China, Pakistan agree with Kabul to expand CPEC to Afghanistan

China, Pakistan agree with Kabul to expand CPEC to Afghanistan

    Wednesday, May 21, 2025   No comments

Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan agreed in a trilateral meeting in Beijing to formally extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan, strengthening regional connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The foreign ministers emphasized deeper cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and security, reaffirming their commitment to counterterrorism and regional stability. 

The next trilateral meeting will be held in Kabul. The talks took place during Deputy PM Ishaq Dar’s visit to China, which also addressed the recent Pakistan-India tensions and reaffirmed the strong China-Pakistan partnership.

Israeli soldiers fired at foreign diplomats visiting west bank, Palestine

Israeli soldiers fired at foreign diplomats visiting west bank, Palestine

    Wednesday, May 21, 2025   No comments

Approximately one hour ago, Israeli soldiers fired at foreign diplomats from European and Arab states who were touring Jenin in the West Bank, Palestine.

The IDF has released an official statement on the incident, claiming that the delegation 'deviated from the approved route,' leading soldiers to fire 'warning shots.' 

The delegation reportedly included 35 ambassadors, consuls, and diplomats from the European Union, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Jordan, China, Russia, Japan, and others.

Italy has summoned the Israeli ambassador due to the event, and soon after, France has also summoned the Israeli ambassador for an explanation.

EU foreign policy chief states, 'Any threats to the lives of diplomats are unacceptable,' in response to the attack on diplomats by Israel in Jenin.

EU foreign policy chief states, 'Any threats to the lives of diplomats are unacceptable,' in response to the attack on diplomats by Israel in Jenin.

 

 

Trump’s “America First” and the Shifting Middle East

Trump’s “America First” and the Shifting Middle East

    Tuesday, May 13, 2025   No comments

Under the banner of “America First,” President Donald Trump’s second term is leaving an unmistakable imprint on the Middle East. The traditional American posture—strongly aligned with Israel and antagonistic toward Iran—is giving way to a new configuration driven more by economic pragmatism and regional stability than ideology. At the heart of this shift is a surprising warming of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia, a recalibration in U.S.-Israel relations amid the Gaza war, and a relentless push for commercial deals that serve both American and regional interests.

Trump's Strategic Bet: Trade Over Troops

Trump’s latest Middle East tour, which began with a high-profile stop in Riyadh, highlights a clear message: economic engagement is now Washington’s primary tool of influence. In Saudi Arabia, he and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a “Strategic Economic Partnership” encompassing energy, mining, and defense. The visit was touted by Trump as “historic,” with the New York Times reporting the president’s desire to announce deals worth over $1 trillion, which he believes will bolster American jobs and global influence.

Instead of pursuing a comprehensive foreign policy doctrine, Trump’s second term appears guided by transactional diplomacy—striking business deals and forging bilateral agreements without broader regional conditions. This is a marked departure from previous administrations that often tied economic or military cooperation to political reform or diplomatic alignment, especially concerning Israel.

Practical decisions:Saudi Arabia and the United States have signed a historic $142 Billion dollar arms deal, the largest in history. Saudi Crown Prince Bin Salman also pledged that Saudi Arabia would invest a staggering $600 Billion USD into the U.S. economy.

Gaza War Reveals Strains in U.S.-Israel Ties

Meanwhile, the ongoing war in Gaza is exposing growing daylight between Washington and Tel Aviv. Trump, once hailed by Israeli leaders as one of their strongest allies, is now signaling fatigue with the conflict. According to The Guardian, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff criticized Israel’s prolongation of the war, stating plainly that “Israel is not ready to end it,” while the U.S. wants it resolved—especially with American hostages involved.

Trump’s reluctance to visit Israel during this regional tour, and his administration’s quiet disengagement from Israeli military priorities—like launching strikes on Iran or continuing the Gaza war indefinitely—signals a pivot. One former Israeli diplomat noted bluntly: “Trump is not anti-Israel, but he doesn’t care that much.”

This pragmatism is echoed in Trump’s decision to finalize a ceasefire with the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen—without consulting Israel—and even referring to the Houthis as “brave.” These actions underscore a major shift: the U.S. is prioritizing regional calm and economic deals over ideological battles or military entanglements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "There will be no scenario in which we stop the war...even if Hamas releases additional Israeli prisoners, IDF operations in Gaza will continue."

Iran-Saudi Talks: A New Regional Axis?

Perhaps the most striking development of all is the quiet but determined rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia—two rivals long seen as polar opposites in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently visited Jeddah to meet his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan. The two discussed bilateral cooperation and regional challenges, signaling a thaw in relations that were icy during Trump’s first term.

The visit came on the heels of indirect U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, which Araghchi described as entering a “detailed” and “constructive” phase. Oman, playing mediator, confirmed a shared desire to reach a “dignified agreement.” Trump’s administration appears to be backing this diplomatic track quietly, a sign that America no longer seeks to isolate Iran at any cost.

More significantly, Saudi Arabia is engaging with Iran not because of American pressure, but despite it. The economic rationale is compelling: both nations are navigating uncertain oil markets, diversifying their economies, and facing youth-driven demand for growth and jobs. Regional stability is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival.

Normalization with Israel? Not at Any Price

While Trump continues to advocate for Saudi-Israeli normalization, the path is increasingly steep. As long as the war in Gaza rages, Riyadh has made clear it will not move forward. The Jerusalem Post warned that normalization “is no longer given for free,” and Israel may no longer be a necessary partner for American-Arab relations.

This mirrors Trump’s broader approach: if a deal serves economic interests, it’s pursued; if not, it's sidelined—regardless of who the traditional allies are.

The Middle East Reorders Around Stability and Commerce

Trump’s “America First” no longer means a blanket commitment to old alliances or ideological battles. It means pushing American interests through trade and stability. This pivot has encouraged unlikely conversations—between Iran and Saudi Arabia, between economic development and military restraint. It has also cooled previously unquestionable loyalties, as seen in Washington’s growing impatience with Israel’s war strategy.

The new Middle East is one where economic realism outweighs ideological loyalty, and where Trump’s transactional instincts are reshaping the region—not through force, but through a cold calculation of mutual benefit.

Building Bridges Amid Turbulence: The Fourth Arab-Iranian Dialogue Conference in Doha

Building Bridges Amid Turbulence: The Fourth Arab-Iranian Dialogue Conference in Doha

    Saturday, May 10, 2025   No comments

The Fourth Arab-Iranian Dialogue Conference commenced on May 10 in Doha, Qatar, under the theme “Strong Relations and Shared Interests.” Organized jointly by the Al Jazeera Center for Studies and Iran’s Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, this event brings together senior officials, diplomats, and experts from both Arab countries and Iran. The primary goal is to promote mutual understanding, regional cooperation, and a strategic framework for enduring peace and economic collaboration in an increasingly fragile geopolitical landscape.

This year's conference, held from May 10 to 12, reflects a consistent effort to sustain dialogue between Arab states and Iran. Previous sessions addressed regional crises, security and economic solutions, and collaborative frameworks. Now, the focus has shifted to deepening cooperation and building trust. As emphasized in the opening remarks by Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer Al Thani, Chairman of Al Jazeera Media Network, the event is taking place amid complex regional dynamics. It calls for intellectual rigor and strategic thinking to find innovative approaches for resolving conflicts and fostering stability.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reinforced this sentiment by underscoring Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy and regional harmony. He highlighted that Iran sees the acquisition of nuclear weapons as forbidden and remains engaged in good-faith negotiations with global powers. Araghchi stressed the principle of good neighborliness and reiterated Iran’s dedication to regional reconciliation through dialogue, not confrontation. He proposed institutionalizing the dialogue platform to sustain intellectual and diplomatic communication.

Former Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi, now head of the Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, added that regional prosperity depends on a shared commitment to peace. He outlined a vision of joint development, particularly in the energy sector, spanning both traditional and renewable sources. Kharrazi also addressed urgent humanitarian concerns, especially the crisis in Gaza, describing Israel’s actions as expansionist and destabilizing. He called for unified diplomatic efforts among regional powers, legal accountability for war crimes, and collaborative humanitarian initiatives, including support for displaced populations and post-war reconstruction.

The conference does not occur in a vacuum. It unfolds against a backdrop of profound regional instability—from enduring conflicts in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. These ongoing challenges have made clear the limitations of unilateral approaches and underscored the necessity for structured, inclusive dialogue. The Doha conference emerges as a critical step toward a cooperative regional architecture rooted in shared interests and historical interconnectedness.

In essence, the Fourth Arab-Iranian Dialogue Conference is more than a diplomatic gathering—it is a response to escalating crises and a testament to the power of dialogue during times of division. While significant obstacles remain, this initiative signals a collective willingness to prioritize cooperation over conflict and to seek sustainable paths toward peace and prosperity in the Middle East.

A Turning Point in the Yemen Conflict: U.S. Airstrikes Halt, Regional Repercussions, and Yemen’s Continued Alignment with Gaza

A Turning Point in the Yemen Conflict: U.S. Airstrikes Halt, Regional Repercussions, and Yemen’s Continued Alignment with Gaza

    Tuesday, May 06, 2025   No comments

Media Review of Current Events:

In a surprising and consequential move, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the cessation of American airstrikes on Yemen. This development marks a significant shift in U.S. policy in the region and has prompted strong reactions from multiple stakeholders—particularly Israel, whose leadership was caught off guard. The halt comes amid Omani-brokered negotiations and is framed within a broader narrative of de-escalation, albeit with complex undercurrents of continued resistance from Yemen’s Ansar Allah (Houthi) movement against Israeli aggression in Gaza.

The U.S. Halt of Airstrikes and Omani Mediation

Trump’s announcement came during a joint press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, where he claimed that Yemeni forces had made a verbal commitment to cease attacks on ships in the Red Sea. Despite the absence of a formal agreement, the Trump administration interpreted this as a positive development and ordered the U.S. military to stand down. Defense officials confirmed that the military had received instructions to halt operations the previous evening.

This breakthrough was facilitated by Oman, a regional actor known for its neutral diplomatic posture and history of mediating between the U.S. and Yemen. The Omani Foreign Ministry confirmed its successful efforts in brokering a ceasefire agreement that ensures the safety of maritime routes, particularly in the strategic Bab al-Mandeb and Red Sea corridors. Oman praised both sides for their constructive approach and expressed hope that the de-escalation would pave the way for further regional stability.

 "Trump announces the end of the U.S. bombing campaign on Yemen, likely due to disappointing results and high costs" – Politico

The Yemeni Perspective: A Tactical Pause, Not a Strategic Retreat

Yemeni officials, including top political leaders such as Mohammed Ali al-Houthi and Mahdi al-Mashat, responded to Trump’s announcement with guarded optimism but clarified that their resistance remains rooted in principle. Al-Houthi underscored that Yemeni military operations were primarily acts of solidarity with Gaza, undertaken in response to American and Israeli aggression. He described the U.S. halt as a potential tactical victory that "disconnects American support from Israel" and called it a setback for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

A senior member of Ansarullah movement Mohammed Abdul Salam: We did not submit any requests to the Americans, but rather we received messages via our brothers in the Sultanate of Oman.

Echoing this, al-Mashat issued a stern warning to Israel, asserting that Yemen’s support for Gaza would not waver and that retaliation for Israeli attacks on Yemeni infrastructure—including airports and power stations—would be “earth-shaking.” His remarks came after an Israeli airstrike on Sana’a and amid heightened tensions between Yemen and the Israeli military.

Member of the Supreme Political Council in Yemen, Mohammad al-Bukhaiti: "We tell the Americans, the British, and the Zionists that our military operations in support of Gaza will continue, no matter the sacrifices. The Zionists have crossed red lines and must await Yemen's response."

Israeli Shock and Strategic Isolation

The Israeli reaction to the U.S. decision was one of astonishment and concern. According to reports from Israeli media outlets such as Channel 14 and Channel 12, the political establishment in Tel Aviv was blindsided by Trump’s announcement. Analysts suggested that this shift could signify a broader American intention to disengage from direct involvement in regional conflicts, particularly those perceived as primarily serving Israeli strategic interests.

Israeli commentators interpreted the decision as a symbolic abandonment. Channel 12’s Amichai Segal remarked that the move sent a clear message to the region: "Target Israel if you must, but leave us [the U.S.] out of it." This sentiment highlighted fears of growing Israeli isolation in the face of coordinated regional hostility, particularly as Yemen declared it would not relent in targeting Israeli assets.

Moreover, uncertainty lingers in Israel regarding whether the ceasefire includes an implicit U.S. endorsement—or at least tolerance—of Yemeni attacks on Israel, even if American assets are no longer directly involved. Analysts warned that such ambiguity could embolden Iran and its allies, including the Houthis, to escalate attacks against Israeli interests.

Israeli Media:  The United States started bombing Yemen in March, in order to force the Houthis to stop their attacks on Israel. Instead, they started attacking American ships too. Now, suddenly Trump has made peace with them, without involving Israel, throwing away the original intention of the campaign. 

A Conditional Truce and the Resilient Yemeni Stance

While the agreement is framed by the U.S. and Oman as a de-escalatory measure, Yemeni officials have insisted it does not alter their fundamental position. Yemeni Information Minister Dhaifallah al-Shami emphasized in a televised interview that the conflict with the U.S. was merely a consequence of American intervention on behalf of Israel. If the U.S. withdraws, he explained, Yemen would logically stop targeting American ships—but their conflict with Israel remains unchanged.

Al-Shami’s statements clarified that Yemeni attacks on maritime targets began as a response to U.S. airstrikes, not as an independent escalation. With the U.S. potentially stepping away, Yemeni focus may shift entirely back to Israeli targets. He characterized the U.S. decision as a retreat and reaffirmed that Yemeni resistance is fundamentally aimed at countering Israeli aggression and supporting Palestinians in Gaza.

A Shifting Regional Equation

These developments reflect a shifting balance in the Middle East. The U.S. decision to pause airstrikes in Yemen, facilitated by Omani diplomacy, is a notable step toward de-escalation in one arena of conflict. However, the underlying tensions remain, particularly due to Yemen’s unwavering support for Gaza and its framing of the conflict as a broader resistance against what they see as Zionist aggression.

For Israel, the move signifies a strategic recalibration by its closest ally—one that may force Tel Aviv to confront its adversaries with less external military backing than before. For Yemen, the truce with the U.S. is tactical, not strategic; the commitment to Gaza and opposition to what they see as Israeli aggression remain resolute. As the region braces for possible new escalations, the ramifications of this agreement could reverberate far beyond the Red Sea.

Media Review: Why does Trump Think Erdogan is a "Winner"? -- Analyzing Current Events in the Middle East

Media Review: Why does Trump Think Erdogan is a "Winner"? -- Analyzing Current Events in the Middle East

    Wednesday, April 09, 2025   No comments

Recent developments in the Middle East have raised significant concerns about Israel's national security, particularly in light of the shifting dynamics following the weakening of the Assad regime in Syria. This article explores how Israel's previous strategies may backfire, especially with Turkey's increasing involvement representing a new challenge for Israeli policy.

For years, Israel has maintained a complex relationship with Syria, often justifying its military actions by citing the Iranian presence in the region. The narrative framed Iran as a significant threat, allowing Israel to conduct operations with a degree of international acquiescence. However, the fall of the Assad regime, which Israel purportedly supported and even took credit for, may turn out to be a strategic miscalculation.

The vacuum left by the fall of Assad regime has not led to a straightforward advantage for Israel. Instead, it has opened the door for a more assertive Turkey, a NATO member, to expand its influence in Syria. This shift complicates Israel's security calculus, as Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently stated that while Turkey does not seek confrontations with Israel in Syria, Israel's actions could pave the way for future instability in the region.

Then, sitting next to Israel's prime minister, US president Trump said that Erdogan is a "winner". President Trump's comments about Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reveal a startling acknowledgment of Turkey's growing role in Syria. Trump congratulated Erdoğan for effectively asserting control over Syrian territories through proxies.

Turkey's potential establishment of military bases in Syria poses a direct challenge to Israel's strategic interests. While Fidan noted that any agreements the new Syrian administration might pursue with Israel are its own business, the tension remains palpable. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has expressed concerns about Turkish military presence, indicating that Israel does not want Turkey using Syrian territory as a base against it.

Iran's Enhanced Position: A Trojan Horse

Contrary to Israel's previous assertions, Iran's capacity to operate in Syria is potentially more secure due to Turkey's involvement. The collaboration between Turkey and Iran could facilitate logistics and support in ways that were previously less feasible. This partnership undermines Israel's long-standing narrative of Iranian isolation, presenting a more unified front against Israeli interests.

Moreover, Turkey's criticisms of Israeli military actions—labeling them as genocidal and a violation of regional stability—highlight the precariousness of Israel's position. Turkish officials have condemned Israeli airstrikes on Syria, which they perceive as an infringement on Syrian sovereignty. This rhetoric 

Israel's national security strategy has relied heavily on maintaining a powerless Syria. A fragmented state is easier to control and less likely to pose a direct threat. However, with Turkey's burgeoning role in the region, Israel finds itself in a precarious position. Erdoğan's ambitions could lead to the establishment of Turkish military bases in Syria, effectively transforming the landscape into a more complex battleground for Israel.

The current events in the Middle East illustrate the intricacies of regional politics and the potential repercussions of Israel’s earlier strategic choices. The fall of the Assad regime, rather than serving as a victory for Israeli security, might lead to a more complicated and threatening environment.

Trump’s Perspective on Erdogan as a "Winner"

Trump's admiration for Erdogan can be traced to Turkey's significant role in the ongoing conflict in Syria. By supporting the Islamist-led coalition that ousted Bashar al-Assad, Erdogan has effectively increased Turkey's influence in a region historically dominated by various power struggles. Trump’s comments, such as congratulating Erdogan for "taking over Syria," highlight a recognition of Turkey's strategic gains. This acknowledgment reflects Trump's broader narrative of strength and success, often favoring leaders who exhibit assertive control over their territories and dominating weaker nations.

Moreover, Trump’s personal rapport with Erdogan is notable. By describing Erdogan as "very smart" and emphasizing their strong relationship, Trump positions himself as a potential mediator in the fraught dynamics between Turkey and Israel. This personal connection may enhance Trump's ability to navigate the delicate political waters of the Middle East, where alliances shift rapidly.

Erdogan’s achievements in Syria are significant. By backing opposition forces and securing a foothold in the region, Turkey has not only expanded its influence but also positioned itself as a key player in any future resolution of the Syrian crisis. However, the devastation wrought by over 11 years of war has left Syria in ruins, requiring an estimated $300 billion for reconstruction. This staggering cost presents a challenge for Turkey, as Erdogan does not have the financial resources to undertake such an extensive rebuilding effort.

Moreover, Turkey’s relationship with Iran and Russia complicates the situation. Erdogan has cultivated strong ties with both nations, enabling Turkey to leverage its relationships with the new Syrian leadership to gain economic benefits from Iran. This alignment stabilizes Iran’s influence in Syria, creating opportunities for Turkey to extract advantages from its connections with both Iran and its adversaries. Given Syria's geographical significance but economic liabilities, Erdogan's strategy may involve encouraging Gulf states and energy-rich nations, including Iran, to participate in rebuilding efforts.

Trump's offer to mediate between Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is critical for several reasons. First, it illustrates the U.S. role as a central player in Middle Eastern diplomacy. By positioning himself as a mediator, Trump aims to stabilize relations between two countries that have historically been at odds, particularly regarding their respective approaches to the Syrian conflict.

Moreover, Trump's influence could potentially steer Erdogan towards a more conciliatory stance regarding Israel. 

While Trump’s relationship with Erdogan provides a unique opportunity for diplomatic engagement, the extent of his influence is debatable. Erdogan's actions are driven by Turkey's national interests, which may not always align with U.S. or Israeli objectives. For instance, Erdogan’s strong support for Hamas and his anti-Israel rhetoric complicate any straightforward mediation effort.

Furthermore, Erdogan's recent statements indicating a desire to avoid confrontation with Israel suggest a potential openness to dialogue, albeit cautious. 

Trump's perception of Erdogan as a "winner" reflects a broader acknowledgment of Turkey's strategic gains in Syria, especially through its relationships with Iran and Russia. Erdogan's successes, while beneficial for Turkey, also pose challenges to Israeli interests, making Trump’s proposed mediation a critical juncture in Middle Eastern diplomacy. As Syria emerges from devastation, the need for reconstruction creates a complex dynamic; Erdogan will likely seek Gulf states' participation, recognizing that any rebuilding effort will come with significant geopolitical strings attached. This transformative potential could reshape regional dynamics, with the outcomes of Erdogan's actions significantly impacting the future stability of Syria and the broader SWANA region.