No Frontrunner in Egypt’s First Free Presidential Election
Polls show no favorite to inherit Egypt’s presidency. It may take two voting rounds.
Middle East and North Africa
Gulf States Delay Plans for Closer Arabian Union
Wary of Saudi domination, the smaller nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council delay plans for closer political integration.
Expanded Coalition Gives Netanyahu More Leeway
The prime minister has an opportunity to show more flexibility toward the Palestinians.
Israel Challenges Egypt Over Sinai Security Chaos
Israel had to defend its citizens while avoiding the collapse of the peace treaty with Egypt.
Arab Gulf States Struggle to Agree on Missile Shield
The monarchies are uneasy about sharing data and cannot decide on the location of a central command.
Early Election Could Strengthen Netanyahu’s Mandate
The prime minister could run as the defender of Israel before having to deal with the aftermath of an attack.
Diplomatic Crisis Between Iraq, Turkey Deepening
Turkish relations with Iraq’s Kurds and Sunnis anger the Shī’ah government in Baghdad.
Yemen’s New President Hunting Down Al Qaeda
Abd Rabbuh Mansur al-Hadi turns out to be a more dedicated partner than his predecessor.
Iraq’s Maliki Brands Turkey “Hostile State”
Iraq’s premier says his Turkish counterpart seeks “hegemony” in the Middle East.
Gulf States Caught in Middle of Iranian-Saudi Cold War
Threatened by Iran, smaller Arab Gulf states are driven into Saudi Arabia’s arms.
Brotherhood, Spy Chief Exit Egypt’s Presidential Race
Khairat al-Shater and Omar Suleiman are barred from running for president in Egypt.
Violence Subdues in Syria, But Peace Plan Not in Place
The ceasefire has cut civilian casualties but Assad is still violating the Annan agreement.
Republican McCain Urges Obama to “Lead” in Syria
The Republican senator argues the United States should spearhead efforts to remove Assad.
Kofi Annan’s Mission Impossible in Syria
International support for his peace plan is just as important for Kofi Annan as the plan itself.
Brotherhood, Spy Chief Enter Egypt’s Presidential Race
The Muslim Brotherhood and Omar Suleiman intend to contest Egypt’s presidency.