Iraqi artists transform derelict tobacco factory into culture hub The sprawling grounds of Sulaimaniyah's old tobacco factory are finding a second life as an arts center, although financial and bureaucratic obstacles have greatly hindered its progress. Iraq
Egyptian camera bill stokes fears of surveillance state Some fear a draft law requiring public cafes and shops to use surveillance cameras threatens to turn Egypt into a surveillance state. Egypt
Jordan keeps close tabs on southern Syria amid heightened tensions With reports that Iranian militias have withdrawn from southern Syria and the army is preparing to launch a military assault against rebels there, Jordan fears the cease-fire agreement could be jeopardized. Israel
Pentagon set to enhance Jordan’s counterterror troops The Pentagon is sending more than $22 million to help Jordan outfit its emerging special operations command and quick reaction force. Jordan
Turkish opposition remains own worst enemy Despite the claims of nationalist candidate Meral Aksener, the Turkish opposition is distressingly split and neither side has succeeded in drawing votes away from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling Justice and Development Party. Turkey
Iranian student stands up to Khamenei, calls for democratization Iran’s supreme leader met with a group of students and responded to a number of criticisms of his performance. Iran
Can the EU meet Iran’s expectations for keeping nuclear deal? As Iran and other remaining signatories to the JCPOA labor to keep the nuclear deal intact, rising regime cohesion amid Ayatollah Khamenei’s outlining of effective “red lines” indicate the predominance of realism in Tehran. Iran
Fears of foul play hang over Turkey’s critical elections Election integrity remains a top concern for Turkey’s opposition ahead of the June 24 polls, especially for the country’s main Kurdish party, whose showing could be of critical importance. Turkey