All Policy Analysis by David Makovsky

Watch a video FAQ as two Institute scholars who are intimately familiar with the details of Israeli-Palestinian negotiations answer the key questions about new talks set to begin Tuesday in Washington.

From media conspiracy theories to flooded smuggling tunnels, the Brotherhood's failed tenure in Egypt held nothing but bad news for Hamas.

Netanyahu is emphasizing a rationale for peace negotiations rooted in Israeli self-interest rather than Palestinian goodwill, and Abbas should do the same.

The various calculations and concessions that brought Israelis and Palestinians back to the negotiating table are mostly encouraging, but the tough decisions all lie ahead.

Secretary Kerry may be able to exceed low expectations about the prospects of relaunching Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.

Europe needs to reciprocate President Obama's 2011 speech with a statement of its own, including clear language on bilateral talks, refugees, and security.

Abbas's chosen candidate will boost Fatah's profile in the near term, but international donors will ultimately judge the new premier based on how he handles fiscal transparency, economic stewardship, and security cooperation.

As the conflict in Syria rivets international attention, Iran's nuclear program continues apace. Unfortunately, while the Iranians install the next generation of centrifuges -- machines that can produce enriched uranium three to four times faster than before -- the "P5+1" negotiations on Iran's nuclear program have ground once again to

If it is to be a catalyst for action, the API will require a more direct approach with Israel.

Now that Iran is capable of circumventing the nuclear weapons red line, the new U.S. and Israeli defense ministers must coordinate closely to avoid being further outflanked.