Attacking Al-Qaeda in Syria A robust information campaign to undermine al-Qaeda in Syria would help to mitigate, although not eliminate, the dangers of the civil war. Syria
Saudi Arabia Pushes US Toward Military Strike in Syria Saudi Arabia is advocating for a US military strike in Syria to advance its own regional and sectarian agenda. Saudi Arabia
Political Disputes Delay Lebanon’s Gas Projects In light of Lebanon’s governmental vacuum and developments in neighboring Syria, certain parties want to delay the bidding process for exploration rights to the country’s offshore gas fields. Lebanon
Israeli Curriculum Draws Criticism In East Jerusalem Schools The addition of the Israeli curriculum to five schools in east Jerusalem has been heavily criticized by Palestinian officials. Palestine
Erdogan Wants the Olympics Troubled at home and abroad, Turkey’s prime minister hopes for an Olympic win for Istanbul that can provide a much-needed antidote to his political woes. Turkey
Is This the End ForEgypt's Muslim Brotherhood? There are three options for the Muslim Brotherhood to reverse its fortunes. Egypt
Iran Pleased With US Pause On Syria Strike Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had been stressing the need for cooperation and consultation on Syria. Syria
Syria's Rebels Not Unified On US Strike Syria's rebels are cautious about attacks that they believe may benefit Israel, and not aid them in defeating President Bashar al-Assad. Syria
Factional Politics Limit Effectiveness of Lebanon Army The Lebanese Armed Forces are well trained and armed, but handicapped by Lebanese politics. Lebanon