President Obama has taken a bold step forward in leading US efforts to make peace between the Israelis and Palestinians. What is his motivation for entering in this "minefield" where his predecessors have ventured and failed? Former Israeli diplomat Zvi Rafiah, a consultant and commentator on US affairs, examines what may be behind Obama.

A group of Islamist lawyers has appealed to Egypt's administrative court demanding that the Coptic Church release Camillia Shehata, the wife of a Coptic preacher, whom they allege has been forcibly incarcerated by the church.

Israeli Foreign Ministry Spokesman Yigal Palmor explains how the direct Israeli-Palestinian peace talks are to lay down the framework for progress during their first working sessions in Washington.

The Somali capital of Mogadishu has witnessed heavy fighting in recent weeks which has led analysts and human rights organizations to fear it is on the verge of falling to the rebels.
Amnesty International gives The Media Line some insight in events there.

Tunisian Opposition Opposes President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali's long-term reign and are calling for him not nominate himself for a sixth term in office.

A huge deal to sell US advanced weaponry to Saudi Arabia has raised concerns in Israel which has reportedly asked Washington to downgrade the deal. Analyst Yiftach Shapir discusses the prospects of the procurement.

Hamas spokesman defends Gaza’s de facto government decision number 48 which bars unsupportive civil service employees from membership in outside organizations. A Palestinian human rights activists says its is severely harming civil society. 

The firefight between Lebanese Army troops and Israeli forces has called into question US aid to the Lebanese Army.