Much more than good optics, the move aims to optimise the efficacy of governance at a critical inflexion point

Is Iraq finally stepping out from under Iran's shadow? Al Majalla covers the story from different angles and perspectives.

A pressure campaign by Washington to curb Tehran's influence over Baghdad seems to be yielding results, but any moves to disarm Iran-allied militias could stoke serious violence

Washington's long-term strategy to unshackle Iraq from Iranian influence is yielding results. Having pulled a potent mix of financial and military levers, the militias have been eerily quiet of late.

The famed Lebanese composer, pianist, playwright, and political commentator Ziad Rahbani died in Beirut on 26 July, aged 69. He was often labelled a 'genius.' The reality was far more nuanced.

In areas like Daraa and Sweida, local groups are elbowing their way into some of the smuggling voids left by Assad's army and pro-Iranian groups like Hezbollah. That means more to fight over.

An international conference in New York this week generated momentum towards diplomatic recognition, but what precisely would be recognised? The West Bank is splintered and Gaza is under rubble.

Israel's war aims go beyond the defeat of Hamas to the collective punishment of two million Palestinians. It is losing friends fast, while Gazans lose far more than that.

Lebanon's president and prime minister have a big decision to make: whether, and how, to use the army to disarm Hezbollah. Today's army can be trusted, but its task must be well thought through.