US imposes visa restrictions on Iran officials, telecommunications leaders
At the end of January, the State Department confirmed that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had banned senior Iranian officials and their relatives from being in the US.
Middle East
Syrian detention camp for suspected ISIS relatives nearly empty, former director says
Iran’s crypto network is shielding regime from Western sanctions, experts tell ‘Post’
Satellite images reportedly show Iran repairing and fortifying sites amid US tensions
US Senator Lindsey Graham visits UAE President in Abu Dhabi
Earlier in the week, social media speculation about MbZ’s health had surged after Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan postponed a planned visit to Abu Dhabi.
Syrian government focuses on attracting new economy investments, ties with Central Asia states
Syria has been receiving a number of investments in recent months, from oil and energy deals to talk of investment in train lines and airports.
Middle East nations cautious as US military presence grows near Iran - analysis
US moves Air Force and naval assets to the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran, while regional allies remain largely silent and take a cautious, wait-and-see approach.
Besieged Kobane faces humanitarian disaster amid Syrian government, SDF deadlock
Reports say Kobane's ‘roads remain closed, while food and medical supplies are barred from entry’ to an area of 600,000 people.
European Union explores possible support for new Gaza administration committee
"The EU is engaging with the newly established transitional governance structures for Gaza," the European External Action Service wrote in a document circulated to member states.
Massive weeks-long war between US, Iran could begin 'very soon,' Axios reports
The US has been steadily building up its forces within the region. Axios reported that "all signs point to [Trump] pulling the trigger if talks fail."
Israel's national security dependent on supporting Kurdish cause, Kurdish leader says
“National security is achieved only through support for the cause. We are talking about a new Middle East with four key countries: Syria, Iraq, Turkey, and Iran. The Kurds are in all of them."
'I would think twice about flying': Iran conflict 'much closer' post-Geneva talks, expert warns
"We are much closer than we were before, but I remind you, a superpower does not go to war within days. There is a diplomatic path that needs to be exhausted," Amos Yadlin said.
Epstein tried to build a powerful network of political figures, business leaders in Middle East
In their correspondence, Bin Sulayem discussed sexual relationships with women with whom Epstein helped him connect.
Iran, Russia to conduct navy drills on Sea of Oman to combat maritime terrorism - report
The drill's goal is to promote convergence and coordination in joint measures to counter activities that threaten maritime security and safety, and to combat maritime terrorism.
