US partners shy away as Pentagon readies for potential strikes against Iran Turkey and the United Kingdom are the latest among Washington’s military partners seeking to distance themselves from being tied to any planned strikes against Iran. United States
Analysis Despite warnings from Israel's defense elite, Netanyahu pushes for Iran strike Although Israeli advisers warn against appearing to drag the US into war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not hidden his desire to help topple the Islamic Republic. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
In letter, US lays out 7 demands for next Iraqi PM, with emphasis on Iran The Trump administration is pressing Baghdad on Iranian influence and the nomination of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, with Iraq's top diplomat claiming the US stipulations include a "hint" toward potential sanctions. Iraq
Iran, Russia hold naval drills as Araghchi briefs Saudi FM on nuclear talks There are increasing indications a US military strike could be on the horizon as momentum toward a new Iran nuclear deal stalls. Iran
US Joint Chiefs nominee emphasizes Middle East cooperation to deter Iran Air Force Gen. CQ Brown told Senate lawmakers that the United States should provide Middle Eastern states with the military capabilities they need to deter attacks by Iran. Washington Connection
US, Israel war games underscore warnings to Iran on nuclear enrichment This week's Juniper Oak exercise follows reports that the Biden administration has sought to commit Tehran to an informal arrangement limiting its nuclear enrichment outside of the JCPOA. Iran
What does Rob Malley’s suspension mean for Iran? While Iran's pro-government conservative media outlets have attempted to downplay the significance of this development, reformist sources view it as an ominous sign. Iran
US confirms Iran’s IRGC seized tanker smuggling fuel in Gulf The seizure by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps came just a day the US Navy thwarted attempts by Iran's navy to seize two commercial tankers in the Gulf of Oman. Legacy: Gulf
Iran boasts to OPEC of growing crude sales despite sanctions Iran's top energy official told oil-exporting nations that the Islamic Republic is in good shape bypassing sanctions to sell its lifeline product as he advertised an attractive investment market in his country. Iran
Analysis Iran’s new nuclear normal gets boost from oil exports Also: The Islamic Republic cracks down on the hijab "conspiracy" while suffering brain drain; researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov abducted by Iraqi militia. By Week in Review , Andrew Parasiliti
Analysts skeptical new Iran-US arrangement would significantly impact oil market Tehran has been increasing its output over the last year despite the sanctions on its oil industry. Iran
Analysis Iran’s membership in Shanghai Cooperation Organization further aligns it with Russia, China Iran becoming a full member of the China and Russia-led SCO may be more symbolic than beneficial, but could help Iran nonetheless amid international isolations, sanctions and shifting regional dynamics. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Shots fired as Iran tries to seize oil tankers in Gulf of Oman, US Navy says The United States said Iran’s navy opened fire on a commercial tanker while attempting to seize it off the coast of Oman, in the latest tense encounter since Washington has moved to block sanctioned exports of Iranian petroleum. Legacy: Gulf
GOP lawmakers demand answers on Iran envoy Malley's suspension House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Mike McCaul is requesting “all documents and communications” related to Robert Malley’s leave and security clearance suspension. Iran
Iran to become full member of Shanghai alliance: Russian FM Gulf states are also seeking to join China and Russia in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Iran
Iran envoy Rob Malley on leave over security clearance probe The State Department says Abram Paley is currently serving as the acting special envoy for Iran. Iran