North Africa Archives

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

MENASource Jan 10, 2024

Egypt was mediating a deal to end the Gaza war. Then Saleh Al-Arouri was assassinated.

By Shahira Amin

Keen on regaining its traditional leadership role as chief mediator between Israel and the Palestinians, Cairo had put forward a three-stage plan to end the conflict.

Conflict Israel

MENASource Dec 18, 2023

2023: A year in the Middle East

By Rachel Friedman

2023 was a tumultuous and tragic year for the Middle East and North Africa. It also produced moments of hope and diplomatic feats.

Iran Iraq

MENASource Dec 13, 2023

China’s de-dollarization message finds a receptive audience in North Africa

By Thomas Hill

A coordinated and concerted de-dollarization effort in North Africa poses a significant threat to US interests in the region and the African continent at large by existing regional trade groupings and agreements.

China East Asia

Programs

Middle East Programs

Working with our 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.

EXPLORE THE ATLANTIC COUNCIL’S MIDDLE EAST PROGRAMS

Libya

MENASource Dec 7, 2023

President Sisi’s third term will be his biggest challenge—not the upcoming Egyptian election

By Shahira Amin

While it is certain that Abdel Fattah el-Sisi will win a third term, it is uncertain what will happen after the vote and when the Gaza war is over.

Elections Middle East

MENASource Sep 22, 2023

The Derna catastrophe is a sign that the international community needs to take action in Libya

By Karim Mezran

This narrow window of opportunity is unlikely to remain open for long.

Libya Middle East

New Atlanticist Aug 30, 2023

Israel, Libya, and Italy were just reminded that diplomacy requires more than diplomats

By Karim Mezran

A recent meeting in Rome between the Libyan and Israeli foreign ministers has resulted in protests in Libya and political pressure on Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah.

Africa Israel

Content

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

Report

Aug 3, 2023

Egypt’s stability is the GCC’s top priority in the region. Here’s why.

By H.A. Hellyer

After the 2011-2013 revolution in Egypt, the author discussed the GCC's relationship with Egypt with a senior minister, who emphasized the importance of Egypt's stability. This sentiment has been shared by most GCC leaders over the past decade, though the way it has been expressed may have evolved. Political nuances in Cairo were considered less crucial, while the focus remained on the pragmatic and straightforward need for stability in Egypt.

Defense Policy Economy & Business

Report

Aug 3, 2023

Libya: Back to the future?

By Karim Mezran and Alessia Melcangi

The current Libyan situation is complex, influenced by numerous factors, including the conditions of the 2011 revolution. The misconception of it being a whole people's revolution led to a focus on elections instead of national reconciliation, hindering the rebuilding of consensus and a new social contract.

Civil Society Conflict

Report

Aug 3, 2023

Irregular migration from North Africa: Shifting local and regional dynamics

By Matteo Villa and Alissa Pavia

Irregular migration from North Africa to Europe, especially through the Central Mediterranean route connecting Libya and Tunisia to Italy, is increasing once more. Italy has witnessed a surge in irregular arrivals, with approximately 136,000 migrants disembarking between June 2022 and May 2023, almost comparable to the high arrival period of 2014-2017 when around 155,000 migrants landed each year.

Human Rights Italy

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

MENASource

Jul 14, 2023

After Tunisia expelled 1,200 Black Africans, here’s how the West can help avoid a humanitarian disaster

By Alissa Pavia and Tarek Megerisi

The West has the opportunity to prevent further deaths while simultaneously establishing resolutions to the migration predicament in Tunisia.

Civil Society Human Rights

MENASource

Jun 29, 2023

Egyptians aren’t racist. They’re frustrated with Western appropriation of their ancient history.

By Shahira Amin

Afrocentrists claim ancient Egypt was a predominantly black civilization, but this has been refuted by many Egyptians and their government.

Middle East Nationalism

MENASource

Jun 28, 2023

The Wagner rebellion is over—for now. But how will the events reverberate in the Middle East and North Africa?

By Mark N. Katz

The June 23-24 rebellion led by Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin—aimed, he claimed, at replacing the Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov (not Russian President Vladimir Putin)—has ended. However, reverberations from it are likely to continue being felt beyond Russia, such as in the Middle East and North […]

Conflict Europe & Eurasia

In the News

Jun 22, 2023