The Israeli-Palestinian issue, political developments in Iran, and the competition for oil have been the major sources of conflict in the Middle East.

Sep 4, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Talks between Israel and Hamas for the release of Gilad Shalit are set to resume. The soldier's fate could prove crucial in Palestine's bid for statehood.

Aug 30, 2011 – Jen L. Jones

Politically divided since the 19th century, the Azeris of Iran and Azerbaijani Republic no longer constitute a single nation.

Aug 22, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Iranian Kurds' opposition to Iran's Islamic regime makes them an ideal proxy for the US, but Kurdish insurgency in Turkey undermines this partnership.

Aug 12, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Despite being Iran's largest minority, the Azeris' tendency to identify closely with the Iranian nation complicates their potential to become a US proxy.

Aug 9, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Azeri students from Iran's northwestern provinces played an integral role in the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Aug 2, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

In the wake of the latest honor killing and a new UN report criticizing Turkey for its high rates of woman abuse, new measures aim to reduce the violence.

Jul 31, 2011 – Jen L. Jones

Iran's persecution of Christians continues despite its assurances of religious freedom. Pastor Nadarkhani, jailed for apostasy, is told, "Recant, or die."

Jul 28, 2011 – Jen L. Jones

By passing anti-Islamic measures, Azerbaijani authorities are alienating the country's religious population and paving way for increased Iranian influence.

Jul 26, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Many evangelical Christians have long supported the nation of Israel, shaping outsiders' perceptions and influencing U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

Jul 25, 2011 – April Kelsey

Turkey watches as the Middle East's anti-regime protests play out. Will it soon be the regional hegemon, as in Ottoman times...and unlikely ally of Israel?

Jul 23, 2011 – Jen L. Jones

The Israeli lobby has been instrumental in promoting Azerbaijan's position on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue in Washington.

Jul 22, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

The Nagorno-Karabakh war between Azerbaijan and Armenia facilitated the establishment of the Azeri-Israeli alliance that exists today.

Jul 20, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Anti-regime protests continue in the Arab Middle East. But experts say that Arab factionalism and tribalism work against democracy. Which way will prevail?

Jul 20, 2011 – Jen L. Jones

Using the terms "Muslim world" and "Arab world" to define the Middle East paints an inaccurate picture of the region.

Jul 16, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Our politicians' rhetoric may sound encouraging, but behind the scenes Western leaders continue to bankroll and support corrupt regimes in the Middle East.

Jul 11, 2011 – Scott Hill

By attempting to marginalize the Muslim Brotherhood in order to ensure a pro-Israeli government in Egypt, US could trigger the movement's radicalization.

Jul 10, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Despite its bitter relationship with the al-Assad regime, Israel may end up in a worse position if the protesters prevail in Syria.

Jul 8, 2011 – Enver Guseynov

Iran has provoked the US by stating that America and its allies must leave the Middle East if the region is to return to peace and prosperity.

Jul 7, 2011 – Scott Hill

Aside from demonstrations in Egypt, Tunisia, Syria and Bahrain, a more worrying predicament is occurring in Yemen.

Jul 6, 2011 – Scott Hill