Iraq's instability trouble for Lebanese investors Foreign investments in Iraq are at a standstill amid recent crises, with Lebanon's $3 billion worth of investments in the country set to decline if a political solution is not reached. Iraq
As tensions boil, Israeli Arabs and Jews recall second intifada The relationship between Jewish and Arab Israeli society is hitting its lowest point ever as both sectors erupt in heated protest of the murders of teenagers and the rockets raining from Gaza. Palestine
Israel continues to strike targets at home Human rights activists charge that Israel’s bombing of civilian homes in Gaza where a member might be a combatant constitutes a violation of international law. Palestine
Kerry, Zarif seek breakthrough for Iran nuclear accord Secretary of State John Kerry held a second day of talks with Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as negotiators search for an elusive breakthrough for nuclear deal. Iran
Hatred of Hamas leaves Egyptians unsympathetic Many Egyptians, upset with Hamas for its alleged support of terrorism against their country, are not expressing much sympathy for the Gaza Strip in its conflict with Israel. Palestine
Intolerance becoming all too common in Israel A heated public debate has been building between the extreme left and right in Israel, threatening to explode into violence. Israel
Was Turkey’s corruption probe a 'coup attempt'? The assertion that the December corruption probe in Turkey was an attempt to bring down the government is a Machiavellian notion that places political goals above the principle of justice. Turkey
Coastal Syrians carry on despite threat of Islamic State Regime supporters along the Syrian coast are confident the Syrian army can triumph and that the Islamic caliphate declared by the Islamic State in eastern parts of the country won’t last. Syria
West Bank clashes intensify amid Gaza war Israel’s war on Gaza, with its heavy civilian casualties, is fueling already tense clashes between Palestinian youths and Israeli soldiers in the West Bank. Palestine
Iran sanctions cost US economy billions, report says The US debate over Iran’s nuclear program omits discussion of the possible cost of sanctions to the economies of the United States and its allies, according to a new study commissioned by an Iranian American organization. Iran
Erdogan ignores market in crusade against interest rates The Turkish prime minister and the minister of economy are pushing to dramatically cut interest rates, though Turkey's Central Bank has expressed reservations. Turkey
Facebook activists sentenced to prison, lashes in Iran Eight Iranian Facebook activists have been sentenced to prison for terms ranging from eight to 21 years. Iran
Hamas: no cease-fire until siege of Gaza lifted The United States is indirectly communicating with Hamas via its regional allies to negotiate a cease-fire, but Hamas is insisting that Israel lift its crippling siege on Gaza. Palestine
US message on enrichment helped open Iran channel Secret US-Iran diplomatic contacts got underway after US President Barack Obama conveyed a message that the United States would be prepared to accept limited Iran enrichment program in a serious nuclear agreement. Iran
Palestinians struggle to compete with Israeli PR machine The Palestinians concede they are miles behind Israel in public relations as international media largely repeat Israel’s account of the war. Palestine
Israel considers costs of escalation in Gaza Gaza residents bear the costs of war; Israel weighs its option with Hamas; Al-Monitor interviews Iraqi political leaders; the forgotten war in Syria. Palestine
