Blinken returns to Middle East as concern of war's escalation grows The US secretary of state's latest shuttle diplomacy comes amid mounting concerns the Israel-Hamas war could spiral into a wider regional conflict. Israel
Analysis Israel uncertain of Hezbollah's intentions, prepares for all options While Israel does not expect Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah to launch an all-out war, it is preparing for anything to happen. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
Ethiopia-Somaliland deal receives wide condemnations, including from Egypt, Turkey Several countries in the region condemned a recent deal giving Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s coast. Somalia
A ritual of hope: Exploring Istanbul's 'First Day of the Month Church' On the first day of 2024, hundreds from different faiths, including Muslims, flock to a famous Istanbul church, engaging in ancient rituals that transform New Year's aspirations into realities. Turkey
In Israel, US envoy Hochstein struggles to defuse tension with Lebanon's Hezbollah Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told US envoy Amos Hochstein that Israel is determined to profoundly change the security situation on its border with Lebanon by both diplomatic and military means. Israel
Ahead of Blinken's trip, Turkey's patience is wearing thin on F-16s sale Ahead of the US top diplomat’s visit, Ankara has signaled that its patience over its bid to purchase new F-16 fighter jets from the United States is wearing thin. Turkey
Breaking | Last Updated: January 4, 2024, 11:32 pm ISIS claims responsibility for twin Iran blasts that left nearly 100 dead Two Islamic State operatives were responsible for the attacks, according to the group. Iran
'Quietly complicit': second US official quits over Biden’s Gaza war handling Tariq Habash, a Department of Education political appointee, said he could no longer represent an administration that “does not value all human life equally.” Israel
Erdogan rivals call Turkey 'banana republic' as high court rulings ignored Turkish officials’ dismissal of courts has also resulted in the threat of targeted sanctions against them by the Council of Europe. Turkey
What we know about US strike that killed Iraqi militia leader in Baghdad The US assassination of a senior Harakat al-Nujaba commander threatened to rekindle opposition to the presence of American troops among factions in Baghdad. Iraq
Libya’s economy sustained by oil but political impasse threatens stability Kate Dourian In Dubai, reporting on energy