The Muslim World
Fighting between rival US-backed groups in Syria could undermine war against the Islamic State group | AP News
The weeklong clashes between rival U.S.-backed militias in eastern Syria point to dangerous seams in the coalition that has kept a lid on the defeated Islamic State group for years.
Analysis: Iran's nuclear slowdown may prop up US hopes to ease tensions | Reuters
Iran's limited steps to slow its buildup of near-weapons-grade uranium may help ease U.S.-Iranian tensions but do not signify progress toward a wider nuclear deal before the 2024 U.S. elections, say analysts.
Turkey sets out tough economic path in policy turnaround | Reuters
Turkey jacked up its inflation forecasts and cut those of economic growth on Wednesday, as President Tayyip Erdogan appeared to endorse the big interest rate hikes that are driving a turnaround toward more orthodox policies.
Pakistani premier claims US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan is now in militant hands | AP News
Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister claims that U.S. military equipment left behind during the American withdrawal from Afghanistan has fallen into militant hands and ultimately made its way to the Pakistani Taliban.
Western Officials Plan to Warn U.A.E. Over Trade With Russia - WSJ
U.S., U.K. and EU sanctions envoys will jointly press the kingdom this week to halt shipments of goods that could help Moscow in its war against Ukraine.
Secular Winter
UN chief says global finance system fragmenting; Myanmar crisis worsens | Reuters
The world risks a "great fracture" of its economic and financial systems, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday at a summit with Southeast Asia's ASEAN bloc, China, the United States and others in Indonesia.
Finance and Economy
Russia: Turkey agrees in principle to handle 1 mln tons of grain for Africa | Reuters
Russia said on Wednesday that Turkey had agreed in principle to handle 1 million metric tons of grain that Russia plans to send to Africa at a discounted price with financial support from Qatar.
The Middle East Becomes the World’s ATM - WSJ
Flush with cash from an energy boom, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf monarchies eager for global influence are having their moment on the world’s financial stage.
India Hosts G-20 Summit in Shadow of Geopolitical Rivalries - WSJ
Deepening global rifts will be an undercurrent at this week’s gathering of the world’s largest economies.
Quds Matters
Palestinian Authority Fights Its Own People in Struggle to Survive - WSJ
The leadership is trying to reassert control in the West Bank, where militants reign in some areas.