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Everything MediaBias News has published from and about Middle East · page 14 of 18.
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Archaeologists find 7th-century trade hub beneath Ramat Gan stadium site
A 1,300-year-old industrial and commercial complex, complete with intersecting streets and pottery kilns, has been uncovered in Ramat Gan, Israel. The site, dating to the 7th or 8th century CE, was abandoned twice before the Crusader conquest and will be covered after a public viewing day.
Middle East5 min readTrust 62 · Craft 59 · Hype 15 - Politics · Middle East
Iran parliament criminalises interviews with US and Israeli media
Iran’s parliament approved legislation on 16 August 2026 that bans interviews and other communications with US or Israeli media, punishable by up to two years in prison. The bill must still be reviewed by the Guardian Council before becoming law.
Middle East4 min readTrust 56 · Craft 85 · Hype 15 
Conflict & Security · Middle EastKim Jong Un tells Putin he is proud of North Korea-Russia ties as Ukraine accuses missile use
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised Russia’s ties as a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' in a letter to Vladimir Putin. Ukraine accused Moscow of using North Korean missiles in a strike that killed nine, while Kyiv claimed 50,000 North Korean troops may deploy to Russia, without providing evidence.
Middle East4 min readTrust 82 · Craft 68 · Hype 20
Conflict & Security · Middle EastHezbollah drone strike injures three Israeli soldiers, Israel retaliates in Ansar
An explosive drone launched by Hezbollah struck near the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, seriously injuring three Israeli soldiers. Israel retaliated by targeting a Hezbollah headquarters in Ansar, killing a battalion commander and reportedly his family. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office accused Hezbollah of using civilians as human shields.
Middle East5 min readTrust 86 · Craft 95 · Hype 15
Conflict & Security · Middle EastIsraeli airstrikes kill nine in Lebanon, including three children
Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon killed nine people, including three children, on 15 August 2026, in attacks Lebanon’s Prime Minister said targeted civilians. Israel stated the strikes were in response to Hezbollah actions, amid a fragile truce since June.
Middle East5 min readTrust 96 · Craft 95 · Hype 15
Politics · Middle EastTaliban mark fifth anniversary in power as UN warns of rights crisis
On 15 August 2026, Taliban officials marked five years since their return to power in Afghanistan with ceremonies at the Loya Jirga in Kabul. The UN special rapporteur on human rights warned of systemic gender persecution, while UNESCO estimates 2.4 million girls remain excluded from secondary education.
Middle East5 min readTrust 74 · Craft 95 · Hype 15
Conflict & Security · Middle EastUS announces unprecedented sanctions and indefinite blockade on Iran
The US will impose economic sanctions on Iran described as 'unprecedented' and maintain a naval blockade indefinitely, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced. The measures follow attacks on UAE ships and failed ceasefire talks, with the Trump administration framing them as a dual strategy to force Tehran’s capitulation.
Middle East4 min readTrust 62 · Craft 51 · Hype 41
Conflict & Security · Middle EastUS Central Command denies Israeli report that commander pushed for Iran strikes
Israeli media reported that the head of US Central Command proposed renewed strikes on Iran’s oil, gas and electricity facilities during a visit to Israel. CENTCOM denied the claim, calling it false. Right-rated outlets led on the proposal; no left- or centre-rated outlet ran the story.
Middle East4 min readTrust 62 · Craft 58 · Hype 41
Conflict & Security · Middle EastTrump claims Strait of Hormuz will become US territory after Iran defeat
Donald Trump said he would soon declare the Strait of Hormuz as US territory, asserting that Iran had been heavily defeated in the war and that no vessel could transit the waterway without American approval. Outlets disagreed on whether his tone was serious or joking.
Middle East5 min readTrust 68 · Craft 67 · Hype 50:strip_icc()/i.s3.glbimg.com/v1/AUTH_63b422c2caee4269b8b34177e8876b93/internal_photos/bs/2026/9/J/ZanPAkQZuw9VW7bbPkOQ/2026-07-31t194632z-822414823-rc20pmafch40-rtrmadp-3-iran-crisis-yemen-saudi.jpg)
Conflict & Security · Middle EastHouthis fire six missiles at Yemen’s Mocha port, killing four civilians
The Houthis launched six ballistic missiles at the Red Sea port of Mocha on 14 August 2026, killing four civilians, according to Yemen’s internationally recognised government. The attack escalates tensions between the Iran-aligned group and Saudi-backed forces, with conflicting claims over the targets hit.
Middle East4 min readTrust 76 · Craft 87 · Hype 15
Politics · Middle EastFive Iranian officials sanctioned by Canada over Strait of Hormuz disruption
Canada imposed sanctions on five Iranian officials, including senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members and a naval commander, for actions disrupting navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The move follows Iran’s blockade of the waterway after joint U.S.-Israeli strikes in February, stranding 1,500 vessels.
Middle East5 min readTrust 80 · Craft 87 · Hype 15
Business & Economy · Middle EastUS Threatens Indefinite Iran Blockade as Oil Prices Rise to $87.49 per Barrel
The US warned it may maintain a naval blockade of Iran indefinitely as ceasefire talks failed, pushing Brent crude to $87.49 per barrel on 14 August 2026. Two Adnoc ships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, and the IEA reported global oil supply fell 6.3 million barrels per day year-on-year.
Middle East4 min readTrust 70 · Craft 61 · Hype 25
Conflict & Security · Middle EastJD Vance says US now prioritises low oil prices over Iran nuclear threat
US Vice-President JD Vance stated that the primary US goal in the war with Iran is to keep oil and gasoline prices low for Americans, with preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon as the second priority. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned of unprecedented economic measures against Tehran, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint.
Middle East5 min readTrust 68 · Craft 95 · Hype 18
Conflict & Security · Middle EastSaudi Arabia launches drone task force and maritime alliance as US CENTCOM chief meets Crown Prince
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met US Central Command commander Admiral Brad Cooper in Jeddah on 14 August 2026. The meeting coincided with the launch of a 13-nation maritime alliance and CENTCOM’s announcement of Task Force Falcon Strike, a multinational attack-drone task force.
Middle East4 min readTrust 86 · Craft 87 · Hype 15
Conflict & Security · Middle EastTwo ADNOC tankers attacked in Strait of Hormuz, UAE blames Iran
The UAE accused Iran of attacking two ADNOC vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on 13 August 2026, marking the second such incident in a week. No injuries were reported, and the UAE condemned the attack as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. Iran has not commented.
Middle East4 min readTrust 70 · Craft 65 · Hype 15
Business & Economy · Middle EastUS Energy Secretary’s Oil Export Claims Disputed by Shipping Data
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright claims nearly 9 million barrels of oil per day leave the Strait of Hormuz, a figure the US says reflects military efforts to secure the waterway. Vessel tracking services report volumes closer to 1.7 to 2.8 million barrels per day, leaving a gap of 3 to 5 million barrels unaccounted for.
Middle East5 min readTrust 78 · Craft 77 · Hype 25
Conflict & Security · Middle EastUS defence secretary says naval blockade of Iran can continue indefinitely
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the US military has sufficient assets to maintain its naval blockade of Iran for as long as necessary. The blockade has redirected over 55 commercial vessels since its imposition, with US forces disabling three and boarding two.
Middle East5 min readTrust 78 · Craft 85 · Hype 15
Conflict & Security · Middle EastUS lost 45 Reaper drones in Iran war, costing over $1.3bn
The US military has lost at least 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones during its war with Iran, according to a Washington Post report citing three officials. The losses, valued at over $1.3bn, represent roughly 25% of the combined Air Force and Marine Corps fleet before the war began.
Middle East4 min readTrust 50 · Craft 55 · Hype 30
Conflict & Security · Middle EastIran reshuffles military leadership amid US blockade and Houthi strikes
Iran has reorganised its military command, appointing hardline leaders to key roles as it adopts a more aggressive posture. The US says it can maintain a blockade on Iranian ports indefinitely, while Houthi drone strikes on Saudi Aramco refineries push oil prices higher. No left-rated outlet covered the story.
Middle East5 min readTrust 65 · Craft 55 · Hype 45
Conflict & Security · Middle EastUSS Abraham Lincoln crew endure record deployment amid food shortages and mental health crisis
The USS Abraham Lincoln has spent over 250 days at sea without docking, the longest continuous deployment on record. Reports describe food shortages, malfunctioning toilets and sailors attempting to jump overboard. Congressional Democrats have demanded an explanation from the defence secretary.
Middle East4 min readTrust 96 · Craft 95 · Hype 30
Also affecting Middle East
Wider stories that name Middle East or bear directly on it.
Politics · United KingdomLabour MP apologises after calling for UK military action against Israel
Labour MP Tahir Ali called for the UK to take military action against Israel and for Israel to disarm. He later issued an unreserved apology for his comments and received a formal warning from the Labour Party's chief whip.
United Kingdom3 min readTrust 50 · Craft 45 · Hype 65
PoliticsGlobal gender gap closed by 69.2%, parity 120 years away
The global gender gap has closed by 69.2%, according to the World Economic Forum's 2026 Global Gender Gap Report. However, at the current rate of progress, full gender parity is estimated to be 120 years away, with political empowerment remaining the furthest from parity.
4 min readTrust 42 · Craft 61 · Hype 41
Business & EconomyGas prices expected to surge Wednesday and Thursday
Gasoline and diesel prices are expected to increase significantly on Wednesday and Thursday, with analysts pointing to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran as primary drivers. The U.S. average diesel price has reached $6.301 per gallon, and gasoline is at $4.355 per gallon.
3 min readTrust 60 · Craft 67 · Hype 48
Politics · United StatesAndy Burnham to meet Donald Trump in New York next week
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump for the first time next week in New York. The meeting, expected to take place at the United Nations General Assembly, will focus on international issues including Ukraine, the Middle East, and energy.
United States2 min readTrust 54 · Craft 85 · Hype 12
Politics · United StatesSenate Majority Leader John Thune open to diesel export ban amid record prices
John Thune announced he is willing to explore a ban on diesel fuel exports, citing record‑high domestic prices and limited supply from conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. The United States is the world’s top diesel exporter, while Russia has already halted its shipments.
United States3 min readTrust 62 · Craft 62 · Hype 25
Business & Economy · United StatesUS wholesale inflation rises 5.4% as diesel costs surge
US wholesale inflation rose 5.4% year-on-year in August, exceeding expectations due to a significant jump in energy costs, particularly diesel fuel. The data has increased the likelihood of a Federal Reserve interest rate hike next week.
United States4 min readTrust 50 · Craft 60 · Hype 40
Politics · United KingdomBurnham and Macron meet at Downing Street to discuss defence and migration
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham met French President Emmanuel Macron at Downing Street on Thursday, 3 September 2026. They discussed defence, energy, support for Ukraine, European security, small-boat migration, and UK-EU relations. Burnham announced an increase in French officers deployed to tackle Channel crossings.
United Kingdom3 min readTrust 76 · Craft 87 · Hype 18
Business & Economy · European UnionRyanair cuts 2027 passenger target and warns of higher fares as fuel costs rise
Ryanair lowered its fiscal 2027 passenger target from 216 million to 214 million, citing high fuel costs. It hedged 80% of its fuel needs at $67 a barrel but warned that persistently high oil prices could push up European airfares and strain less-hedged rivals.
European Union5 min readTrust 88 · Craft 85 · Hype 25
Business & EconomyFederal fuel tax holiday extended to January 2027
The federal government is extending the suspension of fuel excise taxes until January 2027. The measure, intended to provide relief from higher energy costs, will see the tax gradually reinstated by April 2027.
2 min readTrust 42 · Craft 55 · Hype 15
Politics · Latin AmericaPeru breaks diplomatic ties with Iran over nuclear and shipping concerns
Peru announced on 1 September 2026 that it was severing diplomatic relations with Iran. The government cited Iran's obstruction of nuclear inspections and its restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz as key reasons for the decision. Consular relations will continue.
Latin America3 min readTrust 78 · Craft 65 · Hype 25
Business & Economy · Asia-PacificAsia Manufacturing Expands in August Driven by AI Hardware Demand
Manufacturing activity across Asia expanded in August, with China, Japan, and South Korea reporting growth. This expansion was primarily driven by strong global demand for artificial intelligence hardware, particularly semiconductors and computers, which helped offset rising costs and economic uncertainty linked to the Middle East conflict.
Asia-Pacific3 min readTrust 65 · Craft 55 · Hype 25- Business & Economy
Indonesia Plans Quadrupled Alumina Output Using Coal Power
Indonesia plans to quadruple its alumina output and dramatically increase aluminum production by 2030, using coal-fired power plants. This expansion comes as the Iran war disrupts global supply chains and raises prices for the metal.
4 min readTrust 55 · Craft 55 · Hype 25 
Conflict & Security · UkraineZelensky says Ukraine developing Starlink alternative amid missile shortage
Ukraine is developing its own satellite communication system with a European partner and has begun testing it, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. He also stated that Russia and China are collaborating on a rival to Starlink, expected by December 2026. Zelensky hopes to persuade Elon Musk to allow Starlink use for strikes within Russia.
Ukraine4 min readTrust 50 · Craft 60 · Hype 20
Politics · United StatesLula and Trump Discuss Tariffs in 80-Minute Call
Brazilian President Lula da Silva spoke by phone with US President Donald Trump for 80 minutes on August 21, 2026. Lula argued that US justifications for imposing tariffs on Brazilian goods were unfounded. The leaders agreed on the need to maintain strong commercial ties and proposed resuming bilateral meetings.
United States3 min readTrust 42 · Craft 57 · Hype 41
Politics · IsraelIsraeli police permit Jewish prayer books at Al-Aqsa Mosque for first time
Israeli police allowed Jewish men to bring full prayer books onto the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on 15 August 2026, marking the first official permission for group prayer at the site. Palestinian sources and Israeli officials confirm the shift, which departs from decades of restrictions under the status quo agreement.
Israel5 min readTrust 66 · Craft 87 · Hype 35
Business & EconomyCanada’s July 2026 inflation data to show gas price rebound, economists say
Economists expect Canada’s annual inflation rate rose to 2.9 percent in July 2026 after a June dip to 2.8 percent, driven by higher gas prices from renewed Middle East tensions. The data will inform the Bank of Canada’s next rate decision on 2 September.
4 min readTrust 62 · Craft 85 · Hype 15
Conflict & Security · Asia-PacificUSS George Washington leaves Pacific as US shifts carrier to Middle East
The US Navy is withdrawing its last aircraft carrier from the western Pacific, the USS George Washington, to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Middle East. Analysts warn China could use the absence to assert regional influence, while extended deployments strain crews and raise concerns over US priorities.
Asia-Pacific5 min readTrust 54 · Craft 95 · Hype 35
Politics · United KingdomNetanyahu labels UK an 'Islamic republic' with nuclear weapons in radio interview
Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the UK as the 'Islamic Republic of Britain' during an Israeli military radio podcast, suggesting it could become the first nuclear-armed Islamic state. The comment, echoing a 2024 remark by US Vice President JD Vance, sparked backlash from British Jewish groups and politicians amid strained UK-Israel relations.
United Kingdom5 min readTrust 62 · Craft 87 · Hype 55
Business & Economy · IndiaFitch holds India’s BBB- rating, projects 6.4% growth for FY27
Fitch Ratings affirmed India’s BBB- sovereign credit rating with a stable outlook on 11 August 2026, forecasting 6.4% GDP growth for fiscal year 2027. The agency noted strong domestic demand and external buffers but flagged persistent fiscal deficits and structural weaknesses as constraints.
India4 min readTrust 74 · Craft 85 · Hype 15
Politics · United StatesAbdul El-Sayed disavows Hasan Piker’s 2019 remark that US ‘deserved’ 9/11 attacks
Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed dismissed Hasan Piker’s 2019 claim that the US ‘deserved’ the 9/11 attacks as a ‘dumb statement’ but maintained his association with the streamer. Right-rated outlets led on the controversy, while centre-rated reports noted the disavowal without framing it as a campaign liability.
United States4 min readTrust 50 · Craft 87 · Hype 30