Neo-feudal militancy: How Iran-backed proxy groups operate in the Middle East
Iran and its clients created a reinvention of medieval feudalism. Leaders recruit fighters, wage war against outsiders and extort from residents.
What the historic low turnout in Iran’s elections means
The recent elections led to the lowest voter turnout, and evolved into a contest among different factions of principalists aligned with the system.
Iran’s Legislative Elections in 2024: What to Expect?
This year’s elections for Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly and 88-member Assembly of Experts stand out for three reasons.
Will Saudi Arabia’s streak of liberalization extend to normalizing ties with Israel?
When Saudi Arabia will normalize ties with Israel depends on the war in the Gaza Strip, but the current status quo already heralds a change.
Power Play in Syria: How Wagner Mercenaries, Economic Stakes and Shifting Alliances Influence the Balance Between Russia, Iran and the Assad Regime
The Wagner group, with military and economic stakes in Syria, could potentially influence Russian and Iranian interests in the conflict-ridden nation.
The State of Iran’s Nuclear Programme: What Can Negotiations Achieve Before UN Sanctions Expire in October?
In light of the upcoming sanctions expiration, the West have three options: a plan for new nuclear negotiations, deterrence, or military action.
The Long Road to a Substantive Settlement in Yemen
Attacks from Within and Without: Threat Perceptions from Israel
A crisis that could escalate into war can originate from Israel’s domestic as well as regional international environment alike.
The Expansion of Baku-Erbil Relations and its Impact on Iran
China and the Middle East: From Performative to Substantive Participation in Regional Affairs?
The tripartite China-Saudi Arabia-Iran agreement does not herald the beginning of a new era of Chinese primacy in the region.