All Middle East
Cover StoryCan Islamist moderates remake the politics of the Muslim world?The era of political Islam appears to be waning in some regions.聽But as some Islamists broaden their appeal, there's an opportunity to increase our understanding of the nuances of Islam in politics.
First LookPutin calls downing of Russian plane off Syria a chain of tragic eventsIn the crowded skies over Syria,聽a Russian reconnaissance aircraft was shot down by Syrian forces. Russians have accused the Israeli military of deliberately using the Russian plane as a cover to dodge the Syrian defenses, straining diplomatic ties between the nations.
With nowhere to run, Idlib residents reach for life, but prepare to fight鈥楲ive today to fight tomorrow鈥櫬爃as been the motto of Syrian rebels and their families who, with each successive battlefield loss, have flocked to Idlib for months. An existential moment has arrived.
Why Arabic is flowering in Israel even as it鈥檚 officially demotedFinding a common language, perhaps especially in a multilingual environment, is key to social cohesion. And speaking another鈥檚 language signals respect and fosters understanding.
First LookCalls for Israeli ambassador to resign amid sexual assault allegationsA dozen women have come forward with sexual assault allegations against David Keyes, a spokesperson in the Israeli government. The episode is the latest in the global spread of the #MeToo movement.聽
In Jordan, 'house of safety' offers hope and freedom to at-risk womenIn traditional societies, the family is a safety net. So what happens when, as in the case of so-called honor killings, the threat comes from within the family itself? Jordan is devising an answer.
US defunding of Palestinian refugee agency creates crisis for JordanDefunding UNRWA is just one measure the Trump administration is using to shake up the Middle East status quo. But in Jordan, home to more than 2 million Palestinians, officials fear a 'catastrophe.'
First LookAfghan experts condemn US threats against international courtHuman rights experts in Afghanistan have spoke out against US National Security Adviser John Bolton's insistence that the United States won't cooperate with an International Criminal Court investigation. The experts believe this decision will prolong the war in Afghanistan.
First LookNuclear chief says Iran prepared to ramp up atomic programIn an interview with The Associated Press, Iran's nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi hints at Iran's nuclear capabilities. He suggests that if the nuclear deal were to fall apart, Iran would accelerate its uranium enrichment efforts while withstanding economic pressure.聽
A bold bid in the Middle East to rewrite the diplomatic rulebookJared Kushner, President Trump's son-in-law, is leading a dramatically new approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Amid warnings of Idlib massacre, a last try at diplomacy in SyriaThroughout Syria's civil war, outside powers have tried and failed to prevent horrific violence. With Syria poised to take Idlib province, likely at great cost, diplomats are meeting again. Is it too late?
First LookUS Defense secretary meets with Afghan officials to discuss securityDefense Secretary James Mattis made a surprise visit to Kabul, Afghanistan, this week to discuss security measures and government corruption with public officials. His visit comes on the heels of a major attack in the nation's war-weary capital.
Erdo臒an faults US for frail economy: good politics, but risky policyTurkey鈥檚 economic malaise, for which analysts blame mismanagement, could worsen if investors continue to see political leaders subscribe to conspiracy theories rather than take responsibility.
Gaza steps back from brink as UN works for stronger Israel-Hamas dealIt's mostly quiet on the Israel-Gaza front. But there are doubts a return to the status quo ante will deliver the stability residents crave. Are political leaders capable of bolder action?
First LookAfghan band rocks on despite discriminationThe four rockers who make up the band Arikayn are Afghan refugees, whose struggles mirror those of millions of other Afghans who have fled to Iran. While they face discrimination, they continue to create music they love and to perform both in Iran and in Afghanistan.聽
What's behind Saudi Arabia's summer of discontent?Saudi Arabia's young and powerful crown prince has billed himself as a reformer, modernizer, and liberal. So the kingdom's summer of jailed activists and a feud with Canada is a puzzlement.
First LookIn the rebuilding of historic Cairo, residents fear loss of livelihoodThe Egyptian government is razing crumbling parts of Cairo, but longtime residents say they're not being treated fairly. Their challenges raise the question: How can Cairo rebuild responsibly without leaving its history, and people, behind?
First LookAs Taliban attacks continue, questions raised about US plan for peaceAs the Trump administration increases military pressure to push the Taliban into peace negotiations, the terrorist group has been ramping up attacks, highlighting the vulnerability of Afghan security forces.
Can fighting corruption help Arab states sell painful economic reforms?The need to address corruption in the Arab world is urgent. But if new initiatives are simply politically expedient 鈥� as many citizens suspect 鈥� they risk only fueling distrust and suspicion.
Lebanon's hashish equation: If farmers gain, does Hezbollah lose?Add Lebanon to the list of societies contemplating legalizing cannabis. The indebted nation could benefit financially, but legalization could create complications for Hezbollah, which draws recruits from Lebanon's poor hashish-growing region.
