What does Saudi Arabia’s position on Palestinian state signal to US, Israel? The kingdom's statement released on Wednesday attempts to send multiple messages, some directed at Saudi Arabia's internal public opinion, others to the Biden administration and Netanyahu government. Gulf
US sanctions UAE entities for allegedly violating Russian oil price cap The US Treasury Department also moved to crack down on entities buying diamonds from Russia, a key revenue stream for Moscow amid its war against Ukraine. United Arab Emirates
Analysis Netanyahu wants 'total victory' — will it cost Saudi normalization, US support? The Israeli prime minister is not on the same page as the Biden administration or the Saudi leadership, risking his diplomatic and war aims. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei banned from Facebook and Instagram Khamenei remains active on X and has praised Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel on the platform. Iran
Can India use new Iran port deal to counter growing China-Pakistan ties? The long-term deal to develop Chabahar Port signed between India and Iran in mid-January is a critical component of New Delhi's strategy to bypass Pakistan for access to Central Asian markets and counterbalance the growing cooperation between China and Pakistan. Iran
Turkey, Somalia sign defense deal in wake of Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement The deal, which includes cooperation against terrorism, comes as tensions in the Horn of Africa over a controversial deal between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland continue to simmer. Turkey
