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

Mar 15, 2023

World powers have spent years trying to save the JCPOA. That’s more time than it was fully implemented and why they need a reset.

By Jason Brodsky

Since September 2022, negotiations with Tehran have remained on ice. Now represents an opportunity to reset transatlantic Iran policy more sustainably.

Iran Middle East

IranSource

Mar 13, 2023

Iran is still exporting oil to Hezbollah and the Assad regime. It’s using Syrian ports for transit.

By Navvar Saban

Despite sanctions imposed on both countries, Tehran has continued to use Syrian ports as the main gateway to supply oil to its Lebanese proxy, Hezbollah, and its ally, the Bashar al-Assad regime.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Mar 10, 2023

Women on a mission: MENA female entrepreneurs are making waves in the region

By Lynn Monzer

Women entrepreneurs have emerged as a force to be reckoned with in many Arab economies, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for future generations.

Civil Society Middle East

Fast Thinking

Mar 10, 2023

Why did China broker an Iran-Saudi detente?

By Atlantic Council

What does this move mean for one of the Middle East’s defining rivalries? How should the United States view China’s role in the breakthrough? Our experts dig beyond the diplomat-speak.

Economy & Business Iran
Iran and Saudi Arabia

New Atlanticist

Mar 10, 2023

Experts react: Iran and Saudi Arabia just agreed to restore relations, with help from China. Here’s what that means for the Middle East and the world.

By Atlantic Council experts

Long-standing regional adversaries just made a big announcement: They will reestablish diplomatic relations in a deal brokered by China. Atlantic Council experts share their insights on the announcement.

China Iran

New Atlanticist

Mar 9, 2023

The US needs to reform security cooperation and arms transfer processes—not create new policies

By R. Clarke Cooper

The Biden administration's new Conventional Arms Transfer (CAT) policy in late February is unnecessary and potentially more cumbersome than what's already on the books.

Defense Industry Defense Technologies

Event Recap

Mar 8, 2023

WIn Fellowship Roadshow Recap: a promising start for the inaugural fellows

By Amira Attia, Lynn Monzer

A recap of the 2023 WIn Fellowship Roadshow

Economy & Business Middle East

New Atlanticist

Mar 8, 2023

Gender persecution is happening in Iran. Targeted sanctions would be a step toward accountability.

By Celeste Kmiotek, Lisandra Novo

Designating the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution, a principal institution behind the systematic oppression of women in Iran, would put its members on notice.

Corruption Human Rights

MENASource

Mar 6, 2023

<strong>Afrocentrism is trending in the Maghreb. It’s because Sub-Saharan migrants are rewriting their narrative.</strong>

By Sarah Zaaimi

North Africa undoubtedly faces a serious migration problem that will continue to aggravate if not addressed regarding its social, cultural, and historical dimensions and root causes.

Africa North & West Africa

IranSource

Mar 2, 2023

Iran’s nuclear program is advancing. So too should negotiations.

By Kelsey Davenport

Regardless of whether the 84 percent enriched particles were accidental, this incident underscores the increased challenge in discerning Tehran’s nuclear intentions and the growing proliferation risk of Iran’s rapidly expanding nuclear program.

Iran Middle East
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