Democratic newcomers challenge pro-Israel status quo

Three Democratic candidates willing to challenge the bipartisan orthodoxy on Israel are likely to win seats in Congress next year.

Palestine

Turkey, Russia seek European input on Syria settlement

The heads of four nations gathered in Istanbul last week, all seeking to promote their countries' own national interests in Syria. But it's unclear if they'll eventually be able to negotiate a peaceful solution to the Syrian crisis that Damascus will accept.

Syria

What's behind Russia’s 'wait and see' approach on Khashoggi killing?

Russia has been keeping a rather low profile on the killing of Jamal Khashoggi, but this stance is driven by profound considerations of Moscow's own role in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia

US mosque strikes point to looser targeting rules in fight against Islamic State

A spate of airstrikes against mosques in Syria hints at the American military accepting fewer restrictions on battlefield targeting, with higher risks for civilians.

Syria

Will US sanctions sway Iran to enter oil deal with Russia?

Iranians in general do not trust Russia, but their government may be looking into various oil deals with Moscow to work around US sanctions.

Russia

Erdogan scores points in his foreign policy gamble

Turkish President Erdogan scores major diplomatic points from the Khashoggi case to the quadrilateral summit in Istanbul.

Saudi Arabia

To what extent can US aid help Iraq’s minorities?

US financial aid to Iraqi religious minorities in the Ninevah Plains brings them hope and raises their expectations about the future of their homeland in northern Iraq.

Iraq

UN gives thumbs-up for Palestine to lead Group of 77

The UN General Assembly is granting Palestine additional membership rights during its one-year chairmanship of the Group of 77.

Palestine

Amid famine, anger at Khashoggi murder, will Saudis be pressed to end Yemen war?

UN warnings of unprecedented famine in Yemen, combined with US disgust at Saudi Arabia’s killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, could spur Congress to pressure the Donald Trump administration to force an end to the Saudi-led war.

Saudi Arabia

Congress calls out Pompeo over Egypt aid waiver

Democratic senators warned Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that a recent US waiver to allow military aid to Egypt could be seen as an “endorsement” of human rights abuses.

Egypt

Democratic midterm win threatens to constrain Trump’s Middle East policies

Democrats' victory in the House could impact US policy on Iran, Syria and Yemen.

Saudi Arabia

Intel: Why Iran is blaming the US for Khashoggi’s death after three weeks of silence

Saudi Arabia