Intensive diplomatic traffic between Athens and Washington that emphasizes military cooperation raises the question of whether the United States is seeking an alternative strategic ally to Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Deteriorating US-Turkey ties weaken Ankara's hand in other problems
Frustrated Jordanians work off daily woes in rage rooms
A rage room in Amman helps Jordanians cope with their frustration by smashing things in a safe space.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Frustrated Jordanians work off daily woes in rage rooms
Yemen war 'does not serve any party' says Oman’s ambassador to US
Omani ambassador to Washington Hunaina Al-Mughairy spoke to Al-Monitor about US-Omani ties, her country's stance on Yemen, Mideast peace and the latest Washington-Tehran tensions.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Yemen war 'does not serve any party' says Oman’s ambassador to US
Syrian government, opposition swap 18 more prisoners
Small exchanges of prisoners between the Syrian government and opposition continue in Aleppo province, showing some progress but indicating more cooperation is needed.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Syrian government, opposition swap 18 more prisoners
Hamas to form body to foil 'deal of the century'
Hamas has recently announced its intention to form a supreme body with the aim of thwarting the US deal of the century in what some officials say trespasses the prerogatives of the PLO.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Hamas to form body to foil 'deal of the century'
How long can PA keep borrowing money from Palestinian banks?
The Palestinian government announced its decision to pay 60% of the salaries of public employees, which could be achieved under a plan to borrow money from local banks to confront the financial crisis caused by Israel's deduction from clearing funds for the PA.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: How long can PA keep borrowing money from Palestinian banks?
Woman heads Palestinian Health Ministry for the first time
Only three women have been appointed to ministerial positions in the new Palestinian government, out of 18 ministries in total, raising the ire of activists.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Woman heads Palestinian Health Ministry for the first time
Algeria’s protesters vie for uncertain legacy
Although weekslong protests in Algeria managed to dislodge the president and regime-linked figures, many challenges lie ahead still.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Algeria’s protesters vie for uncertain legacy
Israel wants to strengthen, annex West Bank settlements
Israel will offer investors grants to build hotels in West Bank settlements, which reflects Israel’s intention to annex more parts of the West Bank.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Israel wants to strengthen, annex West Bank settlements
Russia, UN eye benefits of partnering in post-war Syria
The challenges of rebuilding Syria could bring Moscow and the United Nations closer for cooperation on virtually all critical issues.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Russia, UN eye benefits of partnering in post-war Syria