Hamas says it's open to dialogue with US

A senior Hamas leader has said the movement is willing to engage in talks with the United States, which some believe to be an attempt to replace the PLO.

Palestine

Jordan, Turkey mending fences over trade agreement dispute

During a time of shifting alliances, Ankara views Jordan as an important potential ally — which no doubt has been a factor in Turkey's decision to renegotiate a free trade pact that Amman says favors Turkey.

Saudi Arabia

Deciphering Russia's delivery of Tell Rifaat to Turkey

Now that Russia has reportedly handed over the area around Tell Rifaat to Turkey, all eyes are on Turkey’s performance in the expanded area controlled by its allied Free Syrian Army forces west of the Euphrates.

Syria

Trump’s steel tariffs add to US-Turkish bickering

Turkish manufacturers see “great injustice” in Washington’s new steel tariffs, as Ankara seeks compromise on the issue amid the tense political climate between the two countries.

Turkey

Congress threatens to cut UN funding for voting against Israel

President Donald Trump and Congress are on the same page with a new law that would cut US funding for UN agencies deemed insufficiently supportive of Israel.

Palestine

Pentagon: US refueling cuts civilian deaths in Yemen

US Defense Secretary James Mattis defended the Pentagon’s refueling role in Yemen on Tuesday, saying the plan helps the Saudi-led coalition cut down on civilian casualties in the war-torn country.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi crown prince comes under fire as he visits US

As Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visits the United States, President Trump's pick of John Bolton as national security adviser gets the thumbs-up from the oil-rich desert kingdom.

Saudi Arabia

Iranian official declares Bolton appointment a 'shame'

Iranian officials expect a more hostile US foreign policy with John Bolton's selection as the new national security adviser.

United States

Congress links Egypt aid to Cairo’s ties with North Korea

US President Donald Trump today signed into law a $1.3 trillion spending bill that places new restrictions on military assistance to Egypt ahead of next week’s presidential election.

Egypt

Russians fear Bolton may doom Iran deal, stoke arms race

John Bolton's upcoming role as national security adviser is controversial not only in the United States; it's raising eyebrows, and concerns, around much of the rest of the world.

Russia

Palestinians set to reject US peace plan

According to American sources, the peace plan elaborated by the Trump administration will offer Palestinians limited sovereignty on limited territory.

Palestine

Congress set to cut Palestinian aid

Lawmakers included the provision in must-pass spending legislation to keep the government open.

Palestine