Trump: Israel, Lebanon Talks to Bring “Breathing Room”

Washington has positioned itself as architect of potential diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East, with President Donald Trump declaring that Israeli and Lebanese leaders will engage in direct conversation Thursday a development that would mark the first such contact in the history of the two states. The announcement follows closely on the first ambassadorial-level meeting…

Read More

Iran Defies Trump Deadline, Threatens Gulf Mines

  Iran on Monday issued sweeping threats to deploy naval mines across the Gulf and strike power infrastructure throughout the Middle East, defying a United States ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as the military confrontation with Washington and Israel entered its fourth week. The Islamic Republic showed no sign of backing down ahead…

Read More