live Saudi Arabia says air defences destroyed Houthi drone near Mecca
Saudi Arabia said its air defences destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it could enter prohibited airspace over the holy city, as attacks...
Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for the 15th of May, covering the latest developments you need to know.
U.S. President Donald Trump said he discussed Iran with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that both sides oppose Iran acquiring nuclear weapons and support keeping key maritime routes open. Separately, Trump voiced frustration, warning that his patience is running out with Iran, calling for progress toward a deal. Meanwhile, Israel and Lebanon continued talks in Washington described as “productive” by U.S. officials, despite ongoing strikes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in southern Lebanon.
U.S. and Chinese President are meeting in Beijing on Friday to conclude a two-day state visit focused on trade and bilateral relations. The summit comes as both sides seek to maintain a fragile trade truce reached in their previous talks, easing tensions over tariffs and critical supply chains. While Trump has expressed optimism about strengthening ties and described Xi in positive terms, the Chinese leader cautioned that mishandling sensitive issues such as Taiwan could risk destabilising relations.
Russia has carried out its most extensive aerial assault since the start of the full-scale invasion, according to Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said 1,567 drones were deployed since Wednesday, with at least 15 civilians reported killed. The Ukrainian air force stated that more than 670 drones and 56 missiles were fired overnight, with most intercepted by air defences. Kyiv was among the main targets, with damage reported at around 20 locations across the capital.
Türkiye and Kazakhstan signed 13 agreements covering investment, energy, defence, education, media, infrastructure, and finance during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Astana. Both countries also reaffirmed cooperation within the Organisation of Turkic States, with growing focus on digital development, artificial intelligence (AI), and transport connectivity. The Middle Corridor route linking Asia and Europe via the Caspian region was highlighted as increasingly important for global supply chain diversification.
The second semi-final of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest 2026 takes place in Vienna, where 15 countries are competing for 10 remaining spots in Saturday’s grand final. The event is being held at the Wiener Stadthalle, with five acts set to be eliminated at the end of the night. Among the performers is Azerbaijan’s representative Jiva, who performs second in the running order. This year’s contest follows Austria’s win in 2025 with the song “Wasted Love,” which secured Vienna as the host city.
U.S. Central Command said 101 commercial vessels have been redirected in the Strait of Hormuz, while oil prices rose more than three per cent amid fresh regional attacks and supply concerns.
U.S. President Donald Trump has again said Iran is keen to reach a deal quickly, but a senior Iranian security official rejected the claim, saying Tehran will not negotiate until its conditions are met.
A Danish military helicopter came within “metres” of being struck by flares fired by a Russian warship, Denmark's Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus said on Tuesday. Russia accused Denmark of carrying out “dangerous manoeuvres” near its ship, and said it was investigating the incident.
Saudi Arabia said its air defences destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it could enter prohibited airspace over the holy city, as attacks by the Iran-aligned group deepen regional tensions.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is outlining the EU's priorities in her annual State of the Union address, covering security, support for Ukraine, trade with China, migration, climate and artificial intelligence.
Pakistan has condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia at the United Nations, warning that escalating fighting in Yemen and increased activity around the Bab al-Mandab Strait threaten regional stability, global shipping and energy security.
Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being found guilty of war crimes, including murder, torture, cruel treatment and arbitrary detention.
Wednesday's session of the 24th Arab Media Summit in Dubai has shifted the discussion towards a central question for modern media: how can regional news organisations tell their own stories while reaching audiences far beyond their borders?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine was carrying out tests on a new weapon to intercept drones and had recorded a successful hit overnight.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is outlining the EU's priorities in her annual State of the Union address, covering security, support for Ukraine, trade with China, migration, climate and artificial intelligence.
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