Middle East

Hamas returns bodies of 4 hostages; Israel releases more Palestinian prisoners

Ceasefire's six-week first phase expires this weekend

IAEA: Iran’s stock of near-bomb-grade uranium grows sharply

Two reports say no real progress has been made on resolving long-running nuclear-related issues with Iran

'Manbij will never have rest,' Syrian resident says amid war in north

Since the Syrian civil war mostly ended in December, fighting has continued outside the city of Manbij, where car bombs have killed dozens. As VOA’s Heather Murdock reports from Manbij, locals say their city will “never have rest.” (Videographer: Yan Boechat)

Syrian Kurds denounce exclusion from National Dialogue Conference

Israel, Hamas agree on new exchange, leaving fragile ceasefire intact

The breakthrough appears to clear the way for the return of the bodies of four more hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners

US increases airstrikes against al-Qaida affiliate in Syria

UN warns two-state solution for Israelis, Palestinians ‘withering away’

As Gaza lies in ruins and Israeli military operations expand in the West Bank, a UN official urges political engagement and diplomacy

What's behind Israeli, US silence on Lebanon blocking Iranian flights delivering cash to Hezbollah?

Researchers say Israeli, US refusals to comment on Beirut's move exemplify low-key approach to dealing with some regional security problems

Trial begins in Germany for 4 alleged Hamas members

They are accused of seeking weapons caches across Europe

National dialogue a 'historic opportunity' for Syria, interim president says

Hundreds of Syrians gathered at the presidential palace in Damascus for the one-day event

Kurdish budget share expected to increase after Iraq census results

Smuggled agricultural imports raise health concerns in Kurdistan