WASHINGTON (The Brookings Institution) — Iran’s decision to resume nuclear activities is a direct challenge to the United States and Europe. Recently, the new Iranian government of President Mahmud Ahmadinejad resumed research and development activities that had been suspended during the talks with the Europeans, still saying that its nuclear …

The victory of the militant Islamic group Hamas in the Palestinian parliamentary elections held on January 25, 2006 raises many questions. Both the Palestinians and the international community are entering unchartered and turbulent waters. At least in the immediate future, there is less likelihood for a meaningful peace process. The …

KUWAIT CITY (AP) — Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah took the oath of office Sunday, becoming the first emir of this oil-rich US ally to ascend to power on the approval of parliament rather than merely the internal decision of the ruling family. The emir, 76, swore to uphold …