Through our Rafik Hariri Center for the Middle East and Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative, 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

Oct 6, 2022

The institutional roots of Iran’s protests

By Javad Heiran-Nia

The Islamic Republic has alienated many Iranians and, without a thriving civil society, is contributing to the rising rhythm of protests within Iran.

Civil Society Iran

MENASource

Oct 4, 2022

Iran’s new demands to revive the nuclear deal are a sigh of relief for Israel. Here’s why.

By Amichai Stein

Israel knows very well that Iranian demands are impossible to meet.

Iran Israel

Event Recap

Oct 3, 2022

New laws in Saudi Arabia support women in business, and society is catching up quickly

By Amira Attia

On September 28, the Atlantic Council’s empowerME initiative held a discussion on regulations and laws that impact women in business in Saudi Arabia.

Economy & Business Financial Regulation

IranSource

Sep 30, 2022

The protests in Iran have an anthem. It’s a love letter to Iran.

By Khosro Sayeh Isfahani

Shervin Hajipour’s “For the sake of” has captivated the whole nation.

Civil Society Iran

IranSource

Sep 30, 2022

Iran is having nationwide protests. Is it a ‘revolution’?

By Sina Azodi

Despite the widespread protests and international support, one has to be cautious in predicting the outcome.

Iran Middle East

Event Recap

Sep 29, 2022

Two years since the Abraham Accords: How the region is transforming

By Yulia Shalomov, Mariah Smith

On September 8, the Atlantic Council’s Middle East Programs hosted a virtual eventon the second anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords between Israel and regional neighbors.

Economy & Business Israel

MENASource

Sep 29, 2022

China in MENA: An EU Perspective

By Atlantic Council

Camille Lons joins us to discuss how Europeans and the EU see China as a rising global player in the geopolitics of the Middle East and North Africa.

China East Asia

IranSource

Sep 28, 2022

I’m a member of Gen Z from Tehran. World, please be the voice of the people of Iran. 

By Sarah

To all the brave and beautiful people out there who know what freedom feels like, be our voice.

Civil Society Iran

Event Recap

Sep 28, 2022

Challenges in North Africa: New Pathways for International Diplomacy?

By Madeline Hart

On September 14, the Atlantic Council’s North Africa Program and the US Embassy in Italy hosted an event with experts on the field to discuss the potential for Italy to become a mediating power in the Mediterranean.

Middle East North Africa

IranSource

Sep 27, 2022

How to turn Iran’s moment into a movement

By Borzou Daragahi

In Iran, the momentum is there. It just needs direction and a helping hand.

Civil Society Iran
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