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 25, 2022

The Ukraine war has made Iran and Russia allies in economic isolation. Here’s how.

By Alam Saleh and Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas

A now heavily-sanctioned Russia may seem a weakened strategic partner for Iran; however, the imposition of western sanctions and the demonization of Russia may bring Moscow and Tehran closer as mutual enemies of the United States and NATO-led international framework.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Aug 23, 2022

Middle Eastern nations should learn from history and back Sudan’s democratic forces

By Nasredeen Abdulbari and Mutasim Ali

The Middle Eastern countries that are interested in establishing political relations with Sudan, such as Israel, and those that are interested in investing, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, should stand on the side of pro-democracy civilian forces.

Israel Middle East

China-MENA Podcast

Aug 17, 2022

Managing US-China Competition: The View from Singapore

By Atlantic Council

Ambassador Bilahari Kausikan discusses the influence of the US-China Competition in the Southeast Asia region and much more!

China East Asia

IranSource

Aug 16, 2022

Tehran always wanted Salman Rushdie dead. Now it hopes to profit from his stabbing.

By Khosro Sayeh Isfahani

In 1989, only months away from his deathbed, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini captured the raging waves of hatred against Rushdie engulfing the Muslim world. The Islamic Republic under his successor appears to be trying to surf the same waves once again.

Iran Middle East

IranSource

Aug 16, 2022

Iran needs to cooperate with the IAEA. That isn’t negotiable.

By Kelsey Davenport

The IAEA investigation into Iran’s undeclared nuclear materials and activities is not going away. There are broader nonproliferation norms and obligations at stake.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Aug 16, 2022

Under Macron’s leadership, France is leading a middle power strategy in the Gulf. Here’s how.

By Jean-Loup Samaan

France is positioning itself as a Western partner that, although may not be a substitute to Washington, is one that provides a “convenient and credible” option to those Gulf leaders eager to diversify their partnerships.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

IranSource

Aug 11, 2022

Iran and the US face obstacles in their goals in the Middle East

By Ebrahim Meraji

The long rivalry between the United States and Iran reflects their differing views of an ideal regional order and contrasting methods of expanding influence.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Aug 10, 2022

The founding head of al-Qaeda is dead. But radicalism continues to thrive in Egypt.

By Shahira Amin

The founding head of al-Qaeda is no longer, but it’s important not to forget that the terrorists that carried out 9/11 were born, raised, and radicalized in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.   

Middle East North Africa

MENASource

Aug 9, 2022

Israel’s military operation against PIJ was a short-term success. Here’s how it could be a longer-term one too.

By Shalom Lipner

What has been widely recognized as an Israeli tactical success could also—possibly, if not assuredly—lay the groundwork for consolidating an even more impactful strategic transformation.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

Aug 4, 2022

Russia is forming an alliance of pariah states in the Middle East. It might put Israel in an awkward situation in Syria. 

By Ksenia Svetlova

For lack of other options, Russia is opening to Iran and is preparing to establish a new alliance of pariah states with the Islamic Republic—to the detriment of Jerusalem.

Europe & Eurasia Israel
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