Italy has world’s second oldest population, 87% of those killed by COVID-19 are over 70; world lockdown accelerates as borders shuttered and factory closures announced

Confirmed COVID-19 cases have surpassed 18,000 across region, with more than 1,000 deaths recorded in 7 countries, most of them in Iran

After study suggests popular anti-inflammatory drug could worsen symptoms, experts recommend using paracetamol instead until more research is done

Israeli authorities to allow Palestinian laborers to stay in Israel for one to two months; construction of two quarantine facilities in Gaza commences

Owners take opposing views on government measures banning people from sitting in their establishments; despite restrictions, people out and about in the city

Official says only 'emergency situations' will be allowed through Rafah; schools, universities, kindergartens to remain closed until end of March

Palestinian police says it arrested cafe owners in Ramallah for not abiding by orders barring opening of their establishments; health authorities in Gaza say enclave has no cases

Global deaths pass 'tragic milestone' of 5,000, with cases topping 134,000; officials say they can't tell when pandemic will peak and call on countries to use all means possible

In using charged word that it had previously shied away from, UN health agency intent on shaking more lethargic countries into taking more aggressive steps against contagion

Liaison suggests exceptions will be made for Palestinians in Jordan who want to come home; also says goods between West Bank and Jordan will continue to flow