Iraq targets desert 'wali' and braces for impact of possible conflict

Counterterrorism operations in Iraq’s western desert have resulted in the killing of an Islamic State leader as regional tensions rise across the border ahead of a likely Turkish military operation in northern Syria.

Iraq

Analysis

UN: Majority of Syrian refugees don't plan to go home within year

Most Syrian refugees in the Middle East do not plan to return to Syria in the near future.

By Adam Lucente

In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change

Iran's IRGC says US is retreating from region

The head of Iran's IRGC said that the United States is now leaving the Middle East.

Iran

Israeli coalition collapse sets up Netanyahu-Lapid political showdown

With new elections on the horizon, former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Alternate Prime Minister Yair Lapid prepare themselves for the ultimate fight.

Israel

Erdogan, MBS embrace "new era” for Turkish-Saudi ties in Ankara

Saudi prince's state visit represents economic and regional necessities for Turkey, even as the murder of Jamal Khashoggi in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate remains unresolved.

Turkey

Egypt-Lebanon gas deal awaits US decision on Syria sanctions

A State Department spokesperson said the administration will review the final contracts and financing terms to address any sanctions concerns.

Lebanon

Israeli minister backs Moroccan claims to Western Sahara sovereignty

On a first official visit to Morocco, Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked said Israel recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over the Western Sahara, and stated Israel’s intention to enable Moroccans to work in Israel in the construction and nursing sectors.

Israel

US deputy treasury secretary in Turkey to warn against evading Russian sanctions

In a visit to Ankara Wednesday, US Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo plans to remind Turkey that anyone evading US sanctions against Russia will be held accountable.

Turkey

In race against time, Israeli government passes first test to dissolve

Today’s procedural step in the Knesset moves the Israeli coalition government closer to dissolution and elections in the fall.

Israel

Analysis

How Turkey's opposition to Sweden, Finland joining NATO could backfire

It seems Turkey will continue to block Finland and Sweden’s memberships at the upcoming NATO summit, but Ankara is now signaling its lack of interest in strengthening the alliance.

By Cengiz Candar

Idlib sees new escalation between Syrian government, opposition forces

Government forces escalated tensions on the battlefronts in Idlib in response to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham targeting the town of Kassab in the Latakia countryside after installing a statue of former Syrian President Hafez al-Assad.

Syria

Yemen's new leadership seeks regional help with sweeping reforms at home

The recent overseas tours by Yemen's new leadership intend to garner support for implementing diverse national reforms.

Legacy: Gulf