Israel, Hamas work quietly together on development projects for Gaza

Though they pretend not to be communicating, top Israeli and Hamas officials are working together via Egypt and other channels to advance development plans for the Gaza Strip.

Palestine

Israeli annexation plans endanger ties with Jordan, Egypt

Israel’s political right should pay attention to statements made Jordan's King Abdullah, who made it clear that he objects to all annexation plans advanced by the Netanyahu government.

Palestine

Arab lawmaker says joining coalition would legitimize Israeli occupation

The leading elected Palestinian leader in Israel tells Al-Monitor that while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s vicious racism led Arab voters to the polls, the Arab coalition still cannot join a ruling coalition.

Palestine

Will new initiative spark interest in ending the Hamas-Fatah schism?

Eight Palestinian factions in Gaza have put forward an initiative to end the Palestinian divide ongoing since 2007.

Palestine

Do the Hamas-Israeli understandings have a future?

The results of the Israeli elections have raised concerns within Hamas about the future of the understandings reached between the movement and Israel that have provided Gaza a lifeline and that are helping it remain in control.

Qatar

Egyptian FM: Ethiopian dam development shouldn’t 'come at expense of lives of Egyptians'

In an exclusive, in-depth interview with Al-Monitor, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry says he sees no change in Qatari policies; great potential in regional integration; and says Egypt will play its "traditional role" to support "courageous decisions" to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Qatar

Are Netanyahu and Gantz really so different?

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Blue and White leader Benny Gantz appear to hold similar views on certain issues, but are miles apart in tone and expression.

Palestine

Palestinian school to produce anti-corruption experts

The Palestinian Anti-Corruption Academy plans to launch next year to train Palestinians with skills to curb corruption.

Palestine

Israel gets new chance to reach arrangement with Palestinians

If Blue and White leader Benny Gantz composes the new government and invites Yisrael Beitenu leader Avigdor Liberman to be part of it, then these two men must focus on reaching an arrangement with Hamas.

Palestine

Abbas dissolves tribal affairs committee in Gaza

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has ordered the Higher Committee for Tribal Affairs in Gaza disbanded over ties to exiled Fatah leader Mohammed Dahlan, but the group is committed to continuing its work.

Palestine

Imprisoned Hamas members end 2-week hunger strike

The senior leadership of Hamas prisoners said the prisoners have ended their hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Israel Prison Service to stop using cellphone jamming devices, but Israeli media portray the strike as having little effect.

Palestine

Was Netanyahu’s controversial visit to Hebron worth election efforts?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes a rare visit to the West Bank city of Hebron, drawing anger among Palestinians who warn against Israel’s efforts to extend sovereignty over Hebron’s Old City.

Palestine