Explainer

Israel wary UNIFIL could return under new Lebanon deal

What Lebanon's Shiites don't tell you about Hezbollah

The struggle over the identity of Lebanon’s Shiite community has been unfolding for decades, with senior clerics offering an alternative to the doctrine of wilayat al-faqih, maintaining their independence from Iran and challenging Hezbollah. Behind the political dispute lies a deeper struggle over one question: Who has the authority to speak for Lebanon’s Shiites?

'Israeli terrorists': Why the Qusra controversy angered the US

'Israeli terrorists': Why the Qusra controversy angered the US

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee stunned Israeli officials when he described Israelis who had pitched tents near the Palestinian village of Qusra as "terrorists" suspected of "disgusting" and "criminal" behavior. How did the Tel Talpiot outpost go from a local flashpoint to a diplomatic incident involving direct intervention by the US Embassy? Israel Hayom breaks down the affair.

How Iran is preparing to influence Israel's elections

How Iran is preparing to influence Israel's elections

Iranian influence operations are already underway, and Israeli security officials warn of an attempt to deepen divisions within Israeli society. Experts identify growing use of artificial intelligence, fake accounts and recruited Israelis to spread messages aimed at undermining public trust and the democratic process. 

The US having no victory image is bad news for Israel

Why Trump put a wider Iran offensive on hold

Trump has, for now, frozen plans to expand the campaign amid concerns over the depletion of Patriot interceptor stocks and a broader Middle East war, as Iran is increasingly using the Kheibar Shekan missile, which challenges air defense systems through maneuvers and shifting flight paths.

Why Bin Salman's visit to Washington matters

Inside Trump's nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia

President Donald Trump has approved a civilian nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia worth tens of billions of dollars that could include the construction of a US uranium enrichment facility in the kingdom. The agreement is intended to bolster US companies and keep China and Russia at bay, but it has sparked controversy in Congress and fears of a regional arms race.

Turkey's rising regional ambitions put Israel on alert

Turkey's rising regional ambitions put Israel on alert

Iran’s weakening opens a window for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to expand his regional influence, seeking to block Israel’s integration into the Middle East and undermine its emerging alliances. Experts warn: “Jerusalem must prepare for an era of competition with the Sunni axis, reduce its dependence on the US and build new alliances.”

What is Iran's secretive Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site?

What is Iran's secretive Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site?

The facility at Pickaxe Mountain, near the Natanz enrichment complex, is believed to be buried deeper than Fordow and was not attacked during either the 12-day war or the current round of fighting. Recent satellite imagery shows Iran continuing to fortify and reinforce the site, in apparent violation of the memorandum of understanding signed with the US in June.

How Erdogan is turning Turkey into a regional superpower

How Erdogan is turning Turkey into a regional superpower

The NATO leaders' summit in Ankara will give Recep Tayyip Erdogan a platform to showcase his security and diplomatic achievements, as well as his ambition to position Turkey as a regional and international power. From the defense industry to influence from Africa to the Caucasus: These are the Turkish president's goals.