Israeli settlers escalate attacks in Masafer Yatta under army protection – Middle East Monitor

Iraq has dispatched a delegation to Damascus to explore the potential restoration of an oil pipeline that would transport Iraqi oil through Syria to Mediterranean ports. The delegation, led by the head of Iraq's National Intelligence Service, will also address counter-terrorism cooperation, border security, and trade expansion between the two nations. This visit follows a recent meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Syria's President Ahmed Al-Sharaa in Qatar, marking a significant diplomatic...

Hezbollah severs outstretched handNidaz Al Watan, Lebanon, April 17Hezbollah's approach to dialogue and reconciliation is rooted in a strategy of domination and suppression, dismissing any overtures as conspiracies to be crushed. Amidst Lebanon's political turmoil, President Joseph Aoun's attempts to address the illegal arms issue are met with threats from Hezbollah, which views dissent as treachery. Unless the Lebanese populace rejects Hezbollah's doctrine of sabotage, the state will remain trapped in a cycle of...

SummaryIsrael's campaign in Gaza is focused on pressuring Hamas to release hostages and diminish its military capabilities, with reports indicating a decline in Hamas's strength. Meanwhile, the Houthi organization from Yemen remains actively engaged, launching missiles at Israel and targeting international shipping routes, prompting US airstrikes against Houthi positions. The US is concerned about the Houthis' growing connections with al-Shabaab, raising fears of expanded Iranian influence in the region, despite ongoing military efforts to curb...

Mahmoud Abbas's recent statements during the Palestinian Central Council's 32nd session sparked controversy as he criticized Hamas and the Palestinian Resistance in Gaza, calling for the return of Israeli captives while using derogatory language instead of addressing Israeli aggression. The Fatah Central Committee echoed his sentiments, blaming Hamas for obstructing the Palestinian national process, which observers view as a dangerous shift in the Palestinian Authority's priorities that distracts from confronting the Occupation. This criticism occurs...

Summary During his visit to Moscow, Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad announced plans to enhance cooperation with Russia in agriculture and banking while removing barriers to collaboration. Iran is set to sign a $4 billion agreement with Russian companies to develop seven oil fields, as both nations deepen ties under Western sanctions, particularly since the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, discussions on supplying gas from Russia to Iran and establishing a regional gas distribution hub involving Iran,...

Donald Trump’s approach to global order, termed Pax Americana, is being tested in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran, as the US aims to handle these complex negotiations independently. The simultaneous efforts led by Trump's associate Steven Witkoff are challenged by a lack of experienced diplomats and budget cuts within the State Department, raising concerns about the US's credibility abroad. The interconnection of these conflicts complicates the negotiations, with growing skepticism about Trump's ability to project strength...