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

MENASource

Aug 9, 2023

I spoke to an AI ‘God.’ We chatted about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in the MENA

By Sarah Zaaimi

An artificial intelligence "God" is the tip of the iceberg on the ethical implications of AI use in a socially and culturally complex region.

Artificial Intelligence Middle East

IranSource

Aug 8, 2023

Corruption reigns supreme in Iran—and it’s getting worse 

By Nadereh Chamlou

The frequently publicized cases of bribery, embezzlement, or diversion of funds have become routine in Iran.

Corruption Economy & Business

MENASource

Aug 8, 2023

Could a regional bloc work in the MENA or is it a fool’s errand? 

By Negah Angha

Addressing the regional conundrum requires transcending the traditional boundaries of geopolitical competition.

Economy & Business Energy & Environment

MENASource

Aug 4, 2023

Turkey’s defense industry is on the rise. The GCC is one of its top buyers.

By Ali Bakir

The rising defense industry cooperation between Turkey and the GCC states shows immense strategic and economic growth potential.

Defense Industry Europe & Eurasia

MENASource

Aug 3, 2023

Mubarak for president of Egypt? Nostalgia may be on the upcoming Egyptian presidential ballot.   

By Shahira Amin

While Gamal's plans to succeed his father had fueled public anger in the last years of Hosni Mubarak's rule a lot has changed since.

Middle East North Africa

IranSource

Aug 3, 2023

Khamenei is the best option to negotiate over Iran’s nuclear program. The next Supreme Leader won’t be so willing. 

By Danny Citrinowicz  

Considering the new leader's need to accede to IRGC demands, it seems Iran's future Supreme Leader won’t be able to satisfy the West.

Iran Middle East

Event Recap

Jul 31, 2023

Empowering the future: The rising women workforce in Saudi Arabia’s private sector

By Lynn Monzer, Nibras Basitkey

Event recap on the empowering future of the workplace in Saudi Arabia and its impact on the private sector.

Economy & Business Middle East

New Atlanticist

Jul 28, 2023

Any possible US-China ‘thaw’ must not leave Uyghurs out in the cold

By Rayhan Asat

The United States should demonstrate its unwavering support for the Uyghur community and a staunch commitment to safeguarding global human rights standards.

China Human Rights

IranSource

Jul 26, 2023

Iran targeted human rights sanctions series: UK designates the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution

By Celeste Kmiotek, Lisandra Novo

The United Kingdom designated the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution and its new secretary, Abdol Hossein Khosrow Panah, on July 6.

Human Rights Iran
Protesters take part in a demonstration against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his nationalist coalition government's judicial overhaul by the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem, July 24, 2023.

Fast Thinking

Jul 24, 2023

What’s next for Israel’s judicial clash

By Atlantic Council

As the Knesset passes controversial judicial reforms, our experts from Jerusalem to Washington weigh in on the state of Israeli democracy.

Israel Middle East
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