Even if Palestinian statehood isn’t imminent, economic development now would increase the feasibility of any future state. So why is the Palestinian Authority refusing to go to Bahrain to discuss such development?
The results of the conference were not immediately clear, but just the fact that it took place was touted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an indication of Russian and American recognition of the Jewish state’s centrality as a strategic regional actor.
Starting with UNSC Resolution 242 following the 1967 Six-Day War, most US administrations have tried – unsuccessfully – to go down in history as bringing an end to one of the most fraught conflicts in the world.
Legal experts agree that the moment a Knesset dissolves itself, it loses any legislative authority to pass or cancel laws, regardless of any special majority.
The White House peace plan has been criticized for relying on what has been tried before but some say its a good start. “Chances of it getting implemented are there," says Palestinian economist. Under plan, Gulf states would help Palestinians upgrade their economy by investing $50 billion in projects.
US National Security Adviser John Bolton and Israeli and Russian counterparts Meir Ben-Shabbat and Nikolai Patrushev will lead an unprecedented summit in Jerusalem. The chaos in Syria, rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, and other regional issues are expected to top the agenda.
Iran's downing of an American drone over the Strait of Hormuz seems part of Iran's calculated strategy in the Persian Gulf. Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for the possibility of being dragged into the fray.
News of snub comes as US special envoy Jason Greenblatt indicates White House may delay release of highly anticipated "deal of the century" until after High Holidays, September election.
The death of Egypt’s imprisoned Muslim Brotherhood tyrant reminds us of US President Obama’s delusionary policies that nearly broke the Middle East.
Britain, France and Germany up efforts to keep 2015 nuclear deal alive despite Tehran’s threat to violate restrictions imposed on its stokepiles of enriched uranium. Diplomats say London, Paris and Berlin are weary of Iranian demands, warn that continued Iranian defiance may trigger snap UN sanctions.
