Seth J. Frantzman

The new emergence of an alliance between what may be termed “middle powers” in the region illustrates how countries want to work closely together amid growing uncertainty over the future of the world

The drone initiative is an important development is harnessing the capabilities of US allies and partners in the region.

Iran-backed militias in Iraq have roots stretching back to the 1980's and are the product of decades of Iranian policy aimed at cultivating armed proxies beyond its borders.

Iranian-backed militias are using Iraq as a staging ground to launch attacks against neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, Syria, Kuwait, and Jordan.

The removal of US Patriot systems could leave Iraqi Kurdistan more vulnerable after nearly 1,000 missiles and drones targeted the region since February.

Hamas’s pledge to disarm could advance Trump’s Gaza plan, but verification, Israeli withdrawal, governance and regional tensions remain major hurdles.

If implemented, the agreement could reshape Gaza's political and security landscape, providing a pathway toward Hamas relinquishing its weapons and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

This appears to be the first high-level meeting that Hayya has had since being elected to his new role on July 20. Hamas said Khalil al-Hayya had been elected head of its political bureau.

After the founding of Israel, Turkey became the first Muslim-majority country to recognize Israel. Israel and Turkey had good relations until the rise of the AKP party in the early 2000s.

On July 29, CENTCOM said, “CENTCOM forces continue to strictly enforce the US blockade against Iran. As of July 29 CENTCOM has redirected 20 commercial vessels, disabled 2, and boarded 2.”