CIA chief, Egypt’s Sisi discuss 'urgent need' to end Lebanon, Gaza wars

The meeting comes as Egypt, Qatar and the US resume mediation talks to secure a hostage deal and a cease-fire in Gaza.

Egypt

Scarred by Trump and Biden, Palestinians remain pessimistic over US election

Palestinians surveyed by Al-Monitor said that while they are closely following the US presidential race, there is a widespread sense that little will change for Palestinians, regardless of who wins.

Palestine

CIA chief returns to Egypt in last-ditch effort for Gaza deal: What we know

The Israeli press reports that CIA chief William Burns will head to Cairo Thursday for more talks on a possible deal between Israel and Hamas.

Israel

Analysis

Israel, Hamas in wait-and-see mode ahead of US election

With Hamas and Israel holding firm and the US election less than two weeks away, a cease-fire deal still appears far from reach.

By Elizabeth Hagedorn

In Washington, DC, reporting on diplomacy, regional politics, human rights

Starbucks sales see 7% drop, largest since pandemic, amid Gaza boycotts

The company has been grappling with protests and boycott campaigns on social media due to the Israel-Gaza war and the union fight in the United States.

Palestine

Tens of thousands flee Jabalia after Israel sends more troops to northern Gaza

The Israeli military's push into northern Gaza has killed at least 770 Palestinians, according to Gaza's government office, and has caused tens of thousands to flee the Jabalia area.

Palestine

Hamas’ Abu Marzouk in Russia as group grapples with Sinwar’s successor

The visit is one of many by Hamas officials to Russia since the Gaza war erupted last year.

Palestine

Kamala Harris calls Palestinian deaths 'unconscionable' as Michigan race tightens

The vice president has faced criticism from some Arab and Muslim voters over the Biden administration’s support for Israel, including in the key battleground state of Michigan.

Palestine

Blinken to push for elusive Gaze cease-fire in latest Mideast trip

The top US diplomat’s 11th mission to the Middle East since the Oct. 7 attacks comes as Israel plans retaliatory strikes on Iran, while waging war in both Gaza and Lebanon.

Israel

Analysis

What to make of China's softening rhetoric on Israel, Gaza war

China appears to be softening its criticisms of Israel's conduct in the Israel-Hamas war and the conflict in Lebanon. Why the change of tune?

By Dale Aluf

In Amsterdam, reporting on China in the Middle East

Relief and loss: Palestinians in Gaza split over killing of Yahya Sinwar

The killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has provoked conflicting reactions among Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Palestine

With Sinwar dead, US pushes Israel’s Netanyahu to take off-ramp

Israel’s killing of Yahya Sinwar, the architect of the Oct. 7 attacks, has renewed hope for a cease-fire deal that would free the remaining hostages.

Israel