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

New Atlanticist

Mar 8, 2023

Gender persecution is happening in Iran. Targeted sanctions would be a step toward accountability.

By Celeste Kmiotek, Lisandra Novo

Designating the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution, a principal institution behind the systematic oppression of women in Iran, would put its members on notice.

Corruption Human Rights

MENASource

Mar 6, 2023

<strong>Afrocentrism is trending in the Maghreb. It’s because Sub-Saharan migrants are rewriting their narrative.</strong>

By Sarah Zaaimi

North Africa undoubtedly faces a serious migration problem that will continue to aggravate if not addressed regarding its social, cultural, and historical dimensions and root causes.

Africa North & West Africa

IranSource

Mar 2, 2023

Iran’s nuclear program is advancing. So too should negotiations.

By Kelsey Davenport

Regardless of whether the 84 percent enriched particles were accidental, this incident underscores the increased challenge in discerning Tehran’s nuclear intentions and the growing proliferation risk of Iran’s rapidly expanding nuclear program.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Mar 2, 2023

Meyce Alauddin: The WIn fellowship ‘helped and empowered me’

By Meyce Alauddin

'As a Saudi female entrepreneur running a business in the MENA region for over eight years, I have seen the evolution in overall participation and business processes firsthand.'

Middle East Resilience & Society

Event Recap

Feb 28, 2023

A conversation with Fuad Hussein, deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs of the Republic of Iraq

By Mahnaz Vahdati

On February 15, 2023, the Atlantic Council’s Iraq Initiative hosted His Excellency Fuad Hussein, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Iraq, for a conversation with Abbas Kadhim, Director of the Iraq Initiative within the Atlantic Council’s Middle East Programs.

Iraq Middle East

Article

Feb 28, 2023

There is no democracy without civil society

By Karim Mezran and Elham Saudi

Twelve years after the Libyan uprising, we are at a crucial point on Libya’s road to democracy. Now more than ever, it is important that civil society is at the heart of the approaching electoral process and future governance.

Libya Middle East

MENASource

Feb 28, 2023

To counter the Wagner Group’s presence in Africa, the US will need to prioritize stabilizing Libya

By Emadeddin Badi

Quelling the Wagner Group's influence in Libya will be challenging, as the US must address Libyan realities and unite Europe and regional powers to support its foreign policy endeavor.

Libya Middle East

MENASource

Feb 27, 2023

From Twitter spats to island disputes, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have a bone to pick with each other

By Shahira Amin

Cairo's relationship with its Gulf ally has become increasingly fractious in recent weeks after a Saudi official made clear that any future Gulf assistance ”will come with strings attached."

Middle East North Africa

MENASource

Feb 27, 2023

What the opening of the Abrahamic Family House Synagogue in the UAE means for the Jewish community and the rest of the world

By Marcy Grossman

The Abrahamic Family House, a mosque, church, and synagogue all sharing a multi-faith campus in Abu Dhabi is about to make its worldwide debut, opening its doors to the general public on March 1.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

Feb 24, 2023

Rehumanizing the dehumanized: Rethinking People-to-People exchanges in MENA

By Tom Vizel and George Stevens

People-to-people (P2P) exchanges have long been recognized as a crucial tool in promoting peace and resolving conflicts.

Israel Middle East
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