Seth J. Frantzman
UAE deepens economic ties with Damascus, eyes major investment in Syria's postwar reconstruction
Iraq downplays reports of ‘secret’ Israeli base, while sending troops to find it - analysis
Donald Trump 'very disappointed' with Kurdish opposition groups following US backing - analysis
Iranian-backed militias search Iraq for 'Zionist-American' base in show of force - analysis
Reports of a secret Israeli base in Iraq have now led Baghdad to feel it must do something and stage a show of force, resulting in Iranian-backed militias sending forces to southern Iraq.
Houthis still using Iranian components in missiles, expanding arsenal
Anti-ship, surface-to-air, and ballistic missiles are among these weapons, demonstrating that the Houthis now possess a range of advanced offensive capabilities.
Turkey’s changing regional policy is a sign of stability, but Israel is wary - analysis
Today, Ankara appears to have changed course. It backs the new Syrian government and has appeared to support the Syrian Democratic Forces’ integration into the new Syrian security forces.
Can FPV drone threat encourage Israel-Ukraine cooperation? - analysis
As Israel has established a buffer zone inside Lebanon, the Iranian-backed terrorist group has shifted to using relatively small quadcopter-type drones that are attached to a fiber-optic cable.
Iraqi media shocked by reports of secret Israeli base as Baghdad hits critical juncture - analysis
Reports that Iraq’s sovereignty may have been undermined by a foreign force operating in the desert will cause controversy in Baghdad.
Syria appoints new cabinet as government settles into power
The reshuffle, announced by Syrian state media, included the appointment of new governors for several key provinces.
Petty clashes over a sign in Syria risk snowballing into real conflict
Protesters in Hasakah and also in Qamishli object to the removal of Kurdish from official signs on government buildings.
Reporters Notebook: Israel’s northern border amid peace and war
Despite ongoing tensions, Israel's northern border shows signs of quiet resilience as local communities resume life amid rising security threats.
Israel needs long-term Iran strategy before US nuclear deal holds it back for good - analysis
Talk of remaking the region requires a vision that goes beyond more war on multiple fronts. If Israel can’t get to the next stage, then the years of war may have been wasted.
Kurdish leaders in Iraq seek stability and influence under Zaidi government - analysis
Iraqi Kurdish leaders are seeking greater influence in Baghdad as Prime Minister Ali al Zaidi forms a new government amid rising regional tensions.