Iran’s Protests: The Role of Power and the Weakening of the Reform Movement

Throughout history, the concept of liberation for Iranians has been something like anarchism. The widespread protests in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini have been analysed through different political, […]
In Conversation with Brian Hook

In Conversation with Brian Hook Held on 14 December, 2022 Speaker Brian Hook | Brian is a veteran U.S. diplomat who has worked for three presidential administrations. Most recently, he […]
Can the Iraqi Prime Minister implement his pledges?

After more than a year of political stalemate, the Iraqi government headed by Mohammad Shiaa al-Sudani was formed, and his selections for ministerial positions were passed without much Parliamentary obstruction. […]
Can the West circumvent the Iranian regime’s ultimate monopoly of the internet?

The ongoing civil protests[i] taking place across Iran in response to the killing of Gina (Mahsa) Amini, which have been taking place since 13 September, have been accompanied by the […]
In Conversation with Brian Hook

*No registration required. Join the event by clicking on the Zoom link below or copying it into your browser manually:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88951187480 Join MENAF in conversation with Brian Hook to discuss his unparalleled […]
Iranian Crisis: The Regime at a Crossroads (In Person & Online)

*In Person | Cambridge, Alison Richard Building, Room S1.; 7 West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DT. No registration required, but please note that limited seats are available for in-person attendees. *Online […]
How the Middle East Thinks About Great Power Competition

Published in the National Interest
Muqtada’s Retirement from Iraqi Politics Shows the Power of the Maraji

On 29 August 2022, Muqtada Al-Sadr, Iraq’s Shi’ite-nationalist leader, announced his permanent retirement from Iraqi politics. One of the major factors that led to this announcement was the decision by […]
Saudi Arabia is the Gulf’s Status Quo Power

Saudi Arabia has been an anchor of stability and growth in the Gulf and beyond. There are at least three reasons for this. First, as the largest economy in the […]
Iraq’s Diplomatic Mediations: Strong on Symbolism but Short on Substance

Over the last two years, Iraq has been overwhelmed with protests, internal instability, US-Iran confrontation on Iraqi soil, political stalemate, and intra-Shia power rivalries. However, against all odds, Iraq has […]