Middle East
Regional security, proxy networks, escalation risk, and conflict diplomacy across the Middle East.
181 Dispatches
The Battles Ahead: Anticipating the World at War in 2026
Explore the geopolitical flashpoints of 2026, from escalating wars in Eastern Europe and the Middle East to rising violence in Latin America and Africa.
The Situation Room: China, Japan, Syria, Sudan, and the Logic of the Trump Doctrine
A wide-angle analysis of a China-Japan war, Syria after Assad, the El-Fasher massacre, the Trump Doctrine, Mexico's cartels, and nuclear landmines.
The Collapse of Yemen: How the STC is Forging the State of South Arabia
Following a lightning offensive by the Southern Transitional Council, Yemen faces partition. Explore how the STC aims to build a recognized sovereign
ISIS Killed Three Americans in Syria: Inside the Islamic State's Dangerous Resurgence
ISIS killed three Americans in Syria on December 13th. Inside the Islamic State's dangerous comeback across Syria and what it means for global security.
The 21st Century's Deadliest Conflicts, Ranked by Death Toll
A continent-by-continent accounting of the 21st century's deadliest wars, ranked by direct death toll—from the Second Congo War to Ethiopia's Tigray War.
Yemen on the Brink Again: The STC's Lightning Offensive and the UAE-Saudi Proxy War
A UAE-backed separatist offensive has seized eastern Yemen's oil belt and population centers in days, threatening to split the country and pit the Emirates against Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi-Pakistan Defense Pact: A Mutual Defense Deal Already in Doubt
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a mutual defense pact in September. Months later, a nuclear question, an Islamic NATO debate, and an uninvoked clause cloud its future.
Why the Shahed 136 Might Be the Perfect Drone — And Why the World Is Racing to Copy It
Iran's Shahed 136 kamikaze drone is reshaping modern warfare. Learn why this cheap, effective weapon has forced global militaries to rethink defense strate
The Gaza Ceasefire Is Fragile and May Break Down: Here's Why
Analysis of why the Gaza ceasefire is unstable: Israeli escalations, Hamas's refusal to disarm, Netanyahu's coalition politics, and irreconcilable demands.
Israel and Hamas Ceasefire Explained: Key Terms, Sticking Points, and What Comes Next
Breaking down the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement: hostage exchanges, territorial withdrawal, aid surge, and obstacles to lasting peace.
Iran and Israel Could Return to War Soon: Why the Twelve-Day War May Only Be the Beginning
Analysis of why Iran and Israel may return to war after the 2025 Twelve-Day War, examining rearmament, regime instability, and escalation risks.
The World is Rallying for Palestine: Will Diplomatic Recognition Change Anything?
Major nations recognize Palestinian statehood, but Israel rejects it and intensifies operations. Will diplomacy alter the ground reality?