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.

Learn more

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

Sep 8, 2023

Iran will never go back to the way it was

By Holly Dagres

While some argue that the ongoing anti-establishment protests began in mid-September 2022, the reality is that Iranians have been defying the regime for years.

Human Rights Iran

IranSource

Sep 7, 2023

The protests in Iran are not a revolution—yet. These events must occur first.

By Jack A. Goldstone

To draw in the majority of Iranians, the protests in Iran need to have a leader or organization that people trust.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Sep 7, 2023

Egypt is killing the history of its City of the Dead

By Shahira Amin

A large part of the necropolis has been reduced to rubble as part of the Egyptian governments plan to "modernize Cairo".

Civil Society Middle East

IranSource

Sep 6, 2023

A pilgrimage of love: Mourning the dead in defiance of the Islamic Republic

By Khosro Sayeh Isfahani

Over the past weeks, the Islamic Republic has harassed, threatened, detained, and exiled relatives of the victims of state violence.

Iran Middle East

China-MENA Podcast

Sep 6, 2023

Global Development Initiative and Global Security Initiative: China’s Blueprint for the New World Order

By Atlantic Council

Tuvia Gering and Michael Schuman shed light on the Chinese Communist Party’s approach and practical implementation tactics of Beijing's global development initiatives. They also examine Beijing's progress support, capacity building, and knowledge-sharing efforts—including global development centers and vocational training programs.

China East Asia

MENASource

Sep 5, 2023

The uprising in Sweida will continue until the regime changes in Syria

By Rima Flihan

These demonstrations call for a change in the Syrian regime and the full implementation of UNSC Resolution 2254.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

IranSource

Aug 31, 2023

Iran and targeted human rights sanctions update: Providing military equipment to Iran security forces and Russia

By Celeste Kmiotek, Lisandra Novo

The UK and Canada designated Iranian individuals and entities for the provision of military supplies to Russia and Iranian security forces.

Europe & Eurasia Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion

New Atlanticist

Aug 30, 2023

Israel, Libya, and Italy were just reminded that diplomacy requires more than diplomats

By Karim Mezran

A recent meeting in Rome between the Libyan and Israeli foreign ministers has resulted in protests in Libya and political pressure on Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah.

Africa Israel

MENASource

Aug 30, 2023

How the Dorra gas field could disrupt warming relations between Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait

By Ali Bakir

As Iran, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia chart their paths, the outcome of the Dorra dispute could set the tone for the next stage of Gulf relations.

Energy & Environment Middle East

MENASource

Aug 25, 2023

The BRICS come to the Middle East and North Africa

By Mark N. Katz

For Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in particular, joining BRICS is a statement that while they cooperate with the United States and the West, they also cooperate with Russia and China

International Financial Institutions Iran
Load More