Podcast: Beyond the Headlines

Protestors in Malaga, southern Spain, take part in a demonstration against the US operation in Venezuela. AFP

Why the US action in Venezuela is unnerving the Middle East

History of American militarism and threats of escalation keeping the region on edge

The US military launched large-scale strikes against ISIS targets in Syria in retaliation for an attack on its personnel. Reuters.

How serious is the ISIS threat in Syria?

The year in impact: our episodes that resonated the most in 2025

How Yemen’s power balance is shifting again

Egypt

From left, Mohamed Salah, Riyad Mahrez and Sadio Mane. EPA; AFP

Afcon last dance looms for superstar trio Mahrez, Mane and Salah

Experienced forwards head into quarter-final clashes knowing their time leading charge for Algeria, Senegal and Egypt will soon be over

Football

Pressure on Afcon hosts Morocco, Mahrez still key, Salah plays down chances

Football

Egypt to export gas and petroleum products to Syria

Energy

Salah says Egypt 'not favourites' to win Afcon after hard-fought win over Benin

Football

Lebanon

The writer, seen here when she was nine months old, lost Khalo Hassan, her uncle and best friend, in December 2025. Fatima Mahmoud / The National

ColumnTwelve hours too late – an expat’s guilt about missing a final goodbye

A reflection on bereavement across borders, the weight of absence and the shock of arriving after everything has changed

Wellbeing

Postcard from BeirutThe Beach Club sanctuary from Lebanon’s troubles for 73 years

MENA

With Maduro gone, will Venezuela’s Lebanese diaspora also see back of Hezbollah?

News

Lebanese singer turned militant Fadel Chaker appears in court on murder plot charges

MENA

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