Moscow steadily promoting its 'Helsinki agenda' in Syria

Following the Helsinki summit, Russia is working to deliver what each party is expecting from it: security to Israel, cooperation with Iran and engagement with the West.

Syria

Iraqi refugees in Egypt denounce lack of protection, services

Iraqi refugees in Egypt face challenges relating to security and access to basic services, with migrant funding often earmarked for other groups.

Egypt

Convoys arrive in Idlib as hundreds of Syrians flee Daraa

Humanitarian organizations in the northern Syrian province of Idlib are preparing to host hundreds of displaced citizens coming from Daraa in the south, where they were forced to choose between giving up their weapons and accepting a cease-fire deal or fleeing.

Syria

Pentagon shifts equipment from Iraq to Syria

The Pentagon is removing mine rollers and armored carriers from Iraq as it draws down its presence in the country.

Iraq

Pompeo, Haley try to regroup after Helsinki

In the wake of Helsinki summit, there are signs of a growing chasm between President Donald Trump and his Cabinet chiefs trying to implement US policies toward the Middle East.

Syria

Putin envoy tells Iran that cooperation in Syria will continue

Iranian and Russian officials have insisted that despite pressure from outside countries, the two countries will continue to support the Syrian government.

Israel

Congress calls on Trump to recognize Israeli sovereignty over Golan

After President Donald Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, congressional Republicans are rallying around the Netanyahu government’s next big ask.

Palestine

Turkey wary of US-Russia deal on Syria

Ankara is increasingly concerned that Washington is working with Moscow to secure an accord for northern Syria between the Bashar al-Assad regime and the Kurds.

Syria

Trade unions unify in Syria's rebel-held north

A group of opposition-affiliated trade unions in Aleppo’s countryside announce the formation of the Federation of Free Syndicates to enhance the role of syndicates in supporting local councils.

Syria

What’s next for Syria after Helsinki summit?

The meeting between the Russian and US presidents did as little for the Middle East as it possibly could, though the two leaders seemed to identify Syria as a good place to rebuild US-Russian cooperation.

Israel

Pentagon eyes shrinking role in Syria as Trump and Putin negotiate deal

Syrian rebels have presented the White House with military options to push back against Bashar al-Assad’s gains in the southwest, Al-Monitor has learned.

Syria

The art of the deal in Helsinki

A win-win on Syria is there for the taking by leveraging Putin’s relationship with Iran.

Israel