A recent deal with a Japanese-French consortium will yield important short-term benefits for all involved.

Iraq's Kurds and Shiites share an interest in stopping the spread of Sunni Arab militancy.

The debate over whether Washington should intervene continues.

The prime minister's agenda compromises the founding principles of the country.

Regional conditions will drive Baghdad closer to Tehran.

Financial and political constraints will make it harder for many governments to maintain balance in the coming months.

Israel's ability to leverage recent energy finds will be complicated by enduring regional dynamics.

Relations between Turkey and Israel will not change in the long term.

The complex terrain in northern Iraq provides refuge for militants.

It is not clear how far Turkey intends to carry a diplomatic renewal of ties with Israel.