24 June 2019-NPWJ News Digest on Middle East and North Africa Democracy

Articles

Why is the Egyptian state monopolizing the entertainment industry?
Open Democracy, 24 Jun 2019

The number of Egyptian television series that aired during the peak Ramadan season this year dramatically decreased by half from previous production volumes. Production restrictions and censorship in the most populous Arab country are on the rise, tough circumstances for the entertainment industry, exacerbated by a military-linked production company’s recent monopoly of soap operas. 

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US secretary of state seeks global coalition in the Middle East against Iran amid rising tensions
CNBC, 23 Jun 2019

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday he wants to build a global coalition against Iran during urgent consultations in the Middle East, following a week of crisis that saw the United States pull back from the brink of a military strike on Iran.

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Why did Tunisian MPs limit who can run for office? Depends on who you ask
Middle East Eye, 23 Jun 2019

An amendment to Tunisia's electoral law that passed through parliament this week blocking certain individuals from running in upcoming elections will have far-reaching consequences, say Tunisian MPs and civil society leaders. 

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Oil prices climb as Middle East tensions simmer
CNBC, 23 Jun 2019

Oil prices climbed on Monday as tensions remain high between Iran and the United States, with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying “significant” sanctions on Tehran would be announced.

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Saudi Minister: Whatever Palestinians Accept, Everyone Else Will Accept
The Jerusalem Post, 23 Jun 2019

A Saudi minister said on Sunday that improving the Palestinians' situation should be welcomed but that addressing the political process in resolving the conflict with Israel is "extremely important."

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