Hamas names new intelligence chief, sidesteps agreement with Fatah

The Interior Ministry in Gaza recently announced the appointment of a new chief of intelligence and chief of staff, although some argue there is no precedent or statutory basis for such positions in the ministry.

Palestine

Hamas: Israeli security measures won't stop attacks on settlers

Israel has stepped up its security measures in the West Bank in response to increasing attacks by Palestinians against settlers, although Hamas says such efforts will not stop it.

Palestine

Hoping to counter Iran, former Israeli defense official calls on Riyadh to add 'security annex' to Arab Peace Initiative

With Iran getting stronger and more self-confident, Saudi Arabia should add a "security annex" to its original Arab Peace Initiative to establish a defense cooperation framework between Israel and select Arab states.

Legacy: Gulf

Gazans use WhatsApp to see what's up with the news

Virtual communication application WhatsApp has taken on a more media-oriented role in the Gaza Strip, whereby media outlets are now using it to send news to subscribers, but there are still things to be improved.

Palestine

Is Russia Hamas' bridge to global diplomacy?

Hamas is seeking to improve its international relations by reinforcing some ties and mending others following a period of relative isolation.

Saudi Arabia

How one West Bank mosque is reconnecting with local Palestinians

By encouraging Hebron's Palestinian residents to hold weddings and other celebrations in the Ibrahimi Mosque, officials and activists hope to restore their connection to the sacred site.

Palestine

Abbas oversteps in moves against 'political sabotage'

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas appears to have gone too far, upsetting his European Union supporters, in ordering the closure of the Palestinian Peace Coalition, led by Yasser Abed Rabbo, whom Abbas earlier removed as secretary-general of the PLO's Executive Committee.

Palestine

Hamas caught between Tehran and Riyadh

Hamas is trying to rebuild its relationship with Iran, but mistrust on both sides is impeding the process.

Saudi Arabia

Why are so many young Gazans jumping off roofs?

Despite the dangers, some Gazan youth are finding outlets for their energy by taking up sports like parkour and Okinawan kobudo.

Palestine

After Israeli settlers left, these Gazans planted more than eggplants

Since Israeli settlers withdrew in 2005 from south Gaza, the Palestinian government allowed investments in these lands that turned into crops that generate considerable profit despite the water crisis.

Palestine

Gazans lighten up with laughter

In light of the ongoing crises facing the Gaza Strip, some have turned to satire as a way of mitigating their suffering.

Palestine

Abbas must accept Gaza, West Bank will not unite

A long-term truce between Israel and Hamas could perpetuate Gaza's separation from the West Bank, but that might be the price of dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians toward a future comprehensive agreement.

Palestine