Taylor Luck

While the rest of the Middle East is once again seized by uncertainty and eruptions of tit-for-tat rocket and drone strikes in the U.S.-Iran war, Syrians are experiencing a calm hope.

Decades of dictatorship culminated in 15 years of war and turmoil in Syria. But with the U.S.-Iran war, a relatively peaceful Syria is now an outpost of progress and hope in the Middle East.

The U.S. and Iran have agreed to open the critical waterway that has rattled the global economy and enter into a 60-day ceasefire. The accord brings relief, but the thorniest issues at the root of the conflict remain to be resolved.

Despite bombings in Damascus, including when France's president was in town, Syrians voice confidence in their safety. At the same time, they distrust official information, leaving room for conspiracy theories that reflect the real security issues Syria faces.

As U.S.-Iran fighting reignites, American ally Jordan, which hosts U.S. forces, has increasingly come under Iranian fire. Dependent on U.S. aid, but eager to avoid angering Iran or creating domestic concerns, it is choosing its words carefully.

Saudi Arabia has long sought a nuclear program to support economic growth. The United States, seeking to avoid a Mideast nuclear arms race, previously had imposed strict restrictions on sharing nuclear technology in the region.

The stalemate between the U.S. and Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz has created a global economic shock. Now, the conflict is threatening to disrupt international shipping through the Red Sea.

Outsiders might view the United Arab Emirates as a place for tourists and expats. But the UAE is developing a new sense of national pride.

Once again, the United States and Iran are exchanging direct fire in the Middle East, raising the stakes for the region.

The members of Syria's new parliament, called the People's Assembly, were not directly elected by voters.