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

MENASource

Aug 23, 2023

How expanding the QIZs can help economic development in the Middle East

By Ashraf El Rabiey

The QIZ is a unique program that exceeds some of the most preferential agreements that the US has with other countries.

Israel Middle East

IranSource

Aug 22, 2023

Iran has a hostage-taking model. It’s long overdue that the US build a policy around it.

By Jason Brodsky

Much of the controversy over an Iran hostage agreement has to do with the lack of a multilateral strategy to deter hostage-taking.

Economy & Business Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion

IranSource

Aug 18, 2023

What are ‘targeted human rights sanctions,’ and why are they used for Iran?

By Celeste Kmiotek, Lisandra Novo

Reports announcing targeted sanctions designations often fail to mention what they are, how they work, and whether they are effective.

Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion Iran

MENASource

Aug 17, 2023

The path to transforming Iraqi Kurdistan’s economic diversity and potential

By Honar Issa

The self-sufficiency and sustainability of a government are contingent on a strong economy, and this is the path the Kurdistan Region of Iraq has taken.

Economy & Business Iraq

IranSource

Aug 17, 2023

The Levinson Act means all Americans must return home—not just citizens

By Celeste Kmiotek

Shahab Dalili, Afshin Sheikholeslami Vatani, and Jamshid Sharmahd are all considered US nationals under the Levinson Act.

Human Rights Iran

IranSource

Aug 15, 2023

Women in Iran fight to break Islamic Republic ‘cage’

By Khosro Sayeh Isfahani

“I will not return to that cage. I will not bow before bondage.”

Civil Society Human Rights

MENASource

Aug 11, 2023

AlDhabi AlMheiri: Meet the nine-year-old driving change in the UAE, one book at a time

By Holly Dagres

AlDhabi AlMheiri is the youngest Emirati entrepreneur and youngest publisher. The nine-year-old was interviewed by our MENASource editor about her remarkable entrepreneurial journey and achievements.

Education Middle East

MENASource

Aug 9, 2023

I spoke to an AI ‘God.’ We chatted about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in the MENA

By Sarah Zaaimi

An artificial intelligence "God" is the tip of the iceberg on the ethical implications of AI use in a socially and culturally complex region.

Artificial Intelligence Middle East

IranSource

Aug 8, 2023

Corruption reigns supreme in Iran—and it’s getting worse 

By Nadereh Chamlou

The frequently publicized cases of bribery, embezzlement, or diversion of funds have become routine in Iran.

Corruption Economy & Business

MENASource

Aug 8, 2023

Could a regional bloc work in the MENA or is it a fool’s errand? 

By Negah Angha

Addressing the regional conundrum requires transcending the traditional boundaries of geopolitical competition.

Economy & Business Energy & Environment
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