Jerusalem Post (Israel)
Abbas planning to extend his own term

With Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas planning an extra year at the top, and Gazans celebrating Hamas’s 21st birthday, the Israeli daily takes a look at the ongoing divisions in the Palestinian camp.

The Guardian (UK)
Besieged and stressed Gazans fall victim to black market painkiller

The UK daily goes on the ground in the Gaza Strip, and reports on record sales of a painkiller on the black market. The UK daily says ordinary people are using Tramadol to cope with the stress of daily life under the Israeli blockade.

Libération (France)
Les brigades de la pudeur (The moral police)

The French daily heads to Jerusalem’s orthodox Jewish districts, and reports on the increasing reign of fear exercised by so-called moral police groups.

Bangkok Post (Thailand)
Taiwan, China open new transport links

Direct air and sea routes between China and Taiwan reopen after 60 years. The Thai daily reports on a thaw in relations after Taipei moderated its pro-independence rhetoric.

China Daily (China)
New dawn descends over Straits

Staying with Taiwan, China’s English language daily hails a new spirit of trust amid the revamped ties with Taipei, and predicts increased trade will help both parties weather the financial crisis.

Independent (UK)
Rome stages big cheese bailout for Parmesan

The UK daily reports from Italy, with news that not even Parmesan cheese has managed to escape the global financial woes.