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

Fast Thinking

Dec 13, 2023

The final report card for COP28

By Atlantic Council

Atlantic Council experts who were on the ground in Dubai share their insights on the agreement and the road ahead.

Africa Climate Change & Climate Action

MENASource

Dec 11, 2023

Threats from Yemen are increasing. It’s time to redesignate the Houthis.

By R. Clarke Cooper

Ever since the 2021 lifting of FTO status, the world has witnessed the increased threats emanating from Yemen, which include recent repeated attacks on commercial ships with drones and missiles

Conflict Crisis Management

Transcript

Dec 8, 2023

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on the Israel-Hamas war and the future of the Middle East

By Atlantic Council

Shoukry spoke at an Atlantic Council Front Page event about the war in Gaza and Egypt’s regional leadership.

Conflict Israel

IranSource

Dec 7, 2023

Does the Resistance Axis believe its propaganda about Israel? The October 7 attack seems to suggest so.

By David Daoud

For the Resistance Axis, portraying Israel as a temporary entity that will inevitably melt away has an obvious utility, and is one that furthers the goal of destroying the Jewish state.

Conflict Iran

MENASource

Dec 7, 2023

President Sisi’s third term will be his biggest challenge—not the upcoming Egyptian election 

By Shahira Amin

While it is certain that Abdel Fattah el-Sisi will win a third term, it is uncertain what will happen after the vote and when the Gaza war is over.

Elections Middle East

MENASource

Dec 6, 2023

The Israeli right-wing is determined to prevent any discussion of a future Palestinian state

By Ksenia Svetlova

Uri Israel is not the only right-wing movement that speaks and acts against the Palestinian Authority and warns about the possible menace of its return to the Gaza Strip. 

Israel Middle East

New Atlanticist

Dec 1, 2023

What to expect in the next phase of Israel’s war against Hamas 

By Alex Plitsas

After a pause in fighting ended Friday, Israel will press ahead with a southern Gaza campaign that will face new challenges.

Conflict Israel

MENASource

Nov 30, 2023

COP28 is here. These are the Global South’s demands and expectations.

By Lama El Hatow

The COP28 negotiations will prove to be challenging given all the demands and expectations on the table in this COP.

Civil Society Energy & Environment

New Atlanticist

Nov 30, 2023

Kissinger was the model for national security adviser as strategist

By Matthew Kroenig

Kissinger’s influence may owe less to any single foreign policy accomplishment and more to the endurance and density of his contributions.

Politics & Diplomacy

Testimony

Nov 30, 2023

Alissa Pavia testifies to Canada’s Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights

By Alissa Pavia

Alissa Pavia highlights the issue of major refugee and migration flows affecting the Middle East and North Africa region.

Human Rights Middle East
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