Family of US contractor jailed in Kuwait asks Biden to push for pardon The family of a US defense contractor imprisoned in Kuwait on what he claims are false drug charges is appealing to the Biden administration to intervene. Kuwait
Iranian plane, diplomat searched at Beirut airport: What we know Supporters of Iran-backed Hezbollah protested the search of the Iranian diplomat's plane in Beirut. Lebanon
Analysis Israel's covert Syria operation signals planning for potential Iran strike Israel has released details on its daring September commando operation in Syria in a message to Tehran that it is willing and able to do the same in Iran, with or without US participation. By Ben Caspit In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense
After outrage, Syria's education minister clarifies curriculum changes: What to know The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led transitional administration is working on imposing a list of modifications to what is taught in Syrian schools, including additions of Islamic content. Syria
Al-Monitor's top 10 most-read articles, interviews of 2024 From Assad's fall in Syria to Israel's wars in Lebanon and Gaza, Al-Monitor remains committed to bringing you unparalleled, independent coverage of the region, engaging with all voices to bring you the full story. Palestine
Analysis Turkey’s dual Syria security strategy: rebuilding army, tackling SDF As it gains upper hand in Syria, Turkey will capitalize on its leverage to build a new army and push for dissolution of the PKK. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Syrian delegation visits Saudi Arabia in first post-Assad trip: What we know Syrian Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani is on his first foreign visit to Riyadh less than a month since Bashar al-Assad's fall, received by senior Saudi officials including the foreign and defense ministers. Syria
