Topic: Golan Heights

The Monitor's View: Obama's goad to Damascus

As more US officials visit Syria, the president must be careful with any concessions.

Reporters on the Job

The Monitor's View: The US road through Turkey

The two countries share strategic concerns. They should work more closely together.

For Livni, forming an Israeli coalition just got a lot harder

The outgoing Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said Israel may have to withdraw from the West Bank if it wants peace with Palestinians, making Tzipi Livni's job of building a new government coalition with hard-liners much more difficult.

World

To succeed Olmert, Israel's Mofaz opts for macho politics

But the ruling Kadima Party, which votes on a new leader Wednesday, may not buy into the former army chief's security policy.

France gives boost to Israeli-Syrian talks

French President Sarkozy, in Damascus this week, was also thought to be seeking Syria's help in dealing with Iran's nuclear program.

World

Israelis uneasy over prisoner release

Critics say the deal, which they see as lopsided, could embolden Hezbollah.

Shebaa Farms: key to stability?

Claimed by Lebanon and occupied by Israel, it will get new attention as the two countries' last remaining major dispute if a Hezbollah-Israeli prisoner swap is successful.

Opinion: Reality check on Middle East talks

Motivation is there, but peace will take time.

Hamas, Israel truce greeted with skepticism and hope

The temporary cease-fire deal bids to end attacks from Gaza militants and the Israeli army and improve life in the impoverished coastal strip.

Letters to the Editor

Readers write about the Golan Heights and immigration issues in America.

For Israelis, Golan is home, not a bargaining chip

The strategic plateau is a linchpin in recently renewed Israeli-Syrian peace talks.

U.S.-Iran regional power plays shift

Iran's 'axis of resistance' may seem ascendant, but new chances for peace could redefine game in US's favor.

Israel confirms Golan Heights talks with Syria

The two countries, after an eight-year hiatus, are talking about an Israeli withdrawal in exchange for peace.

Opinion: Don't give up the Golan Heights

Surrendering it to Syria could imperil Israel and the US.

Turkey aims for clout as regional mediator

Back-channel discussions between Syria and Israel are being facilitated by Turkey, which has close ties to Israel and growing ties to Syria. The United States is supportive of the effort.

World

Hezbollah militants regroup amid war jitters

The Lebanese Shiite group is recruiting Sunnis, training in Iran for a possible second war with Israel.

Mideast rift upstages Arab League summit

This weekend's Arab League gathering of Middle East and North African countries in Syria is expected to be a display in regional divisions.