Countries in the GCC account for 36.3 per cent of all regional infections, while Iran alone comprises 22.4 per cent

The number of Covid-19 cases in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region crossed 2,511,864 on 25 October, according to Worldometers data collated by MEED.

Countries in the GCC comprise 36.3 per cent (912,020) of all regional cases, while Iran alone comprises 22.4 per cent (562,705) of all 2.5 million cases.

To date, Iran has confirmed 450,891 recoveries and 32,320 deaths due to Covid-19. 

On 24 October, President Hassan Rouhani said compliance with precautionary measures is essential to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Iran.

He added: "Currently, there is no way to fight this virus other than observing health protocols."

Late last week, Iran's National Task Force for Fighting Coronavirus called for a reduction in the number of government employees in Tehran's offices by 50 per cent until the end of the month.

The task force also imposed an additional week of strict restrictions in 43 cities that are classified as 'critical status' for Covid-19.

Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria, Yemen, Syria, Morocco and Lebanon together comprise 41.3 per cent (1,037,139) of all regional cases.