The opening of a strategic road in Iraq's Kurdistan Region — closed since the Kurds' ill-fated independence referendum in September 2017 — could be a prelude to a reset in ties between Erbil and Baghdad.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Sinjar road reconnects estranged Yazidis and Kurds with Baghdad
Opposition group in Idlib orders extreme punishments
One of two opposition governments in rebel-controlled Idlib, Syria, has implemented a form of Islamic Sharia punishment that calls for criminals to be executed, exiled or have their hands cut off.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Opposition group in Idlib orders extreme punishments
Will Israel ever learn from its UN mistakes?
The failure by the United State and Israeli to pass a resolution condemning Hamas suggest that Israel needs to examine its understanding of the limits of its Middle Eastern relations and adjust its attitude toward the United Nations.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Will Israel ever learn from its UN mistakes?
Trump’s pick for top general could expand Mideast advising role
The Pentagon’s incoming Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman has a long track record of training foreign military forces.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Trump’s pick for top general could expand Mideast advising role
Why was Turkey's intel chief in Washington?
Turkish intel chief Hakan Fidan's visit to the United States generated an uproar from the Turkish opposition. Why did Erdogan encourage this public bashing of Fidan?
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Why was Turkey's intel chief in Washington?
Itqan Al Khaleej becomes Forcepoint platinum partner
Forcepoint also recognises Itqan with award for closing $1m business in 2018
Source: ITP.net
Full Article: Itqan Al Khaleej becomes Forcepoint platinum partner
Saudi telcos get royalty reduction in return for network investment
STC, Zain and Mobily will reduce annual payment to government and invest in new infrastructure
Source: ITP.net
Full Article: Saudi telcos get royalty reduction in return for network investment
Turkey's defense industry still striving for self-sufficiency
Turkey has made significant strides in developing its defense industry during the past four years, but it is still being held back by its dependence on other countries' goods and technologies.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Turkey's defense industry still striving for self-sufficiency
Is Sisi vying to stay on as president?
News is circulating in the media about constitutional amendments that would allow Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to remain in power for additional years or head a constitutional committee.
Source: Al Monitor
Full Article: Is Sisi vying to stay on as president?
Dubai Silicon Oasis holds Emirati Tech Boot Camp
Third Emirati Tech Boot Camp held to encourage UAE nationals to develop startups
Source: ITP.net
Full Article: Dubai Silicon Oasis holds Emirati Tech Boot Camp