United States Sections The Americas

Middle East & Africa

Hopes for a truce in Gaza give way to fears of a long stalemate
The Israel-Hamas conflict :: The fighting has continued into Ramadan, but neither Israel nor Hamas can achieve much
A shadowy wartime economy has emerged in Gaza
Gaza's shadow economy :: Clans, gangs and dodgy businessmen prosper while Israel clobbers Gaza
The return of a mask stolen by Belgium is stoking violence in Congo
Restitution gone wrong :: Some believe the mask gives fighters magical powers
Gulf countries are becoming major players in Africa
Don't call it a scramble :: African leaders hope the Gulf is the "new China". Not quite
United States Sections The Americas