Analysis Pragmatic politics: Why Turkey avoids blaming Russia for Black Sea attacks Beyond economics, Ankara’s approach is also shaped by maintaining its role as an indispensable mediator between the Kremlin and the West. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Analysis Putin offers to help end Iran war, but can Russia deliver? As Washington and Tehran weigh their next moves, Moscow is seeking a diplomatic foothold in a war where influence may prove harder to convert into concrete results. By A correspondent in Tehran In Tehran, reporting on politics
Pezeshkian to meet Putin as Iran looks to Russia for support: What to know Russia has reportedly provided Iran with military materiel, intelligence and diplomatic backing during the war. Iran
Iran joins SCO drill as China resists direct intervention in US-Iran war An IRGC official said the exercise will focus on countering extremist activities and containing violent groups. Iran
Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, others shower Russia’s Putin with congratulatory messages Several leaders in the region have extended their congratulations to Russia’s President Vladimir Putin over his reelection, as Western countries condemned the Russian elections as unfair. Legacy: Gulf
How Russia seeks to capitalize on US strikes in Yemen, Red Sea tensions Russia has maintained balanced relations in Yemen, while avoiding criticism of the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, even as its trade has been affected. Legacy: Gulf
Iran, Russia, China conduct new military drills, defying Western pressure The exercise brought together the three countries' lead warships for the stated purpose of bolstering maritime security, while Tehran-backed Yemeni rebels continued to target international navigation in the wake of the Gaza war. Iran
Turkey’s Erdogan hosts Zelenskyy, hopeful on Ukraine-Russia compromise Zelenskyy’s visit to Turkey comes one week after that of Lavrov, and as Ankara is trying to find a compromise between Moscow and Kyiv on a Black Sea mechanism. Turkey
Analysis As Mali’s junta pokes at Algeria, what’s at stake for North Africa and Sahel? Three years after severing its ties with Morocco, Algeria faces challenges in its relations with Mali and other Sahel countries. By Rina Bassist In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs
Iran, Algeria to build closer energy, tourism ties Europe is increasingly interested in Algeria as an alternative to Russia for gas supplies, while Iran is seeking to boost its own gas output amid continued US sanctions. Iran
What we know about Palestinian talks in Russia seeking unity The meeting, in which rival Palestinian factions endorsed unity under the PLO umbrella, follows the resignation of Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh and comes as Russia is seeking a diplomatic role in the war. Palestine
As Palestinians head to Russia, Abbas ponders least bad option for PM A large Palestinian delegation will head to Moscow this week to try and reach consensus on a postwar government that could include Hamas representatives in an expanded Palestine Liberation Organization. Palestine
Iran exports to Russia hit high of $2B as sanctions strengthen alliance The significant jump in Iranian exports to Russia is indicative of the two states' increasing focus on joint solutions to circumvent international sanctions that have squeezed their economies. Iran
Armenia, Azerbaijan inch toward shaky peace deal but key issues unaddressed There is mounting speculation that talks will result in a deal to establish diplomatic relations, but many outstanding issues will remain. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Biden, Erdogan ride wave of momentum after Turkey's NATO vote, F-16 sale One expert expects that Erdogan will pay a visit to the White House in the near term as the two parties bridge key differences. Turkey
Why is Tucker Carlson in UAE after controversial Russia visit? The controversial former Fox News host, who recently interviewed Russian President Vladimir Putin, addressed a summit in the UAE’s largest city. Legacy: Gulf
