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Middle East news — August 19, 2026 - Page 6

Publications tagged with Middle East published on August 19, 2026 (UTC). This is a fixed calendar-day archive. Page 6 of 7.

165 publications

  1. WorldMiddle EastDefense

    Japan's Record Defense Spending in 2027

    Japan's defense ministry plans to request a record 8.9 trillion yen (around $56 billion) for the 2027 fiscal year, potentially reaching around 10 trillion yen, according to Kyodo News sources. This marks the 14th consecutive year of increase, accelerating after the adoption of new security documents in late 2022. The budget includes numerous unspecified items, suggesting a final budget higher than the initial request. The increased spending is part of Japan's ongoing military buildup, which includes developing hypersonic missiles, unmanned submarines, and long-range attack drones.
    3 sourcesSee all sources
  2. WorldRegulatorsMiddle EastBudget

    Iran's Qalibaf Travels to Iraq for Regional Talks

    Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, is set to travel to Iraq on Wednesday, August 28, leading a high-level parliamentary delegation. The visit aims to discuss regional developments, strengthen strategic cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad, and explore joint solutions for stability and security in West Asia. Qalibaf will meet with senior Iraqi officials and prominent figures to discuss bilateral relations, border security, counter-terrorism, economic cooperation, and the implementation of joint agreements.
    21 sourcesSee all sources
  3. WorldMiddle East

    Pirate Video Market in Russia Grows Despite Blocks

    The pirate video market in Russia saw a 4.2% increase in the first half of 2023, reaching $17.3 million. This growth is attributed to users' sustained interest in foreign cinema, with about 57% of foreign theatrical releases being leaked onto pirate networks compared to 10% of Russian releases. Pirates are adapting to blocks by scheduling illegal content for after 18:00 and weekends, and using other brands for camouflage. Online cinemas note the absence of a complaint mechanism for content from departed rights holders.
    3 sourcesSee all sources
  4. PoliticsLawCorruptionMiddle East

    Ukraine's Former Defense Minister Calls for Elections Amidst Criticism of Zelensky's Leadership

    Ukraine's former Defense Minister Mikhailo Fedorov has called for immediate elections to 'restore the democratic process', criticizing the government led by President Volodymyr Zelensky for corruption and a 'systemic governance crisis'. Fedorov's call comes amidst a growing chorus of critics, including anti-corruption activists and former officials, who have been pushing for political rotation and an end to Zelensky's rule. The former minister's supporters have announced a 'cardboard Maidan' protest outside the parliament today, where voting will take place to appoint a new defense minister.
    19 sourcesSee all sources
  8. WorldEuropeMiddle East

    Drone Shot Down in Latvia Originated from Belarus

    A drone that entered Latvian territory was shot down by NATO fighter jets. The drone originated from Belarus, according to multiple sources including Latvia's Defense Minister Raivis Melnis. The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, and is being investigated. Latvia has stated that drones entering its airspace will be shot down to ensure the safety of residents and their property.
    30 sourcesSee all sources
  9. WorldMiddle East

    Moldova's GDP Growth Forecast Revised Downwards to 1.8% in 2026

    The Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization (MEDRD) has lowered its forecast for Moldova's GDP growth in 2026 from 2.2% to 1.8%. The revision is attributed to deterioration in the external economic situation, conflict in the Middle East, increase in energy resource costs, and geopolitical uncertainty. The new forecast expects GDP growth of 2.8% in 2027, 3.2% in 2028, and 3.4% in 2029, reaching 497.4 billion lei by 2029. Inflation is forecast at 7.3% in 2026, decreasing to 5-6% in subsequent years. Exports are expected to grow by 11.7% and imports by 7.5% in 2026.
    7 sourcesSee all sources
  11. CultureMiddle EastGender

    Remains of Dmitry Donskoy Found in Kremlin Cathedral

    During restoration work in the Archangel Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin, the remains of Dmitry Donskoy were discovered in an intact white stone sarcophagus. The authenticity of the relics was confirmed by historical data, archaeological appearance, and anthropological research results. The remains are almost completely preserved, with only the left heel bone missing. The lid of the sarcophagus had two transverse cracks. Patriarch Kirill led a prayer service at the open relics and blessed several particles of Dmitry Donskoy's relics to be placed in Russian Orthodox churches for the veneration of the faithful.
    47 sourcesSee all sources
  13. WorldMiddle EastNorth America

    Thailand Courts Australian Investment, Urges Canva Expansion

    Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Canva's Sydney headquarters to discuss connecting Thai creators with global markets and increase their number on the platform from about 190 to 1,000 by 2028. He also encouraged Canva to establish a legal entity in Thailand and cooperate with the Board of Investment for investment and workforce development. Anutin invited Australian businesses to invest in Thailand, highlighting priority sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, digital industries, and education.
    4 sourcesSee all sources
  16. WorldMiddle East

    Bishkek Asks Businesses to Close for SCO Summit

    The Primorsky District Administration of Bishkek is distributing notifications to entrepreneurs asking them to temporarily suspend operations on August 31 and September 1. This affects catering establishments, car washes, service points, and other facilities located along the routes of the delegations for the SCO summit and World Nomad Games. The mayor confirmed that more than 30 owners of commercial objects have already received notifications from the mayor's office.
    9 sourcesSee all sources
  19. PoliticsMiddle EastBudget

    Russia Proposes 3% Tax on Migrant Money Transfers Abroad

    In Russia, a proposal has been made to introduce a 3% tax on money transfers by migrants from Russia abroad. The chairman of the 'Fair Russia — For Truth' party, Sergei Mironov, suggested this measure, stating that last year, foreign citizens transferred more than 17 billion rubles from Russia abroad without paying any taxes on these transfers. The initiative aims to collect additional revenue for the budget.
    5 sourcesSee all sources
  20. WorldAfricaMiddle East

    Pico and Placa Vehicle Restrictions in Cali, Bogotá, and Medellín

    Vehicle restriction programs known as Pico and Placa are in effect in Cali, Bogotá, and Medellín. The programs aim to reduce vehicle traffic, accidents, and pollution by limiting circulation based on the last digit of license plates, vehicle type, day of the week, and even hours. Exemptions apply to certain vehicles such as emergency services, public transport, and those using alternative fuels. Violations result in fines and vehicle immobilization.
    12 sourcesSee all sources
  21. WorldMiddle East

    Bishkek Temporarily Closes Shopping Centers and Markets

    The Bishkek City Hall has decided to temporarily close several shopping centers and markets from August 31 to September 1 due to public safety concerns and preparations for the SCO summit and World Nomad Games. Affected locations include GUM 'Chynar', TSUM 'Aychurek', 'Bishkek Park', 'Asia Mall', 'Ala-Archa', 'VEFA Center', 'Dom Truda', 'Goin', Beta Stores 1, and 'Besh Sary City'. Additionally, 'Osh Bazaars', 'Sary-Ozon', and 'Orto-Sai' market will also be closed on specific dates. Underground pedestrian crossings along official delegation routes will be closed from 3:00 PM on August 29.
    4 sourcesSee all sources
  22. WorldMiddle EastIsraelConflict

    Israel's Aggression in Syria Threatens Regional Stability

    Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Israel's aerial attacks on Abu al-Thuhur military airport as a serious escalation threatening regional security and stability. The Syrian government accuses Israel of attempting to undermine efforts to stabilize the region and push it into further tension. The US has stated that the Israeli actions are not necessary for promoting stability.
    10 sourcesSee all sources
  23. WorldMiddle East

    Shakira to Rebuild Schools and University in Earthquake-Stricken Chocó, Colombia

    Colombian singer Shakira visited the earthquake-stricken department of Chocó, promising to rebuild a university and at least 10 schools damaged by the magnitude 7.4 earthquake. She was accompanied by philanthropist Howard Buffett and announced commitments totaling $1.25 million from Shakira, Global Citizen, Live Nation, and CAF. Shakira emphasized the importance of ensuring children return to school and called on other governments and foundations to join the recovery efforts.
    160 sourcesSee all sources
  24. WorldMiddle East

    Najaf Governor Allocates 10,000 Dunams for Million Housing Units Initiative

    The Governor of Najaf, Yusuf Maki Gunawei, announced the allocation of 10,000 dunams for the Million Housing Units Initiative. The initiative aims to provide serviced residential plots to citizens who do not own homes. The land is part of the Peace City project, with work progressing towards completing the housing file urgently. Targeted groups will be determined according to regulations issued by relevant authorities.
    8 sourcesSee all sources