Israeli security forces open fire at borders with the Palestinian territories, Syria and Lebanon, as protesters mark the anniversary of the creation of the state in 1948.

One of the largest groups of foreign workers in the United Arab Emirates comes from the Philippines.

Defence Secretary Liam Fox says he agrees with the head of the Armed Forces that Nato needs to intensify its campaign in Libya.

At least seven people are injured after Christian protesters in central Cairo are attacked, amid an increase in sectarian violence in Egypt.

A leaked UN report says Iran and North Korea have been exchanging ballistic missile technology in violation of sanctions.

Key facts, figures and dates

New violence flares near the Syrian city of of Homs, with deaths reported, despite pledges for a "national dialogue".

Fears for jailed leaders of Bahai faith in Iran

Suzanne Mubarak, wife of Egypt's ex-president, is recovering in hospital after suddenly falling ill when detained in a corruption probe.

Inside Saudi Arabia's lucrative rose industry

The US envoy to the Middle East, George Mitchell, is stepping down after two years of pursuing progress on peace talks, the White House says.

US officials have had access to three of Osama Bin Laden's widows in Pakistan, the White House confirms.

Three people are killed and 18 wounded during protests in Yemen, witnesses say, as Qatar pulls out of efforts to end Yemen's political crisis.

Radical jihadis in Gaza question Hamas' Islamist credentials

Up to 400 people, mainly Eritreans, are being held captive for ransom and tortured by traffickers in Egypt's Sinai desert, a Catholic priest tells the BBC.

Fears of forced conscription and tribalism in Libyan capital

The Syrian opposition says an adviser to President Bashar al-Assad has pledged government forces will not fire on protesters on Friday.

A makeover for the black abaya Saudi women must wear

The pro-democracy struggle in the Middle East and North Africa is at risk amid a fightback by repressive governments, Amnesty International says.

The complex family tree of the late al-Qaeda leader