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.

Libya

Content

MENASource

Mar 20, 2024

Tony Pfaff: The ethics of proxy relationships applies to everyone

By Holly Dagres

The academic and former US government official was interviewed by our MENASource editor to discuss his most recent book and its implications for US foreign policy.

Defense Policy Iran

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Climate crisis fuels change in MENA region

By Rabah Arezki

The region faces economic and political transitions amid geopolitical risks, climate change, and energy market shifts. Escalating conflicts are exacerbating instability. Climate change poses existential threats, intensifying water crises and domestic tensions. Socioeconomic transformation will be vital to meet youth aspirations and tackle polarization.

Climate Change & Climate Action Economy & Business

MENASource

Feb 18, 2024

Regardless of Sisi’s decision on Palestinian refugees in Rafah, he will not emerge as a winner  

By Shahira Amin

Now that Israel has clarified its intent to undertake operations in Rafah, after evacuating the nearly 1.4 million displaced Palestinians who have sought a safe haven in the Gaza Strip’s southern city, it may only be a matter of time before the Egyptian's president's true intentions are revealed.

Conflict Middle East

MENASource

Feb 15, 2024

Unraveling Egypt’s political economy puzzle: It’s more than just economics

By Racha Helwa

Egypt's economy continues to operate using piecemeal economic reforms, which are hindered by strong Nasser-era remnants, resulting in a slow and inconsistent pattern of implementation.

Corruption Economy & Business

MENASource

Feb 8, 2024

Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea add to Egypt’s economic troubles

By Shahira Amin

The decline in Suez Canal revenues has put further strain on Egypt's already faltering economy at a time when the country faces a severe foreign currency shortage.

Conflict Economy & Business

MENASource

Jan 23, 2024

The escalation no country in the Middle East wants but still pushes toward

By Karim Mezran and Nicola Pedde

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has returned from a fourth visit to the Middle East with the clear objective of preventing regional escalation from the Israel-Hamas war. This concern is shared by all countries in the region, who, for various reasons, understand how the evolution of current tensions into a wider conflict could generate […]

Middle East North Africa

In the News

Jan 11, 2024

Charai in Jerusalem Strategic Tribune: The World in 2024 – Elections and the Demand for American Leadership

By Atlantic Council

Democratic Transitions Economy & Business

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 21, 2023

Need a book on the Middle East to read during the holidays? Here’s our recommendations

By William F. Wechsler, Nadereh Chamlou, Mark N. Katz, Marcy Grossman, Nour Dabboussi, Sarah Zaaimi, Masoud Mostajabi

Our team of experts and staff have you covered with their recommended reads related to the Middle East and North Africa for the holidays.

Civil Society Middle East

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

Experts