Challenges still stalk Syrian peace efforts

Despite the apparent progress in peace talks, there's still a lot of maneuvering going on in Syria — on the ground and among the many parties involved.

Syria

Turkish bluster hides shaky leverage over KRG

Despite Turkish threats to block Iraqi Kurdistan's oil exports, the Kurdistan Region's pipeline and main Habur border crossing are still open.

Iraq

Turkey’s military options in Iraq and Syria hinge on US and Russia

Any Turkish military move into northern Iraq or northern Syria seems highly unlikely without US or Russian consent respectively.

Iraq

Putin boxed in by Iran, Turkey on Iraqi Kurdish referendum

The Russian president could find himself at odds with Iran if he misplays a weak hand.

Iraq

Putin, Erdogan emerge all smiles from Ankara meeting

As Turkey becomes more alienated from the West, Moscow is filling the gap by extending its friendship — and more — to Ankara.

Turkey

Russia tempers Erdogan's threats against Iraqi Kurdistan

Major Russian interests in Iraqi Kurdistan’s energy sector are seen as having a bearing on Turkey’s threatening response to the Kurdish independence referendum.

Iraq

Turkey, Iran, Iraq in shaky alignment against Iraqi Kurdistan

Turkey, Iran and Iraq have closed ranks over the independence vote in Iraqi Kurdistan, but how long can their partnership survive?

Iraq

Culture Alert: October dominated by film festivals in Middle East

A number of film festivals, from short films to documentaries, take place in Beirut, Tehran, Haifa and Istanbul throughout October — where many of the regional countries’ nominees for Oscars will be screened.

Israel

Does Istanbul mayor's ouster spell AKP shakeup?

Istanbul's mayor, a member of the Justice and Development Party, has appeared on post-coup Turkey's chopping block as the ruling party works to revitalize its base and prominent members jockey for the jobs.

Turkey

Turkey indulges in schadenfreude as German right triumphs

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says mainstream German politicians paid a price for dragging Turkey into their campaign, but he may find the new government in Berlin even more reluctant to mend ties with Turkey.

Turkey

Turkey’s threat of sanctions against Iraqi Kurds rattles its own traders

The economic sanctions that Turkey threatens against the Iraqi Kurds have sparked anxiety inside its own borders, where many depend on bilateral trade to make a living.

Turkey

Border crossings bring in cash for Free Syrian Army factions

The Turkey-backed Free Syrian Army is racking up serious sums of money from fees it charges at border crossings in northern Syria.

Syria