MIDDLE EAST

Photo Credit: Getty Images

After a dangerous escalation that included border clashes and alleged Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Taliban government announced a 48-hour ceasefire, effective at 13:00 GMT Wednesday.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

When bulldozers rolled into the Aydid district of Tarim and began tearing down the spectacular mud-brick palace of Abdul Rahman Bin Sheikh al-Kaf, clouds of dust rose into the air, carrying with them fragments of Yemen’s cultural legacy. The demolition of the landmark sparked outrage in the ancient city, where residents gathered in disbelief to witness the disintegration of a palace that had stood for generations.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Thousands of Palestinians erupted with joy in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis on Monday, as Red Cross buses brought back nearly 1,700 former prisoners.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

On Monday, nearly 200 media outlets from 50 countries will stage an unprecedented protest to demand an end to Israel’s killing of journalists in Gaza and to call for international press access to the enclave.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Israeli naval forces intercepted part of a civilian aid flotilla bound for Gaza on Thursday, sparking immediate diplomatic fallout and global protests. Organisers said 14 of the roughly 40 boats were stopped in international waters, while 23 vessels carrying supplies and activists pressed on toward the enclave.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Afghanistan has entered a nationwide communications blackout after the Taliban ordered the suspension of internet and telecom services, leaving millions disconnected from the outside world.