EU leaders gather in Cyprus as Middle East tensions shape summit agenda - analysis
Cyprus is physically close to Israel and Lebanon and has close ties with Israel and Greece, with Cyprus-based PhileNews noting that “Thursday’s working dinner centers on geopolitical developments."
Why the US is standing up to Iranian-backed militias in Iraq - analysis
The US-Iran talks are now tied to wider regional issues. For instance, Iran wanted a ceasefire in Lebanon. The US wants to see Iranian support for proxies ended.
Iraq political factions fail to agree on prime minister as US pressure mounts
It has been five months since Iraq had an election in November, 2025. However, the parties can’t agree on a prime minister.
Syria cracks down on Hezbollah plots, drug smuggling
Syria is cracking down on terrorist plots and drug trade, busting Iran-backed terror cells and shutting down Hezbollah-linked smuggling plots.
Israel’s Lebanon move raises doubts over gas, Hezbollah and the 2022 maritime deal - analysis
The new buffer zone reflects Israel’s long-term security strategy, with gas concerns secondary to countering Hezbollah.
Israel’s symbolic strikes on bridges and high-rises show limits of military power - analysis
Israel's strikes on bridges and high-rises in Gaza and Lebanon are symbolic, revealing the limits of its military power as Hezbollah and Hamas maintain control in both regions.
The US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan: More talk, less action on critical issues - analysis
A new round of US-Iran talks begins in Pakistan, but key issues like the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved.
US Treasury goes after Iranian-backed militias in Iraq
Several days ago, the US State Department’s Rewards for Justice program announced a $10 million reward for information on Ahmad al-Hamidawi, the leader of the militia Kataib Hezbollah.
Iran split over Strait of Hormuz as IRGC challenges Foreign Minister Araghchi
“Bad and Incomplete Tweet by Araghchi and Incorrect Ambiguity-Creation Regarding the Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz," the IRGC-linked Tasnim posted on X on Friday.
Has Hezbollah crossed a red line in attack on French UNIFIL soldiers? - analysis
A number of UN peacekeepers have been killed in the recent fighting in Lebanon, including two Indonesian peacekeepers who were killed on March 30 by a roadside explosion, according to the BBC.
