Featured commentary & analysis


Counterterrorism Study Group

The Counterterrorism Study Group is a forum for former counterterrorism officials to review the latest threats, to understand emerging trends and future predictions, and to explore creative new proposals for improving the effectiveness of current policies and operations.


Podcast series

Listen to the latest episode of the China-MENA podcast, featuring conversations with academics, government leaders, and the policy community on China’s role in the Middle East.


Gulf Security Task Force

The Gulf Security Task Force is revisiting the question of how to best protect US interests in this sensitive, always relevant region. Our goal is to provide US decision-makers with an updated, fact-based strategy for protecting US interests in the air and maritime domain from the Persian Gulf to the Red Sea, and ensuring Gulf partners’ ability to assume this responsibility, with the assistance and leadership of the United States.

Content

Fast Thinking

Oct 17, 2024

After Sinwar’s death, what’s next for Iran’s Axis of Resistance?

By Atlantic Council

Israel's killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar raises big questions about the future of Iran's proxy groups. Our experts answer them.

Conflict Israel

MENASource

Oct 16, 2024

Vision 2030 has done wonders for women. But there’s still room to enhance their economic roles in Saudi Arabia.

By Beata Polok and Maha Akeel

Saudi Arabia’s progress under Vision 2030 is impressive, but the journey is not yet over.

Civil Society Economy & Business

MENASource

Oct 4, 2024

One year after Hamas’s October 7 terrorist attacks, here’s how the region has changed

By Atlantic Council experts

One year on, the Gaza War remains unresolved and the potential for war across the region is becoming more likely. Atlantic Council experts take on questions about the war's impact—and its future.

Conflict Crisis Management

MENASource

Sep 24, 2024

Do the Houthis really have a hypersonic missile?

By Emily Milliken

The claim is concerning for more than just the high speeds; Hypersonic missiles are difficult for missile-defense systems to intercept.

Conflict Iran

Event Recap

Sep 19, 2024

Senator Joni Ernst on how to expand cooperation among US allies in the Middle East

By Emily Milliken

Event recap of the N7 Initiative's public event with Senator Joni Ernst

Economic Sanctions Israel

MENASource

Sep 11, 2024

As the Israel-Hamas war continues, the Abraham Accords quietly turns four

By Marcy Grossman

The Abraham Accords have laid a foundation far beyond any one conflict for greater peace in the region.

Conflict Israel

In the News

Sep 4, 2024

Shaffer quoted in S&P Global on recent Houthi attacks on oil tankers

Energy & Environment Geopolitics & Energy Security

MENASource

Aug 22, 2024

Ensuring the UAE’s food security in an unstable region

By Hadi Fathallah

To safeguard its future, the UAE must urgently recalibrate its food security strategy while adapting to rapidly evolving global challenges.

Economy & Business Middle East
SM-3 is launched from guided missile cruiser USS Shiloh during ballistic missile flight test in Pacific Ocean

Report

Aug 9, 2024

What attacks on shipping mean for the global maritime order

By Elisabeth Braw

This report discusses the history of attacks on shipping, the rules implemented to keep shipping safe, and the new and serious threats posed by the Houthis and other actors. It also discusses steps Western governments and the shipping industry can take to reduce the harm posed by such attacks.

Europe & Eurasia Maritime Security

In the News

Jul 26, 2024

Pelayo quoted in TRT World on Houthis’ attacks against Israel ships

By Atlantic Council

Economy & Business Middle East

Experts