Pakistan
Middle East economy to shrink 2.1% in 2026, Gulf economies by 4.3%, World Bank forecasts
Despite grim forecasts, the World Bank projects regional economies could rebound by 7.8% in 2027 if the conflict ends this year, though the Hormuz blockade and inflation remain major threats.
Houthis ramp up missile attacks on Riyadh as Saudi-backed war in Yemen widens
Trump says he deserves Nobel Peace Prize but has doubts he will get it
Mecca defense pact puts Turkey’s commitment to Saudi under domestic scrutiny - analysis
Pakistan says army chief held talks with Iran focused on preventing further escalation in MidEast
Pakistan's army chief Asim Munir discussed regional peace and ways to reach a negotiated settlement to disputes, the statement added.
Pakistani military chief Munir spoke to Trump before visit for negotiations to Tehran
The call, which has not been previously reported, came as the US threatened to roll out major economic sanctions targeting Iran and its trade partners.
Omani foreign minister to visit Tehran, continue negotiations on Strait of Hormuz
On Sunday, Baghaei said the army chief of Pakistan, which has mediated between the United States and Iran, will visit Tehran on Monday.
Pakistan’s rise as a regional mediator could reshape Middle East diplomacy - analysis
Pakistan is expanding its Middle East influence, deepening ties with Syria, preparing talks with Iran, and positioning itself as a potential mediator between Tehran and Washington.
Voices from the Arab Press: The Mecca agreement changes the equation
A weekly selection of opinions and analyses from the Arab media around the world.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan invited Iran to join newly-established Mecca defense pact - report
The invitation has not yet been officially confirmed by Iran's Foreign Ministry or by any of the three countries that are parties to the agreement.
Pakistan army chief to visit Tehran in continuation of mediation role between US, Iran
Baghaei said the visit was in continuation of Pakistan's efforts to strengthen peace and security in the region.
Implications for Israel, India: Is the Mecca pact a dangerous piece of theatre? - opinion
Israel and India's strongest response to a new security bloc may not be another bloc. It is the ability to stand independently and to have capable partners standing with you.
Syrian FM says Damascus mulling Mecca Joint Defense pact, but rejects strengthening Iran ties
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani visited Islamabad for the first visit by a Syrian foreign minister to Pakistan since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024.
International contention continues as eight more countries condemn Israel's E1 settlement plan
A spokesperson for the US State Department spoke to N12 News later on Friday, saying that the US government "does not support annexation."
