Saudi Arabia's MBS throws support behind Arab plan, rejects displacement of Palestinians

Saudi affirmation of the Arab League plan would also see it stepping into a broader role in the development of Gaza vis-a-vis the commitment of funds, as Gulf states are seen as the primary financiers of reconstruction.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

Amid US rift and Saudi rivalry, UAE offers Zelenskyy economic lifeline

Gulf countries find themselves in a difficult position as they navigate placating Trump, maintaining good relations with Russia, and engaging with Ukraine while also providing mediation and humanitarian aid.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

In Qatar, Russia's Lavrov rejects European force in Ukraine, pushes for Syria access

During the visit, Russia and Qatar agreed to step up cooperation via a gas forum and their sovereign wealth funds and discussed the political transitions in Syria and Lebanon.

Qatar

Germany arrests Russian suspect over alleged plan to attack Israeli Embassy

On Thursday, a Russian national suspected of planning an attack on the Israeli Embassy was arrested by German authorities, and in a separate incident on Friday, a stabbing occurred at the Holocaust memorial in Berlin.

Israel

Analysis

Will US-Russia rapprochement increase odds of Israel striking Iran?

Israeli leaders hope the thaw in relations will lead Moscow to stem strategic cooperation with Tehran, leaving Iran vulnerable to an attack on its nuclear facilities after a US green light.

By Ben Caspit

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

US-Russia talks conclude in Saudi Arabia, most high-level meeting since 2023: What to know

The US State Department said one purpose of the talks was to “reestablish” bilateral relations with Russia as Saudi Arabia seeks to mediate between the two.

United States

Zelenskyy heads to Turkey to meet with Erdogan amid US-Russia talks

The Ukrainian president's visit to Turkey will coincide with US-Russia talks on a potential ceasefire.

Turkey

Analysis

France sees opening in Trump's USAID cuts to lead Syria humanitarian aid

The Paris conference on Syria positions France at the forefront of international efforts to support the interim regime of Ahmed al-Sharaa.

By Rina Bassist

In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs

Analysis

Israel wary as Russia-Iran ties deepen, possibly involving nuclear program

Israel is closely following contacts between senior Iranian and Russian officials amid fears that in exchange for Iran's extensive assistance to Russia's war effort in Ukraine, Moscow will provide Iran with the technology to turn the enriched uranium into a nuclear warhead.

By Ben Caspit

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

Gulf states reach out to new Syrian leaders ahead of Jordan talks: What we know

Bahrain's King Hamad sent a letter to HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, while the UAE has held direct contact with opposition groups. Qatar is set to reopen embassy in Damascus soon.

Syria

Analysis

With leverage in Syria, can Russia's Putin broker Israel-Lebanon deal?

Israel is considering accepting the Russian push for some sort of involvement in the talks or in the implementation of a deal with Hezbollah.

By Rina Bassist

In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs

Analysis

Driven by geopolitics and trade, India-Saudi ties get boost from FM visit

Indian and Saudi foreign ministers discussed regional stability after Donald Trump's election and what his presidency might mean for foreign relations autonomy, trade and investment.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics