Israeli ministers reach out to homeland Morocco Israeli ministers of Moroccan origins rejoice over tightening bilateral relations with Israel, multiplying their contacts with ministers in their homeland. By Rina Bassist In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs
Foreigners in Tel Aviv begin receiving vaccines Israel continues to lead the world in the percentage of people who have received at least one vaccine dose. By Al-Monitor Staff
Fifty-four Senators sign letter criticizing Turkey's human rights record The group led by Sens. Wyden and Rubio want the Biden administration to press Turkey on its domestic policies and actions in Syria. It follows months of criticism of Turkey from both parties in Congress. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Turkish official hints at possible S-400 missile compromise with US Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said Tuesday that Ankara might be willing to "find a solution" for its Russian-made S-400 missile acquisition if Washington reevaluates its cooperation with Kurdish forces in Syria. By Diego Cupolo
Intel: US unsatisfied with Turkey's response to Syria rights abuses The US government continues to raise reports of human rights abuses in Syria with Turkey, according to a new watchdog report. By Elizabeth Hagedorn In Washington, reporting on diplomacy, regional politics, human rights
Egypt reopens border crossing with Gaza The border between Egypt and the Palestinian territory was previously being opened only for a few days at a time but is now open indefinitely. By Al-Monitor Staff
On the Middle East with Amberin Zaman Yemen may be best opportunity for regional diplomacy with Iran, says Mohsen Milani
Iran, Russia, China to conduct joint naval exercise in Indian Ocean Russia continues to seek opportunities to expand its influence in the Middle East, the head of CENTCOM said Monday. By Jared Szuba In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military
Iran could seek nuclear weapon if cornered, threatens intelligence minister The rare statement from Intelligence Minister Mahmoud Alavi comes as the US administration vows to lift sanctions only if Iran resumes full compliance with the nuclear deal. By Al-Monitor Staff
UAE probe reaches Mars' orbit Hope Probe launched in July and is the first Mars mission conducted by an Arab state. By Al-Monitor Staff
Islamic State kills two dozen pro-regime fighters in Syria A firefight in the Deir ez-Zor desert is the latest sign of the Islamic State terror network's lingering presence. By Al-Monitor Staff
Russia seeks to outplay the US in Libya While Russia's preferred candidates lost in last week's vote for interim leadership in Libya, Moscow still has a strategy for reinforcing its influence in the country. By Kirill Semenov
Iran begins vaccination rollout Iran has started vaccinating medical workers with the Russian Sputnik V vaccine, but officials say general coverage could take over a year. By Al-Monitor Staff
Golan 'forever' part of Israel, Netanyahu says after Blinken comments US Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared to question the previous administration's controversial decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. By Al-Monitor Staff
Turkey’s risk grade far from safe Turkey’s risk premium has sharply decreased over the past several months, but an array of economic and political factors threatens to undo the trend. By Mustafa Sonmez In Istanbul, reporting on economics
Pope’s schedule in Iraq reveals two missions In the first-ever papal visit to the country, Pope Francis plans to highlight the plight of Iraq's dwindling Christian population and promote interfaith dialogue. By Al-Monitor Staff