Analysis What's next as Khamenei rejects Trump's offer for US-Iran diplomacy? The Iranian supreme leader's adamant refusal laid bare divisions within Iran's political structure and has shaken pro-engagement camps that pinned hopes of economic reform on recent overtures from the US president. By A correspondent in Tehran In Tehran, reporting on politics
Trump administration notifies Congress of $7.4 billion in arms sales to Israel The latest weapons package comes after Trump informed Netanyahu the United States would "take over" the Gaza Strip and develop it into the "Riviera of the Middle East." United States
Four killed in Syria-Lebanon border clashes between HTS and clans: What to know An offensive launched by Syria along its border with Lebanon on Thursday escalated into intense clashes between Syrian forces and Lebanese armed groups, including those associated with multiple Lebanese clans. Syria
Feature After Assad’s fall, Iran hopes to creep back through Syria's back door Iranian officials admitted they were "defeated very badly" with the fall of the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and their prospects for building influence under the new government are limited. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Hamas names 3 Israeli hostages to be released as ceasefire deal faces complications After a brief delay, Hamas communicated to Israel the names of the three hostages set to be released on Saturday. Israel
