US hopes for a quick Syria exit run into a minefield in Raqqa

The Donald Trump administration faces significant hurdles getting the centerpiece of its reconstruction efforts back on track.

Syria

Moscow updates playbook on making Israel, Iran happy

Russia faces the conundrum of figuratively finding common ground between Iran and Israel in Syria while literally keeping distance between them.

Israel

Is it true that Afrin's natives can't go home again?

The battle appears to be over in Afrin, Syria, but a war of words, and worse, continues there as the Kurdish People’s Protection Units accuse the Turkish army and its affiliated militias of forcing demographic change.

Syria

Idlib could be trump card or time bomb for Turkey

Turkey may be pushing its luck by expanding its operational field into Latakia province, provoking skirmishes with the Syrian army.

Syria

Forces in Iraq's Anbar unite for cross-border anti-IS operation

As the second phase of the operation to retake the last major pocket of territory held by the Islamic State across the border continues, local Iraqi forces in the western Anbar city of Qaim are wary but hopeful that some of their disappeared may soon be found.

Iraq

Leader defines principles of new Future Syria Party

In an interview with Al-Monitor, the leader of the newly established Future Syria Party, Ibrahim al-Qaftan, rejected claims that the group seeks to counter Turkish pressure in northern Syria, stressing that its goal is to build a pluralistic and democratic state.

Syria

US pumps brakes as Ankara touts Manbij deal

No agreement has been struck between Turkey and the United States on the control of Manbij, though Ankara is eager to report one with its somewhat estranged ally.

Syria

Has the US conceded to Turkey in Manbij?

Diplomats say major differences on multiple levels make a breakthrough in US-Turkish strategy on Syria difficult.

Syria

Netanyahu’s dilemma on Hamas

Several signals indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is willing to compromise on the Gaza Strip and reach an agreement with Hamas in order to avoid another escalation.

Palestine

Jordan keeps close tabs on southern Syria amid heightened tensions

With reports that Iranian militias have withdrawn from southern Syria and the army is preparing to launch a military assault against rebels there, Jordan fears the cease-fire agreement could be jeopardized.

Israel

Putin, Macron explore what they have to offer each other on Iran, Syria

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum set the stage for French President Emmanuel Macron to pursue a broad agenda and perhaps bring his country and Russia closer regarding Syria and Iran.

Syria

Israel pushes US to recognize Golan Heights sovereignty

Some Israeli senior officials believe the Trump administration might agree to recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

Israel