Through our Rafik Hariri Center for the Middle East and Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative, 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

MENASource

Sep 7, 2024

Will Jordan’s new electoral law bring real change?

By Ahmad Sharawi

The resulting changes are likely only cosmetic since Jordanian parties are not winning voters’ confidence for various reasons.

Elections
Middle East

MENASource

Sep 5, 2024

Iraq’s new family law amendment could potentially legalize child marriage—and fracture the country

By Nibras Basitkey

The Iraqi parliament recently proposed an amendment that could potentially legalize child marriage for girls as young as nine, thereby further restricting women’s rights.

Civil Society
Conflict

New Atlanticist

Sep 5, 2024

Algeria’s upcoming election promises continuity, papering over deeper questions

By Andrew G. Farrand

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is widely expected to win a second term on September 7, but a low voter turnout could signal deeper issues for the government.

Elections
North & West Africa

MENASource

Sep 4, 2024

In France, it is no longer taboo to prosecute sitting heads of state like Bashar al-Assad

By Jeanne Sulzer and Clémence Witt

The June 26 decision is the first court decision to suggest that there is no such thing as absolute immunity for a sitting head of state.

Conflict
Europe & Eurasia

MENASource

Aug 30, 2024

Algeria has never seen a smooth transfer of power. It won’t in this election, either. 

By Andrew G. Farrand

A weak slate of alternative candidates and the near certainty of Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s victory will do little to inspire participation.

Civil Society
Democratic Transitions

IranSource

Aug 29, 2024

Which side will Arabs take in an Iran-Israel war?

By Arash Azizi

Despite building a Resistance Axis, Iran will not enter with a good hand in any conflict that pulls in its Arab neighbors.

Conflict
Iran

MENASource

Aug 25, 2024

After a failed attack, Hezbollah’s propaganda seeks to prevent a wider war with Israel

By David Daoud

Committed as Hezbollah is to saving its Gaza-based allies, the group does not currently want a full war with Israel.

Conflict
Israel

MENASource

Aug 22, 2024

Ensuring the UAE’s food security in an unstable region

By Hadi Fathallah

To safeguard its future, the UAE must urgently recalibrate its food security strategy while adapting to rapidly evolving global challenges.

Economy & Business
Middle East

MENASource

Aug 21, 2024

Negah Angha: It’s crucial to understand and listen to diverse MENA voices

By Holly Dagres

The Iranian-American foreign policy and national security expert was interviewed by our MENASource editor to discuss her views on Middle East policy, social movements, and where the region is heading.

Middle East
North Africa

MENASource

Aug 16, 2024

Syrian elections ended. What have we learned from the results?

By Vladimir Pran and Maroun Sfeir

The new parliament might be rejuvenated with significant turnover, but will likely remain in the service of the top Baath leadership.

Conflict
Elections
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