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MENASource

Aug 16, 2022

Under Macron’s leadership, France is leading a middle power strategy in the Gulf. Here’s how.

By Jean-Loup Samaan

France is positioning itself as a Western partner that, although may not be a substitute to Washington, is one that provides a “convenient and credible” option to those Gulf leaders eager to diversify their partnerships.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Aug 10, 2022

The founding head of al-Qaeda is dead. But radicalism continues to thrive in Egypt.

By Shahira Amin

The founding head of al-Qaeda is no longer, but it’s important not to forget that the terrorists that carried out 9/11 were born, raised, and radicalized in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.   

Middle East North Africa

MENASource

Aug 9, 2022

Israel’s military operation against PIJ was a short-term success. Here’s how it could be a longer-term one too.

By Shalom Lipner

What has been widely recognized as an Israeli tactical success could also—possibly, if not assuredly—lay the groundwork for consolidating an even more impactful strategic transformation.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

Aug 4, 2022

Russia is forming an alliance of pariah states in the Middle East. It might put Israel in an awkward situation in Syria. 

By Ksenia Svetlova

For lack of other options, Russia is opening to Iran and is preparing to establish a new alliance of pariah states with the Islamic Republic—to the detriment of Jerusalem.

Europe & Eurasia Israel

MENASource

Jul 21, 2022

Tunisia has a referendum on July 25. Few have as much stake in it as Algeria does.

By Andrew G. Farrand

Algeria has invested in Tunisia's stability for years, providing it with cheap natural gas, governmental loans, and other bilateral support.

Elections Middle East

MENASource

Jul 15, 2022

Experts react: What’s next for the Middle East after Biden’s big visit?

By Daniel B. Shapiro, Barbara Slavin, Ariel Ezrahi, Thomas S. Warrick, Shalom Lipner, Carmiel Arbit, Nadereh Chamlou, Sina Azodi, Mark N. Katz, Andrew L. Peek

The trip focuses on repairing relationships across the region in an effort to foster regional stability and advance normalization with Israel. Atlantic Council experts react to the trip and what it means for the wider region.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

Jul 14, 2022

Time heals all wounds. But will that work with Saudi Arabia and Turkey?

By Pınar Dost, Jonathan Panikoff

Does time make one forget resentments or do national interests triumph over friendships and enmities? The latter seems true for Turkey's president and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince.

Europe & Eurasia Middle East

MENASource

Jul 14, 2022

Biden’s Middle East trip focuses on the region. But China is the elephant in the room.

By Ahmed Aboudouh

US President Joe Biden’s visit to the Middle East on 13-16 July won’t directly focus on China. However, the rising power will be the elephant in the room at the Saudi summit in Jeddah.

China East Asia

MENASource

Jul 13, 2022

US interests and capacity for Middle East stability exist, but President Biden must convey will 

By R. Clarke Cooper

The US has the tools to be fully engaged in the region and, during his trip, the US president needs to strongly declare it to the entire region.

Iran Israel

MENASource

Jul 13, 2022

Biden’s Middle East trip is sending Iran an escalatory message. Here’s why.

By Shahira Amin

The flurry of diplomatic activity in the region ahead of Biden’s Middle East trip, is part of efforts by the GCC and Arab leaders to coordinate stances and forge a unified force against Iran.

Iran Israel
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Experts

Staff

Sarah Zaaimi

Deputy Director, Communications

Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Crisis Management