Corruption and nepotism

Will Netanyahu’s ultra-Orthodox allies jump ship?

Days before his deadline for composing a majority coalition, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fears abandonment by ultra-Orthodox allies or a rebellion within the Likud.

Israel

Why Egypt’s economic reforms aren’t enough to win over the street

A new report shows significant progress in Egypt, but demonstrations are placing new pressures on President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to do more to battle corruption.

Egypt

Iraqi government seems powerless against protesters even as 'unknown' snipers take toll

For the seventh day in a row, protesters challenge the Iraqi government across Baghdad and the south; the death toll rises to nearly 120 as unidentified snipers pick off demonstrators.

Iraq

Cairo attempts to quell anger following spate of protests

In the wake of protests, the Egyptian government OKs some small price reductions and may allow a little greater press freedom.

Egypt

Iran's influence seen in transfer of Iraqi war hero

The recent transfer of a widely popular commander is thought to be an Iranian-backed effort to discredit Iraq's Counterterrorism Service, which is seeking to maintain its independence and military capability.

Iraq

Egypt’s opposition threatens to freeze political activities over crackdown

Some Egyptian political parties, reacting to recent arrests made to curtail protests, have threatened to cease political activity to express opposition to the authorities' approach.

Egypt

Hamas takes rare action in alleged nepotism case following public pressure

After an outcry from the Palestinian public, Hamas fined the son of one of its leaders in a case of corruption within its own ranks.

Palestine

Videos alleging corruption open public debate on Egyptian military’s economic empire

An Egyptian construction contractor's viral videos call for an uprising in Egypt, alleging corruption among the military and authorities.

Egypt

Palestinian school to produce anti-corruption experts

The Palestinian Anti-Corruption Academy plans to launch next year to train Palestinians with skills to curb corruption.

Palestine

Egypt's expansion of no-bid contracts raises ethical issues

The Egyptian government issued a decision allowing the disposal of state-owned lands through direct agreement without putting them up for public bidding, which some critics say invites corruption.

Egypt

Is hard-line Ayatollah Larijani facing the beginning of his end?

Iran's powerful Larijani family has made many enemies over the years, a legacy that might be catching up with at least one member, Expediency Council Chairman Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani.

Iran

Abbas starts austerity measures by sacking his advisers

Several reasons pushed President Mahmoud Abbas to suddenly end the services of his advisers, most notably his intention to downsize the number of his many advisers amid the crippling financial crisis hitting the PA.

Palestine