The former US envoy to Damascus tells Al Majalla how to find a path to a lasting settlement and a new place in the Middle East, from his unique perspective and first-hand experience in Assad-era talks

The bonds between Japan and the Middle East are based on trust and respect, since both seek peace and stability in the region. In these newly dangerous times, that bond is even more important.

Once-hopeful negotiations are falling prey to a bitter fight over uranium enrichment

Many had hoped the drug trade would stop after Assad's fall, but traffickers have shown resilience. With sustained regional demand and limited job opportunities, the industry isn't going anywhere.

Washington and Moscow broke the ice in Riyadh in more ways than one, but Russia maintains the advantage in the world's northernmost region

Given Trump's agnostic approach to foreign policy and desire to seal deals, the Israeli premier may have to show more flexibility on key regional issues

The UK, France and Canada issue their toughest warning yet to Israel, with the UK suspending trade talks. Meanwhile, the UN warns 14,000 babies could die if aid is not let in.

Trump's decision to reverse decades of US policy on Syria within just a few hours in Riyadh reflects the weight of influence that Middle Eastern leaders can have on Trump's decision-making process

These days, Cairo looks more to Beijing and Moscow than to Washington, a policy change with its roots in the toppling of Hosni Mubarak more than a decade ago.

Trump's announcement and Rubio's subsequent statement offered no clear roadmap for unwinding Syria sanctions layered under multiple authorities