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 2, 2021

The ‘Balkanization’ of Iran is a fantasy. Here’s why.

By Raz Zimmt

Despite the profound differences between the various ethnic groups, Iran has existed as a separate political and cultural entity with a unique national identity for centuries, unlike most Arab nation-states, whose borders were shaped by Western powers after World War I.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Aug 2, 2021

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are economic frenemies. And that’s a good thing.

By Amjad Ahmad

Both Riyadh and Abu Dhabi have wisely made the economy the focal point of their strategies for the future, as evidenced by national policy changes and a reduction in foreign adventures. Ending the Qatar blockade, and opening a dialogue with adversarial neighbors like Iran and Turkey is linked to long-term economic ambitions.

Economy & Business Middle East

IranSource

Jul 30, 2021

The grapes of Khuzestan’s wrath

By Nasser Karami

After decades of poor environmental governance and mismanagement of water resources in Iran’s southwestern Khuzestan province, it’s not surprising that people have taken to the streets once again since July 15, prompting a violent crackdown by security forces and near total internet shutdown.

Energy & Environment Iran

MENASource

Jul 28, 2021

Tunisia was the only democracy to blossom from the Arab Spring. Now it’s a mess.

By Karim Mezran, Alissa Pavia

The main issue is not whether the actions of the president are legitimate or not according to the constitution, but the fact that these actions were taken at the worst possible moment for the country, one in which the fragile economy and political system may not survive the blow inflicted by this decision, thus, underscoring how President Saied does not have Tunisia’s best interests at heart.

Middle East North Africa

MENASource

Jul 27, 2021

Experts react: What’s next after Tunisian president’s parliamentary freeze?

By Atlantic Council

On July 25, President Kais Saied invoked Article 80 of Tunisia’s constitution to sack Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi and dissolve parliament. Atlantic Council experts react to the events, assess the impact on the fledgling democracy, and offer their thoughts on how the international community may respond.

Middle East North Africa

Fast Thinking

Jul 26, 2021

FAST THINKING: Is the Iraq War over… again?

By Atlantic Council

As the US military formally transitions to an advisory role with Iraqi forces, what’s next for the fights against ISIS and Iran-backed militias? Will anything really change? Our Iraq experts weigh in.

Conflict Defense Policy

MENASource

Jul 26, 2021

An “illiterate generation”—one of Iraq’s untold pandemic stories

By Hezha Barzani

The devastating impacts of COVID-19, coupled with years of spillover effects of violent conflict and extremism, have already proved to be detrimental to students whose education and future career ambitions already receive limited attention.

Education Iraq

MENASource

Jul 22, 2021

Will Russian forces really leave Libya?

By Mark N. Katz

The Libyan conflict resolution process could break down altogether, in which case neither the Russians nor any other outside party now supporting one side or the other in Libya is likely to end its involvement there.

Libya Middle East

MENASource

Jul 20, 2021

The meeting of the Forum for Libya in Geneva fails to produce any practical results

By Karim Mezran and Nicola Pedde

The outcome of the meeting seems to reveal an insurmountable set of differences between the Libyan delegates, which is certainly not limited to the legal framework needed to organize the elections.

Libya North Africa

MENASource

Jul 20, 2021

As Israel and Jordan face an environmental squeeze, they must rebuild trust

By Gabriel Mitchell

Since signing a peace treaty in 1994, the two Middle Eastern neighbors have enjoyed several decades of economic and security cooperation. But today, the Israel-Jordan relationship is in dire straits.

Israel Middle East
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