Five killed in Israeli West Bank air strike

Church bells rang in Mosul and surrounding areas on Monday to honor the late Pope Francis, who was the first pope to visit Iraq, a country deeply affected by jihadist violence. At the historic Al-Tahera church in Qaraqosh, where the Pope prayed in 2021, worshippers held an Easter mass that became a tribute to him, recalling his efforts to support the Christian community in the region, which has dwindled significantly. His death is seen as...

Yemeni Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani praised US President Donald Trump's foreign policy, particularly recent military strikes against the Iran-backed Houthi militia, calling them a strategic necessity for regional security. He characterized the Houthis as a significant threat, asserting that their advanced military capabilities jeopardize global trade and stability. Al-Eryani contrasted Trump's decisive actions with prior international inaction towards Iranian expansionism, emphasizing the importance of confronting the Houthis to restore stability in Yemen and the...

The Trump administration confirmed the appointment of Merav Ceren to the National Security Council, refuting claims that she worked for Israel's Ministry of Defense. Ceren, a former Senate staffer with extensive experience in national security, participated in an internship related to resource management in the West Bank but was not employed by the Israeli Defense Ministry, according to a spokesperson. Her appointment coincides with ongoing US-Iran nuclear negotiations, amidst heightened tensions regarding Iran's nuclear program...

Donald Trump publicly supported Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after reports surfaced that Hegseth shared details about U.S. missile strikes in Yemen in a Signal group chat that included family and Pentagon aides. Trump dismissed concerns about the leaks, attributing them to disgruntled former staff, and encouraged his team to defend Hegseth, who felt the story was a "hit piece." Pressure for Hegseth's resignation grew following critical comments from former aides and Republican congressman Don Bacon,...

Summary Al-Monitor is an award-winning media outlet recognized for its independence and diversity in covering the Middle East. It is widely read by key decision-makers in the US, international circles, and the Middle East, including leaders in media, business, and academia. The outlet is valued for its in-depth analysis and insights, making it a crucial resource for understanding regional dynamics. Full Article

Ali Shamkhani, political adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, outlined nine principles guiding Tehran's approach to a potential deal with the US, reflecting Khamenei's skepticism towards negotiations after the 2015 agreement's collapse. These principles emphasize seriousness in talks, assurances regarding Iran's nuclear program, a balanced agreement, removal of sanctions, cessation of threats, expedited negotiations, containment of Israeli influence, facilitation of investment, and a firm rejection of the "Libyan model" of nuclear dismantlement. The principles...