Analysis After Trump’s pardon letter to Herzog, 4 scenarios emerge for Netanyahu’s trial President Donald Trump again asked Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been on trial for over five years. By Rina Bassist In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs
French cement giant Lafarge on trial for ‘funding terrorism’ in Syria: What to know The French company is accused of funneling millions of dollars via its subsidiary Lafarge Cement Syria to jihadi groups and intermediaries to keep its cement plant operating in northern Syria. Syria
Morocco arrests 400+ as youth protesters demand government steps down The group leading the protests, known as GenZ 212, posted a list of demands on social media Friday, including the dismissal of the current government led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. Morocco
5 years after Lebanon's port explosion: Can Beirut find accountability? Not one official has been held accountable five years after the deadly port blast that killed over 220 people and destroyed much of Beirut. Lebanon
Analysis Trump’s intervention fuels debate in Israel: Will Netanyahu accept plea deal or pardon? By Rina Bassist In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs
EU commission removes UAE, adds Lebanon and Algeria to money laundering list: What to know United Arab Emirates
Tunisia’s democracy on life support as politicians squabble Eight years after the Tunisian Revolution that sparked the Arab Spring, Tunisia's transition to democracy remains complex, unfulfilled and at risk. Tunisia
Veteran Likud member must raise integrity banner against Netanyahu’s rule Knesset member Benny Begin has long been the emblem of political honesty and integrity; now he must raise his voice against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's continued rule while suspected of corruption. Israel
Analysis: Israel’s dirty election campaign kicks off Shortly after announcing early elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is targeting his rivals with rumors, accusations and even fake news, especially former IDF chief Benny Gantz. Israel
Inheritance battle brewing for Yemeni political control The late Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh left behind wealth estimated at $32 billion to $60 billion, but an even bigger fortune is up for grabs politically. Yemen
Who's afraid of a free Israeli press? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has intensified attacks against media outlets and journalists that don't serve his interests. Israel
Turkey's 'Olive Branch' takes root in Syrian olive business Kurdish olive growers in Afrin, Syria, complain bitterly that Turkish authorities who control the area aren't doing anything to stop massive exploitation and armed extortion that is costing the local oil economy $100 million. Syria
Netanyahu's stab at premier for life Ahead of Israel's next elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing a bill that would limit the task of forming a coalition to a party leader. Israel
Likud party hostage in Netanyahu’s hands Even after the publication of police recommendations to indict him, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not consult with his party seniors, nor did he involve them in his intentions. Israel
Hard-liners face backlash for attempted impeachment of Zarif A group of hard-line lawmakers are seeking the impeachment of Iran's foreign minister on several grounds, including his assertion that money laundering is taking place in Iran. Iran
Corruption charges delay completion of Iraqi Cabinet The political alliance that allowed Iraq to move forward in building a new government could be on the brink of collapse. Iraq
Hard-liners call for Zarif's head over money laundering comment Iran's foreign minister is facing harsh criticism from hard-liners after his surprisingly frank remarks about money laundering in the country. Iran
