Is ice finally thawing between EU, Turkey?

Ending 2017 on a comparatively higher note, recent conversations and visits between officials from European countries and Turkey could help nudge both sides to better relations in 2018.

Turkey

Will Gul face Erdogan in 2019 presidential elections?

In a recent tweet, former Turkish President Abdullah Gul, using guarded language, criticized the Justice and Development Party, setting off a debate about the 2019 presidential elections and a possible face-off with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Turkey

Turkish sports in grip of doping scandals, imported athletes

During the years of AKP rule, Turkey’s sports scene has seen an avalanche of doping scandals and an increase in “imported” athletes.

Turkey

Erdogan's Ottoman dream causes storm in Red Sea

Turkey’s unexpected military-cooperation deal with Sudan and leasing of Suakin Island have rekindled Ottoman fears in the region.

Saudi Arabia

Russia 'consulted, heard and feared' in the Middle East

Moscow weighs benefits and risks of leverage and leadership in the Syria crisis and the Middle East peace process.

Saudi Arabia

Struggle with Sochi guest list reflects animosities over Syria

As Russia seeks to overcome Turkey’s objections to Kurdish participation in the planned Sochi conference, Moscow welcomed Kurdish commanders to assure them Kurds are not being excluded.

Syria

2018 fraught with uncertainties for Turkish economy

Despite its spectacular growth this year, Turkey’s economy is burdened with serious problems and fragilities that might spoil the party next year.

Turkey

House parties the New Year's vogue in Turkey

Facing increasing public scrutiny about celebrating New Year’s Eve, a lot of Turks find comfort in professionally organized house parties catering to all budgets and tastes.

Turkey

Istanbul wary as New Year's approaches

Some Turks have complained about the ramped up security around New Year's Eve, but the authorities have every reason to go into prevention overdrive after last year's nightclub massacre.

Turkey

Crossing opens to help rebuild Syria, boost commerce with Turkey

With the opening of al-Rai border crossing in northern Aleppo, authorities there hope to develop trade activities with Turkey and later allow travelers to move freely between the two countries.

Syria

Ancient Mideast tastes mingle in stuffed holiday dishes

In the Middle East, just as in the Western world, the end of the year is a time for stuffed dishes — and for debating who started each long and rich tradition.

Palestine

Turkey expands impunity for Erdogan loyalists

Turkey’s latest set of emergency decrees grant immunity to anyone deemed to have been resisting efforts to overthrow the government during and even after the coup attempt.

Turkey