Analysis
Since 2012, the Week in Review keeps you ahead of the curve with in-depth analysis of the trends in the region, based on Al-Monitor’s world class reporting.
Pompeo dismisses Rouhani’s terms for talks as Iran admits ‘no plan B’ for Syria
Israel, Iran and the United States are all not backing down in Syria, but US-Iran prisoner talks may still have a chance.
US protests inspire activists across Middle East
In Israel, Palestine, Egypt and Tunisia protesters take up calls for reform in solidarity with Black Lives Matter.
Erdogan aims for 'new era' in US-Turkey ties, with Libya top of agenda
Mideast economic forecast is "heavily tilted to the downside," said a World Bank report.
COVID-19 compounds economic crises in Yemen, Jordan, Palestine
Recent reports signal conditions going from bad to worse.
Netanyahu undeterred on annexation
Israel's prime minister has dismissed the international outcry, counting on the US president and popular support at home.
US may try to raise the stakes for Russia in Syria
The politics of humanitarian corridors; Hayat Tahrir al-Sham tries a shakedown in Idlib; Ben Caspit to interview former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Al-Monitor podcast.
In shadow of COVID-19, US-led battle against Islamic State continues
A Pentagon report declares the Islamic State a "low-level insurgency" as the United States and Iraq prepare for strategic dialogue.
Five priorities for the US-Iraq strategic dialogue include recognizing regional role for Iraq
US diplomacy during Iraqi transition sets tone for relationship.
Was Trump’s call about oil with Saudi leader the start of a reset in relations?
US-Saudi partnership faces both old and new challenges in post-COVID-19 Middle East.
Women, children face increased risk of abuse during Mideast lockdowns
No COVID-19 furlough for imprisoned Iranian women’s rights activists; Interreligious, LGBT couples struggle to connect; Yemen’s cease-fire gets a second chance.
Pagination
Netanyahu, regional leaders hedge on possible Trump win in November
The Israeli prime minister is under pressure to deliver on a cease-fire during his Washington visit next week; Biden can’t heal Democrat divisions over Israel and the Gaza war.
Lebanon FM warns of 'devastating’ regional war if Israel escalates campaign against Hezbollah
In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Lebanon's top diplomat, Abdallah Bou Habib, adds that security in the south ultimately depends on a strong Lebanese army and an agreement on the border – not war.
US, Iran guarantors of shaky deterrence between Israel and Hezbollah
Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah is not ready to go to the mattresses over the killing of another senior commander on Wednesday, and Iran doesn't want a war while it favors the threat of confrontation as a deterrent.
G42-Microsoft partnership in Kenya 'just the beginning,' says UAE trade minister
In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi discusses momentum in UAE trade with the US, the benefits of economic diversification and Africa’s priority in UAE trade policy.