Latest from Middle East

Fran O'Sullivan: NZ reaction to Israel 'scandal' exposes official wariness
The close scrutiny of the young tourists shows the SIS harbours deep suspicions when it comes to Israeli activity

Israelis seize protest yacht as it tries to run blockade
Israeli commandos yesterday boarded and seized control of a yacht carrying pro-Palestinian activists.

Audrey Young: Pacific party sets tone for better relations
As John Key prepares for a White House visit next week, New Zealand's Pacific role is growing in value.

Fran O'Sullivan: It's time for more gravitas from Key
We need to hear what really matters from the Prime Minister.

How to avoid being killed: A traveller's guide
A Middle East-based journalist has penned a book advising travellers how to keep themselves safe in dangerous places.

Caviar farm will satisfy Gulf's growing appetite
The desert city of Abu Dhabi is the newest location for a vast caviar farm that dwarfs its global competitors.

Paul Thomas: I'll take boring over US loony extremes
Biggest economy wouldn't default over politics, would it?

Obama's dead! Fox's Twitter hacked
Hackers broke into Fox's Twitter account, posting updates saying President Barack Obama had been assassinated.

Activist flotilla sinks deeper into mystery
Israel dismisses claims it is behind events hampering Gaza protest.

A transport of delight in Dubai
It's an oasis in the desert, filled with massive and mind-bending wonderments, all easily accessible by train, air, ferry ... or camel. Jim Eagles takes a look.