Analysis How militias in Anbar could complicate Iraq’s energy ambitions Securing western Anbar is emerging as a key test of Iraq’s ability to curb armed factions, attract foreign investment and unlock the province’s vast energy potential. By Shelly Kittleson In Baghdad, reporting on Iraqi politics
Exclusive How Syrian Air is braving regional turbulence to rise from the ashes In an interview with Al-Monitor, CEO Anwar Akkad lays out his ambitious plans to expand the carrier’s fleet, destinations and role in reconnecting Syria to the world. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Analysis Can Netanyahu turn Israel's UN isolation into strength at home? The absence of a Trump meeting would have been awkward for Netanyahu, who has long portrayed himself to Israeli voters as uniquely close to the US president. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
UAE's Gargash expects 'prolonged' war, calls for Iran-Gulf security talks "We need a new mindset that these sort of discussions ... can happen at an Iranian-American level, it should also take place at an Iranian-Arab level," Gargash told Al-Monitor. United Arab Emirates
UN accuses Syria of failing to answer for chemical weapons program The UN's top disarmament official said Syria's full disclosure was "essential" to resolving outstanding issues. Syria
Islamic State ramps up activities in eastern Syria Islamic State is applying Sharia rules in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor and imposing taxes on residents by force of arms. Syria
Ancient Kurdish rain ritual revived in Syria as drought continues Kurdish farmers in the countryside of Qamishli revive an ancient ritual called Ziwa, or the Bride of the Rain, to invoke rain after seasons of drought. Syria
Syrian soldiers killed in deadly Islamic State ambush in Deir Ezzor The Syrian army loyal to Bashar al-Assad has struggled to control the country's eastern desert. Syria
Islamic State cells impose levy on oil investors in northeastern Syria Islamic State cells are imposing levies on oil investors who have been contracted to work in oil fields in agreement with the controlling forces in northeastern Syria, as a share of the oil investment in a bid to finance their activities. Syria
Opposition-led government in Syria's Idlib increases taxes on motorcycles Civilians in northwest Syria, where motorcycles constitute a common and inexpensive method of transport, are struggling to pay several new taxes imposed by the HTS-led government. Syria
Kurdish leaders say poverty 'biggest threat,' driving Syrians into arms of IS Offers of money by the Islamic State to join its ranks prove "irresistible" to those hit hard by Syria's collapsed economy. Syria
Syrian jihadist group opens food market north of Idlib Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which controls Idlib in northwestern Syria, is supporting development projects in various economic sectors. Syria
Syrian women and girls in Aleppo find new outlet in sports Many young women in Afrin, northern Aleppo, which is controlled by the Turkish-backed Free Syrian Army (FSA) are showing great interest in sports, as opposing social customs and traditions begin to fade. Syria
Syrian government loosens travel restrictions on Christian clergy The Syrian government has waived border fees for Christian church leaders entering the country. Syria
Syrian jihadi group sees wave of defections in Idlib Schisms within Hayat Tahrir al-Sham are widening as its leader shifts to convey a moderate image and eliminate more radical rival groups. Syria
Iran expands economic reach into oil-rich region of Syria Iran exports to Syria are increasing, a sign of an improving economic relation between the two countries. Syria