NATO deputy visits Israel, emphasizes shared threats from Iran, Russia NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana told Al-Monitor that he is optimistic the alliance will soon conclude a new four-year partnership framework with Israel. Israel
Can Turkey’s new economic plan restore foreign investor confidence? Eager to regain Istanbul and other major cities from the opposition, Erdogan is expected to turn to populist policies again ahead of local elections next spring. Turkey
Analysis Israel's security brass advocates Saudi deal as way to calm tensions with Palestinians Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears trapped between security establishment advice to proceed with a Saudi deal plus concessions to the Palestinians and allied hardliners' rejection of any compromise with Ramallah. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
Iraqi Kurdish farmers expect weak tobacco harvest Aftereffects of genocide, competition from cheap imports and lack of government support combine to limit the market for local agricultural products. Iraq
World Bank official says Turkey's economic U-turn 'step in right direction’ The comments from the institution’s Turkey director follow the Turkish government finally raising interest rates to battle inflation. But the Turkish economy is still struggling. Turkey
Analysis Saudi Arabia hosts first UNESCO session amid massive tourism drive Recognition of more sites by the global heritage organization may help the kingdom reach its goals of more jobs and revenue from tourism. By Salim A. Essaid
US, France, Germany condemn Mahmoud Abbas' antisemitic comments Washington's antisemitism envoy has accused the Palestinian leader of distorting the Holocaust. Palestine
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 will benefit Islamic finance sector, says Moody’s The kingdom has the largest Islamic banking market in the world, and roughly 83% of its total assets are Sharia-compliant. Saudi Arabia
US top general talks Syria, NATO with new Turkey counterpart Gen. Mark Milley's first announced call with newly appointed Turkish armed forces chief Metin Gurak follows reports that the United States is exploring alternate routes for Ukraine's grain exports. Turkey
