Syria parties to meet in same room, 'understand what is at stake': Brahimi United Nations Syria Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi announced that Syria's two warring factions have agreed to meet directly and will support efforts to implement the Geneva I communique. Originals
Israel mourns Shulamit Aloni, champion of feminism in Israeli politics The former education minister and Israel Prize laureate, Shulamit Aloni, was the grand dame of civil rights, and above all a pioneer in the fight for women’s rights in Israel's male-dominated, militaristic environment. Israel
Turkish state TV denies plan to censor skaters' skimpy outfits Turkey’s state-owned broadcast corporation has denied allegations that it planned not to show women’s ice skating in the upcoming Winter Olympics. Turkey
Israeli report reveals demographic policy in Gaza A report by two Israeli human rights organizations reveals that Israeli policy regarding the movement of Palestinians is motivated by political, not security, concerns. Palestine
Turkey under pressure over jihadists on border The recent terrorist bombing at the border and the acrimonious exchange between the Turkish and Syrian foreign ministers at Geneva II hints at the extent to which Turkey has become embroiled in the Syria conflict. Syria
Syria opposition announces negotiating team as peace talks get underway Western diplomats have said the the peace talks are underway and should continue into the weekend. Originals
Egypt’s factions divided over Jan. 25 celebrations The political powers in Egypt are divided over whether to celebrate the anniversary of the January 25 Revolution, but they all expect bloodshed. Egypt
Qom, Najaf differ on approaches to tolerance Because of their histories and approach toward politics, Qom and Najaf seminaries have different approaches toward tolerance of other religions and interpretations. Iraq
Rouhani pushes ahead with controversial Khuzestan water project Controversial water projects in Iran's Khuzestan province reveal bigger environmental issues the province is facing. Iran
Mission possible: elevating Turkey’s businesswomen Turkey needs to instill more self-confidence in girls for women to make greater strides in Turkish society. Turkey
Islamic Jihad blames Israel for Gaza escalation After Israeli strikes killed two Islamic Jihad members in the Gaza Strip, the movement has come out accusing Israel of escalation, in what it says is an attempt to fuel intra-Palestinian conflict. Palestine
Egypt warns Qatar about interference Egyptian authorities have been frustrated by official statements from Doha expressing Qatari concern about increasing violence in Egypt, as Cairo considers it interfering in its internal affairs. Qatar
End of the Shimon Peres era in Israel Israeli President Shimon Peres receives the Spirit of Davos Award as he soon plans to depart the stage as Israel's visionary elder statesman. Israel
New media technology reshapes Saudi political culture Saudi political society is changing as the government and society adapt to the digital age. Saudi Arabia
Erdogan briefs EU on ‘rule of judiciary’ danger During a trip to Brussels, Erdogan tells EU leaders about Gulenist activities in the judiciary, where the community wields huge influence, and explains his vision for Syria. Turkey
Egypt has little to celebrate on January 25 Three years after the uprising that toppled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, Egypt is more polarized than ever. Egypt
