CENTCOM chief meets Syrian Kurdish leader in push for postwar unity A senior US Navy admiral joined Trump envoy Tom Barrack in efforts to break the impasse between Syria’s Kurdish-led forces and Damascus on postwar unification. Syria
Analysis Jet lag: Turkey weighs alternatives as US sanctions stall Kaan engine imports Turkish defense experts say delays in engine approvals could slow the country’s fifth-generation fighter, yet Turkey has alternatives to maintain its offensive and defensive capabilities. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
US approves $230M for Lebanon’s push to disarm Hezbollah New US funds for Beirut signal rare bipartisan approval for progress by Lebanon's security forces as they dismantle Hezbollah weapons caches, but significant risks remain as the militant faction resists full disarmament. United States
Iran defense chief visits Turkey to boost military ties: What to know The Iranian defense chief met with his Turkish counterpart as Tehran seeks to enhance its defense ties with Ankara. Turkey
Analysis How Afghanistan's Bagram base became focal point of US-China-Iran rivalry By Sabena Siddiqui In Karachi, reporting on South Asia, Middle East, Iran
From F-35s to Ukraine: Erdogan-Trump talks signal reset, but sanctions obstacles remain The summit underscored both leaders’ personal chemistry while highlighting the limits of what the partnership can deliver. Turkey
Pentagon pushes to accelerate ISIS detainee repatriations from Syria Uncertainty about Syria’s long-term stability and the the US military’s future presence in the country have increased urgency among some Pentagon officials to further reduce the population of nearly 30,000 suspected ISIS-associated detainees in the camps. Syria
Meet David Zini, Israel's controversial next Shin Bet chief The Grunis Committee cleared his nomination despite controversies over Zini's past statements, national-religious background, and closeness to the prime minister. Israel
Pentagon had no warning Israel planned to strike Qatar, US general says The top US Air Force commander for the Middle East said early warning systems did not determine that Israeli warplanes had launched ballistic missiles towards Qatar, a US ally, until it was too late, following fresh concerns about the Pentagon's ambitions to build an air defense umbrella for the region. United States
Syria navy delegation visits Turkey: What to know Turkey is seeking to help Syria build its new military, and the neighbors are also cooperating on counter-narcotics and intelligence matters. Turkey
CENTCOM launches task force to drive Pentagon’s drone race New unit aims to put "combat-credible" drone systems into the hands of US troops in the Middle East within 60 days, part of an ambitious new push by the Pentagon to leapfrog advances made by Washington's adversaries in fielding cheaply made but lethal armed drones. United States
Spain imposes 'total' arms embargo on Israel over Gaza war: What to know The embargo leaves room for exceptions where Spain’s “national interests” are concerned. Israel
India, Morocco open new military factory in Casablanca region The facility will make WhAP 8x8 armored combat vehicles for the Moroccan military and international markets. Morocco
Analysis As US steps back from Europe, Turkey eyes bigger role in NATO defense industry Ankara’s growing defense industry offers Europe new opportunities, but political rifts and technological hurdles may limit its reach. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Analysis Planned diversification or US doubts? Why Saudi Arabia inked Pakistan security pact Saudi Arabia’s new defense pact with Pakistan signals growing Gulf doubts about US security guarantees. By Rosaleen Carroll In Washington, DC, US, reporting on the Middle East
US, Saudi Arabia wrap up drone drill after Iran’s top security chief visits Riyadh The US military framed the drill, which was held amid tensions following Israel's strike on Hamas leaders in Doha, as a response to drone attacks by Iran and its proxies. United States
Iran’s Larijani meets MBS, Saudi defense chiefs in Riyadh: What to know The trip is Ali Larijani’s third since he returned to head the Supreme National Security Council and follows Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian calling for greater unity in the region. Iran