IS conflict: US to send 560 more troops to Iraq
Craig TaylorThe US is to send 560 more military personnel to Iraq to help in the fight against so-called Islamic State (IS), Defence Secretary Ash Carter says. BBC News – Middle East
Middle East
Israel and Palestinians: Egypt FM urges two-state solution in rare visit
Egypt’s foreign minister pays a rare visit to Israel, offering his country’s help to revive peace talks with the Palestinians. BBC News – Middle East
Iraq shrine attack: IS kills dozens in Balad
Bombers and gunmen from so-called Islamic State attack a Shia shrine in Iraq, north of Baghdad, killing at least 35 people. BBC News – Middle East
Syria conflict: Army fire ‘cuts key Aleppo road’
Syrian government forces have effectively cut the only road into rebel-held areas of the city of Aleppo, state media and rebels say. BBC News – Middle East
Syria conflict: Army declares 72-hour Eid al-Fitr truce
The Syrian military declares a 72-hour “regime of calm” covering the whole country, though there are reports of continuing fighting outside Damascus. BBC News – Middle East
Medina explosion: Suicide bombing near Saudi holy site
A suicide bomber has killed four security officers and injured five near one of Islam’s holiest sites in the Saudi city of Medina, the government says. BBC News – Middle East