JERUSALEM -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that the co-pilot involved in the Flydubai flight attack attempted to crash the aircraft, noting that Israel is investigating those possibly behind the incident.
"As time goes by, the picture becomes clearer," Netanyahu said in a recorded video statement, alleging that the co-pilot underwent "radicalization" and "came to crash the plane with all passengers on board." (Israel-Flydubai-Attack)
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AMMAN -- Jordan's King Abdullah II and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday discussed efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region, according to a statement from Jordan's Royal Hashemite Court.
During a phone call, King Abdullah II stressed the need to reach an agreement on a comprehensive ceasefire that guarantees the security and sovereignty of Arab states, while highlighting the U.S. role in supporting efforts to achieve regional stability. (Jordan-US-Talks)
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BAGHDAD -- The Iraqi government on Friday announced an agreement allowing Iranian airlines, except Mahan Air, to operate 40 flights daily to and from Najaf International Airport in central Iraq.
A statement by the media office of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi said the agreement follows the U.S. government's cooperation in granting a requested exemption, which will help facilitate the movement of pilgrims and travelers, particularly those traveling for medical treatment, religious visits, and tourism. (Iraq-Iran-Flights)
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BEIRUT -- Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Friday that the government was advancing reconstruction in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh district, with 23 tenders for road repairs, debris removal, shelter rehabilitation and medical equipment, plus 12 tenders to repair five hospitals and carry out electricity and water projects.
Speaking during his third visit to Nabatieh since taking office, Salam acknowledged that needs far exceeded the state's current capacity, calling the projects practical steps toward recovery. (Lebanon-Nabatieh-Reconstruction) ■
