Iraq: life amid sectarian violence

A wave of bomb attacks hits Baghdad, all targeting Shiite areas. Our reporters meet with Iraqis who have already lived through years of sectarian violence. Plus, it’s a key passageway for the world economy - the Strait of Hormuz is vital to the transit of oil coming from the Gulf. With Iran now threatening to close it off, we look at the strategic importance of this shipping route.

THE WEEK IN THE MIDDLE EAST

12/11/2012 - THE WEEK IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Syrian opposition strikes unity deal

Has the Syrian opposition finally got its act together? A new coalition has been created, which the West hopes will offer a credible and united alternative to the Assad regime. Meanwhile, Kuwait is celebrating half a century since the birth of its constitution, but protesters say this has coincided with an unconstitutional move by the monarch. Finally, we look at how France is benefiting from the business boom in Qatar.

05/11/2012 - THE WEEK IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Possible "war crimes" in Syria uncovered

First, shocking pictures reveal possible "war crimes" in Syria. Also, find out how French aid money is bringing back a semblance of normal life to one Syrian city. Next, women's rights, Sharia law and presidential powers all prove to be sticking points as Egypt hammers out a brand new constitution. Finally, we take you on a journey through post-revolution Iranian history, with the award-winning film 'A Respectable Family'.

29/10/2012 - THE WEEK IN THE MIDDLE EAST

France 24 reporters on the frontline in Aleppo

This week’s show includes a report from a France 24 team who followed a group of rebel fighters on the frontline in Aleppo. Our reporters also filmed members of the Syrian Social Nationalist Party, based in Beirut. The party advocates the formation of a Syrian nation state encompassing neighbouring countries. Finally, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu recently unveiled another political surprise, which has prompted accusations of panic from the opposition left.

22/10/2012 - THE WEEK IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Lebanon-Syria: a long history of rocky relations

We look at how Friday’s car bombing in Beirut has reignited fears the conflict in Syria spilling over its borders. We also speak to the brother of a missing Syrian man; his family fears he has been left to rot in one of the country’s infamous prisons. Finally, we analyse the results of this weekend’s elections in the West Bank.

15/10/2012 - THE WEEK IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Syria conflict: inside the first refugee camp on Syrian soil

We meet the Syrian refugees caught in limbo on the wrong side of the border as Turkey says its camps are at breaking point. Next, in Baghdad, July's double suicide blast in Andalus Square brings back painful memories. And ultra-orthodox Jews are in the spotlight of a new exhibition in Jerusalem.