Middle East Programs Commentary & Analysis

Our blogs feature thoughtful reflections and opinions on current events in the Middle East & North Africa.

Through our Middle East Programs, the Atlantic Council works with allies and partners in Europe and the wider Middle East to protect US interests, build peace and security, and unlock the human potential of the region.

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Meet our blogs

MENASource

MENASource follows movements across the region and provides news and analysis on current events, including a platform for Middle Eastern perspectives, among others, on major issues—economic, political, security, cultural—that are at stake in the post-Arab Spring era.  

IranSource

IranSource provides a holistic look at Iran’s internal dynamics, global and regional policies, and posture through unique analysis of current events and long-term, strategic issues related to Iran.

All commentary & analysis

IranSource

Aug 29, 2024

Which side will Arabs take in an Iran-Israel war?

By Arash Azizi

Despite building a Resistance Axis, Iran will not enter with a good hand in any conflict that pulls in its Arab neighbors.

Conflict Iran

MENASource

Aug 25, 2024

After a failed attack, Hezbollah’s propaganda seeks to prevent a wider war with Israel

By David Daoud

Committed as Hezbollah is to saving its Gaza-based allies, the group does not currently want a full war with Israel.

Conflict Israel

MENASource

Aug 22, 2024

Ensuring the UAE’s food security in an unstable region

By Hadi Fathallah

To safeguard its future, the UAE must urgently recalibrate its food security strategy while adapting to rapidly evolving global challenges.

Economy & Business Middle East

MENASource

Aug 21, 2024

Negah Angha: It’s crucial to understand and listen to diverse MENA voices

By Holly Dagres

The Iranian-American foreign policy and national security expert was interviewed by our MENASource editor to discuss her views on Middle East policy, social movements, and where the region is heading.

Middle East North Africa

MENASource

Aug 16, 2024

Syrian elections ended. What have we learned from the results?

By Vladimir Pran and Maroun Sfeir

The new parliament might be rejuvenated with significant turnover, but will likely remain in the service of the top Baath leadership.

Conflict Elections

MENASource

Aug 15, 2024

Red lines and reconciliation: Turkey and Syria’s diplomatic gamble

By Sinan Hatahet, Ömer Özkizilcik

The ongoing situation in Syria presents risks for Turkish security, prompting a search for viable solutions to its multifaceted challenges.

Conflict Europe & Eurasia

IranSource

Aug 15, 2024

Russian-Iranian military cooperation: How much can they depend on each other?

By Mark N. Katz

While the expansion of Russian-Iranian military cooperation might have already been in the works, these setbacks that Moscow and Tehran have experienced at the hands of US-backed Ukraine and Israel may only serve to increase it.

Conflict Europe & Eurasia

MENASource

Aug 8, 2024

Summer isn’t over. Here’s our recommended reading list.

By William F. Wechsler, Sarah Zaaimi, Emilia Pierce, Masoud Mostajabi, Manal Fatima, David Maloney

Our team has you covered with their recommended reads related to the Middle East and North Africa for the dog days of summer.

Civil Society Middle East

IranSource

Aug 7, 2024

Understanding Nasrallah’s speech: How will Hezbollah avenge Shukr?

By David Daoud

Hezbollah must now respond to Israel, but a routine retaliation will not suffice, given Fuad Shukr’s stature and the location of his killing.

Conflict Israel

MENASource

Aug 6, 2024

Can northeast Syria delink from the PKK?

By JP Reppeto

The United States needs effective allies in the northeast to stabilize the area and block an ISIS resurgence, while Turkey must prevent the entrenchment of a PKK-led statelet on its border.

Conflict Europe & Eurasia
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