Syria’s top Islamic body issues decree against honor killings: What to know US special envoy to Syria Tom Barrack referred to the decision as “great first steps,” though concerns persist about the new Islamist-led government. Syria
Analysis ‘A wild gamble’: Will Israel's arming of Gaza militia backfire? In a move critics have called dangerous and risky, Israel is now supplying weapons to an independent Gaza militia in a bid to weaken Hamas. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
Israel strikes Beirut, targeting underground Hezbollah drone facilities This marks the first time Israel has struck Lebanon’s capital city since April. Lebanon
Trump travel ban 2.0: Assessing the impact on Mideast nations Trump’s new decision excludes Syria and Iraq, both of which were part of his previous ban issued during his first term in 2017. Syria
Saudi defense chief concludes US trip, seeks security assurances as Gaza rages Prince Khalid bin Salman’s preplanned trip included meetings with top US officials. Saudi Arabia is concerned that the war between Israel and Hamas could hurt its interests. Legacy: Gulf
West Bank death toll exceeds 120 as US warns Israel over settler violence Over 120 Palestinians in the West Bank have been killed amid raids by the Israeli army and settler attacks since Oct. 7. Palestine
