The Latest Breaking News from Jon Alterman

Concerns that US’s hands-off approach could leave the country open to a return to civil war or a resurgence of Iran

US military action has so far failed to halt attacks by Iran-backed groups on Washington's forces in the Middle East and shipping in the Red Sea, with the threats persisting despite recent heavy air strikes.

Biden is calling for a two-state solution for Israeli-Palestinian peace. But the long-discussed framework is increasingly unpopular in the region. Here are some of its challenges — and alternatives.

U.S. President Joe Biden, on October 18, left the White House for a quick trip to Israel to show solidarity with the people of the country in the aftermath of the terrorist attack by Hamas.

Activists and Democrats condemn rapprochement – aimed at heading off China – with ‘autocratic, sociopathic government’

BEIRUT — The surprise announcement of a resumption of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, thanks to a deal brokered by Beijing, underscores regional governments’ interest in a de-escalation of tensions — and China’s willingness to wield its economic clout to achieve it.

An agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia to re-establish diplomatic relations has cast China in a leading role in Middle Eastern politics — a part previously reserved for longtime global heavyweights like the U.S. and Russia

U.S. officials want to reset relations with Saudi Arabia and Israel amid rising gas prices and new security challenges