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 16, 2026
Could the GCC and Iran collaborate to solve the Strait of Hormuz crisis?
By
Alia Brahimi
A Gulf-led maritime cooperation could break the Hormuz stalemate by offering Iran an off-ramp while preventing unilateral control.
MENASource
Sep 15, 2026
Can oil deals reset US-Iraqi relations?
By
Yesar Al-Maleki
Iraq has a short window of time to rein in its militias and create favorable commercial conditions to improve ties with the US.
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.
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.
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