Threats

Outgoing Syria Envoy Admits Hiding US Troop Numbers; Praises Trump’s Mideast Record

‘We were always playing shell games,’ says Amb. Jim Jeffrey, who also gives advice to President-elect Biden.

Business

The Clock is Ticking On F-35, Drone Sale to UAE

Lame-duck approval of sale could allow UAE to sign contract for weapons before Biden takes office.

Policy

Is Iraq’s Military Good Enough for US Troops to Leave?

After 17 years of fighting Saddam, AQ, and ISIS, officials say support for Baghdad and its security forces remains key to fending off Iran.

Ideas

Washington Should Avoid a Self-Inflicted Wound in the Sinai

Withdrawing from the Multinational Force and Observers might be penny-wise, but would certainly be pound-foolish.

Ideas

The Coming F-35 Fiasco

Now that Qatar is asking for the jet, it’s time to consider an entirely different approach to helping Gulf nations defend themselves.

Ideas

Lebanon Needs More than US Sanctions

Hezbollah must go. Here's how the international community can help develop a democratic and secular system that works for the people. 

Ideas

Stumbling Out of the Middle East is No Better Than Stumbling In

It is tempting for the United States to just throw in the towel, pull troops, and abandon allies. More important is understanding what the U.S. strategy toward the Middle East should be.

Policy

Trump Says He Wanted To Assassinate Syria’s Assad

The revelation further undermines the president’s assertion that he has stood firmly between the Pentagon and war.

Ideas

Selling F-35s to the Middle East was Never Going to be Easy

To do it, and preserve Israel’s advantage, Trump must reinvigorate the consultative arms sales process with Congress.

Ideas

Donald Is No Dove

The president’s criticism of military contractors is belied by his commitment to fattening their pockets.

Exclusive Threats

Exclusive: US Drops Death Penalty for ISIS ‘Beatles’

Atty. Gen. Barr's letter to the UK brings two ISIS fighters accused of beheading American journalists and aid workers closer to a U.S. trial.

Threats

Iran Is Our Top Priority, Says Senior US Commander In Middle East

Shiite military attacks have made it harder to fight ISIS, Gen. Kenneth McKenzie said.

Ideas

US Troops Should Withdraw from Syria, Not Protect Oil Companies

Keeping 500 troops in-country to help Delta Crescent Energy drill only hurts America’s national security.

Threats

Top DOD Spox: No Conclusions Yet On Cause Of Beirut Explosion

Trump has claimed without evidence that the explosion might have been an “attack.”