6 Palestinian prisoners escaped from a high-security Israeli jail leading to the launch of a massive manhunt by authorities. On The West Asia Post this week, Ghadi Francis decodes this Hollywood-style prison break.

The West Asia Post: A tunnel, a napping guard and a massive manhunt

Millions in Iraq and Syria are facing water shortage as the region's longest river the Euphrates dries up. The Euphrates was a lifeline for many countries. The shortage has led to a shortfall of hydropower.

Drought hits West Asia's longest Euphrates river

Expressing concern over the recent escalation at the Gaza strip,&nbsp;India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday called on all the parties to exercise restraint and maintain ceasefire along the region.

Addressing the United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) monthly meeting on the Middle East Peace Process, he said, "We call on all parties to the conflict to respect the ceasefire and refrain from acts that could exacerbate tensions and worsen the security situation&nbsp;and recognise the efforts made by the UN and regional countries to prevent the renewed hostilities from escalating into another military conflict."

In May this year, a full-blown crisis erupted&nbsp;between Israel and Palestine, which lasted for 11 days. The situation escalated following violence in Jerusalem and the possible eviction of Palestinians from Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 250 Palestinians died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing.

On the current situation in the Palestinian territories, Shringla called for "regular and predictable transfer of aid and other essential items to Gaza to ease the humanitarian situation"&nbsp;and "facilitate early reconstruction, as well as for appropriate use of such aid".&nbsp;

He pointed out that it is "important that the international community support&nbsp;the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip through the Palestinian Authority."&nbsp;

He also took note of the "incremental relaxation of restrictions on the entry of commodities into the Gaza Strip"&nbsp;and urged&nbsp;the parties to work together and ensure timely access to such relief for the Palestinians.

Recently, Israel, Qatar and the United Nations had reached an agreement to transfer cash payments to the "needy Palestinian families" in the Gaza Strip. Under the proposed agreement, around 1,00,000 families would get a monthly cash assistance of $100.

During the address, India asked both parties to "refrain from unilateral measures that undermine the viability of the two-state solution".&nbsp;

In his speech, Shringla noted that the decision by Israel to increase the number of work permits issued to Palestinians will help strengthen both the Palestinian and Israeli economies.

“Further, the recognition of COVID-vaccination certificates issued by the Palestinian Authority and the facilitation of passage of patients from the Gaza Strip to the West Bank are also positive signals,” he said.

During the address, the foreign secretary also reiterated calls for "resumption of direct peace negotiations" and a "long-standing and firm commitment to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine, within secure, recognized, and mutually agreed borders, living side by side with Israel in peace and security".

Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla chaired the meeting as the president of the council. India is the president of the UNSC for the month of August and&nbsp;as the president, it decides the issues that need&nbsp;to be taken up by the council. He will be the president of the top UN body in December 2022.

Expressing concern over the recent escalation at the Gaza strip, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday called on all the parties to exercise restraint and maintain ceasefire along the region.

Expressing concern over the recent escalation at the Gaza strip, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday called on all the parties to exercise restraint and maintain ceasefire along the region. Addressing the United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) monthly meeting on the Middle East Peace Process, he said, "We call on all parties to the conflict to respect the ceasefire and refrain from acts that could exacerbate tensions and worsen the security situation and recognise the efforts made by the UN and regional countries to prevent the renewed hostilities from escalating into another military conflict." In May this year, a full-blown crisis erupted between Israel and Palestine, which lasted for 11 days. The situation escalated following violence in Jerusalem and the possible eviction of Palestinians from Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 250 Palestinians died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing. On the current situation in the Palestinian territories, Shringla called for "regular and predictable transfer of aid and other essential items to Gaza to ease the humanitarian situation" and "facilitate early reconstruction, as well as for appropriate use of such aid". He pointed out that it is "important that the international community support the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip through the Palestinian Authority." He also took note of the "incremental relaxation of restrictions on the entry of commodities into the Gaza Strip" and urged the parties to work together and ensure timely access to such relief for the Palestinians. Recently, Israel, Qatar and the United Nations had reached an agreement to transfer cash payments to the "needy Palestinian families" in the Gaza Strip. Under the proposed agreement, around 1,00,000 families would get a monthly cash assistance of $100. During the address, India asked both parties to "refrain from unilateral measures that undermine the viability of the two-state solution". In his speech, Shringla noted that the decision by Israel to increase the number of work permits issued to Palestinians will help strengthen both the Palestinian and Israeli economies. “Further, the recognition of COVID-vaccination certificates issued by the Palestinian Authority and the facilitation of passage of patients from the Gaza Strip to the West Bank are also positive signals,” he said. During the address, the foreign secretary also reiterated calls for "resumption of direct peace negotiations" and a "long-standing and firm commitment to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine, within secure, recognized, and mutually agreed borders, living side by side with Israel in peace and security". Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla chaired the meeting as the president of the council. India is the president of the UNSC for the month of August and as the president, it decides the issues that need to be taken up by the council. He will be the president of the top UN body in December 2022.

At UNSC, India's foreign secretary calls on Israel and Palestine to exercise restraint

Iran's COVID-19 death toll has crossed 100,000 as the Delta variant spreads through West Asia's worst-affected nations. The country is struggling to contain the fifth wave of infections.

Iran battles fifth wave of COVID-19 infections, death toll crosses 100,000 mark

We have seen a visit this week to Israel by Egypt and an invitation to reciprocate. So, what exactly is brewing in West Asia? WION's Correspondent Jodie Cohen brings you a report.

Israeli PM planning first visit to meet Egypt's Sisi

Muslims across West Asia marked Ashura as large crowds of Shi'ite pilgrims gathered in the holy city of Karbala. On The West Asia Post this week, Ghadi Francis takes a look at how the region took part in Ashura commemoration in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The West Asia Post: How the region took part in Ashura commemoration in COVID pandemic ?

West Asia is closely monitoring the developments in Afghanistan, questioning the reliability of the US as a partner. On this week's The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you what a Taliban takeover means for the region.

The West Asia Post: What does a Taliban takeover mean for West Asia?

World Health Organisation said on Thursday that Delta variant was behind the "surge" in coronavirus outbreak in West Asia. This has triggered a "fourth wave", it said. Vaccination rates remain low in the region.

WHO said that the highly transmissible Delta variant has been recorded in 15 out of 22 countries and territories of the region from Morocco to Pakistan.

"The circulation of the Delta variant is fuelling the surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths in an increasing number of countries in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region," it said in a statement.

"Most of the new cases and hospitalised patients are unvaccinated people. &nbsp;We are now in the fourth wave of Covid-19 across the region," said Ahmed al-Mandhari, director of WHO's Eastern Mediterranean region.

As of the last week of July, "only 41 million people, or 5.5 percent, of the region's population, had been fully vaccinated," the WHO said.

There is an increase in infections by 55 per cent. Deaths have risen by 15 per cent. More than 310,000 case and 3,500 deaths have been recorded weekly.

Countries such as Tunisia, which has suffered the biggest number of Covid-19 deaths in North Africa, have been struggling to contain the outbreak.

Critical shortages of oxygen tanks and intensive care beds have stretched the capacities of healthcare systems regionally.

WHO noted the rapid spread of the Delta variant was quickly making it "the dominant strain" in the region.

According to a recent paper in the journal Virological, the amount of virus found in the first tests of patients with the Delta variant was 1,000 times higher than patients in the first wave of the virus in 2020, greatly increasing its contagiousness.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation said on Thursday that Delta variant was behind the "surge" in coronavirus outbreak in West Asia. This has triggered a "fourth wave", it said.

World Health Organisation said on Thursday that Delta variant was behind the "surge" in coronavirus outbreak in West Asia. This has triggered a "fourth wave", it said. Vaccination rates remain low in the region. WHO said that the highly transmissible Delta variant has been recorded in 15 out of 22 countries and territories of the region from Morocco to Pakistan. "The circulation of the Delta variant is fuelling the surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths in an increasing number of countries in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region," it said in a statement. "Most of the new cases and hospitalised patients are unvaccinated people. We are now in the fourth wave of Covid-19 across the region," said Ahmed al-Mandhari, director of WHO's Eastern Mediterranean region. As of the last week of July, "only 41 million people, or 5.5 percent, of the region's population, had been fully vaccinated," the WHO said. There is an increase in infections by 55 per cent. Deaths have risen by 15 per cent. More than 310,000 case and 3,500 deaths have been recorded weekly. Countries such as Tunisia, which has suffered the biggest number of Covid-19 deaths in North Africa, have been struggling to contain the outbreak. Critical shortages of oxygen tanks and intensive care beds have stretched the capacities of healthcare systems regionally. WHO noted the rapid spread of the Delta variant was quickly making it "the dominant strain" in the region. According to a recent paper in the journal Virological, the amount of virus found in the first tests of patients with the Delta variant was 1,000 times higher than patients in the first wave of the virus in 2020, greatly increasing its contagiousness. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia virus surge due to Delta variant: WHO

A rare public spat between Saudi Arabia and UAE has threatened the future of OPEC. As the two traditional allies chart a post-oil future, Ghadi Francis takes a look at what this will mean for the future of the cartel.

The West Asia Post: Saudi-UAE spat goes public

Egypt, Jordan and Iraq held a tripartite summit on Sunday. The meeting came as Iraq seeks to move closes to Arab allies of the US in West Asia. Iraq is also trying to act as a mediator between Arab nations and Iran.

Egypt, Jordan and Iraq hold key tripartite summit In Baghdad

Tensions are escalating between the United States and Iran yet again. US hacked Iranian news websites as nuclear talks are set to resume between the two countries. On The West Asia Post tonight, Ghadi Francis talks about what a new presidency could mean for US-Iran relations. Also on the show, a look at what it is like being queer in West Asia. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post: What will Ebrahim Raisi mean for US?

In May 2021, during holy month of Ramzan, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and resulted in huge loss of life, property, infrastructure in Gaza and Israel. Authorities in Gaza estimate that worth tens of millions of dollars worth of damage occurred. The United Nations estimates that more than 72,000 Palestinians were displaced by the fighting. Hamas and Israel agreed on a ceasefire on May 21.

Most of the analysts throughout the world have examined this episode in terms of condemning both Hamas and Israel. The latter in particular, was criticised for what was perceived as disproportionate military action. This disproportionate action by the Israeli state is not new. What is important here is to underline and understand the political message by the Israeli state which it intends to convey through disproportionate action. In the present context it may have been linked to the domestic politics of Israel wherein such retribution against Palestinians was intended to increase the longevity of the political life of the Netanyahu government.

However, far more important factor behind this military adventurism was Israel testing the strength of Abraham Accords signed with UAE and Bahrain.

It also intended to check its growing relationship with Saudi Arabia. Israeli government has initiated informal discussions with Saudi Arabia which are aimed at normalisation of the political relationship between the two countries.

It may be recalled here that earlier, the infamous Sabra and Shatila massacre, Lebanese massacre (1982) tested the peace and friendship treaty between Israel and Egypt (1979)

This time it appeared that the state of Israel became internationally isolated and drew flak from most world leaders and it appeared that there was genuine global sympathy for suffering Palestinians.

This explains why United Nations Human Rights Commission has decided to establish a permanent committee, Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegation of human rights abuses and war crimes in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.

However, larger question is still about whether there ever be a 'two-state solution' in the region leading to creation of viable state of Palestine and whether the cycle of violence will end.

It is strange and highly disappointing that global policymakers are looking at the Palestinian issue only from the humanitarian perspective, offering economic and other kinds of support as confirmed by visit of EU envoy Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff, on 1st June, 2021 &nbsp;to Gaza City for the first time since the ceasefire agreement with Israel. While visiting Gaza, he made a commitment for the reconstruction of parts of Gaza and said, “The reconstruction of Gaza needs several steps, including a unified Palestinian government and the lifting of the 15-year-old Israeli blockade.”

Earlier US President Joe Biden, the liberal icon of the world, made a similar commitment towards rehabilitation and reconstruction of devastated Gaza. He said that he would work through the UN and other international stakeholders “to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and to marshal international support for the people in Gaza and in the Gaza reconstruction efforts"

Such measures are welcome and badly needed but the question remains whether they are sufficient to create permanent peace among Palestine and Israel because while these helping hands are important, they have only reconfirmed the 2nd November, 1917 Balfour Declaration.

It may be recalled here that the Balfour Declaration has made a commitment for the creation of homeland for Jewish people in Palestine while maintaining the social and religious rights of Palestinians.

Since then the Palestinian problem has been projected as a humanitarian crisis which has also been incorporated in the UN Resolution of 242 and 338. Such an approach of international community has traditionally benefitted the Israeli state as it does not uphold the political rights of Palestinians to have their own nation and state.

The time has come for world leaders to provide a political solution by supporting the idea of two nation-states. It is true that Israel is too strong as a state and capable of defending itself, while Arab world is too weak at the moment and Palestinians are increasingly reduced to a defenceless community.

Therefore, neither Palestinians nor the Arab world is in a position to bargain with Israel, thus it is important for India, the emerging global power to become the beacon of hope and courage and trailblaze this noble cause along with other international bodies like United Nations which can help in the creation of Palestinian state.

As humanity is entering a new phase of globalization in the 21st century it is important that this only BLACK DOT from the earth should be removed.

This requires that the major nations of the world Like USA, Russia, Germany, China, Japan, European Union should rise above their narrow national interest and support this just cause for the purpose of ensuring peace, stability in the region and ensuring a good and healthy life for the future generations.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

In May 2021, during holy month of Ramzan, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and resulted in huge loss of life, property, infrastructure in Gaza and Israel.

In May 2021, during holy month of Ramzan, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and resulted in huge loss of life, property, infrastructure in Gaza and Israel. Authorities in Gaza estimate that worth tens of millions of dollars worth of damage occurred. The United Nations estimates that more than 72,000 Palestinians were displaced by the fighting. Hamas and Israel agreed on a ceasefire on May 21. Most of the analysts throughout the world have examined this episode in terms of condemning both Hamas and Israel. The latter in particular, was criticised for what was perceived as disproportionate military action. This disproportionate action by the Israeli state is not new. What is important here is to underline and understand the political message by the Israeli state which it intends to convey through disproportionate action. In the present context it may have been linked to the domestic politics of Israel wherein such retribution against Palestinians was intended to increase the longevity of the political life of the Netanyahu government. However, far more important factor behind this military adventurism was Israel testing the strength of Abraham Accords signed with UAE and Bahrain. It also intended to check its growing relationship with Saudi Arabia. Israeli government has initiated informal discussions with Saudi Arabia which are aimed at normalisation of the political relationship between the two countries. It may be recalled here that earlier, the infamous Sabra and Shatila massacre, Lebanese massacre (1982) tested the peace and friendship treaty between Israel and Egypt (1979) This time it appeared that the state of Israel became internationally isolated and drew flak from most world leaders and it appeared that there was genuine global sympathy for suffering Palestinians. This explains why United Nations Human Rights Commission has decided to establish a permanent committee, Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegation of human rights abuses and war crimes in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. However, larger question is still about whether there ever be a 'two-state solution' in the region leading to creation of viable state of Palestine and whether the cycle of violence will end. It is strange and highly disappointing that global policymakers are looking at the Palestinian issue only from the humanitarian perspective, offering economic and other kinds of support as confirmed by visit of EU envoy Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff, on 1st June, 2021 to Gaza City for the first time since the ceasefire agreement with Israel. While visiting Gaza, he made a commitment for the reconstruction of parts of Gaza and said, “The reconstruction of Gaza needs several steps, including a unified Palestinian government and the lifting of the 15-year-old Israeli blockade.” Earlier US President Joe Biden, the liberal icon of the world, made a similar commitment towards rehabilitation and reconstruction of devastated Gaza. He said that he would work through the UN and other international stakeholders “to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and to marshal international support for the people in Gaza and in the Gaza reconstruction efforts" Such measures are welcome and badly needed but the question remains whether they are sufficient to create permanent peace among Palestine and Israel because while these helping hands are important, they have only reconfirmed the 2nd November, 1917 Balfour Declaration. It may be recalled here that the Balfour Declaration has made a commitment for the creation of homeland for Jewish people in Palestine while maintaining the social and religious rights of Palestinians. Since then the Palestinian problem has been projected as a humanitarian crisis which has also been incorporated in the UN Resolution of 242 and 338. Such an approach of international community has traditionally benefitted the Israeli state as it does not uphold the political rights of Palestinians to have their own nation and state. The time has come for world leaders to provide a political solution by supporting the idea of two nation-states. It is true that Israel is too strong as a state and capable of defending itself, while Arab world is too weak at the moment and Palestinians are increasingly reduced to a defenceless community. Therefore, neither Palestinians nor the Arab world is in a position to bargain with Israel, thus it is important for India, the emerging global power to become the beacon of hope and courage and trailblaze this noble cause along with other international bodies like United Nations which can help in the creation of Palestinian state. As humanity is entering a new phase of globalization in the 21st century it is important that this only BLACK DOT from the earth should be removed. This requires that the major nations of the world Like USA, Russia, Germany, China, Japan, European Union should rise above their narrow national interest and support this just cause for the purpose of ensuring peace, stability in the region and ensuring a good and healthy life for the future generations. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: For just cause of Palestine

The first meetings of peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority back in 2007 were very emotional.

Each of us — I, as Israel’s chief negotiator, and Ahmed Qurei, known as Abu Ala, the former Palestinian prime minister — tried to convince the other who has more rights to the land, the Jewish people or the Palestinians.

Unsurprisingly, we left these sessions frustrated and unconvinced. After two such meetings, we agreed that these discussions would lead us nowhere and that any peace agreement would not determine which narrative prevailed, and instead we should focus only on how to establish a peaceful future.

The argument over historical narratives hasn’t changed. It won’t. Those on both sides that insist on forcing their narrative on the other side, or turning the conflict into a religious war, cannot make the compromises needed for peace. This is true also for those from the international community supporting one side and denying the rights of the other. This is destructive and only strengthens extremists.

Peace based on the vision of two states for two peoples gives an answer to the national aspirations of both the Jewish people and the Palestinians and requires compromises by both.

The solution of a Jewish State and an Arab State has actually existed for some 75 years. It was laid out by the United Nations in 1947 as a just solution to the conflict between Jews (including my own parents) and Arabs who already lived between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea.

National conflicts cannot be resolved by wars and violence, but only by a political resolution, leadership and compromise. A religious conflict is not a conflict over rights, but a fight against the right of the other to live by their faith. For religious ideologists there is no compromise.

The past two weeks were a wake-up call. The message is not only that conflict is unsustainable, but also that the very nature of the conflict is turning into a religious one. That religious element has seeped into Israel itself and turned into violence between the Israeli citizens — Arabs and Jews — within Israeli cities.

We cannot and should not cede the floor to religious extremists.

The cease-fire in Gaza provides a window of time we must use to change the long-term reality. An essential decision is to return to the vision of two states for two people, to strengthen the pragmatic forces and weaken the extremists and end the terror.

Hamas is a radical Islamic terror organization that is fighting not to establish a Palestinian state but against the existence of Jewish “infidels” living in Israel.

In 2006 the so-called Quartet — the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and Russia — set forward parameters for Hamas that included acceptance of previous peace agreements between Israel and the Palestinians, commitment to nonviolence and recognition of Israel. Hamas refused.

These parameters were published after Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip, uprooted the settlements and pulled out its military forces, and Hamas won the Palestinian elections. Had Hamas adopted these principles, the lives of the residents of the Gaza Strip might today look different, and Gaza could flourish. But for Hamas, “ending the conflict” is something to which it will never agree.

Without accepting these conditions, there’s no hope for peace with Hamas, therefore we cannot, and should not, give it legitimacy.

When one looks at any conflict from afar, it is only natural to identify with the weaker side. But there is no doubt, as President Biden rightfully expressed, that a country has the right to defend itself. In this case, we must defend ourselves against terror by a group that does not accept our very existence. Criticizing any government policy is legitimate (I myself was a political opponent of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu), but denying the right of a country to defend its citizens is not.

We must cooperate and support everything that strengthens pragmatism and weakens extremists. This seems so obvious as to appear basic. And yet the U.S.-Israeli policy in the past few years was completely the opposite. The Trump administration supported efforts of the Israeli government to move toward annexation of land. Had all those efforts come to pass, we would have reached the point of no return. The land would no longer be divisible, and the political future of two states would have been closed to us forever. Further, this policy weakened and delegitimized the Palestinian Authority and included cutting off financial support.

Indeed, the check on rampant expansion came from what would once have been a fantastical source: The Gulf States’ condition for normalization with Israel, through the Abraham Accords, was that Israel take annexation off the table. With President Biden’s inauguration in January, the vision of a two-state solution supported by the United States has made a comeback. The statements of President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken send a message of hope to the pragmatic forces in the region.

The problem is that reaching two states has also never seemed farther away. That’s not for lack of effort, though all attempts to reach the finish line have always fallen short, including most recently in 2014, when the United States proposed parameters for negotiation in accordance with two states for two peoples.

This last missed opportunity and other political trends in Israel and the Palestinian Authority may lead to an understanding that it is a dream that is impossible to fulfill, and frankly if I had another idea how to end the conflict, I would have adopted it. The violence of the past two weeks with Hamas and within Israel gave all of us a taste of what one state between the river and the sea, with a violent domestic religious and national conflict, would look like. The two-state solution thus seems as important as ever.

Even if peace is not around the corner, the point of no return is closer than ever before. We must not go there. The most important thing for now is to keep the road open. We must create a joint policy among the United States, regional countries and of course, Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

After recharging our joint GPS with the two states as a destination, we need to support that goal with concrete steps, avoiding — and preventing — everything that puts obstacles on this road.

We can start by recognizing that supporting only one narrative and denying the other will lead us nowhere and will strengthen extremism on both sides. The solution must reflect both sides’ legitimate rights, aspirations and interests, with compromises that allow us both to fulfill our legitimate national aspirations and live side-by-side in peace and security.

An agreement will be possible when pragmatic leadership on both sides understand that the price of not having an agreement for their people is far higher than the price of compromise.

The first meetings of peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority back in 2007 were very emotional. Each of us — I, as Israel’s chief negotiator, and Ahmed Qurei, known as Abu Ala, the former Palestinian prime minister — tried to convince the other who has more rights to the land, the Jewish people or the Palestinians.

The first meetings of peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority back in 2007 were very emotional. Each of us — I, as Israel’s chief negotiator, and Ahmed Qurei, known as Abu Ala, the former Palestinian prime minister — tried to convince the other who has more rights to the land, the Jewish people or the Palestinians. Unsurprisingly, we left these sessions frustrated and unconvinced. After two such meetings, we agreed that these discussions would lead us nowhere and that any peace agreement would not determine which narrative prevailed, and instead we should focus only on how to establish a peaceful future. The argument over historical narratives hasn’t changed. It won’t. Those on both sides that insist on forcing their narrative on the other side, or turning the conflict into a religious war, cannot make the compromises needed for peace. This is true also for those from the international community supporting one side and denying the rights of the other. This is destructive and only strengthens extremists. Peace based on the vision of two states for two peoples gives an answer to the national aspirations of both the Jewish people and the Palestinians and requires compromises by both. The solution of a Jewish State and an Arab State has actually existed for some 75 years. It was laid out by the United Nations in 1947 as a just solution to the conflict between Jews (including my own parents) and Arabs who already lived between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. National conflicts cannot be resolved by wars and violence, but only by a political resolution, leadership and compromise. A religious conflict is not a conflict over rights, but a fight against the right of the other to live by their faith. For religious ideologists there is no compromise. The past two weeks were a wake-up call. The message is not only that conflict is unsustainable, but also that the very nature of the conflict is turning into a religious one. That religious element has seeped into Israel itself and turned into violence between the Israeli citizens — Arabs and Jews — within Israeli cities. We cannot and should not cede the floor to religious extremists. The cease-fire in Gaza provides a window of time we must use to change the long-term reality. An essential decision is to return to the vision of two states for two people, to strengthen the pragmatic forces and weaken the extremists and end the terror. Hamas is a radical Islamic terror organization that is fighting not to establish a Palestinian state but against the existence of Jewish “infidels” living in Israel. In 2006 the so-called Quartet — the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and Russia — set forward parameters for Hamas that included acceptance of previous peace agreements between Israel and the Palestinians, commitment to nonviolence and recognition of Israel. Hamas refused. These parameters were published after Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip, uprooted the settlements and pulled out its military forces, and Hamas won the Palestinian elections. Had Hamas adopted these principles, the lives of the residents of the Gaza Strip might today look different, and Gaza could flourish. But for Hamas, “ending the conflict” is something to which it will never agree. Without accepting these conditions, there’s no hope for peace with Hamas, therefore we cannot, and should not, give it legitimacy. When one looks at any conflict from afar, it is only natural to identify with the weaker side. But there is no doubt, as President Biden rightfully expressed, that a country has the right to defend itself. In this case, we must defend ourselves against terror by a group that does not accept our very existence. Criticizing any government policy is legitimate (I myself was a political opponent of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu), but denying the right of a country to defend its citizens is not. We must cooperate and support everything that strengthens pragmatism and weakens extremists. This seems so obvious as to appear basic. And yet the U.S.-Israeli policy in the past few years was completely the opposite. The Trump administration supported efforts of the Israeli government to move toward annexation of land. Had all those efforts come to pass, we would have reached the point of no return. The land would no longer be divisible, and the political future of two states would have been closed to us forever. Further, this policy weakened and delegitimized the Palestinian Authority and included cutting off financial support. Indeed, the check on rampant expansion came from what would once have been a fantastical source: The Gulf States’ condition for normalization with Israel, through the Abraham Accords, was that Israel take annexation off the table. With President Biden’s inauguration in January, the vision of a two-state solution supported by the United States has made a comeback. The statements of President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken send a message of hope to the pragmatic forces in the region. The problem is that reaching two states has also never seemed farther away. That’s not for lack of effort, though all attempts to reach the finish line have always fallen short, including most recently in 2014, when the United States proposed parameters for negotiation in accordance with two states for two peoples. This last missed opportunity and other political trends in Israel and the Palestinian Authority may lead to an understanding that it is a dream that is impossible to fulfill, and frankly if I had another idea how to end the conflict, I would have adopted it. The violence of the past two weeks with Hamas and within Israel gave all of us a taste of what one state between the river and the sea, with a violent domestic religious and national conflict, would look like. The two-state solution thus seems as important as ever. Even if peace is not around the corner, the point of no return is closer than ever before. We must not go there. The most important thing for now is to keep the road open. We must create a joint policy among the United States, regional countries and of course, Israel and the Palestinian Authority. After recharging our joint GPS with the two states as a destination, we need to support that goal with concrete steps, avoiding — and preventing — everything that puts obstacles on this road. We can start by recognizing that supporting only one narrative and denying the other will lead us nowhere and will strengthen extremism on both sides. The solution must reflect both sides’ legitimate rights, aspirations and interests, with compromises that allow us both to fulfill our legitimate national aspirations and live side-by-side in peace and security. An agreement will be possible when pragmatic leadership on both sides understand that the price of not having an agreement for their people is far higher than the price of compromise.

There is a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia. His comment came just days ahead of his visit to the region. Two-state solution refers to the establishment of separate states for Israelis and Arabs in Palestine.

"If there isn't positive change, and particularly if we can't find a way to help Palestinians live with more -- with more dignity and with more hope, this cycle is likely to repeat itself, and that is in no one's interest," Blinken said on ABC News' "This Week."

“Ultimately I think that that hope, that security, that dignity will be found in a Palestinian state,” said Blinken in the course of the interview.Blinken's statement represents a marked shift in USA's stance as compared to that when Donald Trump was the president. Trump administration had cut aid to the Palestinian Authority and issued a Middle East peace plan with strong Israeli backing but no support from Palestinians.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-official-demands-access-to-education-jobs-for-gaza-children-386941">UN official demands access to education, jobs for Gaza children</a>

However, the two-state solution is a long-time US goal.

The top US diplomat emphasized the need to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians while beginning a major effort at reconstruction.

The State Department announced Thursday that Blinken will travel to the Middle East "in the coming days", with plans to meet with Israeli, Palestinian and regional counterparts.

Israel and Hamas have agreed upon a ceasefire just days ago. The ceasefire ended 11 days of mutual bombardment that took lives on both sides.

'Something more positive'

Saying the ceasefire would help mark a pivot from violence to "something more positive," he added, "That has to start now with dealing with the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza.

"Then reconstruction, rebuilding what's been lost, and critically, engaging both sides in trying to start to make real improvements" in people's lives.

He was asked on ABC how the Biden administration could ensure that aid would go to ordinary Palestinians and not help the Hamas militants who launched thousands of rockets at Israel.

"We've worked in the past and we continue to work with trusted, independent parties that can help do the reconstruction and the development, not some quasi- government authority," he said.&nbsp;

"The real challenge here is to help the Palestinians and particularly to help the Palestinian Authority deliver better results for their people, and of course, Israel has a profound role to play in that too."&nbsp;

Israel's response to the Hamas rocket barrages has drawn sharp criticism from some liberal members of the US Congress who have questioned American arms sales to the Jewish state.&nbsp;

Asked about that, Blinken replied, "The president has been clear we're committed to giving Israel the means to defend itself... At the same time, any arms sale will be done in full consultation in Congress."

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia. His comment came just days ahead of his visit to the region. Two-state solution refers to the establishment of separate states for Israelis and Arabs in Palestine. "If there isn't positive change, and particularly if we can't find a way to help Palestinians live with more -- with more dignity and with more hope, this cycle is likely to repeat itself, and that is in no one's interest," Blinken said on ABC News' "This Week." “Ultimately I think that that hope, that security, that dignity will be found in a Palestinian state,” said Blinken in the course of the interview.Blinken's statement represents a marked shift in USA's stance as compared to that when Donald Trump was the president. Trump administration had cut aid to the Palestinian Authority and issued a Middle East peace plan with strong Israeli backing but no support from Palestinians. Also Read | UN official demands access to education, jobs for Gaza children However, the two-state solution is a long-time US goal. The top US diplomat emphasized the need to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians while beginning a major effort at reconstruction. The State Department announced Thursday that Blinken will travel to the Middle East "in the coming days", with plans to meet with Israeli, Palestinian and regional counterparts. Israel and Hamas have agreed upon a ceasefire just days ago. The ceasefire ended 11 days of mutual bombardment that took lives on both sides. 'Something more positive' Saying the ceasefire would help mark a pivot from violence to "something more positive," he added, "That has to start now with dealing with the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza. "Then reconstruction, rebuilding what's been lost, and critically, engaging both sides in trying to start to make real improvements" in people's lives. He was asked on ABC how the Biden administration could ensure that aid would go to ordinary Palestinians and not help the Hamas militants who launched thousands of rockets at Israel. "We've worked in the past and we continue to work with trusted, independent parties that can help do the reconstruction and the development, not some quasi- government authority," he said. "The real challenge here is to help the Palestinians and particularly to help the Palestinian Authority deliver better results for their people, and of course, Israel has a profound role to play in that too." Israel's response to the Hamas rocket barrages has drawn sharp criticism from some liberal members of the US Congress who have questioned American arms sales to the Jewish state. Asked about that, Blinken replied, "The president has been clear we're committed to giving Israel the means to defend itself... At the same time, any arms sale will be done in full consultation in Congress." (With inputs from agencies)

Antony Blinken reaffirms support for 'two-state solution' ahead of West Asia visit

Israel, the UAE, Greece and&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;said they would seek to deepen their cooperation in fields ranging from energy to fighting COVID, saying budding ties could change the face of a region more synonymous with conflict.

"The evolving web of regional cooperation is creating a new narrative, one that is cracking the glass ceiling of the prevailing (one) of our neighbourhood as a region of turmoil, conflict and crisis," said Cypriot Foreign Minister and host Nikos Christodoulides.

The UAE and fellow Gulf state Bahrain in September became the first Arab states in a quarter of a century to sign agreements to establish formal ties with Israel, forged largely through shared fears of Iran.

The so-called Abraham Accords are US-brokered agreements which have ushered in public rapprochements between Israel and several Arab states.

Friday's encounter on the east Mediterranean island was attended by Anwar Gargash, a former UAE foreign minister who worked on the historic normalisation of relations with Israel last year. He was there in his capacity as diplomatic advisor to UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed.

"The Abrahamic accords were mainly driven by the necessity of an alternative strategic view of the region based on stability, prosperity and opportunity," Gargash said.

Discussions in&nbsp;Cyprus, he said, focussed on ways to enhance joint action in facing the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, medical research and the distribution of vaccines, as well as energy security in the region.

"This meeting is one of the results of the changes that have taken place in the Middle East over the past year, thanks to a brave and bold decision by leaders," said Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi.

He said the accords had created a 'real opportunity' to change the face of the Middle East.

"And if you don't believe that, ask yourselves if you could have seen this picture only just a year ago," he said, standing at a podium next to Gargash, against the backdrop of the calm seas of the east Mediterranean.

Israel, the UAE, Greece and Cyprus said they would seek to deepen their cooperation in fields ranging from energy to fighting COVID, saying budding ties could change the face of a region more synonymous with conflict.

Israel, the UAE, Greece and Cyprus said they would seek to deepen their cooperation in fields ranging from energy to fighting COVID, saying budding ties could change the face of a region more synonymous with conflict. "The evolving web of regional cooperation is creating a new narrative, one that is cracking the glass ceiling of the prevailing (one) of our neighbourhood as a region of turmoil, conflict and crisis," said Cypriot Foreign Minister and host Nikos Christodoulides. The UAE and fellow Gulf state Bahrain in September became the first Arab states in a quarter of a century to sign agreements to establish formal ties with Israel, forged largely through shared fears of Iran. The so-called Abraham Accords are US-brokered agreements which have ushered in public rapprochements between Israel and several Arab states. Friday's encounter on the east Mediterranean island was attended by Anwar Gargash, a former UAE foreign minister who worked on the historic normalisation of relations with Israel last year. He was there in his capacity as diplomatic advisor to UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed. "The Abrahamic accords were mainly driven by the necessity of an alternative strategic view of the region based on stability, prosperity and opportunity," Gargash said. Discussions in Cyprus, he said, focussed on ways to enhance joint action in facing the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, medical research and the distribution of vaccines, as well as energy security in the region. "This meeting is one of the results of the changes that have taken place in the Middle East over the past year, thanks to a brave and bold decision by leaders," said Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi. He said the accords had created a 'real opportunity' to change the face of the Middle East. "And if you don't believe that, ask yourselves if you could have seen this picture only just a year ago," he said, standing at a podium next to Gargash, against the backdrop of the calm seas of the east Mediterranean.

Let's shake narrative of bickering West Asia, say former foes in Cyprus

China has increasingly widened its footprint in West Asia. Beijing is not trying to gain control through its army but by creating a culture of economic inter-dependence.

Gravitas: China's widening footprint in West Asia

Speaking at WION’s fourth edition of the Global Summit in Dubai, Israeli politician&nbsp;Fleur&nbsp;Hassan-Nahoum shed light on what Abraham Accords meant for Israelis on the ground.

“For Israel and Israelis, this [peace deal] has changed everything”, the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem said.

She further shed light on the impediments that have remained in terms of acceptance for Israel in the region.&nbsp; “For years, all we wanted was to be accepted as a partner in the region”, she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-wion-global-summit-leaders-discuss-how-israel-palestine-conflict-will-affect-west-asia-peace-372843" hreflang="en">At WION Global Summit, leaders discuss how Israel-Palestine conflict will affect West Asia peace</a>

“Although&nbsp;we have made deals with Jordan and Egypt that brought regional stabilisation, it never really trickled down to people in terms of tourism, in terms of peer-to-peer inter-businesses”, Fluer Hassan-Nahoum added.

Explaining why this peace deal is different for Israelis, she added, “This, for Israelis is a different peace because it was signed by leaders so diligently, engineered by Trump administration - but ultimately it’s the peace that has been achieved from people to people”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/economic-centre-of-gravity-has-moved-to-east-asia-former-vp-of-world-bank-tells-wion-global-summit-372849" hreflang="en">Economic centre of gravity has moved to East Asia, former VP of World Bank tells WION Global Summit</a>

She also talked about the strides made in the aftermath of the peace deal. “The platform that we created - the UAE-Israel Business Council, became useful because we provided infrastructure for regular people to be able to talk to each other, to do business with each other, and [to] reach out to each other”, she said.

According to Hassan-Nahoum, people across the region have accepted the newly found sense of peace.&nbsp; “People have embraced this peace - the Emiratis, the Israelis, the Moroccans, the Bahrainis, with open arms”, she added.

The deputy mayor of Jerusalem also added how many were sceptical of how this would pan out, and how the new peace was not expected, ''but that’s what happened on the ground”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-global-summit-pundits-explore-role-challenges-of-digitalisation-372856" hreflang="en">WION Global Summit: Pundits explore role, challenges of digitalisation</a>

The Abraham Accords, signed in Washington DC in August 2020, facilitated by the US administration,&nbsp; normalised relationships between Israel, the UAE, and Bahrain.&nbsp;This agreement marked the first sign of normalisation of ties between Israel and an Arab country since Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.

Speaking at WION’s fourth edition of the Global Summit in Dubai, Israeli politician Fleur Hassan-Nahoum shed light on what Abraham Accords meant for Israelis on the ground.

Speaking at WION’s fourth edition of the Global Summit in Dubai, Israeli politician Fleur Hassan-Nahoum shed light on what Abraham Accords meant for Israelis on the ground. “For Israel and Israelis, this [peace deal] has changed everything”, the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem said. She further shed light on the impediments that have remained in terms of acceptance for Israel in the region. “For years, all we wanted was to be accepted as a partner in the region”, she said. Also read: At WION Global Summit, leaders discuss how Israel-Palestine conflict will affect West Asia peace “Although we have made deals with Jordan and Egypt that brought regional stabilisation, it never really trickled down to people in terms of tourism, in terms of peer-to-peer inter-businesses”, Fluer Hassan-Nahoum added. Explaining why this peace deal is different for Israelis, she added, “This, for Israelis is a different peace because it was signed by leaders so diligently, engineered by Trump administration - but ultimately it’s the peace that has been achieved from people to people”. Also read: Economic centre of gravity has moved to East Asia, former VP of World Bank tells WION Global Summit She also talked about the strides made in the aftermath of the peace deal. “The platform that we created - the UAE-Israel Business Council, became useful because we provided infrastructure for regular people to be able to talk to each other, to do business with each other, and [to] reach out to each other”, she said. According to Hassan-Nahoum, people across the region have accepted the newly found sense of peace. “People have embraced this peace - the Emiratis, the Israelis, the Moroccans, the Bahrainis, with open arms”, she added. The deputy mayor of Jerusalem also added how many were sceptical of how this would pan out, and how the new peace was not expected, ''but that’s what happened on the ground”. Also read: WION Global Summit: Pundits explore role, challenges of digitalisation The Abraham Accords, signed in Washington DC in August 2020, facilitated by the US administration, normalised relationships between Israel, the UAE, and Bahrain. This agreement marked the first sign of normalisation of ties between Israel and an Arab country since Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.

All we wanted was acceptance: Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Fleur Hassan-Nahoum at WION Global Summit

In power politics, enemies of today can be friends of tomorrow. More so&nbsp;on the shifting sands of West Asia, where marriages of convenience rule.

Here, historic shifts rarely take place without Israel’s involvement. So while its pledges to not go ahead with the annexation of one-third of the West Bank and the Jordan Valley was seen as cold comfort for the Palestinians, Ramallah was left weakened by the Gulf's growing support to peace efforts with Israel.

So where does it leave Palestine? Palestinian reaction, initially, had been to decry the UAE’s normalisation of ties with Israel. The Palestinian ambassador to the UAE was even recalled.

Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, deputy mayor of Jerusalem and a major policy maker of Israel, says this does not stand to halt the peace process in West Asia.

"Israel has, on more than one occasion, offered a solution and peace deal, and it has been the Palestinian rejectionism that has got us to the point," she said on Wednesday at the WION Global Summit in Dubai.

"We are not going to allow Palestinian rejectionism affect the process of peace in West Asia. People are going to gain most from tourism in Jerusalem," she told the session titled&nbsp;Peace Deals and the Shifting Sands of West Asia.

"It’s a gain-gain for all the populations in the region. What is the point in rejectionism while the entire Middle East is supporting the Abraham Accords? That's the bottom-line, peace is always good. The accords now have its own momentum," she said.

Ibrahim Shukralla, an Emirati news editor, said he hoped Israel would not resume the annexation plan as it would affect the peace plans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-wion-global-summit-leaders-look-forward-to-joe-bidens-peace-initiatives-in-west-asia-372783">Also read |&nbsp;At WION Global Summit, leaders look forward to Joe Biden's peace initiatives in West Asia</a>

Mustapha Noman, former deputy foreign minister of Yemen, on his part, said, "I have been calling for recognition of Israelis and Arabs from 2000. This does not mean that recognition is the end of the story. It should be the start of the story. It is mainly between the Israelis and Palestinians since day one. The Arabs later became sentimental about their brothers. The normalisation of the four countries with Israel should be a boost for normalisation. I agree that the Palestinian leadership is not positive and that they are consuming it for their own personal interest. The new generation might have a different view and perspective. I agree with that. Israel is more powerful in that region and they have more responsibility. This is where Israel can take really strong steps."

But Jason D Greenblatt, an aide of former US president Donald Trump,&nbsp;&nbsp;who brokered the Israel-UAE deal, wants other issues to be looked at too.

"Yes, the Palestinian issue must be resolved. But that is a separate issue. We want to fix Yemen, Palestine and Syria. We should not club the issues together. The UAE offered help&nbsp;at the start of the pandemic for Palestinians, but they rejected it. We have to demand responsibility from Palestinian&nbsp;leadership as well. The issues of Palestine, Yemen and Syria shouldn't be mixed. They must be though fixed and resolved," he said.

"We did prove that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israeli-Arab conflict, though intricately tied together, can indeed be separately solved - and that's essential for this region."

Noman added that the people of Palestine wanted peace. "We have to recognise that unless the grievances of the people of Palestine are solved justly, any agreement that happens in future will not be reflected on the ground."

The Palestinians currently remain subject to Israeli military occupation in the Gaza Strip, despite a little progress made towards a two-state solution with the 1993–95 Oslo Accords.

In power politics, enemies of today can be friends of tomorrow. More so on the shifting sands of West Asia, where marriages of convenience rule. Here, historic shifts rarely take place without Israel’s involvement.

In power politics, enemies of today can be friends of tomorrow. More so on the shifting sands of West Asia, where marriages of convenience rule. Here, historic shifts rarely take place without Israel’s involvement. So while its pledges to not go ahead with the annexation of one-third of the West Bank and the Jordan Valley was seen as cold comfort for the Palestinians, Ramallah was left weakened by the Gulf's growing support to peace efforts with Israel. So where does it leave Palestine? Palestinian reaction, initially, had been to decry the UAE’s normalisation of ties with Israel. The Palestinian ambassador to the UAE was even recalled. Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, deputy mayor of Jerusalem and a major policy maker of Israel, says this does not stand to halt the peace process in West Asia. "Israel has, on more than one occasion, offered a solution and peace deal, and it has been the Palestinian rejectionism that has got us to the point," she said on Wednesday at the WION Global Summit in Dubai. "We are not going to allow Palestinian rejectionism affect the process of peace in West Asia. People are going to gain most from tourism in Jerusalem," she told the session titled Peace Deals and the Shifting Sands of West Asia. "It’s a gain-gain for all the populations in the region. What is the point in rejectionism while the entire Middle East is supporting the Abraham Accords? That's the bottom-line, peace is always good. The accords now have its own momentum," she said. Ibrahim Shukralla, an Emirati news editor, said he hoped Israel would not resume the annexation plan as it would affect the peace plans. Also read | At WION Global Summit, leaders look forward to Joe Biden's peace initiatives in West Asia Mustapha Noman, former deputy foreign minister of Yemen, on his part, said, "I have been calling for recognition of Israelis and Arabs from 2000. This does not mean that recognition is the end of the story. It should be the start of the story. It is mainly between the Israelis and Palestinians since day one. The Arabs later became sentimental about their brothers. The normalisation of the four countries with Israel should be a boost for normalisation. I agree that the Palestinian leadership is not positive and that they are consuming it for their own personal interest. The new generation might have a different view and perspective. I agree with that. Israel is more powerful in that region and they have more responsibility. This is where Israel can take really strong steps." But Jason D Greenblatt, an aide of former US president Donald Trump, who brokered the Israel-UAE deal, wants other issues to be looked at too. "Yes, the Palestinian issue must be resolved. But that is a separate issue. We want to fix Yemen, Palestine and Syria. We should not club the issues together. The UAE offered help at the start of the pandemic for Palestinians, but they rejected it. We have to demand responsibility from Palestinian leadership as well. The issues of Palestine, Yemen and Syria shouldn't be mixed. They must be though fixed and resolved," he said. "We did prove that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israeli-Arab conflict, though intricately tied together, can indeed be separately solved - and that's essential for this region." Noman added that the people of Palestine wanted peace. "We have to recognise that unless the grievances of the people of Palestine are solved justly, any agreement that happens in future will not be reflected on the ground." The Palestinians currently remain subject to Israeli military occupation in the Gaza Strip, despite a little progress made towards a two-state solution with the 1993–95 Oslo Accords.

At WION Global Summit, leaders discuss how Israel-Palestine conflict will affect West Asia peace

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan's State Minister of Defence Nakayama Yasuhide, former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and&nbsp;former US National Security Advisor John Bolton&nbsp;are among leaders who will address WION's Global summit 2021, to be held on March 24 in Dubai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/globalsummit/dubai-2021">WION Global Summit: Fourth Edition, Dubai 2021 — click here for details</a>

The event will be aired live on the WION channel, as well as on its YouTube, Facebook and Twitter accounts, from 12.00 PM IST on Wednesday.

'Power Play in a Post-Pandemic World' is the theme of the fourth edition of the summit, which will have thought-provoking discussions in four sessions.&nbsp;

Jaishankar will be the chief guest at the event to be held at The Oberoi, Dubai, where world leaders, thinkers and influencers will engage in dialogue on the common challenges currently affecting the world.&nbsp; 
 
Pavan Kapoor, Indian Ambassador to UAE, will deliver the welcome note on behalf of the host nation, United Arab Emirates.

Panelists will focus their attention on issues at the intersections of global politics, economy, diplomacy and our daily lives in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first session will focus on peace deals in West Asia. The discussion will touch upon several topics in the wake of the change of guard in the US and several nations formalising or normalising their diplomatic ties with Israel. Is the Abraham Accords a political win for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a foreign affairs victory for Donald Trump? What is the future of the annexation of West Bank? Does it amount to a betrayal for Palestine? In the context of a new administration at the White House led by Joe Biden, what's the future of West Asia? Will the US be returning to the talking table with Iran, considered the 'common enemy'? These are among the questions that will be discussed at this session.&nbsp;

The opening keynote address will be delivered by John Bolton. The dialogue partners for the session are Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem; Mustapha Noman, Former Deputy Foreign Minister, Yemen; Ibrahim Shukralla, Emirati Editor from Abu Dhabi and Jason D Greenblatt, Former White House Middle East envoy.

The second session, titled The Post-Pandemic World Order, will explore how COVID-19 &nbsp;exposed the failure of multilateral institutions as well as the lack of global leadership. A key question that will be asked is, who will be the post-pandemic global leader, or will it have several global leaders?

There will be discussions on how the pandemic diminished the credibility of the US, the worst-hit by the pandemic, and exposed its lack of interest in global leadership. The session will also examine how the pandemic was a double whammy for West Asia, as it led to the oil market slump.

There will be discussions on the fight against political Islam in Europe. Other questions on the table would be: Has the pandemic opened opportunities for new alliances? Will the world reset its ties with China post the pandemic? Will there be a shift in economic power? Will there be a push towards multilateralism or ultra-nationalism? Besides these burning questions, the parleys will also focus on India's role in the post-pandemic world.&nbsp;

Nakayama Yasuhide, &nbsp;State Minister of Defence, Japan, will deliver the keynote address for the second session. Also addressing it are Youssef Chahed, Former Prime Minister of Tunisia; Michael Tsai, Former Defence Minister, Taiwan; Ranil Wickremesinghe, Former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka; Ahmed Naseem, Minister of Health, Maldives; Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee GBS JP, Chinese politician, member of ExCo &amp; LegCo and founder of New People's Party.

The third session, on World Economy: The Price of the Pandemic, will focus on how the coronavirus brought about an economic downturn not seen since World War II. It will examine economic trends of 2021, by the end of which global GDP is expected to be 7.5% lower than it would have been without the pandemic.&nbsp;

At issue are joblessness and business shutdowns, with 15% of young, previously employed, people out of jobs. The panelists will address areas such as US unemployment, which is highest since the Great Depression, as well as the future of pandemic-hit sectors such as oil, tourism and aviation. It will discuss why China is not being held accountable, even as several countries are pushed into a recession by the pandemic.&nbsp;

Those addressing these issues would be Jacek Rostowski, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Poland; Ian Goldin, former Vice President of the World Bank; Alexander Downer, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Australia; and Alexander Dynkin, President, Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy.

The fourth and last session will explore the digital revolution that saw the world go online during the pandemic. While digital was always the future, the pandemic has accelerated the shift, with e-working and e-learning becoming common. At issue are questions like whether companies will move to permanent work from home, and whether it will take a toll on work-life balance. Are concerns about data security being addressed during this digital revolution? Is the world prepared for the move online?&nbsp;

Joining this session are Audrey Tang, Digital Minister, Taiwan; Maria Galindo, Advisor in International Digital Policy in Government of Catalonia; Kaimar Karu, Former Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology, Republic of Estonia; Jehudi Castro, Digital Advisor to the Colombian President and Former Vice-Minister of Digital Economy; Simon Lacey, Former VP, Huawei Technologies; and Gilles Babinet, Digital Champion at the European Commission for France.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan's State Minister of Defence Nakayama Yasuhide, former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and former US National Security Advisor John Bolton are among leaders who will address WION's Global summit 2021, to be held on March 24 in Dubai.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan's State Minister of Defence Nakayama Yasuhide, former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and former US National Security Advisor John Bolton are among leaders who will address WION's Global summit 2021, to be held on March 24 in Dubai. WION Global Summit: Fourth Edition, Dubai 2021 — click here for details The event will be aired live on the WION channel, as well as on its YouTube, Facebook and Twitter accounts, from 12.00 PM IST on Wednesday. 'Power Play in a Post-Pandemic World' is the theme of the fourth edition of the summit, which will have thought-provoking discussions in four sessions. Jaishankar will be the chief guest at the event to be held at The Oberoi, Dubai, where world leaders, thinkers and influencers will engage in dialogue on the common challenges currently affecting the world. Pavan Kapoor, Indian Ambassador to UAE, will deliver the welcome note on behalf of the host nation, United Arab Emirates. Panelists will focus their attention on issues at the intersections of global politics, economy, diplomacy and our daily lives in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first session will focus on peace deals in West Asia. The discussion will touch upon several topics in the wake of the change of guard in the US and several nations formalising or normalising their diplomatic ties with Israel. Is the Abraham Accords a political win for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a foreign affairs victory for Donald Trump? What is the future of the annexation of West Bank? Does it amount to a betrayal for Palestine? In the context of a new administration at the White House led by Joe Biden, what's the future of West Asia? Will the US be returning to the talking table with Iran, considered the 'common enemy'? These are among the questions that will be discussed at this session. The opening keynote address will be delivered by John Bolton. The dialogue partners for the session are Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem; Mustapha Noman, Former Deputy Foreign Minister, Yemen; Ibrahim Shukralla, Emirati Editor from Abu Dhabi and Jason D Greenblatt, Former White House Middle East envoy. The second session, titled The Post-Pandemic World Order, will explore how COVID-19 exposed the failure of multilateral institutions as well as the lack of global leadership. A key question that will be asked is, who will be the post-pandemic global leader, or will it have several global leaders? There will be discussions on how the pandemic diminished the credibility of the US, the worst-hit by the pandemic, and exposed its lack of interest in global leadership. The session will also examine how the pandemic was a double whammy for West Asia, as it led to the oil market slump. There will be discussions on the fight against political Islam in Europe. Other questions on the table would be: Has the pandemic opened opportunities for new alliances? Will the world reset its ties with China post the pandemic? Will there be a shift in economic power? Will there be a push towards multilateralism or ultra-nationalism? Besides these burning questions, the parleys will also focus on India's role in the post-pandemic world. Nakayama Yasuhide, State Minister of Defence, Japan, will deliver the keynote address for the second session. Also addressing it are Youssef Chahed, Former Prime Minister of Tunisia; Michael Tsai, Former Defence Minister, Taiwan; Ranil Wickremesinghe, Former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka; Ahmed Naseem, Minister of Health, Maldives; Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee GBS JP, Chinese politician, member of ExCo & LegCo and founder of New People's Party. The third session, on World Economy: The Price of the Pandemic, will focus on how the coronavirus brought about an economic downturn not seen since World War II. It will examine economic trends of 2021, by the end of which global GDP is expected to be 7.5% lower than it would have been without the pandemic. At issue are joblessness and business shutdowns, with 15% of young, previously employed, people out of jobs. The panelists will address areas such as US unemployment, which is highest since the Great Depression, as well as the future of pandemic-hit sectors such as oil, tourism and aviation. It will discuss why China is not being held accountable, even as several countries are pushed into a recession by the pandemic. Those addressing these issues would be Jacek Rostowski, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Poland; Ian Goldin, former Vice President of the World Bank; Alexander Downer, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Australia; and Alexander Dynkin, President, Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy. The fourth and last session will explore the digital revolution that saw the world go online during the pandemic. While digital was always the future, the pandemic has accelerated the shift, with e-working and e-learning becoming common. At issue are questions like whether companies will move to permanent work from home, and whether it will take a toll on work-life balance. Are concerns about data security being addressed during this digital revolution? Is the world prepared for the move online? Joining this session are Audrey Tang, Digital Minister, Taiwan; Maria Galindo, Advisor in International Digital Policy in Government of Catalonia; Kaimar Karu, Former Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology, Republic of Estonia; Jehudi Castro, Digital Advisor to the Colombian President and Former Vice-Minister of Digital Economy; Simon Lacey, Former VP, Huawei Technologies; and Gilles Babinet, Digital Champion at the European Commission for France.

At WION Global Summit, leaders to deliberate on post-pandemic world order

Pope Francis came with a message of peace and love and left with Iraq in his heart. On The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis takes a look at this historic papal visit to the war-torn nation. Also on the show, retaliatory Saudi-Houthi airstrikes raise fears in Yemen and a look at how Saudi women are shattering glass ceilings.

The West Asia Post Ep-24 | Historic Papal visit to the war-torn nation

They say that a United States president comes of age in West Asia, and Joe Biden is already facing his first test in the region from Iran to Saudi Arabia.

The challenges are plenty for the 46th&nbsp;president -- an US intelligence report blames Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi, while the United States is seeking to recalibrate its ties with the Kingdom.

The big question for Biden, however, is -- can he let this explosive report slide?

President Biden had two choices in front of him -- act decisively or&nbsp;incur the wrath of the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia is the centre of power in West Asia, an alliance that is crucial for the United States in the region, but there is no precedent for such action against the de facto ruler of a US ally.

So, Biden took the diplomatic route -- sanction others and not mention the Crown Prince at all.

"I spoke yesterday with the King, not the Prince. I made it clear to him that the rules are changing, and we're going to be announcing significant changes today. On Monday, we are going to hold them accountable for human rights abuses. And we're going to make sure in fact, and if they want to deal with us, they have to deal with it in a way where human rights abuses are dealt. We're trying to do that across the world, but particularly here," he said.

While US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced visa restrictions -- ones that will affect 76 Saudis involved in harassing activists and journalists, he did not announce measures that touch the Prince.

Blinken said, "But we also want to make sure, and this is what the president has said from the onset, that the relationship better reflects our interests and our values. So what we've done by the actions that we've taken is really not to rupture the relationship but to recalibrate it to be more in line with our interests and our values."

Many believe that sanctioning Mohammed bin Salman was never really an option. The maverick Crown Prince wields most of the power in the kingdom, and targetting him would gravely affect US interests in the region -- especially with countering Iran in West Asia.

At least 36 days after taking charge, Biden has already bombed West Asia -- an airstrike targeting Iran-backed militias in Syria while the US maintains this was in retaliation of the February 15 airtsrike.

Pentagon has no answers about the casualties sustained.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, in exchange with journalists, said, "We're confident in the target that we went after. We know what we hit. And we're confident that that target was being used by the same shi'ite militia that conducted the strikes."

Biden's attack on Iran was an attempt to strike back -- to say that United States was not gonna sit back.

Till now, US has responded with decisive calm while dealing with Iran. It wants to rejoin the nuclear deal but also wants Iran to comply with commitments.

While it will be a risky gambit for Washington, the US maintains that its patience is not unlimited.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said, "Our patience is not unlimited, but we do believe, and the president has been clear on this ever since he was running for high office. He felt that the most effective way to ensure iran could never acquire a nuclear weapon was through diplomacy. that is what we are engaged in now."

As for Israel, the country hasn't been shy about its admiration for Biden's predecessor. The US-brokered Abraham Accords was seen as a major shift in West Asian policy, bolstering Israel's position in the region.

While Biden is unlikely to reverse any of Trump’s major Israel policy moves, he has voiced support for restoring support for Palestine.

This means a shift to traditional US foreign policy while dealing with the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

While it is still unclear what Biden plans on doing in the region, it looks like the 46th president has hit a bump in West Asia.

How he deals with it could be what defines his presidency in the region.

They say that a United States president comes of age in West Asia, and Joe Biden is already facing his first test in the region from Iran to Saudi Arabia. The challenges are plenty for the 46th president -- an US intelligence report blames Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi, while the United States is seeking to recalibrate its ties with the Kingdom.

They say that a United States president comes of age in West Asia, and Joe Biden is already facing his first test in the region from Iran to Saudi Arabia. The challenges are plenty for the 46th president -- an US intelligence report blames Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi, while the United States is seeking to recalibrate its ties with the Kingdom. The big question for Biden, however, is -- can he let this explosive report slide? President Biden had two choices in front of him -- act decisively or incur the wrath of the kingdom. Saudi Arabia is the centre of power in West Asia, an alliance that is crucial for the United States in the region, but there is no precedent for such action against the de facto ruler of a US ally. So, Biden took the diplomatic route -- sanction others and not mention the Crown Prince at all. "I spoke yesterday with the King, not the Prince. I made it clear to him that the rules are changing, and we're going to be announcing significant changes today. On Monday, we are going to hold them accountable for human rights abuses. And we're going to make sure in fact, and if they want to deal with us, they have to deal with it in a way where human rights abuses are dealt. We're trying to do that across the world, but particularly here," he said. While US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced visa restrictions -- ones that will affect 76 Saudis involved in harassing activists and journalists, he did not announce measures that touch the Prince. Blinken said, "But we also want to make sure, and this is what the president has said from the onset, that the relationship better reflects our interests and our values. So what we've done by the actions that we've taken is really not to rupture the relationship but to recalibrate it to be more in line with our interests and our values." Many believe that sanctioning Mohammed bin Salman was never really an option. The maverick Crown Prince wields most of the power in the kingdom, and targetting him would gravely affect US interests in the region -- especially with countering Iran in West Asia. At least 36 days after taking charge, Biden has already bombed West Asia -- an airstrike targeting Iran-backed militias in Syria while the US maintains this was in retaliation of the February 15 airtsrike. Pentagon has no answers about the casualties sustained. US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, in exchange with journalists, said, "We're confident in the target that we went after. We know what we hit. And we're confident that that target was being used by the same shi'ite militia that conducted the strikes." Biden's attack on Iran was an attempt to strike back -- to say that United States was not gonna sit back. Till now, US has responded with decisive calm while dealing with Iran. It wants to rejoin the nuclear deal but also wants Iran to comply with commitments. While it will be a risky gambit for Washington, the US maintains that its patience is not unlimited. State Department spokesman Ned Price said, "Our patience is not unlimited, but we do believe, and the president has been clear on this ever since he was running for high office. He felt that the most effective way to ensure iran could never acquire a nuclear weapon was through diplomacy. that is what we are engaged in now." As for Israel, the country hasn't been shy about its admiration for Biden's predecessor. The US-brokered Abraham Accords was seen as a major shift in West Asian policy, bolstering Israel's position in the region. While Biden is unlikely to reverse any of Trump’s major Israel policy moves, he has voiced support for restoring support for Palestine. This means a shift to traditional US foreign policy while dealing with the Israel-Palestinian conflict. While it is still unclear what Biden plans on doing in the region, it looks like the 46th president has hit a bump in West Asia. How he deals with it could be what defines his presidency in the region.

US President Joe Biden's challenges in West Asia

Is Saudi Arabia witnessing a "theological" shift? Social changes are slowly sweeping through the kingdom. After opening cinemas, allowing Christmas celebrations, letting women drive, and permitting them to attend concerts - the kingdom will now let women serve in the armed forces.

Saudi women can now join the Royal Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Armed Forces Medical Services.

It's a major step in the right direction for a country long curtailed by uncompromising religious police for decades. According to the Saudi Ministry of Defence, men and women can now apply for equal positions in the military through a unified admission portal.

Under this, women will be recruited as soldiers, lance corporals and sergeants. The candidates must be between the age of 21 and 40 and must be 155 centimetres tall. In addition, they must have a high school education and cannot be married to a non-Saudi man.

This move is part of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's Vision 2030 initiative where women are being allowed to advance in various fields. In the future, the Saudi establishment plans to relax the laws even further by letting women do most jobs that are reserved for men like waiting tables in restaurants and being cashiers at shopping malls.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-reaffirms-defence-partnership-with-saudi-arabia-in-face-of-houthi-attacks-364791" hreflang="en">US reaffirms 'defence partnership' with Saudi Arabia in face of Houthi attacks</a>

But whether Saudi conservatives agree to such reforms is tough to determine. While Saudi Arabia embraces progressive reforms, Iran seems to be heading in a different direction. Ayatollah Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran has issued a fatwa stating that women in cartoons must be depicted wearing a hijab.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions-blogs/opinion-what-does-it-take-to-recontextualise-islam-in-saudi-schoolbooks-364712" hreflang="en">Opinion: What does it take to recontextualise Islam in Saudi schoolbooks?</a>

"Although wearing hijab in such a hypothetical situation is not required per sat, observing hijab in animation is required due to the consequences of not wearing the hijab", he recently said.

Since Iran's Islamic Revolution 40 years ago, women have been forced to don the hijab. Even though there are no laws compelling them to do so, government officials have set certain dressing standards for women like forcing them to cover their hair for the sake of modesty. Those who don't are often reprimanded, fined, even arrested.

Is Saudi Arabia witnessing a "theological" shift? Social changes are slowly sweeping through the kingdom. After opening cinemas, allowing Christmas celebrations, letting women drive, and permitting them to attend concerts - the kingdom will now let women serve in the armed forces.

Is Saudi Arabia witnessing a "theological" shift? Social changes are slowly sweeping through the kingdom. After opening cinemas, allowing Christmas celebrations, letting women drive, and permitting them to attend concerts - the kingdom will now let women serve in the armed forces. Saudi women can now join the Royal Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Armed Forces Medical Services. It's a major step in the right direction for a country long curtailed by uncompromising religious police for decades. According to the Saudi Ministry of Defence, men and women can now apply for equal positions in the military through a unified admission portal. Under this, women will be recruited as soldiers, lance corporals and sergeants. The candidates must be between the age of 21 and 40 and must be 155 centimetres tall. In addition, they must have a high school education and cannot be married to a non-Saudi man. This move is part of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's Vision 2030 initiative where women are being allowed to advance in various fields. In the future, the Saudi establishment plans to relax the laws even further by letting women do most jobs that are reserved for men like waiting tables in restaurants and being cashiers at shopping malls. Also read: US reaffirms 'defence partnership' with Saudi Arabia in face of Houthi attacks But whether Saudi conservatives agree to such reforms is tough to determine. While Saudi Arabia embraces progressive reforms, Iran seems to be heading in a different direction. Ayatollah Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran has issued a fatwa stating that women in cartoons must be depicted wearing a hijab. Also read: Opinion: What does it take to recontextualise Islam in Saudi schoolbooks? "Although wearing hijab in such a hypothetical situation is not required per sat, observing hijab in animation is required due to the consequences of not wearing the hijab", he recently said. Since Iran's Islamic Revolution 40 years ago, women have been forced to don the hijab. Even though there are no laws compelling them to do so, government officials have set certain dressing standards for women like forcing them to cover their hair for the sake of modesty. Those who don't are often reprimanded, fined, even arrested.

Saudi Arabian women can now join the armed forces

West Asia has been blanketed by snow. Libya, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Palestine & Saudi Arabia are all reporting snowfall. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why this is proof of climate change.

Gravitas: Why its snowing in West Asia

Joe Biden is facing his first real test in West Asia after a rocket attack hit the US airbase in Iraq. The deadly attack is now a wake-up call for the United States, raising questions about how Biden will respond to the attack. Also on the show, a look at the controversial Gaza court ruling on women's travel and the threat to Red Sea coral reefs from an Israel-UAE oil deal. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post Ep-21 | Biden's first real test in West Asia

With&nbsp;the state of heightened tensions&nbsp;continuing&nbsp;in&nbsp;several countries in West Asia, there has been an unprecedented hike in fuel prices, much&nbsp;to the dismay of the&nbsp;general public.&nbsp;

Be it the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen attacking opponents Saudi Arabia&nbsp;or&nbsp;the US hunting for Iranian oil tankers&nbsp;at sea,&nbsp;West Asia is on&nbsp;the&nbsp;edge.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Yemen, the Houthis have launched a fresh offensive against the government forces' last stronghold, Marib. The attacks are spilling over to Saudi Arabia, a key backer of the Yemeni government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last Week, the Houthi rebels launched a drone strike in the heart of Saudi Arabia's Abha airport. In the four hits, a civilian aircraft burst into flames.&nbsp;&nbsp;

And on Sunday in another attempt, an explosive-laden drone was fired towards the kingdom. This time, it was intercepted and destroyed. Such brazen attacks will surely elicit a response, which only time will tell.&nbsp;

In the Persian Gulf, the standoff between the US and Iran has been growing.&nbsp;The US is in search of Iranian oil tankers&nbsp;headed for countries like Venezuela. The US&nbsp;believes&nbsp;Iran is circumventing sanctions&nbsp;and exporting oil.&nbsp;

West Asia&nbsp;has been&nbsp;tense&nbsp;for some time&nbsp;now.&nbsp;After Qassem Soleimani's Assassination, the US and Iran were also almost at war.&nbsp;This has impacted the fuel prices too.&nbsp;

The OPEC members and Russia are also holding back on production. It is a time-tested policy to drive up prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prices of&nbsp;crude oil, which is&nbsp;a sensitive commodity&nbsp;from the most politically volatile region on earth,&nbsp;West Asia,&nbsp;are&nbsp;sky-rocketing&nbsp;and&nbsp;have&nbsp;reached on a 13-month high on Monday.&nbsp;It has also spooked the investors.&nbsp;

The Brent crude was up almost two per cent. At one point, it was trading at 63.76 dollars per barrel.&nbsp;Last time, the fuel&nbsp;prices&nbsp;had witnessed this kind of a hike in January 2020.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;conflict happening thousands of miles away&nbsp;has put an adverse impact on the&nbsp;personal expenses&nbsp;of several people. To know more, visit your local gas station.&nbsp;

In&nbsp;the US,&nbsp;the Covid Stimulus Bill is&nbsp;on&nbsp;track&nbsp;for approval. It&nbsp;will help small businesses.&nbsp;The&nbsp;oil markets&nbsp;would&nbsp;love a good recovery.&nbsp;Especially&nbsp;when,&nbsp;it involves world's biggest consumer.&nbsp;

In India's Bhopal,&nbsp;premium petrol&nbsp;has&nbsp;crossed the 100-rupee mark.&nbsp;Petrol and diesel are selling at record rates.&nbsp;In New Delhi,&nbsp;Petrol is now worth&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;89&nbsp;per&nbsp;litre,&nbsp;diesel&nbsp;is at&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;79.35.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The government isn't planning to cut taxes, which means the only relief will come when global oil prices correct.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the state of heightened tensions continuing in several countries in West Asia, there has been an unprecedented hike in fuel prices, much to the dismay of the general public.

With the state of heightened tensions continuing in several countries in West Asia, there has been an unprecedented hike in fuel prices, much to the dismay of the general public. Be it the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen attacking opponents Saudi Arabia or the US hunting for Iranian oil tankers at sea, West Asia is on the edge. In Yemen, the Houthis have launched a fresh offensive against the government forces' last stronghold, Marib. The attacks are spilling over to Saudi Arabia, a key backer of the Yemeni government. Last Week, the Houthi rebels launched a drone strike in the heart of Saudi Arabia's Abha airport. In the four hits, a civilian aircraft burst into flames. And on Sunday in another attempt, an explosive-laden drone was fired towards the kingdom. This time, it was intercepted and destroyed. Such brazen attacks will surely elicit a response, which only time will tell. In the Persian Gulf, the standoff between the US and Iran has been growing. The US is in search of Iranian oil tankers headed for countries like Venezuela. The US believes Iran is circumventing sanctions and exporting oil. West Asia has been tense for some time now. After Qassem Soleimani's Assassination, the US and Iran were also almost at war. This has impacted the fuel prices too. The OPEC members and Russia are also holding back on production. It is a time-tested policy to drive up prices. Prices of crude oil, which is a sensitive commodity from the most politically volatile region on earth, West Asia, are sky-rocketing and have reached on a 13-month high on Monday. It has also spooked the investors. The Brent crude was up almost two per cent. At one point, it was trading at 63.76 dollars per barrel. Last time, the fuel prices had witnessed this kind of a hike in January 2020. A conflict happening thousands of miles away has put an adverse impact on the personal expenses of several people. To know more, visit your local gas station. In the US, the Covid Stimulus Bill is on track for approval. It will help small businesses. The oil markets would love a good recovery. Especially when, it involves world's biggest consumer. In India's Bhopal, premium petrol has crossed the 100-rupee mark. Petrol and diesel are selling at record rates. In New Delhi, Petrol is now worth Rs 89 per litre, diesel is at Rs 79.35. The government isn't planning to cut taxes, which means the only relief will come when global oil prices correct.

Turmoil in West Asia sparks hike in fuel prices

Lockdowns and vaccines marked the new year in West Asia as the region grapples under the pandemic. On this week's West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis takes a look at the COVID-19 situation in West Asia. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post | Coronavirus pandemic in West Asia

With an artificial moon and flying taxis, Neom has been billed as humanity's next chapter. Ghadi Francis tells you about this $500 billion megacity in the deep deserts of Saudi Arabia. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post | Saudi Arabia's $500 billion megacity

Saudi Arabia has opened its borders for Qatar. A 3-year-long Gulf crisis has come to an end. On the West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you what this means for the region.

The West Asia Post | Gulf rift comes to an end

Nazik Al-Ali launched her on a ballet dancing journey three years ago. But in 2021, there will no dancing for this Syrian ballet dancer. On the West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis takes a look at her story. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

West Asia Post | Story of Syrian ballet dancer

From seizing a South Korean tanker to ramping up its nuclear program, Iran is flexing its muscles in West Asia.

West Asia Post | Iran steps up its nuclear program

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