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 12, 2021

This Iranian pop song is “more dangerous than polio”

By Holly Dagres

In the days following the release of the 'Tehran Tokyo' teaser, Iranian politicians and conservatives called for the video to be censored because they claimed that it presented pornography to children.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Mar 12, 2021

Hezbollah is using propaganda to cover its deterrence deficit with Israel

By David Daoud

Hezbollah won’t necessarily suspend all operations against its archenemy, but it will have to deftly navigate both Lebanon’s predicaments and its support base’s expectations.

Lebanon Middle East

MENASource

Mar 9, 2021

US, Israel, and GCC perspectives on China-MENA relations

By Jonathan Fulton, Eyal Propper, and Ahmed Fahmy

The Abraham Accords signed between the UAE and Bahrain and Israel consolidates the US-led regional alliance. However, they also underscore prospects for closer China-Gulf-Israel cooperation in the economic, trade, and technological spheres.

China Israel

IranSource

Mar 9, 2021

Middle class Iranians sought to remake their nation. Here’s how they were betrayed.

By Borzou Daragahi

There are broad continuities in the themes that have shaped Iran’s politics and society over the last century. The influence of Iran’s middle classes, who have at times aligned themselves with or steadfastly opposed those in power, has waxed and waned.

Iran Middle East

IranSource

Mar 9, 2021

As Iran enters a new century, many old challenges remain

By Nadereh Chamlou

At the dawn of their new century, Iranians still aspire for an accountable and effective government, social inclusion and economic security, and a productive and respectful collaboration with foreign powers.

Iran Middle East

IranSource

Mar 8, 2021

Reza Shah: Development without democracy

By Shaul Bakhash

Reza Shah, a middle-ranking officer in Iran’s Cossack Brigade, seized power in 1921 and, for the next twenty years, dominated and transformed Iran as commander of the army, prime minister, and finally king.

Iran Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Mar 8, 2021

Celebrating MENA women entrepreneurs and business leaders

By Atlantic Council

In honor of International Women’s Day, the Atlantic Council’s empowerME asked Middle East business leaders and government officials to share a "shout out" about a woman entrepreneur or business leader who inspires them

Economy & Business Middle East

IranElections2021

Mar 5, 2021

Multiple elections could boost hardline victories in Iran

By Anonymous

There are no definite candidates yet in the reformist-moderate camp for obvious reasons—they are likely to lose. Unless there is a drastic change in the political or economic atmosphere that can guarantee a bigger turnout, the candidates of this camp do not have any chance of winning.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Mar 3, 2021

How to normalize the Iraq-Iran relationship

By Andrew L. Peek

Of course, no country exists in a vacuum, but there are certain clarifications of the relationship between the two countries that every Iraqi should support—and Americans should insist upon.

Iran Iraq

empowerME Conversations

Mar 2, 2021

Must see (Saudi) TV

By Atlantic Council

On episode 6 of empowerME Conversations podcast, host and Atlantic Council empowerME Director Amjad Ahmad speaks with Telfaz 11 and C3 Films CEO Alaa Fadan about his trailblazing efforts to produce TV and media content with Saudi talent, the recent Netflix deal, and the culture change that is boosting entrepreneurship and women’s economic empowerment in Saudi Arabia.

Economy & Business Middle East
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