Greenfield announced the $15 million contribution as Israel awaits the final results from Tuesdayโs fourth parliamentary elections in two years.
![Rivals seeking to gain as Biden mulls approach to Syrian war](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/jVeazCTWPxStEqSy6JbMNO3vwIE=/2048x1299/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/Y6BVNLTQAVBANCD5RXREWLLX4Q.jpg)
Rivals seeking to gain as Biden mulls approach to Syrian war
The Biden administration is mulling over Americas role in Syrias ongoing conflict as the U.S. tries to break away from Middle East wars. AdDealing with Syria's war will test the Biden administration's determination to focus on Asia and not the Middle East. Hence Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's Middle East tour this month. โIf this is the security future of the Middle East, weโre all in trouble,โ Jeffrey warns. It was the Syrian war that sparked that debate, when President Barack Obama first considered military strikes there, said Rep. Joaquin Castro, a Texas Democrat and member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
![B-52s again fly over Mideast in US military warning to Iran](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/slrt-q4sr-MVF_bJLv1yTwoRLxo=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/DDC2HO4PTZGKRLTXB2M2RUXNG4.jpg)
B-52s again fly over Mideast in US military warning to Iran
A pair of B-52 bombers flew over the Mideast on Sunday, March 7, 2021, the latest such mission in the region aimed at warning Iran amid tensions between Washington and Tehran. (U.S. Air Force/Senior Airman Josh W. Strickland via AP)DUBAI โ A pair of B-52 bombers flew over the Mideast on Sunday, the latest such mission in the region aimed at warning Iran amid tensions between Washington and Tehran. The U.S. military's Central Command said the two B-52s flew over the region accompanied by military aircraft from nations including Israel, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The U.S. Navyโs Bahrain-based 5th Fleet, which patrols the Mideast and often has tense encounters with Iran, declined to comment on the footage. However, the Gulf of Oman saw a series of similar attacks in 2019 that the U.S. Navy then blamed on Iran.
![EXPLAINER: How US airstrike in Syria sends message to Iran](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/CJd114bTFQ77IfLJQASYMQscp5A=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/IK45UGBALRGRDGIR7OEWXOA6GQ.jpg)
EXPLAINER: How US airstrike in Syria sends message to Iran
A U.S. airstrike targeting facilities used by Iran-backed militias in Syria appears to be a message to Tehran delivered by a new American administration still figuring out its approach to the Middle East. Kirby said the operation in Boukamal, Syria, sends an unambiguous message: President Biden will act to protect American and coalition personnel. In the meantime, relations with Iran have been further strained as the country's proxies become more assertive, with Iran-backed militias increasingly targeting U.S. interests and allies. Pentagon Spokesman John Kirby said the operation in Boukamal, Syria, sends an unambiguous message: โPresident Biden will act to protect American and coalition personnel. By striking Syria, Biden joins every American president from Ronald Reagan onward who has ordered a bombardment of countries in the Middle East.
![Defense head Austin weighs warship needs in Pacific, Mideast](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/GRiACSAxFyTjNEN6CmQGZGqyzD8=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/42VIXWKHH5FCZPH7GMOSZXCX7Y.jpg)
Defense head Austin weighs warship needs in Pacific, Mideast
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin speaks to reporters after arriving on the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, at sea. Austin told sailors on the USS Nimitz Thursday that he hopes to avoid long ship deployments like the more than 10 months they just spent at sea. (AP Photo/Lolita Baldor)Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told sailors on the USS Nimitz Thursday that he hopes to avoid long ship deployments like the more than 10 months they just spent at sea. Standing in the ship's hangar bay, Austin said he will make a decision soon on whether to send a carrier back to the Middle East, where the Nimitz had been. The Nimitzโs lengthy deployment was largely due to decisions to keep it in the Middle East last year and this year to serve as a deterrent to Iran.
![US: Human rights will be 'central' to relations with Egypt](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/pguK6hy7hMkcl5ek_shocKKN9rU=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/QDTMFJNMMRAMVHOHUED4NCZH34.jpg)
US: Human rights will be 'central' to relations with Egypt
WASHINGTON โ The Biden administration on Tuesday told Egypt that human rights will be โcentralโ to its policy in dealing with the key Arab state and major American partner in the Middle East. It was not immediately clear how the new emphasis on human rights would manifest itself. The Trump administration had largely given Egypt's leadership a pass on human rights. AdโThe secretary raised concerns over human rights, which he emphasized would be central to the U.S.-Egypt bilateral relationship, and Egyptโs potential procurement of Su-35 fighter aircraft from Russia,โ State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. However, rights groups accused authorities of targeting families of activists and rights defenders living abroad, in an apparent attempt to intimidate critics.
![UAE weapons show draws major deals, traders amid pandemic](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/EoMgvUel3WKn07hG12o_CbHK7gQ=/1600x1054/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/I46CXJEF35CAXMSNXEFOHKBAOE.jpg)
UAE weapons show draws major deals, traders amid pandemic
(AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)ABU DHABI โ In spite of the surging coronavirus pandemic, major arms makers descended Sunday on a convention center in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, hoping to make deals with militaries across the Middle East. The UAE unveiled $1.36 billion in local and foreign arms deals to supply its forces with everything from South African drones to Serbian artillery. Significant national pavilions were absent, including the United States, the worldโs largest arms exporter. AdโThe threats are obvious lately,โ said Walid Abukhaled, CEO of Saudi Arabian Military Industries Company, a holding company owned by the countryโs sovereign wealth fund. โIf Iran goes into a major rearmament program or starts to flex its muscles, thatโs where missile defense and air defense systems come in,โ he said.
![Libyans mark 2011 uprising with eyes on interim government](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/7RfLykcCakHmpde0x8qi9sbt3jc=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/KRD7QG6VN5D37LUOFVXX4W2D7Y.jpg)
Libyans mark 2011 uprising with eyes on interim government
(AP Photo/Francois Mori, File)TRIPOLI โ Libyans on Wednesday marked the 10th anniversary of their 2011 uprising that led to the overthrow and killing of longtime ruler Moammar Gadhafi. Many have their eyes on a recently appointed government tasked with leading Libya through elections later this year, with hopes of unifying the divided nation. Celebrations began late on Tuesday in the capital, Tripoli, where people gathered in the city's main square amid tight security. AdThere were also celebrations in the eastern city of Benghazi, once known as the birthplace of Libyaโs 2011 uprising. AdLibya has become one of the most intractable conflicts, along with Yemen and Syria, left over from the 2011 uprisings.
![Iran receives its first batch of foreign coronavirus vaccine](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/nb33-OiuE0NYcxzLcT9MpKwLfdU=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/GNQKLF4R3RHBXCDSKBI2NX33ZQ.jpg)
Iran receives its first batch of foreign coronavirus vaccine
Iran on Thursday received its first batch of foreign-made coronavirus vaccines as the country struggles to stem the worst outbreak of the pandemic in the Middle East. (Saeed Kaari/IKAC via AP)TEHRAN โ Iran on Thursday received its first batch of foreign-made coronavirus vaccines as the country struggles to stem the worst outbreak of the pandemic in the Middle East. Also Iranian state TV quoted Tehranโs ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, as saying that Iran has ordered 5 million doses from Russia. ISNA quoted Mohammadreza Shanehsaz, head of Iranโs food and drug organization, as saying Thursdayโs shipment included only 10,000 doses of the Sputnik V vaccine. It is also planning to import some 17 million doses of vaccine from COVAX and millions from other countries.
![Fort Stewart soldier arrested in plot to blow up NYC 9/11 Memorial](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/BNBbmnKaE7mQ9mDUvhDoiWS80N4=/1600x1067/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VBSHU6RKYVHWXP2MGS3IG3MBSI.jpg)
Fort Stewart soldier arrested in plot to blow up NYC 9/11 Memorial
The 20-year-old soldier, also known as Cole Gonzales, was with the Third Infantry Division out of Fort Stewart, Georgia, when he thought he was communicating with the Islamic State online about the terrorism plots, Biase said. They said he expressed his support for the Islamic State group and jihad on social media before he began communicating in October with an FBI employee who posed as an Islamic State group supporter in contact with the group's fighters in the Middle East. According to court papers, he expressed his frustration with the U.S. military and his desire to aid the Islamic State group. The criminal complaint said he then provided training and guidance to purported Islamic State fighters who were planning attacks, including advice about potential targets in New York City, including the 9/11 Memorial. This month, according to the complaint, Bridges sent a video of himself in body armor standing before an Islamic State flag, gesturing support.
![EXPLAINER: Breaking down Bidenโs Iran problem](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/cR7KplSi4AeJ9bO30QLE4rpmoEw=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/DXGCNBD5NZBMPKBK64VB3X6EAI.jpg)
EXPLAINER: Breaking down Bidenโs Iran problem
Joe Biden has an Iran problem. On Monday, Iran not only announced it had resumed advanced uranium enrichment in violation of the 2015 nuclear deal but also seized a South Korean-flagged oil tanker and its crew. But, Biden and his top national security aides have laid out their approach to Iran in broad strokes. Biden, himself, supported the Iran deal but with some reservations. At the same time, Biden aides have said Iran cannot win sanctions relief unless and until it respects the deal.
![US bomber mission over Persian Gulf aimed at cautioning Iran](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/SHYaEg18qUvEBO4b8FhIO0LgJC0=/1600x1068/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/FOR7Y5VNVNHFJMSS63N43VIFWU.jpg)
US bomber mission over Persian Gulf aimed at cautioning Iran
A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress from Minot Air Force Base, N.D., is refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2020. The United States flew strategic bombers over the Persian Gulf on Wednesday for the second time this month, a show of force meant to deter Iran from attacking American or allied targets in the Middle East. Because of the potential for escalation that could lead to a wider war, the U.S. has sought to deter Iran from additional attacks. Iran denied involvement but was blamed by the United States for that attack. That flight was repeated this week, with two B-52s flying nonstop from Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota and heading home Wednesday after cruising over the western side of the Gulf.
![US B-52H bombers fly to Middle East in mission to deter Iran](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/M337J4WfdUsIiUHGkhBGQ5SKyTI=/1600x948/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/NAJNVRQGKNHHXIVPE2WY6K7NUE.jpg)
US B-52H bombers fly to Middle East in mission to deter Iran
The long-range heavy bombers, which are capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons, are a formidable sight and are flown less frequently in the Middle East than smaller combat aircraft, such as American fighter jets. Bomber deployments and short-term flights to the Middle East and Europe have been used in the past to message Iran, a few times in the last two years. According to officials, the bombers flew out of Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana on Wednesday and conducted the flight into Thursday. The two bombers left the U.S. Wednesday evening, arrived in the Middle East early Thursday morning, and then began the return trip home. U.S. bombers from Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota flew a similar mission in late November.
![Iran says US sanctions hinder access to COVID-19 vaccines](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/yv3Q6oHus2kGUYNLWAnIuTOZ9I8=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/JHV46OGZ2JFMVMG7R32DW66ZOQ.jpg)
Iran says US sanctions hinder access to COVID-19 vaccines
Rouhani said Wednesday that U.S. sanctions are making it difficult for Iran to purchase medicine and health supplies from abroad, including COVID-19 vaccines needed to contain the worst outbreak in the Middle East. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP)TEHRAN โ Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday that U.S. sanctions are making it difficult for Iran to purchase medicine and health supplies from abroad, including COVID-19 vaccines needed to contain the worst outbreak in the Middle East. He said even simple transactions to purchase medicine from other countries had become extremely difficult and that it can take โweeksโ to transfer funds. Rouhani said authorities are nevertheless doing what they can to buy vaccines from abroad, hoping to deliver them to high-risk individuals as soon as possible. Iran has reported more than 50,000 deaths from the coronavirus out of more than a million confirmed cases โ the worst outbreak in the Middle East.
![US troop pullouts in Mideast raise fears of Iranian attacks](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/FA1nVQU9pihT7HQmW7prMXGpTEc=/1600x1200/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/JVDOPT6APVCDLLEJMZO6ROVTM4.jpg)
US troop pullouts in Mideast raise fears of Iranian attacks
But the ship was ordered to return last week to provide additional security while the troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan continue. No timeline was given, but the U.S. military official speaking Monday made it clear that the change is open-ended, and it's not clear when the ship's crew will return home. The potential Iranian threat has become an increasing concern in recent weeks following the killing of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. Iran has blamed the death on Israel, which has been suspected in previous killings of Iranian nuclear scientists. The military official said the U.S. is aware of Iranian attack planning and threats, and that some are more mature, while others are aspirational.
![US general says IS in Iraq and Syria still long-term threat](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/us_kUNutAsEriokRXhKz7fQVsiE=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/II7HLV6BMBGK3N3XXQXDBQG3V4.jpg)
US general says IS in Iraq and Syria still long-term threat
He said a solution must come from a joint effort by diplomatic, security and humanitarian organizations. The U.S. also has about 3,000 troops still in Iraq; on Tuesday the Pentagon announced that Trump had ordered a drawdown to 2,500 in Iraq with no change for Syria. Trump has pushed for the repatriation of foreign fighters in Syria, but their home countries have largely refused to take them back. In the short run, McKenzie said, IS is in no position to pose a major security threat to the United States. The al-Qaida extremist group and like-minded militants also are severely hobbled but not eliminated, he said.
![WHO warns of deadly second wave of virus across Middle East](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/GGrnqUw3KawaEgym7s5-8PZMwR4=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/DP3ILU26L5BDVKVKOTGIHDXTIY.jpg)
WHO warns of deadly second wave of virus across Middle East
Worst off in the region has been Iran, where infections have soared in recent months, filling up hospitals and driving up the death toll. Iran shattered its single-day death toll six times in the last two weeks, bringing the total count of fatalities past 43,400 โ the highest in the Middle East. From Pakistan, Faisal Sultan, special assistant to the prime minister for national health services, told reporters the winter surge had arrived. Tunisia is another country that thought its worst virus days were in the past, only to see cases soar in recent weeks. โWe cannot โ and should not โ wait until a safe and effective vaccine becomes readily available for all," he said.
![Denying Biden's victory, Pompeo heads to Europe, Mideast](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/RqZuOdbrQsqpvu3HE94ZCHP5Bdc=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/WIHCBVUFWRAPFFGA7AW7B2GFI4.jpg)
Denying Biden's victory, Pompeo heads to Europe, Mideast
But those comments and subsequent statements in interviews with conservative media did not acknowledge that it's Biden who will become president then. Pompeo's weeklong tour takes him to France, Turkey, Georgia, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Pompeo has had a notoriously frosty relationship with the press, and it was unclear if he planned to take questions from reporters. Instead, Pompeo will meet with religious leaders to highlight his promotion of religious freedom. Yet, at his news conference Tuesday, Pompeo roundly dismissed a question about whether Trump's unfounded protests have created problems for U.S. credibility.
![State-owned Emirates posts $3.8 billion in half-year losses](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/mmC8sznyRP4p_7diB4uHFAiL1Yk=/1600x1068/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/OSGKMLSRVVB6RBYGU7WL5M225I.jpg)
State-owned Emirates posts $3.8 billion in half-year losses
DUBAI โ Emirates Group, the owner of the Middle Eastโs biggest carrier, reported Thursday it lost $3.8 billion in the first half of the year, its first net loss in over three decades after the pandemic wiped out air travel. Even when restrictions were loosened, passenger traffic was still down 95% from pre-pandemic levels. Last year, Emirates carried around 58 million, helping Dubaiโs airport maintain its claim of the worldโs busiest for international travel. โWe began our current financial year amid a global lockdown when air passenger traffic was at a literal standstill,โ said Chairman Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Emirates Groupโs cash position fell sharply to $5.6 billion from $7 billion six months earlier.
![Over 3 million cases of coronavirus reported in Mideast](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/oVTLQxY1eCCcgU65P96rPSa0DI0=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/RRMUEOT2G5EEDH4JFUTYRD3NOI.jpg)
Over 3 million cases of coronavirus reported in Mideast
DUBAI โ The number of reported coronavirus cases has gone over 3 million in the Middle East, an Associated Press count showed Friday, with the true number likely even higher. Across the Mideast, there have been over 75,000 deaths attributed to the virus by health authorities, the AP count relying on reported figures by individual countries shows. There have been 2.5 million recoveries from the virus causing the COVID-19 illness. In the Mideast, the hardest-hit nation remains Iran, which served as the initial epicenter of the virus in the region. In Iran alone, authorities say there have been over 600,000 confirmed coronavirus cases, with some 477,000 recoveries and 34,000 deaths.
![Israeli leader confirms consent to US arms sales to UAE](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/4o2frTx5dS7DcEXq1pLo-i7COvQ=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/TTZD527JT5FFVDHEQ5LYG76264.jpg)
Israeli leader confirms consent to US arms sales to UAE
Netanyahu has repeatedly insisted the deal establishing ties with the UAE amounted to โpeace for peace" and that arms deals were not part of the agreement. "Only yesterday did we give our approval to this deal,โ Netanyahu said. The UAE deal has been hailed by the U.S. and Israel as a historic breakthrough. It paved the way for Bahrain and on Friday, Sudan, to follow suit in establishing formal diplomatic ties with Israel. Netanyahu's governing partner, Defense Minister Benny Gantz, has said he was kept in the dark about the UAE deal until the last minute.
![IMF: Nearly all Mideast economies hit by pandemic recession](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/ygYtQWZ7p180TIPeN2rpu5yHmWU=/1600x990/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/XUIAWEP5OFHC7PJQPII6RIPH5A.jpg)
IMF: Nearly all Mideast economies hit by pandemic recession
Well before the coronavirus swept across the globe, several Mideast countries had been struggling with issues ranging from lower oil prices and sluggish economic growth to corruption and high unemployment. The IMF projects the Lebanese economy will see one of the region's sharpest economic contractions this year at 25%. The pandemic has only pushed the country further to the brink after a wave of anti-government anger before the virus struck. Meanwhile, wealthy Mideast oil exporters are expected to see their economies contract by 6.6% in 2020, the IMF said. Gulf Arab states, however, are expected to see average economic growth of 2.3% next year.
![Top Israeli, UAE diplomats meet in Berlin for talks](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/f9StxsueJkIbTpiseX3HvaFDCbw=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/ADRPATI4BVBQHCWCHITCJS42HY.jpg)
Top Israeli, UAE diplomats meet in Berlin for talks
The three foreign minister meet for talks in the German capital. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said it was a โgreat honor that the Israeli and Emirati foreign ministers have chosen Berlin as the location for their historic first meeting" since the two countries agreed to normalize relations in a U.S.-brokered deal. โThe most important currency in diplomacy is trust, and I am personally grateful to both of my colleagues for placing this trust in Germany,โ Maas said in a statement. Maas said โcourage and trustโ are what is needed in the Middle East peace process. โI hope that Berlin can offer a good framework to discuss further steps on this path.โ
![General says US cutting troops in Iraq to 3,000 this month](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/i0_spdqj1SHVjwEt06SYteNSA84=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/UP4IC4X3ZVGOXJAS2ELQAE3DII.jpg)
General says US cutting troops in Iraq to 3,000 this month
WASHINGTON The United States is reducing its troop presence in Iraq this month from 5,200 to 3,000, the top American commander for the Middle East said Wednesday, as President Donald Trump tries to make good on his campaign promise to get the United States out of endless wars." During a visit to Iraq, Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie, the commander of U.S. Central Command, said the reduction in Iraq reflects U.S. confidence in the ability of U.S.-trained Iraqi security forces to handle the militant threat from the Islamic State group, which entered Iraq from Syria in 2014. They invaded Iraq in 2003 and left in 2011 but returned in 2014 after the Islamic State group overran large parts of Iraq. McKenzie said the remaining U.S. troops would continue advising and assisting Iraqi security forces as they attempt to root out remnants of the Islamic State group, sometimes called ISIS. In response to the Soleimani killing, Iran on Jan. 8 launched a ballistic missile attack on al-Asad air base in Iraq, which resulted in traumatic brain injuries to more than 100 American troops.
![Norwegian lawmaker nominates Trump for Nobel Peace Prize](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/jE-1wXciqABSwPnF0023Gz3U5WY=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/BFDHNOHYDZBD5BVLJV3YL3AXKQ.jpg)
Norwegian lawmaker nominates Trump for Nobel Peace Prize
COPENHAGEN A far-right Norwegian lawmaker said Wednesday that he has nominated U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in the Middle East. He said he nominated Trump on Wednesday, adding that Donald Trump meets the criteria for the Nobel Peace Prize. Any national lawmaker can nominate someone for the Nobel Peace Prize. Nominations must be sent to the Norwegian Nobel Committee by Feb. 1. The Norwegian Nobel Committee doesnt publicly comment on nominees.
![US officials: Israel, UAE to sign deal at White House](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/xM9dL0gjJimrKy2EDZQV2SBPmHs=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VIJEAHUXJFGE3NUNEEV7HTVGMM.jpg)
US officials: Israel, UAE to sign deal at White House
WASHINGTON Israel and the United Arab Emirates will sign their historic deal normalizing relations at a White House ceremony on Sept. 15, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The officials said senior delegations from both countries will likely be led by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Emirati Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Zayad, the brother of the UAE crown prince. The ceremony will come just a month after the agreement to establish full diplomatic relations was announced on Aug. 13. The The historic deal delivered a key foreign policy victory to President Donald Trump as he seeks reelection, and reflected a changing Middle East in which shared concerns about archenemy Iran have largely overtaken traditional Arab support for the Palestinians. That announcement has been followed by the first direct commercial flight between the countries, the establishment of telephone links and commitments to cooperate in numerous areas.
![Iran surpasses 20,000 confirmed deaths from the coronavirus](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/j9l7PexdyB_9LcR1m_L_tbMU4WM=/1600x1098/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/SFKVJUYZRNELXJBJSSPTEI527U.jpg)
Iran surpasses 20,000 confirmed deaths from the coronavirus
TEHRAN Iran surpassed 20,000 confirmed deaths from the coronavirus on Wednesday, the health ministry said the highest death toll for any Middle East country so far in the pandemic. Iran suffered the region's first major outbreak, seeing top politicians, health officials and religious leaders in its Shiite theocracy stricken with the virus. Iran reported its first coronavirus cases and deaths on the same day in February the Mideast's first outbreak of the virus yet it only saw its highest single-day spike in reported cases in June. On Wednesday, Iran reported over 350,200 confirmed cases, with 20,125 deaths, Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said. It cited near-daily death tolls of 200 from the virus in Iran.
![US commander: Islamic State threat in west Syria growing](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/ut6N_prEUcKVn95o0enWDtUvf8M=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/ULFOJBWI5FGEDBDRHB73EPJEEQ.jpg)
US commander: Islamic State threat in west Syria growing
WASHINGTON Elements of the Islamic State group are working to rebuild in western Syria, where the U.S. has little visibility or presence, the top U.S. commander for the Middle East warned on Wednesday. In the region west of the Euphrates River where the Syrian regime is in control conditions are as bad or worse than they were leading up to the rise of the Islamic State, said Gen. Frank McKenzie. And that, he said, fuels concerns about the radicalization of people particularly the youth in the camps, which officials worry are breeding grounds for IS insurgents. Many fled as the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces cleared out the last pockets of land held by IS last year. We can either deal with this problem now or deal with it exponentially worse a few years down the road.
![PHOTOS: Beirut explosion leaves behind unspeakable damage](https://www.news4jax.com/resizer/AdgaCDuQH6jrb3ThZv0BMdbtNlI=/1280x720/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/EV4T2VSQHZD6LEDVC4BZTTEWOI.jpg)
PHOTOS: Beirut explosion leaves behind unspeakable damage
Photo by Daniel Carde (Getty Images)Scenes in Beirut, Lebanon following an explosion near the city's port area on Tuesday. Photo by Daniel Carde (Getty Images)Scenes in Beirut, Lebanon following an explosion near the city's port area on Tuesday. Photo by Daniel Carde (Getty Images)Scenes in Beirut, Lebanon following an explosion near the city's port area on Tuesday. Photo by Daniel Carde (Getty Images)Scenes in Beirut, Lebanon following an explosion near the city's port area on Tuesday. Photo by Marwan Tahtah (Getty Images)Scenes in Beirut, Lebanon following an explosion near the city's port area on Tuesday.