Middle East

Stretching from the Western Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, the Middle East continues to be a region struggling with violent conflict, political repression, and poor development. Numerous pro-democracy protest movements, a burgeoning youth population, and efforts to reform governments and lessen economic dependence on oil, however, are causes for optimism. The United States and the international community must remain engaged with the region to provide support for these positive moves and to address the many remaining challenges.

Content

In the News

Feb 4, 2026

Gray on Fox News on escalating US-Iran tensions

By Atlantic Council

On January 9, Alexander B. Gray, a GeoStrategy Initiative nonresident senior fellow, was interviewed on "Fox and Friends First" about escalating tensions between the US and Iran.

Iran Politics & Diplomacy

In the News

Feb 4, 2026

Gray on Fox Business Network on Iran

By Atlantic Council

On February 2, Alexander B. Gray, a GeoStrategy Initiative nonresident senior fellow, was interviewed on Fox Business Network about US actions in Iran and how they fit Trump's broader strategic ambitions.

Iran Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Feb 3, 2026

Why the Muslim Brotherhood is staying calm amid crackdowns in Jordan

By Aaron Magid

Despite widespread popularity, the Islamist faction did not organize large-scale protests, lowered its media profile, and avoided attacks.

Extremism Intelligence

Dispatches

Feb 3, 2026

Why the Trump administration is refusing to accept a third term for Iraq’s Nouri al-Maliki

By Rend Al-Rahim, Victoria J. Taylor 

That the United States would seek to block Maliki from a third term as prime minister is unsurprising given the disastrous record of his premiership from 2006 to 2014.

Elections Iraq

Dispatches

Feb 3, 2026

Seven things to know about the potential for resumed Iran nuclear negotiations

By Nate Swanson

The tentatively planned resumption of US-Iran nuclear talks this week does not mean US military action is off the table.

Conflict Defense Policy

Issue Brief

Jan 29, 2026

Congress has championed the Abraham Accords. Here’s how it can push them forward.

By Adam Kozloski

This issue brief offers recommendations for Congress to reassert its leadership role in supporting the Abraham Accords.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

Jan 29, 2026

Why Syria’s government must turn inward in 2026

By Gregory Waters

Necessary domestic reforms include continued security reforms, economic development, and writing a new constitution.

Civil Society Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Jan 28, 2026

Syria’s Kurds could be al-Sharaa’s partners in rebuilding. Why did Damascus assault them instead?

By Amy Austin Holmes

The offensive on Kurdish neighborhoods was the third wave of sectarian violence after the targeting of Druze and Alawites.

Democratic Transitions Middle East

In the News

Jan 28, 2026

Charai for The National Interest: Jared Kushner’s Quiet Middle East Diplomacy

By Atlantic Council

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

Dispatches

Jan 28, 2026

The expert conversation: Should Trump strike Iran? What happens next if he does?

By Jason M. Brodsky and Danny Citrinowicz

As the USS Abraham Lincoln arrives in the Middle East, two experts debate the opportunities, uncertainties, and risks of a US strike on Iran.

Iran Middle East

Experts

Events