The latest clash between the two countries illustrates the depths to which relations have sunk and the struggle to forge a new path forward.

In a 40-year career as an international correspondent for The New York Times, Mr. Burns had a talent for capturing the sweep of history in intricate detail.

Brazil, China and Russia all denounced the U.S.-Israeli attacks, but other nations in the BRICS group haven’t, even though Iran is a fellow member.

In an interview with The New York Times, President Cyril Ramaphosa opened up about the role of middle powers, relations with Washington and apartheid.