Samuel Ramani

Analysis: With its partnership with Israel in tatters and growing military dependency on Iran, Russia has fewer cards to play than in past crises.

Analysis: While the Kerman attack was unprecedented in scope by historical standards, it reflects the years-long expansion of the Islamic State threat to Iran.

Analysis: Despite lofty ambitions, it is unclear whether China can convert positive relations with all parties into a meaningful diplomatic role.

Analysis: Netanyahu's determination to vanquish Hamas, secure the release of hostages, and save his tarnished political legacy belies the real possibility that Israel is fighting an impossible war in Gaza.

Analysis: Syria has already witnessed surging violence this year, but Israel's war on Gaza is threatening to bring further instability to the country.

Analysis: While Iran's bellicose rhetoric has sparked fears of a regional proxy war with Israel, Tehran's actions have been much more restrained.

Analysis: The scale of Hamas' attack caught the world by surprise, a culmination of the group's meticulous preparations and lost faith in advancing its goals through political means. But the gambit has plunged its survival into question.

Analysis: Azerbaijan's swift triumph over Artsakh is a major victory for Turkey's ambitions in the South Caucasus but poses strategic challenges for Russia and Iran, and moral dilemmas for Western powers.

Analysis: Despite decades of Western and UN sanctions, North Korea maintains a considerable network of security partners in the Middle East and Africa.

Analysis: The death of the private military group's leader may leave Putin more secure, but in the Middle East and Africa, it leaves Russia's political influence and reputation in a state of uncertainty.