Conflict With Israel

Israel must immediately begin withdrawing its settlers from the Palestinian territories, a UN expert told diplomats on Monday, even as the new Israeli government appeared set to strengthen the hand of the Jewish settler lobby.

The Israeli prime minister manages to forge a deal with the three main partners in his coalition to finally form a new government.

Ehud Barak says that although the Jewish state faces "complicated challenges" they are still stronger than any other in the Middle East.

Shia fighters from Iraq and Lebanon have travelled to Syria to help local allies defend a shrine, south of Damascus, which they believe is under threat from Sunni rebels, Reuters reports.

After the Israeli PM fails in talks with potential partners for his coalition, President Shimon Peres extends the deadline.

The Jewish state carries out a successful test of the US-backed Arrow missile interceptor, intended to defend Israel from an Iranian strike.

The former leader of Israeli Liberal party, Kadima, Tzipi Livni, agrees to join the right-wing bloc in power.

Bulgarian security officials say they have Identified the two living suspects and both are now living in Lebanon.

The Jewish state arrests 23 members of Hamas including three lawmakers in the Occupied Territories.

A new United Nations report claims Israeli settlements threaten Palestinian lands and subject locals to violence.

The disputed oil-rich territory of Northern Iraq comes under attack.