Seth J. Frantzman

He was ousted in 2014 as Iraq fell into chaos, but has spent the last decade regaining power, recently winning support from key Shi’ite factions.

As Syria seeks to continue the ceasefire and also works with the US to avoid tension, as Syria’s president is also heading to Russia.

The administration’s focus on Minnesota and its reversal of some policies there may have ramifications for US foreign policy. First of all, it has shifted the White House’s focus.

The statement was released on January 27, two days after the STG and SDF announced they had extended a four-day ceasefire, which began on January 20, by 15 more days.

This idea would seem to be an obvious non-starter for how to proceed in Gaza, especially as Israel and the Trump administration want to see Hamas disarmed.

Regional expectations are growing that the Rafah crossing will reopen this week, but doubts remain over how fully Israel will allow movement, as the ceasefire enters a critical stage.

Growing tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE reflect shifting Gulf alliances, with implications for Israel and the US role in the region.

The statement is the latest example of how Iranian-backed militias in Iraq are continuing to threaten Israel, the US, and the region.

The discussion centered on Iraq accepting up to 7,000 ISIS detainees from Syria, a move that could spark controversy within the country.

A resident of Kobane said, “We are in a dire condition. We are melting snow through fire, but we do not have [enough] fire to melt the snow with."