Syrian forces push ahead with a major offensive north of the country, recapturing more towns in areas close to the Turkish border.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the occupied Palestinian territories that are opposed to the Israeli regime’s policy of occupation and suppression of the Palestinians’ rights for freedom have condemned the rising cases of harassment and even death threats against themselves.

On the eve of the anniversary of a major nuclear arms reduction treaty, the United States has invited Russia to restart talks on further reductions to nuclear arsenals.

A Russian deputy has warned Saudi Arabia that any military ground operation in Syria without the Damascus government's consent amounts to a declaration of war.

People in Bahrain have staged anti-regime protest rallies ahead of the fifth anniversary of the Arab country’s popular uprising.

Iran and Japan have signed an investment agreement in a bid to boost economic cooperation after the lifting of nuclear-related sanctions against Tehran.

A senior Iranian cleric on Friday called on the Iranian nation to show a high turnout in the parliamentary and Assembly of Experts elections due to be held later this month, saying that “enemies are zooming on the country” but the massive participation would make them retreat.

Iran’s petroleum minister says the terms of new oil deals, sweetened to tempt back foreign companies, have yet to be finalized, noting that critics’ concerns about the new contracts would be allayed.