Iraq and Iran both commemorated the third anniversary of the assassination of Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis as the year kicked off with new assassinations and recriminations.
The smuggling industry is worth hundreds of millions of dollars annually, and few alternatives exist to earn a living in the area. Border guards are trigger-happy, and calls for change are ignored.
The prime minister in Baghdad must deal with the demands of the US, Iran and armed groups at home, while trying to prioritise his own national interests. Here's a three-option plan on how he can.
Since 7 October, Iran has been moving its affiliated forces around Syria, an area that could become a second active front in war with Israel. Al Majalla lists the groups and their key characteristics.
America should start thinking about dealing with the Iran challenge beyond pinprick US strikes that do nothing but embolden Tehran and its regional axis
Egypt-Iran reconciliation efforts are inching forward, but Cairo is being careful about it and trying not to upset Washington and Tel Aviv in the process.
Any disruption in the Hormuz has cascading knock-on effects that extend far beyond energy markets, impacting international trade. Al Majalla explores all this and more.
The current conflict is unlikely to go global for now, but the speed at which it has spread regionally is alarming. A look at history shows the geopolitical factors that led to world wars.