Funerals were held for two Palestinians, one a US citizen, killed in the West Bank, over the weekend. Syrian authorities have closed a border crossing with Turkey after forest fires spread close to the coastal area north-west of the country. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran is "not afraid" of returning to negotiations on its nuclear programme.

On today's episode of Trending Middle East:

Palestinian-American man beaten to death by Israeli settlers, authorities say

Syria shuts land crossing with Turkey after forest fires spread near border

Iran 'not afraid' of nuclear negotiations but needs to be certain of US commitment

This episode features Thomas Helm, Jerusalem correspondent; and Khaled Yacoub Oweis, Jordan correspondent.

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Opec raised its forecast for world oil and energy demand. The Syrian government has accused the SDF of delays in implementing an integration deal. Saudi Arabia is updating its rules to allow foreigners to buy property in specific zones.

On today's episode of Trending Middle East:

Opec raises 2050 oil demand outlook amid expansion of global economies

Relax, it’s ‘chill, baby, chill’: Opec assures inventories stay tight

Syria blames US-backed Kurds for instability after failed meeting

Saudi foreign property ownership rules will be 'transformational' for long-term expats

This episode features Manus Cranny, Geo-Economics Editor; and Khaled Yacoub Oweis, Jordan Correspondent.

Many in Gaza believe there is an unseen, pervasive AI presence that is watching, listening and waiting for those on its target list to show their faces. Lebanon is considering a road map to disarm Hezbollah. Hamas on Wednesday said Gaza ceasefire talks with Israel in Doha were progressing due to US President Donald Trump's involvement in the process.

Data-driven deaths: How Israel's AI war machine pinpoints Palestinian victims

Hamas credits Trump for progress in Gaza ceasefire talks

This episode features Damien McElroy, London bureau chief; and Jamie Prentis, Beirut correspondent.