Syria
WORLD
Double Bind: Struggle in Syria Between Foreign Peace and Domestic Clashes
As diplomats in Paris weigh the price of peace with Israel, the shelling in Aleppo serves as a lethal reminder of the domestic fractures haunting the new Syria.
BUSINESS
Rails Across Continents: The Orient Express and Hejaz Line Revived
Two legendary railway lines, one in Europe and one crossing the Middle East, are being restored in 2025, proving that infrastructure can tell stories across time.
Gaza War
The Real Test of the Abraham Accords: Ceremony vs. Reality
As Washington celebrates a diplomatic photo-op, with the Abraham Accords, middle powers are redefining the Middle East map on their own terms.
Exhibitions
The Near East in the Louvre: Time Held in Stone
In the Mesopotamian galleries of the Louvre, lions still guard doorways and musicians still play for gods who fell silent thousands of years ago.
WORLD
Syria: Latest Visit Hints at Russia’s Return to Syria
Syria’s new president Ahmed al-Sharaa meets Putin in Moscow, signalling a pragmatic reset as Russia seeks to rebuild influence in the Middle East.
Popular
Chlorine in Khartoum: a Familiar Formula
Evidence of chlorine attacks surfacing from Sudan revives a question Syria's civil war answered, chemical arms buy ground but rarely buy lasting victory.
Germany Finds a Steady Partner in Abu Dhabi
Berlin welcomes billions in Gulf capital as Abu Dhabi's state visit forges a new Strategic Dialogue
Germany Joins France in the Gulf’s Widening Orbit
Germany's courtship of Abu Dhabi follows Paris's trailblazing, confirming how Europe treats the Emirates as an indispensable partner
Merz Projects Strength Abroad as His Authority Falters at Home
A chancellor can host foreign leaders and sign investment deals right up until the moment voters at home stop believing he has a plan.
Jordan Valley: The Middle East’s New Fault Line
Iran's missiles strike Jordan, Europe's sanctions hit Israeli settlements, and London's oldest allies learn how quickly loyalty frays under diplomatic pressure.


