Analysis

'No real levers': Will Russia deepen Iran ties in South Caucasus over Trump plan?

Moscow tries not to publicly criticize Trump's initiatives, but in reality has too few tools for crisis response.

By Anton Mardasov

Lebanon's PM slams Hezbollah chief for making 'threat of civil war'

Tensions are rising as Lebanon’s government, under pressure from the US, moves forward with a plan to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Lebanon

Turkey’s pro-Kurdish DEM slams Fidan’s threats against Syria's SDF

As Ankara increasingly threatens the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, the opposition People's Equality and Democracy Party warns that a potential Turkish military operation against the Kurdish-led group could disrupt the peace process at home.

Turkey

US to sell $500 million HIMARS rocket system to Bahrain

The short-range artillery system will not alter the basic balance of power in the Gulf region, Pentagon says.

Bahrain

Exclusive

Contrary to Netanyahu's claims, Israel spy chief pushes partial Gaza deal in Qatar

As the Israeli prime minister defends his plan to take full control of Gaza, Mossad chief David Barnea pushes for a partial ceasefire deal.

By Ben Caspit

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

Turkey’s top religious body sparks outrage over women’s inheritance rights

Women rights activists say that the body is increasingly targeting women, challenging secular law and fostering conditions for gender-based violence.

Turkey

UN: Syria's March violence saw ‘likely’ war crimes by Damascus, Assad remnants

The United Nations noted deliberate targeting of Alawite civilians in its report on the killings along the Syrian coast and called on the government to expand its efforts in taking steps toward accountability.

Syria

After inking military pact, Turkey to provide Syria with weapons, training

The initial phase of Turkey-Syria military cooperation will address building a regular army and basic defensive needs, analysts say.

Turkey

Explosion kills 4 in Syria’s Idlib: What to know

Syria remains littered with the waste of a Cold War arsenal and 14 years of civil war.

Syria

Jordan, UAE military chiefs vow stronger defense ties in Amman meeting

Jordan has moved to increase military cooperation with the UAE in recent years, including via joint exercises as the Hashemite Kingdom works to bolster its defenses.

Jordan

Israel's Smotrich to approve E1 settlement plan that 'buries idea of Palestinian state'

Despite years of international pressure against a move that would forestall a Palestinian state, Israel's E1 settlement project is set to be approved next week.

Israel

Tehran’s dams at 19% as Iran water crisis worsens: What to know

The water levels in dams across Iran are falling amid hot temperatures, as the government pleads with the public to cut consumption.

Iran