Opinion

The general financial and economic climate inspires optimism after the world's most influential central banker sent an important signal after a shocking bout of market noise

In a country where nothing is what it seems, the arrest of Lebanon's former central bank governor has sparked a speculation frenzy. Cue the conspiracy theories.

Recent foreign policy moves have unsettled Netanyahu and Zelensky, who may be worried that the previous support they enjoyed could wane under Labour

The price for a desired re-engagement with the West is being paid all over the Arab world, where Tehran's militias are at work, and Gaza's plight is reduced to a bargaining chip in power games

Geography has imposed a complex reality on Baghdad, one that has only intensified in recent times. But while geography imposes challenges, it can also present opportunities.

Netanyahu's ability to forge an international coalition of Western and Arab allies to repel Iran's potential retaliation further fuelled his poll recovery

Al-Huss stands out as one of Lebanon's only politicians who was able to break into the political establishment on merit rather than family status

Hopes an end to the fighting could also ease tension with Iran look forlorn. Clashes across Israel's border with Lebanon have worsened, as has the West Bank situation, stoking fear of a wider war.

Many will have breathed a sigh of relief after Sunday's flare-up, with both sides claiming victory and both expressing no desire to escalate. Their rhetoric has left plenty of room for more, however

Israeli leaders do not want its war on Gaza to end, despite there now being little left of Gaza still to pulverise. Meanwhile, Hamas is yet to face up either to its responsibility or to reality

The government's response was decisive and hundreds are now behind bars, but unless it addresses what caused the rioting in the first place, it is likely to recur

Washington wants Iran to have a face-saving reason why not to attack Israel for two 'red line' assassinations, while Iran wants to avoid having to do so. Any lack of progress in the talks is secondary