Is Syrian government withdrawing from Tal Rifaat in favor of Turkey? FSA forces are carrying out military maneuvers in preparation for the battle against Kurdish forces in Tal Rifaat, while Turkey is bringing in more reinforcements. Syria
Iraq diversifies, expands sources of energy and electricty Iraq is looking to Arab partners to help expand energy production and imports to meet summer demand. Iraq
Israel, US sign agreement to facilitate visa waiver program Israeli and American representatives have signed an information-sharing agreement needed for Israel to join the US Visa Waiver program, but the hurdle of Knesset approval remains. Israel
UAE announces measures to attract ‘digital companies’ The Emirates wants to attract more high-tech companies, especially those working on artificial intelligence. Some cryptocurrency firms are moving to the Gulf state. Gulf
Analysis The Takeaway: Shireen Abu Akleh’s killing looms over Biden trip to Israel, West Bank A hedging US response to the Palestinian-American journalist's killing reinforces beliefs about favoritism for those living in the West Bank and Gaza. By Elizabeth Hagedorn , Andrew Parasiliti
US unveils fresh sanctions on Iranian oil trade network The Biden administration designated 15 individuals and entities located in Iran, Vietnam, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong. Iran
Oil services companies stop work in Iraqi Kurdistan after court ruling Iraq’s supreme court recently ruled that the autonomous part of northern Iraq cannot conduct oil deals independent of the federal government, resulting in significant tension. Iraq
US Jews ask Lapid to stop ultra-Orthodox agitation at Western Wall Jewish-American community leaders are furious over an incident in which ultra-Orthodox activists disrupted a bar mitzvah service at the Western Wall egalitarian prayer space. Israel
Turkey’s media watchdog warns against LGBTQ song as crackdown continues Turkish pop star Mabel Matiz's “Copshop,” a song that tells the story of a gay man tortured in a police station, dovetails with a month-long government crackdown on LGBTQ groups and activities during Pride month. Turkey
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