The Arab uprisings have deepened ethnic and religious tensions between Sunnis and Shiites in the Middle East, according to a new report by The Brookings Institution. The rise of sectarianism is being drive by three main factors: •Sunni Islamist ascendancy in Tunisia and Egypt •The civil war in Syria, renewed conflict in Lebanon, and unrest in Bahrain •Popular perceptions of outside intervention have created a “virtual proxy war” with Iran, Syria and Hezbollah on one side and the United States, Saudi Arabia and Turkey on the other

Once again, talks between the international community, led by the United States, and Iran have failed to reach an agreement. Talks in Almaty, Kazakhstan, last Friday and Saturday, ended in a stalemate, writes Michael Adler.

One presidential visit won’t forge a reconciliation. But increasing pressures to manage the Iranian nuclear issue, the peace process and Netanyahu’s need to remain relevant in his new government just might, writes Aaron David Miller in The Washington Post.

The last round of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program proceeded with a positive tone and ended with an agreement to meet again. Is it possible that a deal is in sight? Or is Iran simply engaged in stall tactics while its nuclear research and development moves forward? Iran Nuclear expert Michael Adler assesses the recent meeting and looks ahead to the next round of negotiations.