The illusion of anti-Erdoganism Despite the high hopes of the opposition, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is likely to survive the Soma disaster without any significant political loss. Turkey
What can Lebanon learn from Suleiman's presidency? As Lebanese President Michel Suleiman’s term ends on May 25, his successor should examine the obstacles and successes of his mandate to prepare for the path ahead. Lebanon
Israel-Egypt anti-terrorism cooperation at zenith Israel adapts to a new alliance structure based on common security interests, and in anticipation of a nuclear Middle East. Saudi Arabia
Iran official says nuclear file back with National Security Council According to a member of Iran's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, Iran’s nuclear file has been returned to the council by the Foreigh Ministry. Iran
Netanyahu tries again to derail Rivlin presidency bid Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rushed into battle against presidential hopeful and Knesset member Reuven Rivlin, all the while offending other potential presidential hopefuls. Israel
Child murders traumatize Turkey A government proposal to toughen penalties for child abuse has failed to soothe public outrage in Turkey amid a surge in deadly violence against children. Turkey
The spoiler on Egypt’s elections The preliminary results signal that the Sisi era is here, but don’t discount the January revolution after just three years. Egypt
The decline of humanities in Israel The faculties of humanities in Israel have failed to adapt to the new digital era, and convince the students why humanities are still relevant in a profit-oriented society. Israel
Putin feels vindicated by Russian approach to Mideast The Russian president maintains that a consistent focus on the threats from terrorism and failed states in Syria and the region has proven the right course. Near East
Gezi anniversary reminder of Erdogan's nine lives The one-year anniversary of the Gezi Park protests is another reminder of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's durability despite a series of crises. Turkey
Egypt softens stance on Ethiopian dam Egypt has toned down its rhetoric on Ethiopia’s controversial Renaissance Dam, adopting instead a conciliatory approach with Addis Ababa to resolve the dispute. Egypt
New unity government to review Hamas laws in Gaza After the formation of the Palestinian unity government, all legislation issued after Hamas' takeover of the Gaza Strip will be reconsidered, as Fatah officials consider them illegal. Palestine
Iraqi higher education continues decline Although Iraq has seen a sharp rise in the number of higher education institutions in recent years, the quality remains poor. Iraq
Lebanese forego expensive weddings, marry abroad Internal political crises and regional unrest have led to an economic decline in Lebanon, pushing many couples to cease organizing the large and elaborate weddings that have become common in recent years. Lebanon
House bill calls for US firms to share in Israel's Iron Dome The committee report for the Defense Authorization bill ties funding to American participation and data sharing. Israel
Misreading Syria The United States misjudged the ability of the Syrian army to evolve and adapt, with assistance from Hezbollah and Iran, leading to faulty predictions that Bashar al-Assad’s days were numbered. Syria
