Is Netanyahu sacrificing Israel on his crusade against Obama?

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu knows that Israel will pay, diplomatically and politically, for its over-the-top response to the anti-settlement UN Security Council resolution, but it seems he doesn't care.

Palestine

Would Putin accept Turkish buffer zone in Syria?

Heavy casualties at al-Bab and the recently released video of IS' burning alive of two Turkish soldiers have not affected Turkey’s Operation Euphrates Shield.

Syria

Obama administration allows Americans to train Iranians

New regulations unveiled Dec. 22 allow drug, medical device and agricultural experts to travel to Iran.

United States

Did Zarif really say it was a 'mistake' to trust Kerry?

Once again, Iranian hard-liners move to tarnish the reputation of Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif — this time by attributing to him false remarks about the “mistake” of trusting the United States.

United States

Questions arise about large Palestinian security budget

The budget of the Palestinian security forces is being questioned, and attempts are being made by the United States to cut it back.

Palestine

Israelis wary, Palestinians despairing over Tillerson appointment

Secretary of State-designate Rex Tillerson’s ties with Arab countries worry Israeli officials, while Palestinians despair that the Trump administration is an extension of the current right-wing Israeli government.

Palestine

Obama administration, allies try to buy time for Iran nuclear deal

In its final weeks, the Obama administration and its European allies are trying to convince the emerging Trump team that the deal is working.

United States

Why moving US Embassy to Jerusalem is no way to start a presidency

President-elect Donald Trump's proposal to relocate the US Embassy would place another straw on the proverbial camel's back in the Mideast.

Palestine

Jordan faces tough path ahead as next Arab summit host

Jordan will face a number of diplomatic challenges in March at the Arab League summit meeting in Amman.

Legacy: Gulf

Can shared disdain for US improve Russia-Iran ties?

Although Iran and Russia are both fountains of anti-Western rhetoric and sentiments, it is for different reasons and will not necessarily bring the two countries closer together.

Russia

Is Turkey recruiting militants evacuated from Aleppo?

After the Aleppo rout, Turkey considers boosting the ranks of its Free Syrian Army ally fighting in Operation Euphrates Shield, while fortifying the buffer zone and raising the bar in bargaining with Damascus.

Syria

Why Israeli settlers consider Trump’s ambassador choice a 'miracle'

For Israeli settlers, US President-elect Donald Trump’s choice of David Friedman as the next US ambassador to Israel is nothing short of a miracle.

Palestine