Analysis

With clock ticking, Iran shows mix of defiance, engagement in nuclear talks

A tug-of-war over Iran's uranium enrichment continues to hint at an impasse in the US-Iran nuclear talks, but Tehran is also subtly exhibiting flexibility on allowing American inspectors into its nuclear sites.

By A correspondent in Tehran

In Tehran, reporting on politics

Israel blocks Saudi, UAE and other FMs from West Bank visit: What to know

The move to block the visit comes amid heightened international pressure on Israel to end its military offensive in Gaza and make progress toward Palestinian statehood, a key condition for normalization with Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia

Protests surge as Libyans demand PM Dbeibeh’s resignation: What to know

The latest protests were triggered by clashes between government-aligned militias in mid-May that left eight dead and deepened public frustration over militia control in Tripoli.

Libya

Egypt to ramp up ties with Belarus as Russia opens Red Sea consulate

Russia plans to open a new consulate in coastal Sharm el-Sheikh, following Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s visit to Moscow and signs of growing ties between Egypt and Belarus.

Egypt

Exclusive

US Syria envoy Barrack calls Kurdish SDF chief Kobane as Turkey mulls meeting

Sources tell Al-Monitor that Turkish officials have proposed a high-level meeting with SDF commander Mazlum Kobane in Damascus, contingent on the outcome of ongoing talks with Syria’s interim government.

By Amberin Zaman

Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture

Analysis

Rebuffed by Trump, has Netanyahu missed his chance to strike Iran?

The Israeli prime minister waited for Donald Trump to take office before deciding on a strike, but now the US president wants a deal with Iran to stop an Israeli attack.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

Saudi Arabia releases Iranian cleric who criticized Hajj: What to know

Iran-Saudi Arabia relations have improved in recent years, including in Hajj-related cooperation, though tensions remain over Iran’s regional policies.

Saudi Arabia

Why a US-backed Gaza plan is sparking accusations of weaponizing aid

Humanitarian experts say an obscure paramilitary contractor led by a former CIA official may be aiding Israel’s military in using food as a weapon of war in Gaza.

Palestine

Turkey unveils prison reform bill, but Kurds say it falls short

The proposed changes would expand conditional release for some inmates but fail to meet demands of the pro-Kurdish DEM Party amid peace efforts.

Turkey

Newsletter: Security

Food as tool of war in Gaza?

A controversial plan to deliver food directly into Gaza is off to a troubled start. Why is the US-backed mechanism opposed by the UN and international humanitarian aid groups?

By Jared Szuba

In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military

Gaza ceasefire seen imminent as Witkoff finalizes Hamas-Israel deal

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told relatives of hostages held in Gaza that he accepts the recent proposal by American envoy Steve Witkoff, which is expected to secure the release of 10 abductees and establish a two-month ceasefire in Gaza.

Israel

EU sanctions Sunni factions accused of violence against Syria’s Alawites, Kurds

As former rebel leaders take positions in the new Syrian government, Kurdish officials warn of renewed threats to their autonomy.

Syria