Palestinian Authority: Israel's security partner Israel and the Palestinian Authority share a common interest of fighting emerging al-Qaeda cells in the West Bank and the proliferation of global jihad. Palestine
SOC member Michel Kilo claims evidence of Assad links to ISIS In an exclusive interview, veteran Syrian opposition figure Michel Kilo tells Al-Monitor, "If Walid Moallem will talk about terrorism, he will receive a true lecture about terrorists." Syria
Controversy brews over Israeli babies born to Thai surrogates The campaign accusing Interior Minister Gideon Saar of being responsible for babies born through surrogacy in Thailand not allowed to leave should blame agencies and the parents instead. Israel
Released Palestinian detainees struggle with life outside prison Although Palestinian prisoners are given much attention and press when released, they face many challenges alone when it comes to re-entering everyday life. Palestine
Moussa: Sisi will assume presidency in 'democratic way' In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, veteran Egyptian politician Amr Moussa says he supports Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi running for president and predicts that the Geneva II talks will not lead to a solution in Syria. Palestine
Film on Prophet Muhammad mired in controversy An Iranian film on the Prophet Muhammad by acclaimed director Majid Majidi has been wrought with religious, financial and political issues. Iran
Turkey seals border against al-Qaeda Turkey has closed its gates after al-Qaeda captured three border crossings into northern Syria, with potential implications for armed groups operating in Syria. Syria
Egypt’s ongoing crisis in letters Letters released by an activist, a journalist from prison and an Islamic scholar reveal the depth of the polarization in Egyptian society. Egypt
Iraqi army declares its control of Khalidiya The Iraqi army declared that it has gained control of the Jazira area of Khalidiya, but maintaining that control will be a challenge. Iraq
Iraq’s oil brinkmanship Baghdad needs a more convincing oil strategy that addresses the concerns of the Kurdistan region, the provinces and the need for fair redistribution of revenues. Iraq
Obama's new problem: Turkey The Obama administration should not underestimate the depth of Turkey’s domestic crisis and its implications for US-Turkey ties. Syria
Egypt's Foreign Minister: Terrorism by any side should be part of Syria discussion In an interview with Al-Monitor, Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy said that a political solution to build a new Syria should be prioritized over terrorism concerns. Originals
Jordan eager to represent Jordanian-Palestinian refugees With peace talks in full swing, Jordan is looking to take on an active role in the negotiations that could settle the fate of the 2 million Palestinian refugees it hosts, including the right of return and compensation. Originals
Emergency care criminalized in Turkey Turkey has criminalized emergency care outside the hospital without government authorization and imposed stiff penalties. Turkey
Moallem: Aleppo proposal a response to Kerry's call for local cease-fires In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Syrian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Walid Moallem said he proposed a plan for ending military operations in Aleppo last week in response to US Secretary of State John Kerry's appeal for a cease-fire there. Saudi Arabia
Qatar's foreign minister: Iran has 'crucial role' in Syria In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Qatari Foreign Minister Khalid bin Mohammad Al-Attiyah calls for a unified Syrian opposition and describes the plight of the Syrian people as "unprecedented." Qatar
