In part one of a two-part series, Sami Moubayed gives a historical review of key Arab summits over the years as Arab leaders grappled with consecutive wars, conflicts and uprisings

Exploration of the options available to Arab nationalists pursuing their perceived best interests across the Gulf prior to the birth of the Syrian state

The final agreement explicitly stated that both Lebanon and Israel "recognise their obligation to live in peace with each other," thereby ending the state of war between them

Detailed plans to end Damascus' diplomatic isolation have been set out and shared with major global and regional powers. Al Majalla has seen them and outlines the promise and pitfalls that lie ahead.

First-hand account from Syrian vice-president of the efforts, throughout 1987, to improve relations between Syrian and Iraq

After decades shrouded in mystery, Al Majalla reveals a watershed moment in the history of relations between Ankara and Damascus

The precedent for altering a country's name was set decades ago but the reasons for doing it can be very different

A movement based on Arab nationalism took control of Syria in 1963 and went on to shape the politics of the region for decades after

The Chinese spy balloon incident, as well as Beijing's cosy relationship with Moscow, have soured already tense relations

The Ottoman coups inspired similar coups against leaders in Iran, Iraq and Syria