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

Feb 15, 2022

Iran’s troubling execution rates show no sign of slowing down in 2022

By Skylar Thompson

The Islamic Republic has long been, and remains, a leading executioner. Despite sustained international pressure, in 2021, the rate of executions increased 26 percent from the previous year.

Human Rights Iran

Event Recap

Feb 14, 2022

Moving the Arab population from ‘job seekers’ to ‘job creators’: How governments are promoting and supporting entrepreneurship

By Hezha Barzani

On February 7, the Atlantic Council’s empowerME Initiative held a virtual event on “Developing ecosystems: How Middle East governments drive entrepreneurship.”

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Feb 10, 2022

A perpetrator of Syrian crimes against humanity went free in France. Here’s why it shouldn’t happen again

By Michel Duclos

If the scope for changing the course of events in Syria is limited, it’s honorable to take a stand against the abominable crimes of the Bashar al-Assad regime. It would be a great pity for France to be seen as a safe haven for Assad’s accomplices.

Europe & Eurasia France

MENASource

Feb 8, 2022

The politics of early recovery aid in Syria. Is it actually reconstruction aid?

By Samy Akil and Dr. Karam Shaar

The stakes remain high and immediate action is needed to avoid further suffering and enrichment of the regime from aid. This can only be achieved with a grand vision by the Biden administration to resolve the conflict that remains vague to date.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

New Atlanticist

Feb 7, 2022

Death of Islamic State leader was necessary, but there’s a better way to fight terrorism

By Ben Connable

The Islamic State will probably continue to recover from its operational defeat in Syria and Iraq. It will take capacity building over generations to defeat them.

Iraq Middle East

IranSource

Feb 7, 2022

Iran is preparing public opinion for a revival of the JCPOA

By Anonymous

The question that remains to be answered, as far as Tehran is concerned, is what if Donald Trump or a likeminded politician is elected in 2024, given the atmosphere in Washington. Tehran needs some guarantee that the Trump experience will not recur. Everything else is negotiable.

Iran Middle East

Fast Thinking

Feb 3, 2022

FAST THINKING: The war against ISIS isn’t over

By Atlantic Council

What are the implications for the fight against ISIS and Biden’s anti-terror strategy? Our experts lay out the stakes.

Digital Currencies Economy & Business

MENASource

Feb 3, 2022

Iraq is forming a new government. But getting there will be complicated.

By Abbas Kadhim

Whatever the outcome of the ongoing negotiations, the prospects of the next Iraqi government will depend on the conditions of intra-Shia relations.

Iraq Middle East

MENASource

Feb 3, 2022

China may now feel confident to challenge the US in the Gulf. Here’s why it won’t succeed.

By Ahmed Aboudouh

Despite China’s growing aggressive approach towards the United States in the region, it has no detailed plan to execute it successfully.

China East Asia

IranSource

Feb 1, 2022

Can President Ebrahim Raisi turn Iran’s economic Titanic around?

By Nadereh Chamlou

The Ebrahim Raisi team is seen as the weakest since the revolution, but one with the strongest links to the IRGC, and where allegiance trumps expertise.

Economy & Business Iran
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