Middle East crises loom in background as NATO leaders gather in Washington While this year's summit is expected to focus largely on the ongoing war in Ukraine, Iran's military support for Russia and Turkey's strategic balancing act with Moscow are expected to weigh on NATO leaders gathered in Washington. Washington Pulse
US, Israel hold second virtual meeting on Rafah Biden administration officials have denied offering to green-light an Israeli invasion of Rafah if Israel holds off on retaliating against Iran. Washington Pulse
One year on Sudan’s war: 14,700 killed, 8.6M displaced, 4.9M face starvation As the war in Sudan enters its second year, the humanitarian situation is worsening by the day with no prospects of an imminent end of the hostilities. North Africa Pulse
State Department staffer resigns over Biden's handling of Gaza Annelle Sheline is the second State Department official to publicly resign since Oct. 7, citing the erosion of US credibility on human rights in the Middle East as a result of the war. Washington Pulse
Oman and Iran: friends with many benefits Oman is willing to brave the GCC's disapproval to take advantage of opportunities with and for Iran. Legacy: Gulf
Congress inches closer to handing Pentagon $350 million for Syrian rebels Sen. John McCain signs off on aid request blocked after last year's effort ended in a debacle. Jordan
Russia, Israel navigate narrow straits in potentially turbulent waters Recent glad-handing between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked interest, and intrigue, in the Middle East and beyond. Palestine
Obama, Congress hurtle toward showdown over Israel missile defense Lawmakers are feeling a lot more generous than the Obama administration when it comes to Israel's safety. Israel
US aid caught up in Middle East crackdown on civil society An analysis of the State Department budget request shows a drop in support for democracy and human rights. Legacy: Gulf
Yemen’s Jews and the road to Israel Yemeni Jews who immigrate to Israel are taking with them a large part of what was left of Yemen's religious diversity. Yemen
Saudis refine blueprint for post-oil economy Establishment of the Public Investment Fund to diversify Saudi Arabia's sources of income must be coupled with a sound strategy to achieve the country's goals. Saudi Arabia
Jerusalem churches: Don't veto Palestine resolution Middle East and US religious leaders chart path forward for two-state solution. Palestine
Fight over Iran's access to dollars takes partisan turn A flurry of Republican bills are getting no love from Democrats. Congress
For some fleeing conflict, even Yemen is a haven Thousands of Africans fleeing the misery in their countries continue to seek refuge in Yemen, which itself is suffering the ravages of civil war. Saudi Arabia
Congress unblocks $108 million in Palestinian aid The release follows months of pressure from the State Department. Palestine
Congress puts stranglehold on Palestinian aid Key lawmakers are incensed with terrorism support and statehood bid. Palestine
