MENASource

As the MENA region continues to be the epicenter of news headlines, the Atlantic Council’s MENASource is a hub for thought-provoking and hard-hitting analyses about the latest trends, ideas, and debates. This online publication provides fast reactions and in-depth commentary on breaking news and key regional topics by a diverse team of experts and contributors.

Content

MENASource

Jun 25, 2025

Why King Abdullah’s rule in Jordan has endured despite turbulence

By Aaron Magid

With a struggling economy, little oil, and surrounded by wars, how has Abdullah remained in power for more than a quarter century?

Extremism Middle East

MENASource

Jun 24, 2025

Dispatch from the Gulf: Finding middle ground amid Israel-Iran war

By Allison Minor

Congressional delegation visit coincided with Israel and Iran squaring off in a direct military confrontation.

Iran Israel

MENASource

Jun 23, 2025

Pakistan is maintaining strategic clarity amid the Israel-Iran war

By Sahar Khan

Pakistan officials were quick to deny Iranian claims that Islamabad would engage in a nuclear response to a nuclear Israeli strike on Iran.

Iran Israel

MENASource

Jun 20, 2025

Inside Cairo’s ‘security first’ calculus on the March to Gaza

By Shahira Amin

Egypt's deterrence of the march are baffling to many, because the international initiative is in line with Egypt's declared position on Gaza.

Human Rights Israel

MENASource

Jun 20, 2025

On World Refugee Day, complexities persist for Syrian returnees

By Sinan Hatahet

While Syria's political shift brings new hope, it also highlights the complex realities that still define the Syrian landscape.

Middle East Migration

MENASource

Jun 18, 2025

Dispatch from Jerusalem: Inside Israel’s bunkers as Iran war erupts

By Sarah Zaaimi

The stakes are higher as two opposing rhetorics about the region's future are at play: Pan-Abrahamism and Revolutionary Islamism.

Civil Society Iran

MENASource

Jun 17, 2025

Why Hezbollah is unlikely to engage in the Israel-Iran war—for now

By David Daoud

As wave after wave of Israeli jets continue to strike Iran, Tehran's proxy on Israel’s northern border remains quiet.

Iran Israel

MENASource

Jun 16, 2025

Twenty questions (and expert answers) on the Israel-Iran war

By Atlantic Council experts

The escalation between Israel and Iran has raised many important questions about a region already facing crises on multiple fronts.

Conflict Iran

MENASource

Jun 13, 2025

China’s basing quest in the Gulf: Pipe dream or strategic reality?

By Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco

While the Gulf remains central to China’s long-term maritime aspirations, its near-term military footprint is likely to stay limited.

China Maritime Security

New Atlanticist

Jun 12, 2025

Experts react: Israel just attacked Iran’s military and nuclear sites. What’s next?

By Atlantic Council experts

Our experts shed light on Israel’s major attack against Iran targeting its nuclear facilities and its implications for the region.

Conflict Defense Policy