Welcome to Middle East News and Politics.

This forum is for the discussion of current events either in, or affecting the Middle East. Because so much of what has happened in recent years and continues to happen in the Middle East has strong, historic influence, bringing historic fact into discussions on this forum is both appropriate and welcome. When referring to historic fact the source or sources should be clearly stated and a link provided so members may examine such sources themselves.

Because religion has such a large influence on events in the Middle East discussion of religion as it relates to news, politics, and events is appropriate and welcome. However, this is not a forum for religious instruction, debate, or proselytizing. For distinctly religious issues, please visit Discuss Judaism and Discuss Islam. These, along with the various Christianity forums, are the proper places for specific, religious discussion and debate. However, discussing the political influence of religion, to include the economic, social, and historic effects of religion in the Middle East, is appropriate and permitted.

Many issues relating to the Middle East overlap with United States and World News and Politics. Therefore, when an issue is either distinctly American, or broadly worldwide, the forums to participate on are US News & Politics and World News & Politics.

Beliefnet's Rules of Conduct are strictly enforced on this forum. Calling members anti-Semitic or anti-Semites, or Zionazis, bigots, or terrorist supporters, for example, is not permitted on this forum. Posting negative stereotypes or denigrating comments about any religion, race or ethnic group will not be tolerated; the post(s) will be removed and a notice sent to the offender.

You may find others here with whom you do not agree. Please be courteous even to those members whose positions or opinions you find offensive. You are invited to make your case or refute other views but please focus on discussing issues, ideas, opinions, and the news. Do not make negative remarks about other members; you are welcome to criticize opinions and ideas, but not each other.