Analysis How Netanyahu used Lebanon strikes to push back on Trump’s Iran deal The latest ceasefire in Lebanon leaves Netanyahu squeezed between Washington and domestic pressure. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
Who is Lebanon’s Suleiman Frangieh, sanctioned by US for Hezbollah ties? The politician and Marada Movement leader has a close relationship with the Syrian Assad family and staunchly supports Iran and its Lebanese proxy Hezbollah. Lebanon
Analysis Fears in Lebanon that US-Iran deal boosts Hezbollah without restraining Israel The deal that ended the war between the United States and Iran has left Hezbollah feeling empowered, which could mark a setback for the Lebanese government’s efforts to disarm the group and move forward with its talks with Israel. By Beatrice Farhat In Beirut, reporting on regional news, culture, conflict
Newsletter: Daily Briefing Trump touts Iran deal as Hegseth warns Tehran Iran stands to gain from deal; 3 Iranian tankers pass US blockade; and more. By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Newsletter: Daily Briefing G7 leaders urge Lebanon ceasefire By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Analysis Why Trump’s push for Syria to confront Hezbollah is an unlikely bid By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Culture Alert: July marked by festivals in the Middle East In Istanbul, Baalbeck, Jerusalem and Ras El Bar, the Middle East becomes a vibrant scene of outdoor festivals in July. Palestine
Lebanon-UNHCR feuding over Syrian refugees Hundreds of Syrians displaced in the Lebanese border town of Arsal have returned to their country voluntarily, causing tensions between the Lebanese Foreign Ministry and the UNHCR. Lebanon
Development of public beaches sparks outrage in Lebanon The opening of the Lancaster Eden Bay Hotel on the Beirut coast was inaugurated despite allegations that it did not have an occupancy permit from the municipality. Lebanon
Decks and the City: Artist proposes gardens over car parks in Beirut This year's Beirut Design Week focuses on urban design, and the projects and showcases include street revival and creative new green spaces. Lebanon
Iran coy on support for Turkish assault on PKK in Iraq Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s offensive appears linked to Turkish elections and Iraqi politics; Is Turkey staying or going in northern Syria? Putin and Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri discuss Syrian refugees. Iraq
Lebanon’s Hariri talks soccer, Syria in Moscow Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri took advantage of the World Cup to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and discuss bilateral cooperation and the situation in Syria. Lebanon
What’s next for Syrian refugees in Lebanon? As pressure is increasing on Lebanon’s economy, the Lebanese authorities are working to ensure the safe return of Syrian refugees, despite the hesitation of the international community and the United States. Lebanon
Iran undeterred by possible Russia-Israel deal on Syria Iranian analysts believe any possible deal for Iran to pull back from Syria is designed to prevent the end of the country’s civil war. Palestine
Lebanese women determined to continue fight for more political representation Lebanon's 2018 parliamentary election has highlighted the dearth of women in parliament and the possible ways in which their numbers can be increased. Lebanon
New Iraqi government will again require Iranian blessing While Iran may not be the winner in Iraq’s election, it will likely remain the final broker. Iraq
Pompeo calls for review of security assistance to Lebanon The State Department and congressional hawks are taking a second look at US support for the Lebanese Armed Forces after Hezbollah and its allies won a parliamentary majority in this month’s elections. Lebanon
Morocco-Algeria tensions flare over claims of Hezbollah support to Polisario Morocco’s accusation that Hezbollah and Iran are plotting against it with the Polisario Front has escalated tension with Algeria. Lebanon