Why Turkey and Egypt won’t reconcile anytime soon Following the failed coup attemp in Turkey, Egyptian officials have launched diplomatic assaults against the Turkish leadership, fearing that Egypt's own Islamists could re-emerge. Egypt
Is Abbas overstepping his authority with decision to form new court? The Palestinian government is working on establishing a High Criminal Court and amending the penal code enforced in the West Bank, in a move that many view as an encroachment of the legislative authority by the executive branch. Palestine
Abadi moves to demilitarize Iraq's cities Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi has instructed the Interior Ministry to take measures to remove signs of militarization from Iraqi cities. Iraq
Diaspora Palestinians called to invest in homeland With the Palestinian economy in crisis, Palestinian leaders and businessmen are coordinating to maximize external support from the Palestinian diaspora. Palestine
Why critically acclaimed Egyptian film faces backlash at home Egyptian director Mohamed Diab's "Clash" won accolades at Cannes this year, but the movie is now facing criticism after its premiere in Egypt. Egypt
Why Iran’s property market is unlikely to boom anytime soon The Iranian real estate market signals that a recovery is on the way, after an almost three-year-long recession — but there is still debate about the likelihood of a property boom. Iran
New taxes have Egyptian smokers fuming As part of a new VAT bill aimed at reforming the country’s fiscal policy, the Egyptian government hikes up taxes on cigarettes and tobacco for the third year in a row, raising concern among smokers of limited income who now must choose between paying more or quitting. Egypt
Khamenei calls negotiation with US 'lethal poison' Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has again criticized the nuclear deal, saying due to US-made obstacles, there have been no tangible effects for the people of Iran. United States
After massive purge, what’s next for Turkish Armed Forces? The major structural changes the Turkish Armed Forces is facing following the July 15 coup attempt could have big implications for the army’s strategic culture and Turkey's foreign policy. Turkey
Is Erdogan really stronger after failed coup? Contrary to the prevailing view that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emerged stronger from the failed coup attempt, a seasoned eye can discern signs that Turkey’s strongman feels less powerful. Turkey
Cause or cult? What it means to be a Gulenist What really motivates Fethullah Gulen's movement — tolerance and peace or blind ambition? Turkey
Demand for reform reaches Iraq's electoral commission A group of Iraqi parliamentarians wants to dissolve the Independent High Electoral Commission, but no satisfactory mechanism for selecting a new commission has been offered. Iraq
Why Israeli opposition leader shouldn't rejoice over convention victory The victory of Labor Chair Isaac Herzog over the party primary date has little significance in terms of public support and his chances to become the next prime minister. Israel
Will Bibi bring down Israel's public broadcasting? Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been redoubling his efforts to squash the new public broadcasting corporation before it is even born in his quest to control the media. Israel
