Reed’s release from Russia raises optimism for Iran-US exchange Following the release of Marine veteran Trevor Reed from Russia, Americans with family members wrongfully detained by Iran are ramping up their pressure on the Biden administration to cut a deal with Tehran. Iran
Analysis The Takeaway: Russia-Ukraine war spills over into Nile Dam dispute Israel reveals IRGC plots; Hamas looks to capitalize on Jerusalem violence; Iraq steps up desert drug busts; Iraq builds a wall with Turkey; migrant boat tragedy fuels anger in Lebanon; and more. By Andrew Parasiliti , Elizabeth Hagedorn
Yazidi militia says Iraqi army attacks linked to Turkey’s anti-PKK campaign The Iraqi army is seeking to dislodge Yazidi fighters from Sinjar who Turkey says are members of the PKK. Thousands of Yazidi civilians are fleeing the area as clashes escalate. Iraq
Erdogan unveils plans to send 1 million Syrians back as anti-refugee sentiment escalates As anti-refugee sentiment rises higher in Turkey during the Eid, Erdogan pledges a build-and-return project enabling more than a million Syrians to return “voluntarily” to northern Syria. Turkey
Iranian minister threatens Afghan refugees over census Afghan refugees who fled the Taliban have faced hardship in Iran. The Islamic Republic wants to have friendly relations with the Islamist group next door. Iran
Egypt to store carbon with Italy’s Eni The Italian energy company is pursuing increased cooperation with Egypt as well as Algeria. Egypt
Muslim party may resume membership in Israeli coalition Ra’am leader Mansour Abbas' coordination with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett about his visit last week to Jordan and his meeting with King Abdullah might signal that he is willing to end his party’s suspension of activity in the coalition. Israel
Iran engages neighbors as nuclear talks falter As Iran and Saudi Arabia work to resolve disputes, Iran's president spoke with the Kuwait emir and expressed his desire for a return to "previous friendly relations.” Iran
Bulgaria looks to Turkey for help with gas shortage Russia has cut gas exports to Bulgaria, leaving Sofia looking to Ankara, which has some tough decisions to make. Turkey
Iraqi coalitions look to break political deadlock The proposals come as Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's 40-day window to form a government draws to a close. Iraq
Saudi authorities bust 45 tons of smuggled khat Use of the plant is widespread in Saudi Arabia, where a major drug war is taking place. Saudi Arabia
Israel lays groundwork for Biden visit President Joe Biden is expected to arrive in Israel in late June. Israel
