New 'rules of the game' for Israeli-Hamas standoff The expulsion from Qatar of Hamas leaders and the movement's reconciliation with Iran has potentially changed the "rules of the game" between Israel and Hamas. Qatar
Russian Subbotniks dream of coming to Israel After joining the Jewish people two centuries ago, the Subbotnik community feels that Israel should recognize them as Jews and enable them to immigrate. Countries
Jordan pins hopes on US-Russian accord on southern Syria Amid talks about secret trilateral meetings being held in Amman between Jordan, the United States and Russia to establish a de-escalation zone in southern Syria, Jordan would reject the presence of Islamic State militants on its northern borders, or fighters supported by Iran. Jordan
Online database gives uncensored look into Lebanon's censorship A Lebanese NGO has launched a virtual library to track the history of banned artistic works and products in Lebanon, shedding light on evolving limits of freedom of expression in the country. Lebanon
What's the real goal of Tunisia’s campaign against corruption? In a supposed anti-corruption move, the Tunisian government arrested eight businessmen, including one charged with treason and endangering the country's safety. Tunisia
Women-only cafe opens in Upper Egypt The instantly popular Pink Cafe for women meets a need in Upper Egypt, a conservative place where women have few options for socializations and entertainment. Egypt
Blocking embassy move to Jerusalem Trump's wisest decision yet By signing the waiver against moving the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, President Donald Trump displayed responsibility and sound judgment. Palestine
The curious timing of the Qatar crisis The latest Middle East crisis, the rift between Qatar and its Gulf Cooperation Council partners, has come at a sensitive time for the Gulf states. Legacy: Gulf
Applying the ‘Bosnian model’ to Syria’s crisis Could the United States and Russia learn from the Dayton Agreement to reach a lasting peace deal in Syria? Jordan
Kirkuk’s oil to play big role in Kurdish independence The post-Islamic State era will be crucial for Kirkuk, as conflicts over the governorate's territory and oil will determine the future of relations between the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Iraq
Ankara's paranoia spikes as Qatar shunned The news that five Arab countries have cut ties with Qatar, its close regional ally, has rattled Turkey, which depends on its political, military and business ties with Qatar. United Arab Emirates
Ankara's governor decrees no protest singing after sundown Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s fascination with bans is increasing along with his desperation to remain in control. Turkey
The story behind Israel’s atomic explosion plan For many years, Israel tried to prevent Brig. Gen. Yitzhak Yaakov from revealing the story of the 1967 plans to detonate an explosive device in the Sinai Peninsula. Egypt
Re-elected Rouhani now stuck in 'middle-class trap' The Iranian middle class made sure President Hassan Rouhani was elected to a second term, but if their grievances are not properly addressed, the middle class could also ensure the rise of another hard-liner to power. Iran
Iran’s supreme leader attacks US for support of Saudi Arabia Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said that Iran must not compromise with Western demands. Saudi Arabia
'Dean' of prisoners appointed to top Fatah body As the hunger strike by Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails ended, Fatah named the longest-serving prisoner, Karim Younis, to its Central Committee. Palestine
