Smash hit

The Nobel prize is anathema to Iran’s leaders

It stands for fraternity between nations, the abolition of armies and the promotion of peace — hardly Iran’s priorities

West Bank settlers dismiss new freeze plan

No new permits will be issued and no new construction can start — but is not stopping builders already hard at work

‘It's cash or get out and lose the house’

The financial boom in Dubai has well and truly ended, leaving some British ex-pats wondering whether to return home now

Dubai’s financial problems explained

What has just happened in the emirate could have ramifications around the world and therefore affect the UK’s recovery

Muslims brave downpours and sun in Mecca

After heavy rains on the opening day of the haj, which killed at least 77 people, pilgrims climbed Mount Arafat in sunshine

Barghouti is price of freedom for Schalit

Palestinian politician jailed for murder is top of list of prisoners that Hamas wants in exchange for Israeli soldier

Hero's welcome for Ahmadinejad in Venezuela

President Chavez said Venezuela and Iran would be allied 'until the end' as Iranian president bolstered his powerbase

Settlement freeze excludes East Jerusalem

Ten-month moratorium on new Jewish homes in occupied West Bank welcomed by Washington but rejected by the Palestinans

Swine flu fears keep Mecca pilgrims away

The number of Muslims at the haj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia could fall by up to half a million this year

Stars caught out as Dubai property bubble bursts

Credit markets rocked as developer Nakheel and its state-owned parent made a request to suspend debt repayments

Problems for Dubai are only just beginning

The city state was sold to the world as a place where West and East could do business but now its finances are being scrutinised

Bid to still frenzy over Israeli soldier release

Israel and Hamas play down anticipation that Gilad Schalit will be freed in exchange for Palestinian militants

Brazil leader attacked over Ahmadinejad visit

Lula da Silva criticised for welcoming 'pariah' Iranian counterpart as Tehran makes most of huge propaganda coup

UN confirms Lebanon body is British journalist

After 11-year search, investigators establish last resting place of British reporter, kidnapped and killed by radicals in the 1980s