These developments could mark the early stages of larger conflicts—or an Iran-driven "war of distraction" designed to entangle the new administrations in Beirut and Damascus

The Assads never thought of Lebanon as an independent, sovereign nation, but rather as an extension of Syria. Now, there are signs that their successors may feel the same. That would harm both states.

The Kurdish-majority group ruling much of Syria's northeast has had US protection for years, but its options are quickly dwindling, and the troops are closing in. It's time for some hard decisions.

Trump's return to the White House looks poised to disrupt the Western alliance on a number of levels—from initiating trade wars to ending Washington's support for Ukraine

One of al-Sharaa's most pressing priorities will be to form a new army and integrate armed factions. Al Majalla zooms in on this challenge for its February cover story.

Seizing the Palestinian territory would involve US war crimes and utter regional chaos

HTS wants the SDF to integrate into the new Syrian army, but the Kurdish-dominated group refuses to. With the stakes higher than ever, diplomacy and concessions are key to building a stable Syria.

The region's leading cities can play a key role in rebuilding war-torn urban centres and fostering regional cooperation. A look at Istanbul's history shows how this can be done.

Aoun and Salam's selection seemed to demonstrate a renewed will to confront the pillars of corruption in the country. But with the "Shiite duo" influence so entrenched, change is being resisted.

His administration is gunning for a ceasefire in the coming months, which could be a springboard for talks to reach a more comprehensive resolution to end the conflict with Russia

Despite the turbulence of the era she lived in, the Egyptian songstress and Arab icon remained a constant in people's lives. Her every song stood as a piece of timeless art.  

They cannot come to terms with their swift shift from oppressor to ordinary citizen. They are ready to exploit any opening to strip Syrians of their joy and freedom. We cannot let our guard down.