Drought-stricken Iraq sends delegation to Turkey to discuss water cooperation Turkey recently agreed to release more water to Iraq amid the drought in the country, indicating improving coordination on resource management after years of tensions over Turkish dams. Iraq
Syria’s FM pays Lebanon first official visit since Assad’s fall: What to know Lebanon and post-Assad Syria are seeking to rebuild their relations by addressing longstanding issues that caused tension between the two countries for decades. Lebanon
US Senate approves repeal of Caesar Act sanctions on Syria: What to know The 2019 Caesar Act imposed sweeping sanctions on Syria to hold the government accountable for human rights abuses committed during the country’s civil war. Syria
Pentagon bolsters Gaza ceasefire oversight with 200-troop mission to Israel US military officials will help coordinate everything from logistics of humanitarian aid deliveries to building security force teams, but doubts remain as to whether any side can force Hamas to disarm. Palestine
Saudi Arabia grants citizenship to Uber co-founder, Red Sea Global CEO Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick and Red Sea Global CEO John Pagano have been granted Saudi citizenship. Saudi Arabia
Analysis Turkey’s long-sought Gaza mediator role brings high risks and high rewards If Ankara is seen as adopting an overly enthusiastic pro-Hamas stance, it risks provoking US President Donald Trump’s ire and further deteriorating relations with Israel. By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Analysis Netanyahu gamble appears to pay off as Israelis cheer Gaza retreat, planned hostage release The Israeli military started its withdrawal from the Strip even before receiving a formal order to do so. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
