The article explores Syria's strategic stance in the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting President Bashar al-Assad's decision to remain uninvolved despite pressures and historical ties. It discusses Syria's use of Israel as a public relations tool while prioritizing regime survival and regional diplomacy, particularly with the UAE and Arab monarchies. The piece also examines the complex dynamics involving Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia, noting Syria's balancing act between placating Iran and avoiding direct conflict with Israel. The analysis underscores Syria's pragmatic approach, prioritizing political survival over ideological commitments.

Ukraine is facing a severe energy crisis as winter approaches, exacerbated by ongoing Russian attacks on its power infrastructure. The European Union has pledged to assist by restoring a significant portion of Ukraine's energy needs and providing additional financial support. The destruction of Ukraine's energy facilities has severely impacted daily life, including essential services like medical care and education. The EU's aid is partly funded by profits from frozen Russian assets.

The article discusses the potential need for the European Union to find a suitable representative to engage with Donald Trump if he wins the US election. It highlights Trump's preference for bilateral talks during his previous term and the importance for the EU to advocate for its interests effectively. The piece examines the diplomatic strategies the EU might employ to maintain favorable relations with the US under Trump's leadership.

As the United States approaches its November elections, the European Union is concerned about the potential return of Donald Trump to power and its implications for Western political and security landscapes. Key European figures like Mark Rutte, Viktor Orban, Giorgia Meloni, and Andrzej Duda are considered potential interlocutors for Trump, each with varying degrees of ideological alignment and strategic interests. Rutte is viewed as a pro-European figure with established relations with Trump, while Orban's close ties with Trump and Russia raise concerns. Meloni and Duda are seen as ideologically aligned with Trump but maintain strategic ties with NATO. The article highlights the potential for Trump's return to embolden far-right movements in Europe and challenge EU unity.

Southern Lebanon is experiencing intense military operations by Israel, reminiscent of the situation in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened Lebanon with severe consequences unless Hezbollah is ousted. The Israeli Defense Forces have conducted a significant aerial bombing campaign, resulting in high casualties and displacement. The conflict has led to the destruction of infrastructure and villages, with Israel aiming to eliminate Hezbollah's presence. Despite Israel's tactical successes, there is concern about the long-term impact on Lebanon's social fabric and potential for internal strife. The situation remains complex, with no clear resolution in sight.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is causing regional tensions, with neighboring countries like Lebanon, Iran, Yemen, and Egypt on high alert. Hezbollah in Lebanon has launched rocket attacks, while Iran and Houthi rebels in Yemen have made threatening moves. Egypt is concerned about a potential influx of Palestinian refugees. The article also touches on Jens Stoltenberg's departure as NATO's secretary-general and the alliance's future challenges.

Lebanon faces a critical decision as its national military, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), remains on the sidelines amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The LAF's potential involvement is complicated by its reliance on Western support, particularly from the United States, and the risk of being perceived as supporting Hezbollah, a group considered a terrorist organization by many Western nations. The LAF's historical stance of neutrality and internal stability is challenged by the current crisis, with experts suggesting that its role may be more significant in post-conflict mediation. The conflict has displaced over a million Lebanese, exacerbating existing sectarian tensions and economic hardships. The political future of Lebanon, including the potential presidency of LAF commander Joseph Aoun, may hinge on the military's actions during this period.

The Taliban's recent ban on women speaking in public marks a new low in its gender apartheid policies. Despite promises, Afghan women face severe restrictions, with little response from the U.S. or Islamic nations. The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan left women vulnerable, and current policies focus on security rather than human rights. The Taliban remains open to economic engagement but dismisses women's rights as internal matters. Activists criticize both the Trump and Biden administrations for their roles in the current situation. Suggestions include cutting aid to weaken the Taliban or increasing developmental aid to empower Afghans. The U.S. has threatened a global boycott, but many countries continue to engage with the Taliban. A cohesive regional policy led by the U.S. could challenge the Taliban's interpretation of Shariah. The article warns that ignoring Afghanistan could have broader implications for U.S. foreign policy.

Several women have recently ascended to top positions in international politics, including Kamala Harris as the lead U.S. Democratic presidential candidate, Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as European Commission president, Kaja Kallas as EU foreign policy chief, and Rachel Reeves as Britain's first female chancellor. Despite these advancements, feminist scholars argue that the presence of women in high offices alone won't significantly alter the male-dominated nature of international politics. The article highlights the slow progress towards gender equality in power, the challenges of implementing feminist foreign policies, and the influence of far-right ideologies and geopolitical conflicts on these efforts. It also discusses the mixed success of feminist foreign policies in countries like Sweden, Canada, and Germany, and the potential impact of a Harris presidency on global gender equality.

Ukraine's ongoing battle with corruption, particularly within its defense sector, is a significant barrier to its aspirations of joining the European Union and NATO. Despite some progress and assistance from NATO and the EU, corruption remains pervasive, with top officials and institutions implicated. New procurement agencies and digital platforms like Diia aim to curb corruption, but substantial reforms are still needed. Political and legal oversight is deemed insufficient, and the judiciary's independence remains a concern. The international community, while supportive, remains cautious, emphasizing the need for Ukraine to take these reforms seriously to achieve its integration goals.