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Middle East news — October 1, 2026

Publications tagged with Middle East published on October 1, 2026 (UTC). This is a fixed calendar-day archive.

15 publications

  1. PoliticsSanctionsMiddle East

    US Tightens Sanctions Against Cuba

    The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued new sanctions against Cuba, effective from September 30. Key changes include prohibiting US banks from opening and maintaining accounts for Cuban private entrepreneurs, blocking existing accounts, revoking authorization for 'U-turn' transactions, imposing secondary sanctions on foreign financial institutions conducting large transactions with sanctioned entities, and restricting travel for US citizens to Cuba. These measures aim to strengthen the US sanctions regime against Cuba.
    30 sourcesSee all sources
  3. WorldRegulatorsMiddle EastIsrael

    Distress Signal on Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight; Possible Hijacking

    A Flydubai passenger aircraft flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv issued a distress signal, triggering a major security response. The plane, carrying over 150 passengers, changed course over Saudi Arabia, raising suspicions of hijacking. Israeli Air Force jets were scrambled, and Prime Minister Netanyahu held an emergency meeting. The plane eventually landed in Saudi Arabia. The cause of the incident is under investigation.
    37 sourcesSee all sources
  4. PoliticsRegulatorsMiddle East

    AfD Ban Debate Intensifies in Thuringia

    In Thuringia, a heated debate is ongoing regarding the potential ban of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Comedian Hape Kerkeling and former interior minister Hans-Georg Maaßen have spoken out against the AfD, with Kerkeling accusing the party of being unconstitutional. The Thuringian state parliament is currently discussing the possibility of initiating a ban procedure against the AfD, with experts and lawyers weighing in on the matter. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain.
    16 sourcesSee all sources
  5. WorldMiddle EastUkraineTrade

    Sulphur Prices Surge Due to Global Conflicts

    The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in West Asia have led to a significant increase in sulphur prices. This rise is primarily driven by growing demand for the commodity, which is mainly produced as a by-product, due to its use in metals processing and battery production. Additionally, the increased need for fertiliser and nickel is further exacerbating the pressure on sulphur supplies.
    2 sourcesSee all sources
  6. TechMiddle EastChinaCross-border

    Russia to Export 'Harpyia-A1' UAV

    Russia will debut the export version of its 'Harpyia-A1' unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at international exhibitions in China and Vietnam. The UAV can carry a payload of over 50 kg and operate at altitudes from 50 to 2,500 meters. It has a range of up to 1,000 km and a flight time of up to 6 hours. The export version, named 'Harpyia-A1(E)', will be showcased at the 'Vietnam Defense Show' and 'Airshow China'.
    9 sourcesSee all sources
  9. WorldMiddle East

    Kazakhstan's Grain Harvest and Exports in 2026

    Kazakhstan has harvested 83% of its grain crops, yielding 19.9 million tons with an average yield of 14.7 centners per hectare. The country expects a record gross yield, covering domestic needs and maintaining exports. The share of grain in sowings has decreased to 66%, while oilseed plantings have expanded to 5.2 million hectares. Kazakhstan exported 9.3 million tons of grain by August, aiming to match or exceed last year's record of 15.5 million tons.
    22 sourcesSee all sources
  10. WorldLawMiddle EastBudget

    New Laws in Russia: Changes in Utilities, Mortgages, Pensions, and More

    Starting October 1, 2026, several new laws came into effect in Russia, affecting various aspects of life. Key changes include: utilities becoming more expensive (up to 22% depending on the region), dietary supplements from certain countries facing a 35% duty, and trains increasing in cost. Family mortgages now depend on the number of children and region, with rates ranging from 2% to 12%. Pensions for military personnel and those over 80 years old have increased. Marketplaces face new rules, self-employed individuals have work limits, and financial restrictions on microloans have been implemented. Additionally, migrant income control has tightened, drone use is regulated, and nearly 900 new GOSTs have been introduced.
    11 sourcesSee all sources