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.
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The latest pieces from MENASource:
MENASource
Sep 9, 2026
Ten questions (and expert answers) on the final withdrawal of US troops from Iraq
By
Atlantic Council experts
Atlantic Council experts unpack what the US withdrawal from Iraq means for the Middle East and beyond.
MENASource
Sep 8, 2026
Will Washington back the UN’s Libya roadmap with more than just rhetoric?
By
Frank Talbot
There are actionable steps the US can take now to help bring about Libya's first national elections in more than a decade.
MENASource
Sep 3, 2026
Bahrain’s opportunity for AI leadership lies under water
By
Minwa Alkhalifa
Bahrain could test the possibility of placing AI infrastructure, specifically data centers, under water.
Related program
Through our Rafik Hariri Center for the Middle East, 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.
Content
Experts
Executive Leadership Intensive participant
Chama Mechtaly
Co-Founder, The Emma Lazarus Institute for Liberty and Tolerance
