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Check FAQAbout Jacob
Jacob Wirtschafter is a seasoned journalist based in Istanbul, Türkiye, with extensive experience reporting on various aspects of the Middle East, from cultural history and economic developments to political turmoil and conflict. His work has delved into the rapid cultural and social transformation of Saudi Arabia, as evidenced by the international art show Desert X Al Ula, which reflects the kingdom's push towards tourism and gender equality. Wirtschafter has also covered the political landscape of Egypt, including the high divorce rates and government efforts to address them, as well as the UAEs housing market growth driven by digital nomads and foreign buyers. Wirtschafter has reported on the escalating tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Nile River's water resources due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. His articles have highlighted the shifting political dynamics in the region, such as the mass demonstrations in support of Palestine and the impact of President el-Sisi's policies on the Cairo megapolis. He has provided insights into the political solutions and regional diplomatic relations, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Syrian opposition, and the impact of blockades on Middle Eastern economies. In addition to his political reporting, Wirtschafter has explored the cultural sphere, with pieces on the revival of the Kalecik Karasi grape in Turkey's winemaking industry and the role of music in commemorating historical events like Egypt's 1919 revolution. His work reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of the Middle East, its conflicts, and its path towards economic and social development.
Portfolio
Qatar’s balancing act in Middle East is mediation amid crisis
Arab support for U.S. 'Deal of the Century' fades
The article discusses the waning Arab enthusiasm for the U.S.-led 'Deal of the Century' aimed at resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Despite efforts by American envoys Jared Kushner and Jason Greenblatt, key Arab states remain unconvinced that the U.S. can facilitate a fair solution. The plan's focus on economic development in Gaza and the West Bank is criticized for ignoring core political issues such as Jerusalem's status and Palestinian refugees. The article highlights Egypt's and Saudi Arabia's rejection of the plan, the relocation of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, and the proposed changes to the definition of Palestinian refugees in Jordan. It also touches on the recent violence at the Gaza border and the challenges of Palestinian reconciliation. The skepticism surrounding the plan is evident in the region, with many viewing the U.S. as biased towards Israel.
Powered by immigrants, Dubai's housing market continues to surge
The article discusses the robust growth of the residential housing market in Dubai, UAE, despite regional turbulence. It highlights a surge in sales in 2023, with significant contributions from Russian buyers and an influx of digital nomads due to a new flexible work permit. The Dubai Land Department reported a 40% increase in property sales in the third quarter of the year, and Emaar Properties saw a 25% increase in sales over the previous year. The Tiger Group has also experienced substantial growth. The article includes perspectives from individuals who have moved to Dubai, citing personal freedoms, tax advantages, and business opportunities as reasons for their relocation. Experts predict a cooling in the market but no significant downturn, with new buyer groups from countries like India expected to sustain market expansion.
Egyptian court to consider eliminating presidential term limits
A Cairo court is set to conduct preliminary hearings on a petition to amend Egypt's 2014 constitution to allow President Abdel al-Fattah al-Sisi to run for a third term. The petition, filed by attorneys Ayman Abdel-Hakim, Fouad Soliman, and Mohamed Saber Arafat, argues that the current two-term limit is insufficient to address Egypt's challenges. Intelligence officials and the president's office have reportedly been meeting to discuss the amendments. Public figures, including parliamentarian Esmail Nasr al-Din and Coptic Pope Tawadros II, have expressed support for extending Sisi's term. Critics, such as Ramy Kamil of the Christian Maspero Youth Foundation and Amr Salah, a member of the committee that drafted the 2014 constitution, argue that the amendments would undermine democracy and the will of the Egyptian people.
Egypt to Welcome Back Football Fans to Stadiums with Strict Regulations
Egypt is set to allow football fans back into stadiums after a three-year ban, starting with a match between Al Ittihad and Entag El Harby on September 17. The decision comes with strict regulations, including pre-screened fan lists and a ban on fireworks and inflammatory slogans. The ban was initially imposed after a deadly riot at Port Said stadium in 2012 and a stampede in 2015. Players and some fans welcome the return, while others, like Youssef Abdul Aziz, a survivor from the Port Said incident, remain skeptical. The move is seen as a way to monetize the sport, with club owners and the government recognizing the economic potential of football in Egypt.
Egyptian Copts angry after pilgrim massacre
The article discusses the aftermath of an attack on Coptic Christians in Minya, Egypt, where seven pilgrims were killed and 19 wounded by the Egyptian branch of the Islamic State. The Coptic community expressed frustration with the government's failure to protect them, despite the support they showed for President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi after the ousting of Mohamed Morsi. The government's response to the attack and the security measures taken were criticized, and the need for a more inclusive education system to combat radical thought was highlighted. The article also touches on the historical discrimination against Copts and the current political dynamics between the Coptic Church and the Egyptian government.
Egypt’s bearded police lose court battle to keep their beats
On Wednesday, Cairo's Court of Urgent Matters ruled against police officers' right to sport long beards, a practice previously banned in 2012. The ruling supports the government's stance on maintaining a secular police force. Beards are often associated with Salafi beliefs or the Muslim Brotherhood, and some officers grew beards during Mohammed Morsi's presidency. The court overturned a lower court's decision that allowed bearded officers to return if they trimmed their beards. The ruling emphasized the importance of regulations over personal freedom and cited concerns over beards indicating affiliation with banned or terrorist groups. The article also discusses the broader debate on the religious significance of beards and mentions several individuals involved in the controversy.
Egypt’s bearded police lose court battle to keep their beats
On Wednesday, Cairo's Court of Urgent Matters ruled against police officers sporting long beards, a practice seen as a sign of Salafi beliefs or alignment with the Muslim Brotherhood. This ruling ends a six-year legal battle that began after the 2012 police ban on facial hair. The ban's enforcement weakened during Mohammed Morsi's presidency but was reinstated after his ousting by the military, led by current leader Abdel Fattah El Sisi. The court's decision prioritizes adherence to regulations over personal freedom, citing concerns over national unity and potential links between bearded officers and terrorist activities. The ruling overturns a previous lower court decision that allowed bearded officers to return to the force under certain conditions. The article also discusses the broader debate on the religious significance of beards and mentions several individuals involved in the controversy.
Hamas' glorious post-war moment
The article discusses the divided opinions among Palestinians following an 11-day war with Israel and the postponement of their elections by President Mahmoud Abbas. Some Palestinians seek new leadership and a path to statehood and security, while others, previously lukewarm about Hamas, now see the group as the sole defender of their rights. The conflict has seemingly increased support for Hamas, complicating the prospects for peace and a two-state solution. The article also touches on the recent violence in Gaza and Israel, the situation in Jerusalem, including the Al-Aqsa mosque incidents and Sheikh Jarrah evictions, and the international response, particularly from the Biden administration. It highlights the views of several Palestinians and experts on the future of Palestinian politics and the role of armed resistance versus diplomacy.
Egypt’s Coptic Christians celebrate Christmas, ponder changing date
In El Kosheh, Egypt, known as 'Little Jerusalem,' Coptic Christians are grappling with changing Christmas traditions and the possibility of aligning their celebration dates with Western Christianity. Traditionally celebrating Christmas Eve on January 6th due to the Julian calendar, some community members are considering a shift to December 24-25 for global Christian unity. This comes amidst the adoption of new customs like Christmas trees and Santa Claus, which were not part of the rural Coptic heritage but have been embraced by some as a source of joy, especially after a massacre in 2000. The article also touches on the violent challenges the community faces, despite support from President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi. A controversial proposal to change the nativity feast date has led to division within the community, with some strongly opposing the change, including a group known as 'The Faith Protectors.'
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