President Biden is the latest in a long line of presidents to place himself in the middle of a Middle East conflict. U.S. efforts have seen failed starts, wrong turns and dead ends, but some progress.

The move comes amid the outlines of a deal after diplomacy between U.S. and Iran via mediators — but nothing is final.

Iraq expelled Sweden's ambassador and recalled its diplomat from Sweden, hours after protesters attacked the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad, setting fire to part of the building.

The reopened embassy could ease travel between the two countries as they work to resume direct flights, increase trade and restore business ties.

With Syria's president returning to the fold — despite U.S. resistance — and with Saudi Arabia's recent detente with Iran, this year's Arab League summit reflects a changing region.

Catch up on key developments and the latest in-depth coverage of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

It was the longest diplomatic gap in the history of U.S.- Indian relations, at a time when the two countries say they're closer than ever before

Saudi Arabia and Iran are restoring full diplomatic relations in a deal brokered by China, a move that could reduce tensions in the region and that asserts China's growing influence in the Gulf.

Germany said Tuesday it is reviewing tech suppliers such as China's Huawei and ZTE, whose equipment is used in Germany's 5G networks. Europeans are starting to favor a tougher stance on China.

Relations between the two countries have collapsed over the Ukraine war, with the U.S. slapping thousands of sanctions on Russia, and militarily, economically and diplomatically supporting Ukraine.

The two leaders met in Beijing and discussed the war in Ukraine, a week after China released a position paper, calling for a cease-fire and peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Visiting Saudi Arabia last summer, President Biden tried to reassure Arab leaders of U.S. commitment to the region's security. But Gulf nations aren't necessarily rushing to side with Washington.

Zhao Lijian, a foreign ministry spokesman known for his combative approach, was reassigned. The change is mostly tactical, but analysts see a window of opportunity to improve China-U.S. relations.

China's diplomacy will offer "Chinese wisdom, Chinese initiatives and Chinese strength," Qin said in his first statement as foreign minister. He is seen as one of Xi Jinping's trusted aides.

African leaders are converging in Washington for a summit that's the centerpiece of President Biden's effort to reset and improve U.S. ties with African countries.