Feeling the pain of economic sanctions, Iran is looking for a way to end the siege. Now that its hopes of rescue by the Europeans have been dashed, Tehran is opting for the familiar path: terrorism.

United Torah Judaism leader Yakov Litzman may face criminal charges for allegedly using his position to shield Malka Leifer, an ultra-Orthodox woman facing 74 counts of sexual abuse against minors in Australia, to evade justice by declaring her unfit for trial.

Their behavior over the years teaches us that stability or economic development don't top their list of priorities, and that a situation of volatility and constant distress better serves their national and political goals.

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.

Despite assurances that the upcoming summit is intended to benefit them, the Palestinians have succeeded in downgrading the US-sponsored event from a diplomatic landmark to a low-level business meeting.