Beirut's movie boycott hurts Lebanon more than Israel Several big-name films have been banned in the past two years in Lebanon, and some say the censorship is outdated, haphazard and harmful to the country's own film industry. Israel
Are Iraqi Mandaeans better off in Jordan? Because of discrimination, Iraq’s Mandaeans practice their religion in secrecy in Jordan. Iraq
Al-Bab transformed by influx of Syria's displaced A large number of displaced Syrians from all over the country have fled to al-Bab, bringing with them their diverse cultures and traditions. Syria
Israel presses Russia to help contain 'Iranian threat' Israel is looking to Russia to help dial back Iran's ambitions to expand its presence and influence. Israel
Gaza youth debate political, social issues Several youth debate initiatives in the Gaza Strip are encouraging young Palestinians to question partisan thinking, collect facts and consider other points of view. Palestine
Girls of Jerusalem ensemble gets Palestinian voices heard A girls’ ensemble in East Jerusalem uses both traditional and Western musical instruments to perform traditional songs of Palestine. Palestine
Saudis see opportunities in helping to rebuild Iraq Riyadh's role in restoring Iraq's war-torn areas will play up Saudi Arabia's presence there and, the Saudis hope, help stop the spread of Iran's influence. Saudi Arabia
US warns of renewed Syria gas attacks The White House has warned it could take action against Damascus if reported gas attacks continue. Syria
Latest Iran poll suggests Trump rhetoric benefits hard-liners The new poll also highlights Iranians' preoccupation with corruption, unemployment and climate change. United States
MBS plans first US visit since becoming Saudi crown prince Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation is high on the agenda for the upcoming trip. Saudi Arabia
Turkey resumes pressure on US Consulate staff With the interrogation of another local US Consulate employee, Turkey appears to have broken its promise not to hound staff without notifying the American authorities in a move that could trigger targeted visa sanctions against Turkish officials deemed to be involved. Turkey
Abbas’ gift to Netanyahu The Palestinian refusal to return to the negotiating table with Israel to discuss a permanent solution to the conflict has freed Israel of its debt to the Americans for their recognition of Jerusalem. Palestine
Will Brexit jump-start Iran-UK trade? While bilateral trade has increased following the implementation of the nuclear deal, trade between Iran and Britain remains far below its potential. Iran
Rouhani urges government to listen to critics Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned that voices of criticism must be heard and acknowledged for a government to be successful. Iran
Activists in Iraq try new tack: Effect change by not voting Iraqi political parties are trying to mobilize voters as calls for an election boycott gain steam. Iraq
Sisi touts victories for Egyptian women as election nears Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has made strides in politically empowering women in the past year and likely hopes the progress guarantees him a solid base of voters in the upcoming elections. Egypt
