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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

MENASource

Jun 10, 2025

Why DDR programs are the missing link to Syrian stability

By Muhsen al-Mustafa

With the end of Western sanctions, Syria faces a rare opportunity to address the imbalances of the post-conflict period.

Middle East Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding

MENASource

Jun 9, 2025

Armenia’s ‘crossroads’ offers the US and Israel a rare opportunity

By Sheila Paylan

Clinching peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan offers the US and Israel a rare chance to tilt the balance of power in the South Caucuses.

Europe & Eurasia Israel

MENASource

Jun 4, 2025

Why Iraq should build bridges with its ‘new’ neighbor, Syria

By Shermine Serbest

Iraq's position on the Syria transition is split between two camps: the official government, and that of the powerful non-state actors.

Iraq Middle East

MENASource

Jun 4, 2025

What Lebanon’s municipal election results mean for Hezbollah

By David Daoud

Municipal election results did not demonstrate the militant group’s dominance over Lebanon’s Shiites, but Hezbollah nevertheless retains popularity.

Elections Lebanon

MENASource

Jun 3, 2025

India-Gulf relations are muted—but mobilizing

By Jonathan Fulton

The depth of Indian-Gulf relations creates a strong foundation for increased India-Middle East integration over the coming decades.

India Middle East

MENASource

Jun 3, 2025

Beyond the gridlock: The case for Tunisia-Israel normalization

By Alissa Pavia and Maayan Dagan

The potential for normalization may seem farfetched, but there are many strategic benefits for Tunisia and Israel beyond what meets the eye.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

May 28, 2025

Sectarianism, social media, and Syria’s information blackhole

By Gregory Waters and Kayla Koontz

Since Assad’s December ousting, Syrians have struggled to sift the truth from fake claims about security incidents across the country.

Civil Society Middle East

MENASource

May 28, 2025

Mickey goes to the Gulf: The UAE’s wish upon a soft power star

By Amit Yarom

In a region often defined by hard power rivalries, Abu Dhabi has chosen to compete through visibility, credibility and imagination.

Media Middle East
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Experts

Staff

Sarah Zaaimi

Deputy Director, Communications

Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Crisis Management