MENA: Saudi-US relations under the spotlight
The US intelligence community assessment on the Khashoggi assassination is not as damaging as feared. Biden’s strategy is not to downgrade the relationship, but instead to make it conditions-based. Congressional pressure is likely to grow to punish those involved pub… Become a member to read the rest of this article Username or E-mail Password […]
IRAN: Resumed Iran Diplomacy Will Provide No Easy Path
Iran is likely to restrict UN inspectors’ access to nuclear sites on 23 February, following the expiration of a deadline the Iranian parliament imposed on European countries to provide sanctions relief. Iran’s hostile actions, including the attack last on a US base in Iraqi … Become a member to read the rest of this […]
EGYPT: Continuing to Cruise in Choppy Waters
Egypt’s economy continues to outpace the rest of the Middle East, despite the effects of COVID-19 on tourism and shipping. The state remains the key driver of the economy, focused on major, visible projects. Egypt’s economy continues to defy the downward pressure … Become a member to read the rest of this article
MENA: After 10 years, Arab Spring re-run unlikely
The Arab Spring, now ten years on, generally had a greater positive impact in Arab countries that weren’t touched by protests than those that were. Middle- and low-income Arab states have been unable to make large strides addressing youth unemployment, which was one of the p… Become a member to read the rest of […]
MIDDLE EAST: Biden will not turn on US partners in the region
Biden will remain fundamentally sympathetic to Israel, building on his long record as a friend. Saudi Arabia will need to show value to new administration while quietly hedging against a more distant relationship. UAE will hone its image as a prominent voice for peace and m… Become a member to read the rest of […]
LEBANON: Still stuck
Lebanon’s governance crisis has continued, driven by traditional sectarian parties’ determination to retain control. The French-led effort to guide Lebanon’s politics toward reform remains the principal external driver of events, but internal dynamics continue to dominate. Lebane… Become a member to read the rest of this article
UAE/ISRAEL: Not the beginning of the end, but the end of the beginning
This week’s UAE-Israeli rapprochement creates more uncertainties than have been publicly acknowledged. It quickly stabilizes the Israeli government, while creating significant risks and opportunities for the UAE. The agreement that was announced with great fanfare is som… Become a member to read the rest of this article