Why Hamas resumed ties with Iran

In light of its worsening financial crisis and need for military support, Hamas has resumed relations with Tehran, which have been strained since the start of the Syrian revolution.

Saudi Arabia

Will Popular Mobilization Units participate in battle for Mosul?

Popular Mobilization Units leaders insist on participating in the fight to liberate Mosul, despite renewed demands by some Sunni politicians to exclude the units because of their history of human rights violations.

Iraq

Khamenei appoints new head of Iran's armed forces

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has appointed Mohammad Bagheri as the new chief of staff of the Armed Forces.

Iran

Are hard-liners moving in on Iran's Oil Ministry?

Iranian hard-liners may be behind the replacement of the director of the National Iranian Oil Company, dealing a fresh blow to the pro-reform camp.

Iran

3 Iranian rangers killed by poachers in 48 hours

After three Iranian rangers were killed by poachers in 48 hours, some Iranians are asking if the law is doing enough to protect them.

Iran

Why Iranians are turning against Leonardo DiCaprio

The announcement of a Hollywood biopic about 13th-century Persian poet Rumi with Leonardo DiCaprio in the lead role has sparked an outcry among Iranians.

Iran

Iran rejects speculation on shift, divisions over Syria

Iranian officials claim no differences among officials on Syria; Russia may be rethinking its Syria strategy; UN envoy stresses need for US, Russia “critical mass” in Syria.

Syria

Rouhani adviser says Brexit 'historic opportunity' for Iran

While some Iranian officials have spoken in favor of Britain's referendum in leaving the European Union, it is unclear what advantage there is for Iran.

Iran

Should next US president consider an Iran nuke deal 2.0?

Sen. Chris Coons says it's critical to forge new relationships between top US and Iranian officials when the Barack Obama administration leaves office to ensure continued smooth implementation of the landmark nuclear deal.

Congress

Is Iran’s Syria policy really about to shift?

Iranian officials have rejected suggestions that a staff reshuffle at the Foreign Ministry means the country’s regional policies are soon to change.

Syria

Are major players shifting strategies in Syria?

Russia and the US find themselves in a complex situation in Syria, with plenty of doubt to go around.

Syria

Iranians shocked after deaths of 19 soldiers in bus accidents

Iranian social media users and officials expressed grief and outrage after 19 Iranian soldiers were killed in two separate bus accidents.

Iran