#middle-east-politics

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#ceasefire

After the pause in Israel's war on Gaza: What's next?

Israel and Hamas signed a ceasefire agreement after prolonged violence, leading to negotiations for further steps including prisoner exchanges and Gaza reconstruction.

Trump's Middle East envoy will enter Gaza as part of inspection team'

Witkoff aims to oversee a ceasefire deal in Gaza, despite Trump's skepticism, emphasizing the importance of its successful implementation for future phases.

Israel says Gaza ceasefire begins after delay DW 01/19/2025

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began, facilitating a hostage exchange after a lengthy delay.

Netanyahu's New Last-Minute Conditions Would Ruin Ceasefire Agreement

The Gaza ceasefire may not result in genuine relief for Palestinians despite international pressures.

Israel says 3 hostages transferred to Red Cross DW 01/19/2025

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has initiated a hostage exchange, showcasing a significant diplomatic move amid ongoing tensions.

Hamas releases first three Israeli captives as Gaza ceasefire takes hold

The ceasefire agreement allows for the release of captives and humanitarian aid amidst a prolonged conflict in Gaza.

After the pause in Israel's war on Gaza: What's next?

Israel and Hamas signed a ceasefire agreement after prolonged violence, leading to negotiations for further steps including prisoner exchanges and Gaza reconstruction.

Trump's Middle East envoy will enter Gaza as part of inspection team'

Witkoff aims to oversee a ceasefire deal in Gaza, despite Trump's skepticism, emphasizing the importance of its successful implementation for future phases.

Israel says Gaza ceasefire begins after delay DW 01/19/2025

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began, facilitating a hostage exchange after a lengthy delay.

Netanyahu's New Last-Minute Conditions Would Ruin Ceasefire Agreement

The Gaza ceasefire may not result in genuine relief for Palestinians despite international pressures.

Israel says 3 hostages transferred to Red Cross DW 01/19/2025

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has initiated a hostage exchange, showcasing a significant diplomatic move amid ongoing tensions.

Hamas releases first three Israeli captives as Gaza ceasefire takes hold

The ceasefire agreement allows for the release of captives and humanitarian aid amidst a prolonged conflict in Gaza.
moreceasefire
#hostage-exchange

Israel-Gaza war live: Israeli forces reportedly withdrawing from parts of Rafah ahead of ceasefire

A ceasefire and hostage release agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, marking a possible end to the prolonged conflict.

Opinion | The Middle East Cease-Fire Is in Trump's Hands

The Gaza cease-fire presents opportunities for humanitarian aid and hostages' exchange amid ongoing uncertainties regarding its long-term impact and governance.

Israel-Gaza war live: Israeli forces reportedly withdrawing from parts of Rafah ahead of ceasefire

A ceasefire and hostage release agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, marking a possible end to the prolonged conflict.

Opinion | The Middle East Cease-Fire Is in Trump's Hands

The Gaza cease-fire presents opportunities for humanitarian aid and hostages' exchange amid ongoing uncertainties regarding its long-term impact and governance.
morehostage-exchange
#hezbollah

Is Hezbollah weakened as Lebanon shifts towards new governance?

Lebanon's new leadership signals potential challenges to Hezbollah's long-standing dominance amidst recent setbacks for the group.

The Iran-led axis of resistance in the aftermath of Syria's upheaval

Iran's resistance is rooted in faith and commitment, reinforcing its resolve against US and Israeli influence despite military setbacks.

Syria war to have massive' effect on Lebanon: US envoy Hochstein

A weakened Syrian government complicates Iran's weapon transfers to Hezbollah, as stated by US diplomat Amos Hochstein.

The Syrian regime was a paper tiger: Victorious on the outside; weak on the inside

Hezbollah's support for the Syrian regime proved ineffective, leading to a swift rebel offensive that resulted in the regime's collapse in 11 days.

With Assad Challenged, a Push to Cut Syria's Ties to Iran Grows More Unlikely

The conflict in Syria illustrates the complex interplay of power dynamics and alliances in the region amid rising rebel influence.

Is Hezbollah weakened as Lebanon shifts towards new governance?

Lebanon's new leadership signals potential challenges to Hezbollah's long-standing dominance amidst recent setbacks for the group.

The Iran-led axis of resistance in the aftermath of Syria's upheaval

Iran's resistance is rooted in faith and commitment, reinforcing its resolve against US and Israeli influence despite military setbacks.

Syria war to have massive' effect on Lebanon: US envoy Hochstein

A weakened Syrian government complicates Iran's weapon transfers to Hezbollah, as stated by US diplomat Amos Hochstein.

The Syrian regime was a paper tiger: Victorious on the outside; weak on the inside

Hezbollah's support for the Syrian regime proved ineffective, leading to a swift rebel offensive that resulted in the regime's collapse in 11 days.

With Assad Challenged, a Push to Cut Syria's Ties to Iran Grows More Unlikely

The conflict in Syria illustrates the complex interplay of power dynamics and alliances in the region amid rising rebel influence.
morehezbollah
#israel

Israel Is Invading Syria and Destroying Its Defenses Amid National Upheaval

Israel is exploiting Syria's power vacuum after Assad's regime weakened, launching nearly 500 strikes to dismantle its military capabilities.

Israeli Officials Embrace Trump Victory, Despite His Unpredictability

Israel's leaders view Trump's victory as a significant boost for their geopolitical interests.

A Cease-Fire in Gaza

Israel and Hamas agree to a six-week cease-fire, allowing for the release of hostages and prisoners and a potential path towards lasting peace.

Huckabee As Envoy to Israel Spells End of Two-State Solution

Trump's nomination of Huckabee signals strong support for Israeli extremism amidst controversial Middle Eastern politics.

Israeli airstrike on Syria kills 11 people, war monitor reports

Israel intensifies airstrikes in Syria, targeting military infrastructure even after the political shift following Assad's ousting.

Fighting Has Halted in Gaza, but the War Is Not Over

Hamas continues to maintain significant control in Gaza despite being severely weakened after the recent conflict.

Israel Is Invading Syria and Destroying Its Defenses Amid National Upheaval

Israel is exploiting Syria's power vacuum after Assad's regime weakened, launching nearly 500 strikes to dismantle its military capabilities.

Israeli Officials Embrace Trump Victory, Despite His Unpredictability

Israel's leaders view Trump's victory as a significant boost for their geopolitical interests.

A Cease-Fire in Gaza

Israel and Hamas agree to a six-week cease-fire, allowing for the release of hostages and prisoners and a potential path towards lasting peace.

Huckabee As Envoy to Israel Spells End of Two-State Solution

Trump's nomination of Huckabee signals strong support for Israeli extremism amidst controversial Middle Eastern politics.

Israeli airstrike on Syria kills 11 people, war monitor reports

Israel intensifies airstrikes in Syria, targeting military infrastructure even after the political shift following Assad's ousting.

Fighting Has Halted in Gaza, but the War Is Not Over

Hamas continues to maintain significant control in Gaza despite being severely weakened after the recent conflict.
moreisrael
#israel-hamas-conflict

Gaza ceasefire, a ray of hope after 15 months of war, 46,700 Palestinian deaths and a regional conflagration

The agreement in principle for a ceasefire in Gaza represents significant progress after a prolonged conflict, though challenges remain in finalizing details.

What We Know About the Hostage Release

The cease-fire agreement facilitates the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Gaza ceasefire, a ray of hope after 15 months of war, 46,700 Palestinian deaths and a regional conflagration

The agreement in principle for a ceasefire in Gaza represents significant progress after a prolonged conflict, though challenges remain in finalizing details.

What We Know About the Hostage Release

The cease-fire agreement facilitates the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
moreisrael-hamas-conflict

These Are the Helicopters in Iran's Powerful Military

Iran's military strength lies in advanced aerial technology and a diverse helicopter fleet, supporting regional power projection.

Israel has declared war on the promise of a strong, democratic Syria

Israel fears Syrian democracy could challenge its regional dominance and is actively working to sabotage it.

Saudi Arabia announces plans to enrich and sell uranium

Saudi Arabia's yellowcake project marks a significant step in its strategy to monetize minerals, highlighting ambitions tied to energy diversification and nuclear development.

Netanyahu sends Mossad chief to Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha DW 01/11/2025

Israel is pursuing ceasefire negotiations in Qatar led by Mossad chief amid ongoing conflicts and hostage situations.
#syria

Biden Calls Bashar Assad's Fall in Syria a Fundamental Act of Justice'

The collapse of Assad's regime is seen as justice but presents new risks for the Middle East.

Syrian government falls in stunning end to 50-year rule of Assad family

Syrian government overthrown; Assad's 50-year rule ends after a rapid rebel advance into Damascus.

Israel and Iran agree on major Israeli role in Assad downfall

Khamenei blames the US and Israel for supporting the overthrow of Assad, rejecting their involvement in Syria's instability.

Why Bashar al-Assad trembles

The stability of Bashar al-Assad's regime is now challenged due to the diminishing support from Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah.

Turkey stakes its claim in Syria

Turkey has quickly established influence in Syria following Assad's regime collapse, backing Islamist leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to project a moderate image.

Assad's fall to Islamist rebels in Syria unsettles region's autocrats

Syrian rebels' recent success has rekindled revolutionary fervor reminiscent of the Arab Spring, prompting concern among regional autocrats about potential unrest at home.

Biden Calls Bashar Assad's Fall in Syria a Fundamental Act of Justice'

The collapse of Assad's regime is seen as justice but presents new risks for the Middle East.

Syrian government falls in stunning end to 50-year rule of Assad family

Syrian government overthrown; Assad's 50-year rule ends after a rapid rebel advance into Damascus.

Israel and Iran agree on major Israeli role in Assad downfall

Khamenei blames the US and Israel for supporting the overthrow of Assad, rejecting their involvement in Syria's instability.

Why Bashar al-Assad trembles

The stability of Bashar al-Assad's regime is now challenged due to the diminishing support from Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah.

Turkey stakes its claim in Syria

Turkey has quickly established influence in Syria following Assad's regime collapse, backing Islamist leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to project a moderate image.

Assad's fall to Islamist rebels in Syria unsettles region's autocrats

Syrian rebels' recent success has rekindled revolutionary fervor reminiscent of the Arab Spring, prompting concern among regional autocrats about potential unrest at home.
moresyria
#national-security

Cipher Brief Experts on What to Watch for in 2025

Understanding Islamic radicalization is crucial for effective national security policy.

Trump Will Confront a More Vulnerable but Determined Iran

Trump's administration must navigate a more fragile Iran with potential for nuclear escalation or negotiations.

A Gift From Cipher Brief Experts: Reasons for Hope in 2025

Dr. Emile Nakhleh has significant expertise in analyzing Islamic radicalization and national security issues related to the Middle East.

Cipher Brief Experts on What to Watch for in 2025

Understanding Islamic radicalization is crucial for effective national security policy.

Trump Will Confront a More Vulnerable but Determined Iran

Trump's administration must navigate a more fragile Iran with potential for nuclear escalation or negotiations.

A Gift From Cipher Brief Experts: Reasons for Hope in 2025

Dr. Emile Nakhleh has significant expertise in analyzing Islamic radicalization and national security issues related to the Middle East.
morenational-security

What's blocking a ceasefire deal in Gaza?

The dehumanisation of Palestinians by Israel hinders peace efforts in Gaza. Levy believes this leads to regional isolation, despite some Arab relations normalizing.

US army says two navy pilots shot down over Red Sea in friendly fire'

US military investigated a downed F-18 incident, dismissing Houthi claims of hostile attack as a case of friendly fire.

Syria has always been an Israeli obsession. Now it has unexpectedly given Netanyahu his coveted image of victory | Aluf Benn

Israel captured Mount Hermon in Syria, marking a significant military victory after 14 months of conflict, as symbolized by an iconic photograph.
#iran

Reformist clerics imply Iran should back two-state solution for Israel and Palestine

Reformists in Iran are debating the country's stance on recognizing Israel and possibly shifting towards a two-state solution for Palestinian territories.

The Remarkable Collapse of Iran's Powerful Alliances

Iran's Shiite theocracy aimed to export its revolution and establish a network of allies against Israel, impacting regional dynamics.
The Sunni-Shiite rivalry has intensified since Iran's Revolution, reshaping the Middle East landscape.

Reformist clerics imply Iran should back two-state solution for Israel and Palestine

Reformists in Iran are debating the country's stance on recognizing Israel and possibly shifting towards a two-state solution for Palestinian territories.

The Remarkable Collapse of Iran's Powerful Alliances

Iran's Shiite theocracy aimed to export its revolution and establish a network of allies against Israel, impacting regional dynamics.
The Sunni-Shiite rivalry has intensified since Iran's Revolution, reshaping the Middle East landscape.
moreiran
#trump-administration

Middle East looks ahead to return of 'dealmaker' Trump DW 11/08/2024

Trump aims to resume Mideast policies focusing on peace between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah, while promoting the Abraham Accords.

Trump Should Rule Out Israel Annexing the West Bank

Trump's administration may inadvertently support Israeli West Bank annexation, risking regional chaos and undermining U.S. interests.

Foreign students advised to make plans before Trump. And, 2024's final news quiz

Iran's strategic ambitions in the Middle East are jeopardized by the collapse of its ally, Syria.
U.S. colleges are warning international students about potential border issues amid changes in administration.

How will Donald Trump's cabinet picks affect his foreign policy?

Trump's controversial foreign policy nominees signal a hawkish approach, raising concerns about peace efforts.

Elon Musk met with Iran's U.N. ambassador as Tehran may look to ease tension with Trump

Iran sought dialogue with Elon Musk to ease tensions with Trump's incoming administration.

Middle East looks ahead to return of 'dealmaker' Trump DW 11/08/2024

Trump aims to resume Mideast policies focusing on peace between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah, while promoting the Abraham Accords.

Trump Should Rule Out Israel Annexing the West Bank

Trump's administration may inadvertently support Israeli West Bank annexation, risking regional chaos and undermining U.S. interests.

Foreign students advised to make plans before Trump. And, 2024's final news quiz

Iran's strategic ambitions in the Middle East are jeopardized by the collapse of its ally, Syria.
U.S. colleges are warning international students about potential border issues amid changes in administration.

How will Donald Trump's cabinet picks affect his foreign policy?

Trump's controversial foreign policy nominees signal a hawkish approach, raising concerns about peace efforts.

Elon Musk met with Iran's U.N. ambassador as Tehran may look to ease tension with Trump

Iran sought dialogue with Elon Musk to ease tensions with Trump's incoming administration.
moretrump-administration
#syria-conflict

Syria's Kurds fearful of the future after Islamist rebels seized power

The Kurdish region faces uncertainty following Assad's fall, as new Sunni Arab factions threaten their autonomy and stability in Syria.

The Folly of Ignoring Syria This Long

Ignoring frozen conflicts can lead to sudden escalations and increased global involvement, highlighting the need for proactive diplomatic engagement.

Wednesday Briefing: A Wave of Post-Assad Attacks

Israel claims to have destroyed Syria's navy in airstrikes as part of ongoing military operations targeting chemical weapons.

What's next for Syria's President Bashar al-Assad and his allies?

The rebel offensive in Syria is advancing rapidly after capturing Aleppo, challenging President Assad's regime.

Syria's Kurds fearful of the future after Islamist rebels seized power

The Kurdish region faces uncertainty following Assad's fall, as new Sunni Arab factions threaten their autonomy and stability in Syria.

The Folly of Ignoring Syria This Long

Ignoring frozen conflicts can lead to sudden escalations and increased global involvement, highlighting the need for proactive diplomatic engagement.

Wednesday Briefing: A Wave of Post-Assad Attacks

Israel claims to have destroyed Syria's navy in airstrikes as part of ongoing military operations targeting chemical weapons.

What's next for Syria's President Bashar al-Assad and his allies?

The rebel offensive in Syria is advancing rapidly after capturing Aleppo, challenging President Assad's regime.
moresyria-conflict
#us-iran-relations

How Close Is Iran to a Nuclear Weapon and What Happens if They Get One?

Iran's nuclear program poses a greater threat than its historical aggressiveness towards the West.
The potential for Iran to develop nuclear weapons is heightened by geopolitical shifts.

For many Iranians, Trump's return intensifies worries about war. Yet some see reasons for hope

The future of U.S.-Iran relations may hinge on Trump's approach, with prospects of war or diplomacy looming.

How Close Is Iran to a Nuclear Weapon and What Happens if They Get One?

Iran's nuclear program poses a greater threat than its historical aggressiveness towards the West.
The potential for Iran to develop nuclear weapons is heightened by geopolitical shifts.

For many Iranians, Trump's return intensifies worries about war. Yet some see reasons for hope

The future of U.S.-Iran relations may hinge on Trump's approach, with prospects of war or diplomacy looming.
moreus-iran-relations

Opinion | Why Al-Assad Fell

The fall of the Assad regime represents a significant victory for the Syrian people and poses new challenges and opportunities for the U.S. and its allies.
#syrian-civil-war

What Is Happening in Syria

The Syrian Civil War has had devastating humanitarian impacts and is affecting global politics, particularly in Europe as refugees increase.
The balance of power in Syria is shifting with recent rebel successes, signaling potential changes in the conflict's trajectory.

What we know about Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the rebel group that led the offensive to oust Syria's leader

Bashar Assad's government has collapsed, ending his 24-year rule amid a surprise offensive by rebel forces in Syria.

What Is Happening in Syria

The Syrian Civil War has had devastating humanitarian impacts and is affecting global politics, particularly in Europe as refugees increase.
The balance of power in Syria is shifting with recent rebel successes, signaling potential changes in the conflict's trajectory.

What we know about Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the rebel group that led the offensive to oust Syria's leader

Bashar Assad's government has collapsed, ending his 24-year rule amid a surprise offensive by rebel forces in Syria.
moresyrian-civil-war

US announces air strikes on ISIL targets in Syria after al-Assad's fall

US air strikes aim to dismantle ISIS amidst political shifts in Syria after Assad's government collapse.
Biden highlights both risk and opportunity following Assad's fall, seeking cooperative efforts to aid Syria's future.
#donald-trump

Trump's comeback poses challenges for Iran DW 11/08/2024

Trump's second term could lead to a further escalation of tensions with Iran, affecting strategies regarding their nuclear program and regional influence.

Opinion | Thomas Friedman: Trump's Path to a Nobel Peace Prize?

Trump has a historic opportunity to influence peace in the Israel-Gaza conflict, drawing from past proposals.

Iran's currency falls to an all-time low as Trump clinches the US presidency

Iran's currency has hit an all-time low, exacerbating economic challenges amid U.S. sanctions and increasing tensions in the region.

Opinion | How Trump Can Earn a Place in History That He Did Not Expect

Trump's presidency may reshape U.S. involvement in Israeli-Palestinian relations, contingent on his approach and key appointments.

Palestinians Try to Sway Trump, Reaching Out to Tiffany Trump's Relative

Mahmoud Abbas is reshaping his relationship with Donald Trump to influence future peace negotiations amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Trump's comeback poses challenges for Iran DW 11/08/2024

Trump's second term could lead to a further escalation of tensions with Iran, affecting strategies regarding their nuclear program and regional influence.

Opinion | Thomas Friedman: Trump's Path to a Nobel Peace Prize?

Trump has a historic opportunity to influence peace in the Israel-Gaza conflict, drawing from past proposals.

Iran's currency falls to an all-time low as Trump clinches the US presidency

Iran's currency has hit an all-time low, exacerbating economic challenges amid U.S. sanctions and increasing tensions in the region.

Opinion | How Trump Can Earn a Place in History That He Did Not Expect

Trump's presidency may reshape U.S. involvement in Israeli-Palestinian relations, contingent on his approach and key appointments.

Palestinians Try to Sway Trump, Reaching Out to Tiffany Trump's Relative

Mahmoud Abbas is reshaping his relationship with Donald Trump to influence future peace negotiations amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza.
moredonald-trump

Will Lebanon Deal Break Gaza Deadlock? Experts Doubt It

Biden's optimism about Gaza peace talks is premature due to Hamas's hostages and Netanyahu's political difficulties.

The World

Wealthy nations committed to $300 billion annually to support the Global South in climate change efforts at COP29.

Biden issues more Israeli settler sanctions ahead of Trump term

The US imposes new sanctions related to illegal Israeli settlements to combat violence against civilians in the occupied West Bank.

Iran and Saudi Arabia pursue cautious rapprochement DW 11/10/2024

Iran and Saudi Arabia are cautiously improving relations despite longstanding tensions and conflicts in the region.

Gulf States See Trump as Ally They Can Do Business With

Trump's rapport with Gulf leaders may influence relations if he returns to presidency after the election.

Trump's Win Is Likely to Prolong Gaza Talks Uncertainty

Trump's election victory complicates cease-fire efforts in Gaza.
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