Russia's invasion of Ukraine has prompted Sweden and Finland to seek NATO membership, but Turkey, led by President Erdogan, opposes their accession. Erdogan, facing economic challenges and an upcoming election, is using cultural and religious issues, such as the Quran burning incident in Sweden, to rally support. Turkey accuses Sweden of supporting militants from the PKK, a designated terrorist organization. NATO's expansion has been delayed, possibly until after Turkey's elections or the resolution of a U.S. fighter jet sale. Turkish rhetoric has escalated, with officials criticizing Sweden and Finland's actions and NATO membership bids. The situation reflects longstanding tensions between Turkey and the West, with Erdogan leveraging Turkey's strategic position between Russia and Ukraine.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Egypt on February 14, 2024, marked a significant diplomatic reconciliation between Turkey and Egypt, ending nearly a decade of political and ideological divergence. The meeting with President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi symbolized the end of an emerging third axis in the Middle East, distinct from both the Saudi-led pro-Western camp and the Iranian-led 'Axis of Resistance.' The thaw in relations follows a period of tension and conflict, including opposing stances in regional conflicts such as the Libyan civil war. The rapprochement is driven by economic interests, regional diplomatic shifts, and changes in Erdogan's political ideology. Trade between the two nations has rebounded, and future relations are expected to focus on energy deals, tourism, and business expansion, with less emphasis on ideological disputes.

EU leaders are planning to reinforce strategies to address the ongoing refugee and migrant crisis by financially incentivizing governments of countries like Tunisia and Turkey to prevent individuals, including those fleeing war and political repression, from embarking on dangerous Mediterranean crossings to reach Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of a potential 'terrorist act' by Moscow to release radiation from the Zaporizhzhia power plant, amidst Russia's ongoing nuclear rhetoric. The Kremlin denies the accusations, but President Vladimir Putin has emphasized Russia's nuclear capabilities in a recent speech, which analysts like Hanna Liubakova interpret as an attempt to intimidate NATO and weaken Western support for Ukraine before the NATO summit in Lithuania.

Analysts, journalists, and politicians expected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to perform poorly in Turkey's presidential elections against Kemal Kilicdaroglu due to a failing economy, high inflation, and a flawed response to an earthquake disaster. This assumption was largely based on polls showing Kilicdaroglu ahead, with even Erdogan's camp appearing concerned by these figures.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won Turkey's presidential run-off with 52.14% of the votes, extending his rule for another five years. The election was historic as it was the first run-off in Turkey's history, coinciding with the centennial of its founding. Erdogan's victory over Kemal Kilicdaroglu, leader of the centre-left People's Republican Party, carries significant implications for Turkey's political and cultural identity, NATO dynamics, and the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite economic challenges, Erdogan's campaign was successful, while the opposition faces introspection and potential changes. Reports of election irregularities and media bias were noted, with the economy being the top issue for voters.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won Turkey's presidential run-off with 52.14% of the votes, extending his rule for another five years. The election was historic as it was the first run-off in Turkey's history, and it coincided with the centennial of Turkey's founding. Erdogan's victory over Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the centre-left CHP, signifies a continuation of his Islamist-tinged nationalist governance. The election has implications for NATO, Turkey's role in the Russia-Ukraine war, and regional influence in the Middle East and North Africa. Despite economic challenges, Erdogan's campaign was more dominant in media coverage and faced allegations of election law favoritism. The opposition, led by Kilicdaroglu, may undergo significant changes after the loss.

In the aftermath of Turkey's first round of presidential elections, both President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu have focused their rhetoric on the issue of Syrian refugees and other foreigners in Turkey. Despite initial messages of hope and inclusion, Kilicdaroglu has shifted to xenophobic accusations against Erdogan, blaming him for the influx of refugees and the country's problems, which are unrelated to the actual causes of Turkey's crises.

Drones bypassed security at the Kremlin, Russia's key political and religious site, and were shot down on May 3. The Kremlin accused Ukraine and the West of an assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin, which is unlikely. This incident is seen as a sign that the repercussions of Putin's war in Ukraine are reaching the center of Russian power.

In Istanbul's Kurdish neighborhood of Sultangazi, the Republican People’s Party (CHP) is gaining support from Kurdish voters ahead of crucial elections, posing a threat to President Erdogan's two-decade rule. The CHP, historically nationalistic, has been realigning politically, with leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu broadening its appeal. The pro-Kurdish HDP, despite facing legal challenges, is endorsing Kilicdaroglu. Erdogan's partnership with the ultra-nationalist MHP and subsequent crackdown on Kurdish parties has alienated many Kurds. Economic dissatisfaction is high among Turkish and Kurdish voters due to soaring living costs, contributing to the desire for political change.

Sudan is experiencing severe unrest with armed forces clashing in the capital, leading to civilian casualties and the evacuation of US embassy personnel. The country's potential for stability following the ousting of its long-time ruler four years ago has been undermined by renewed violence, lack of international engagement, self-interested military leaders, and weak civil institutions.

During the Zoroastrian holiday of Red Wednesday, widespread anti-government protests broke out across Iran, with participants engaging in acts of defiance such as tossing fireworks at security forces, burning hijabs, and chanting against supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The protests are part of ongoing unrest following the death of Mahsa Amini in custody six months ago, which has resulted in over 400 deaths due to the crackdown. Despite calls for restraint from activist leaders, public anger over political repression and economic issues spurred the demonstrations. The judiciary chief announced that thousands arrested during the protests had been pardoned or had their sentences commuted by Khamenei.

Weeks before Turkey's elections on 14 May, President Erdogan received a boost as Saudi Arabia deposited $5bn in Turkey's Central Bank, coinciding with the opposition's announcement of Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate. This move is seen as support for Erdogan, potentially influencing the election outcome and raising concerns over Saudi interference.

The February 6 earthquakes in southern Turkey have negatively impacted President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's political image, challenging his reputation as a 'master builder' and competent leader, and undermining his belligerent nationalism. With elections approaching on May 14, Erdogan's handling of the earthquake's aftermath, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and a humanitarian crisis, could influence electoral outcomes.

Medis, a Europe-based Iranian doctor and activist, has been subjected to harassment by operatives of the Iranian regime, receiving threats of murder and rape. She has also been approached by strangers and her family in Iran has been warned to silence her. Despite her fears and the severity of the threats, the EU government where she resides has downplayed her concerns and has not offered her additional protection.

The Palestinian issue remains a significant global concern, as evidenced by Morocco's display of the Palestinian flag during their World Cup matches, symbolizing the enduring relevance and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The conflict's historical and present-day consequences continue to be a focal point, with upcoming books further highlighting its importance.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake centered in Kahramanmaras province, Turkey, and felt across the region, including Syria, has resulted in over 3,400 deaths. The quake caused widespread destruction, with buildings collapsing and people trapped under rubble. Turkish President Erdogan has mobilized the government's full capacity to respond, and international aid is being offered. The disaster exacerbates the suffering in Syria, already affected by civil war and humanitarian crises. Relief efforts are challenged by winter weather, and the earthquake's timing raises concerns about building regulations and political implications ahead of Turkey's upcoming elections.

The Atlantic Council's Iran Strategy Project aims to consolidate policy and analytical efforts on Iran, addressing political, human rights, security, economic, nuclear, social, and natural resource issues. It provides a platform for experts to discuss Iran's future and offer strategic options for policymakers. Recent events such as women-led protests, the potential for a new Supreme Leader, Iran's regional role, and the likely end of the JCPOA have driven this initiative.

Iranian film star Taraneh Alidoosti has been released from Evin Prison on bail after being detained for 18 days due to her support for anti-government protests. Her arrest followed her public condemnation of the execution of protester Mohsen Shekari and her Instagram posts in support of the protests, which were sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody. The Iranian government, under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been attempting to suppress prominent figures from expressing support for the protests. The length of Alidoosti's detention is seen as an attempt to deter others, as high-profile individuals are typically released quickly. Meanwhile, the regime continues to arrest protesters and has recently affirmed death sentences for two more.

Iranian chess players Sara Khadem and Atousa Pourkashiyan participated in the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in Kazakhstan without wearing the hijab, defying the Islamic dress code enforced by Iran's regime. This act of protest follows the death of Mahsa Amini in custody for allegedly violating the dress code. The unrest in Iran has led to demonstrations and over 500 deaths. Khadem and Pourkashiyan, both accomplished chess players, have not commented publicly on their decision. The incident has been reported by reformist media in Iran but ignored by hardline outlets.

Mohsen Shekari, a 23-year-old who participated in Iran's nationwide uprising, was executed after being charged with 'waging war against God' following the death-in-custody of Mahsa Amini. Despite the Tehran regime's claim of a deliberative process, the article suggests that the execution did not meet international or national standards and implies that it was a hasty and unjust act.

Iraq's hesitant progress post-war is evident in the emergency rooms of hospitals like Medical City, which has seen an increase in budget and access to better supplies. Despite improvements since Saddam Hussein's regime, the influx of trauma patients continues to challenge the medical staff. The hospital's general manager, Kamaledin Mostafa, notes the need for better equipment to save more lives, while emergency specialist Feras Kattan treats an average of five gunshot victims a day, with numbers rising during political unrest.

In Iraq's largely unregulated political funding system, many parties struggle to compete against those with access to significant funds, often from foreign sources. The upcoming parliamentary election is likely to favor well-funded entities led by former exiles. Despite legal requirements for transparency and equal media time, enforcement is weak, and many parties operate their own media outlets. Smaller parties and officials express concerns over the interim government's potential involvement in funding irregularities, as many officials are also candidates. The lack of public campaign financing and the challenges of monitoring foreign contributions further complicate the situation.

Throughout 2004, the US military faced significant challenges in Iraq, with the city of Fallujah exemplifying the dilemmas and failures encountered. Despite efforts such as the establishment of a transitional constitution, the handover of power, and the training of Iraqi security forces, Iraq continued its descent into chaos. The Abu Ghraib prison scandal further tarnished the US's image. The interim government, led by Iyad Alawi, took over sovereignty, but real control, especially over security, remained elusive. Insurgency and violence persisted, with figures like Moqtada al-Sadr and Abu Musab al-Zarqawi leading resistance efforts. The security situation worsened, with criminal gangs and insurgents increasing their activities. Despite these challenges, American commanders like General George Casey maintained a public stance of optimism regarding Iraq's future.

Interviews with Iraqis reveal a nationalist resistance against the US-led occupation, contradicting American officials' depiction of the rebels as religious extremists and former regime loyalists. The resistance includes groups marginalized by the political process imposed by the US. As the US prepares for an assault on Fallujah, critics argue that the inability to distinguish between factions hinders peace efforts. Some US specialists acknowledge the insurgency stems from occupation frustrations, while others, like Brigadier-General John Defreitas, deny the nationalist nature of the resistance.

Fallujah city leaders have halted negotiations with the US, demanding a stop to air strikes, troop withdrawal, and compensation for damages. Sunni clerics threaten an election boycott if the US attacks. US officials claim success against Tawhid wal Jihad, but concerns rise over potential dispersal of fighters and increased anti-US sentiment. Fallujah's police chief warns of high casualties and further conflict. The city, already devastated by previous fighting, is now largely abandoned, with residents fearing both US forces and mujahedeen fighters. Despite ample supplies, the remaining population lives in fear, with some no longer fearing a US-led ground offensive.

Iraq is engulfed in a new kind of fear post-Saddam Hussein's regime, characterized by growing insecurity, violence, and chaos that increasingly encroaches on personal lives. The capital Baghdad is plagued by violence and crime, turning daily activities into potential disasters. The 'fruits of liberation' are overshadowed by the harsh realities of post-war Iraq, with frequent car bombings and a pervasive sense of danger. Iraqis experience trauma, as seen in the Bab al Sharji 'thieves market' where videos of guerilla warfare sell briskly. The article reflects on the author's experiences and observations in Iraq, the changing attitudes over time, and the diminishing optimism for the country's future among US officials and Iraqi citizens alike.

Al-Sharqiya, a new satellite television network in Iraq, is gaining popularity by focusing on entertainment amid the prevalent news channels broadcasting regional conflicts and political turmoil. With a budget of US$30 million, Al-Sharqiya offers soap operas, reality shows, and music videos, reflecting the realities of Iraqi life and utilizing local talent. The channel's programming includes 'The End', a soap opera produced at a low cost, and shows that support community activities like funding weddings for the poor. Despite the challenges faced by the Iraqi entertainment industry post-war, Al-Sharqiya is filling a gap for entertainment in the region.

Interim President of Iraq, Ghazi al-Yawar, addressed several critical issues upon taking office. He emphasized the restoration of Iraq's sovereignty, set conditions for peace-keeping troops, acknowledged the legal process for Saddam Hussein's trial, highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses to combat unemployment, and discussed the handling of militant Shi'ite Moqtada al-Sadr, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and legal resolution.

Iraqis expressed hope and optimism as sovereignty was restored to their nation, marking a new beginning after years of dictatorship and occupation. President Ghazi al-Yawar and citizens alike shared sentiments of freedom and pride, with the Iraqi flag flying over government buildings. Iraqi police were seen taking action in the streets, and cleric Sheikh Salman al-Musawi called for support of the new government. The handover from Americans to Iraqis occurred in a surprise ceremony, with US administrator Paul Bremer departing shortly after.

As Iraq transitions from US-led occupation to self-governance, Baghdad's murder rate has soared, and the population suffers from poverty and a failing infrastructure amidst ongoing conflict. Despite the fall of Saddam Hussein, who was known for his brutal dictatorship, Iraqis face a new form of repression due to lawlessness and violence. The youth, despite newfound freedoms, are confined to their homes for safety. Security issues impede the country's progress, with sabotage against infrastructure and electricity shortages. Iraqis, including those in the new political class, lament the loss of simple freedoms and security once taken for granted.