Analysis Unclear chains of command in Iran complicate Russia’s diplomatic play Multiple power centers in Tehran and the rising influence of the IRGC could complicate Moscow’s ties with Iran and its hopes of playing a mediating role in the conflict. By Anton Mardasov
Russia denied sharing intelligence with Iran in Trump call, Witkoff says Russia denied US reports that it may have provided Tehran with targeting information on American assets in the region. Iran
Putin becomes first to congratulate Mojtaba Khamenei: What to know Oman, Iraq, Azerbaijan and Armenia have all congratulated the Khamenei's son. Iran
Russia doubles down on Iran nuclear cooperation as US talks inch forward Moscow’s energy minister said Russia is currently building equipment for new units at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant. Iran
Does Turkey plan to continue airstrikes in Iraq, Syria? Turkey’s recent bombings of groups it says are linked to Kurdish terrorists give Russia and the United States something else to agree on. Iraq
Are the US, Russia staking out territorial clout in Syria? Moscow and Washington both deny they are dividing Syria into "zones of influence," but they might be laying the groundwork by creating military facilities at various sites. Syria
Is Putin interfering in Iran’s presidential elections? Conservative presidential candidate Ebrahim Raisi’s meeting with a visiting Russian official has raised debate on Moscow’s potential interference in Iran’s May 19 vote. Russia
Is Turkey trying to disrupt Raqqa operation? In the lead-up to President Erdogan's Washington visit next month, Turkey's recent air attacks in Syria and Iraq might be a message that Turkey intends to play a more involved role in those countries. Iraq
Can Erdogan juggle Trump and Putin at the same time? Erdogan’s expectations from the United States and Russia are high, but his hopes may be misplaced again. Syria
Syrian regime faces tough resistance from rebels in Aleppo’s outskirts The Syrian regime forces are attempting to gain ground in Aleppo’s outskirts to fend off any threat the opposition could pose on Aleppo city. Syria
Russia, Turkey to talk tariffs It looks like Ankara’s retaliatory tariffs on Russian wheat will bring the two parties together in another attempt to compromise on sanctions and import taxes. Turkey
Russia steps up its game in Mideast diplomacy The heavy traffic between Moscow and the Middle East after US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson visited Russia last week signals that Russia is looking to quickly solidify its relationships with regional partners. Saudi Arabia
Mattis' Mideast trip holds promise, reality check for Israel The US defense secretary's visit to Israel is expected to strengthen an already solid relationship while making sure both parties are on the same page. Egypt
Where is Israel's place in US-Russia struggle? Israel has a golden opportunity to cement a global anti-jihad alliance with the United States and pragmatic Sunni states as Russia continues to side with Iran. Palestine
3 reasons why partitioning Libya is a bad idea While the Trump administration so far has failed to present a well-defined policy on Libya, the administration seems to be sending mixed signals. Libya
Assad’s departure still non-starter for Putin US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson’s comment on "orderly" transition could offer a face-saving spark for Syria political talks; Hezbollah’s No. 2 disavows "ambitions" in Syria; did Iran benefit from US missile strike? Sistani seeks restraints on Iraqi armed groups looking to fight in Syria. Iraq
