On the last day of 2025, while much of the world was on leave, four major developments occurred that will likely shape how 2026 will unfold in the Middle East. Third, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with US President Donald Trump and informally launched his election campaign. While the ramifications of those actions will unfold, one thing is certain: the UAE is pulling out its forces from Yemen. And yet, the Middle East is not one “Middle East” - and the Arab world extends beyond its regional borders or even Asia, deep into Africa. Syria, perhaps, stands out most of all as a country that is choosing to turn the corner on war and destruction.

Source: Ethiopian News January 02, 2026 18:01 UTC