Seth J. Frantzman

Since the war with Iran began, Tehran told its militias in Iraq to target the Kurdistan Region, including targeting US forces and facilities in the region.

As Pakistan steps forward as a peacemaker, it is joined by Turkey, Qatar, China, and other countries. It remains to be seen if Pakistan can build the trust needed for peace. 

The upcoming issues include Lebanon, Iraq, JD Vance, domestic political fallout, and the details of Iran's 10-point plan.

It is the latest attack by Iran and Iranian-backed militias using drones and missiles on the Kurdistan region. Iranian-backed militias have launched more than 500 attacks since February 28.

Ukrainian President Zelensky’s visit to Syria marks a symbolic step toward a peaceful future, fostering cooperation between Syria, Turkey, and Ukraine despite regional conflicts.

Reports about Kurdish Iranian groups tend to be sensitive because the groups fear an Iranian regime crackdown, and the groups have already been targeted by hundreds of Iranian drones and missiles.

The militia forces could bolster the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Iran. They could also be used by Iran to enforce order and carry out suppression in some areas on its periphery.

Protests targeting the UAE Embassy in Damascus spark regional condemnation, with Gulf nations criticizing the attack as a violation of international law, while Syria seeks to restore UAE ties.

UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia continue to face Iranian missile and drone attacks, targeting energy and infrastructure sites despite growing defenses.

Hezbollah views Israel’s shift away from disarming the group as a strategic win, believing that the Israeli climbdown will benefit its survival and influence in Lebanon.