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MENASource

Jan 10, 2025

To help build the new Syria, the US needs to better understand the Kurds and Arabs of the northeast

By Ömer Özkizilcik

Washington should take note of the complexities in the region and not be bound by the past. The security of the entire region is at stake.

Civil Society Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Jan 8, 2025

What’s behind Egypt and China’s ‘golden decade’ of partnership

By Jonathan Fulton

China’s outreach to Egypt has not happened in a vacuum but rather as part of a larger strategy to make Beijing a more important actor in the Middle East and North Africa.  

China Economy & Business

MENASource

Jan 6, 2025

The Netzarim Corridor: Tragedy, death, and an obstacle to a lasting ceasefire

By Ahmed F. Alkhatib

The incoming Trump administration will have to wrestle with tactical-level details—especially what happens with the Netzarim Corridor and civilians’ return to the north—if it wants to play a role in mediating a ceasefire and ending the war.

Conflict Crisis Management

MENASource

Jan 3, 2025

Dispatch from Damascus: The challenges of rebuilding are becoming clearer in Syria

By Diana Rayes 

Syrians know they will not get what they need to rebuild as a society with one hand tied behind their backs, Diana Rayes writes from Damascus.

Civil Society Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Jan 2, 2025

Russia is making a fragile pivot from Syria to Libya. The West should beware falling into a new trap.

By Emadeddin Badi

Moscow’s rising influence over the Haftar family’s operations underscores its role as a key arbiter of its survival as a political dynasty. By controlling critical military assets and logistical networks, Russia wields significant leverage over the LNA’s future.

Arms Control Conflict

MENASource

Dec 24, 2024

What role will the Gulf states play in shaping the new Syria?

By Joze Pelayo

Assad’s fall provides an opportunity for the Gulf states to wield significant influence over Syria’s future while adapting to Turkey’s rising prominence.

Crisis Management Economic Sanctions

MENASource

Dec 21, 2024

A US blueprint for Syria’s fragile transition

By Sana Sekkarie

As long as HTS is willing to evolve and accept constructive criticism, the US should engage with the group. Ignoring Syria’s new leaders will not make them go away.

Civil Society Crisis Management

MENASource

Dec 20, 2024

What will minority and women’s rights look like in the new Syria?

By Sinan Hatahet

After years of conflict and division, there is an opportunity to build a more inclusive and just future that reflects the resilience, diversity, and aspirations of all Syrians.

Conflict Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Dec 19, 2024

2024: A year in the Middle East

By Leila Ouhri, Kate Springs, and Yaseen Rashed

2024 was a year of consequence for the Middle East and North Africa, with metastasizing conflict, human tragedies, and major elections across the region.

Conflict Crisis Management

MENASource

Dec 18, 2024

What the fall of the Assad regime really means for China

By Jonathan Fulton

Assad’s fall makes the Middle East more complicated for Beijing but does not threaten China’s most important relationships in the region.

China Conflict