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

Sep 17, 2024

Reformists on the ropes: How they are battling their own irrelevance and conservative dominance in Iran

By Mohammed A. Salih

The future of Iran’s political landscape remains unclear.

Conflict Iran

New Atlanticist

Sep 15, 2024

On the third AUKUS anniversary, a toast to ITAR reform and a call to keep going

By R. Clarke Cooper

The landmark trilateral security partnership has come a long way, but current reform efforts will only reach their potential if additional regulatory adjustments are made.

Australia Defense Industry

MENASource

Sep 11, 2024

As the Israel-Hamas war continues, the Abraham Accords quietly turns four

By Marcy Grossman

The Abraham Accords have laid a foundation far beyond any one conflict for greater peace in the region.

Conflict Israel

MENASource

Sep 10, 2024

In the age of great power competition, the threat of another 9/11 still looms large

By Kristian Alexander

Unlike the early years of the Global War on Terror, threats today are more amorphous and more deeply embedded within local conflicts.

Afghanistan Conflict

IranSource

Sep 10, 2024

Iranian-Americans have discovered their voice. Their activism will only grow stronger.

By Siamak Aram

It is rooted in Iranians' deep desire for sweeping political and societal transformation, specifically removing the Islamic Republic.

Civil Society Human Rights

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
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