Politics & Security

Iraqis murdered in Syria’s al-Hol camp

Tens of thousands of Iraqi nationals, mostly women and children, are “stuck in limbo” in a camp in northeastern Syria as violence against them and regional risks increase.

Israel’s defense minister restores Iran to internal political agenda

Bracing for possible new elections, Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz is making the most of his public statements on the Iranian nuclear threat.

NATO allies read Turkey’s wish list as Ankara holds up membership bids

Ankara has listed the presence of what it calls terrorists in Sweden and Finland as its main objection to their accession but other factors could feature.

In surprise move, legislator on Israeli left quits coalition

By quitting the coalition, Meretz Knesset member Ghaida Rinawie Zoabi has changed the balance of power in the Israeli parliament and given the opposition a majority.

Killing of Palestinian journalist won’t push Arab party to quit Israeli coalition

Clashes between police and mourners at the funeral procession of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh add to the public pressure on Muslim coalition party Ra’am.

Israel links fate of Gaza workers to security developments

Israel deliberately expelled Gazan workers from inside Israeli cities and closed the Erez crossing with the Gaza Strip, citing the tense security and military situation with the Palestinian factions in the besieged enclave.

US assures Sweden, Finland of military support as Turkey delays NATO entry

The Takeaway: Egypt’s US envoy touts EastMed Gas Forum as regional model

Erdogan stands firm against NATO bids by Sweden and Finland; Israel pitched as alternative for Russian gas; Sudan’s coup leaders tested by violence; Turkey gains from Kurdish infighting; HTS in talks with Turkish-backed Syrian forces in Idlib. 

Senate confirms Barbara Leaf to lead State's Middle East bureau

The career diplomat's nomination was approveded by a vote of 54 to 44.

Egypt to link Nile dam crisis to wider water issues at COP27

Egypt will host COP27 Climate summit in November amid the continued faltering of negotiations on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.