Analysis

How Trump’s call to end Netanyahu’s trial is linked to broader Gaza deal

The coordinated effort, involving an agreement with Hamas and expansion of the Abraham Accords, also envisions a Nobel Peace Prize for Trump and a pardon for Netanyahu.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

At least 4 Palestinians killed in West Bank as Israeli settler violence rises: What to know

Israeli settlers stormed a number of Palestinian villages and towns in the West Bank following a string of deadly attacks by settlers and military forces.

Palestine

Newsletter: Daily Briefing

Iran's foreign minister says no talk of US negotiations restarting

By Adam Lucente

In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change

US envoy in Saudi Arabia to coordinate Syria support amid Abraham Accords push

Tom Barrack, who has been vocal about the need to engage the new Syrian government, said the Trump administration’s goal is to protect the country from Iran-backed groups.

Syria

Interview

Iran open to regional consortium, enriched uranium transfer in US nuclear talks

Iran’s UN ambassador says his country would consider transfer of enriched uranium stockpiles and outside investment in energy sector if there is an agreement with the US, but that the country is unwilling to accept restrictions on its missile program or domestic enrichment.

Amir Saeid Iravani

Permanent Representative of Iran to the UN

Elon Musk calls Lebanon’s Aoun, signals plans to bring Starlink to Beirut

A senior Starlink official met with Joseph Aoun last month for ongoing talks on bringing the technology to Lebanon.

Lebanon

Pentagon slashes budget request for Iraq counter-ISIS funds: What to know

A more than 40% reduction in funding for Iraqi security forces comes as the Defense Department continues to pivot to bilateral ties with Baghdad's institutions.

Iraq

Pope Leo decries 'special interests' and MidEast wars, calls Gaza 'inhumane'

The pontiff described the situation in Gaza as “tragic and inhumane,” saying that international law is being cast aside in favor of force.

Palestine

In first speech after war, Khamenei strikes defiant tone against US, Israel

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed Iran would not "surrender" to the US and made a number of claims about the damage inflicted on Israel and the US base in Qatar.

Iran

Pentagon reveals new details about strike on Iran’s Fordow: What to know

Top defense official says "no one" is on the ground at Fordow to assess the damage, as the Trump administration tries to dispel doubts about the effectiveness of the US bombing raid designed to knock out Iran’s main enrichment facility.

By Jared Szuba

In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military

As it presses for F-35 jets, Turkey prioritizes air defense for NATO’s 5% spending target

As Turkey prioritizes boosting its air defense system to meet NATO’s new spending target, the president has revived Ankara’s push to buy fighter jets.

Turkey

Why Netanyahu accepted Trump’s ceasefire deal with Iran

In accepting the US-brokered ceasefire with Iran, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu likely weighed operational factors and American pressure alongside significant domestic political considerations.

Israel