All Middle East
- Remote Ramadan: How pandemic alters month of fasting, philanthropy
Under lockdown amid a global pandemic, the Muslim world is adapting to not only observe but amplify the pillars of Ramadan.
- First LookLockdown lifts in Lebanon, protests erupt over economic crises
After coronavirus restrictions were eased, protests resumed full-force in Lebanon against the country's worsening economic situation. The weeks-long lockdown threw tens of thousands more people out of work.
- First LookHow the oil crash affects oil-dependent countries like Iraq
At a time of historic social unrest, the fall in oil prices is reverberating across the Middle East. In Iraq, where oil revenues fund 90% of the national budget, the government is considering cuts to social benefits to cover the loss.
- Could pandemic pave a path to peace? Why Yemen war is resistant.
The dark cloud of the coronavirus pandemic has at times displayed a silver lining. That raised hopes for Yemen, but the war is resistant.
- First LookNetanyahu to lead Israel's 'national emergency' government
A unity government led by Benjamin Netanyahu with support of his chief rival, Benny Gantz, ends months of political paralysis and will likely keep Mr. Netanyahu in office throughout the pandemic - and his corruption trial.
- In Israeli war on coronavirus, Arab doctors rush to the front
The prominent role of Arab health care professionals fighting a coronavirus that doesn’t discriminate is getting attention, and praise, in Israel.
- From healing hearts to stealing hearts: Jordan’s ‘Dr. Fauci’
In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, what qualities do you want in a health official? How about a calm manner and heartthrob celebrity status?
- Why coronavirus clampdown is proving risky for Arab regimes
Coronavirus clampdowns pose a political risk for any government. But for Arab regimes, the segment of society most vulnerable is a pillar of support.
- Why is this night different? Finding Passover comfort under curfew.
This year, the Passover Seder may be a smaller affair, but it offers our writer comfort, and a chance to reflect on the world we hope to reenter.
- In Israel, pandemic tests democracy’s immune system
Critics say Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has attempted a “coup” in the guise of protecting civilians from the novel coronavirus.
- How do you do social distancing in a refugee camp?
Syrian refugees point to a challenge for the whole world. Defeating the coronavirus means improving conditions even in the toughest places.
- Lemony, savory fusion: Israel's brash food revolution
Israel’s food revolution reflects the country’s diverse culture and fits easily into the seasonal, local movement in modern cuisine.
- Saudi opening: How tourism is breaking down social barriers
The Saudi initiative to bring foreign tourists to previously inaccessible sites is creating groundbreaking opportunities for those who live there.
- ‘Something human’: Mideast fight against virus elicits rare unity
Israelis and Palestinians mount a collaborative response to the coronavirus, rising above their divisive politics.
- Amid uncertainty, Afghan youth cling tight to what they’ve gained
Young Afghans were hopeful for peace, but are concerned by political instability in Kabul and wary of a return to Taliban rule.
- First LookAfghanistan swears in two presidents as US troops withdraw
The U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan marks a step forward on the U.S.-Taliban peace deal. But confusion in the Afghanistan government could threaten the next phase: releasing Taliban prisoners.
- First LookRussia-Turkey truce in Syria: Just 'time for fighters to rest'?
The presidents of Russia and Turkey reached an agreement which may end fighting in northern Syria, now in its ninth-year of conflict. But critics are skeptical the truce will last.
- First LookIsraeli election: Netanyahu leads but not enough yet to govern
With 90 percent of votes counted in Israel's third election this year, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not yet have a majority in parliament necessary to form a new government.
- After US deal, Afghans see long road to peace. Still, they hope.
Afghanistan’s people are holding on to their hopes for peace, even as the details of the U.S.-Taliban deal require they do so with abundant caution.
- Inside the Taliban: What these jihadis say about long-sought peace
Our reporter ventured into Taliban-held territory to speak in person with jihadi fighters. They are not of one mind on peace in Afghanistan.