REGIONS

Dr. Ju Hyung Kim As Moscow and Beijing intensify their cooperation through institutions including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the probability of a dual contingency—Russia embarking on a full-fledged military offensive in Europe, while China conducts an assault against Taiwan—is no longer a long-term hypothesis. Although US policymakers …

Shalom Lipner President Trump’s steamrolling toward a lasting deal in Gaza could deliver a crowning blow to the Israeli government. A potent version of the Changing of the Guard, viewed annually by millions of spectators at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, is playing out presently on the British Empire’s …

Dr. Shehab Al-Makahleh In one of the most unexpected political turns of the post-war Syrian landscape, Washington has hosted Ahmed al-Sharaa — formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Joulani — signaling what may be the beginning of a new American chapter in Damascus. The meeting, quietly held at the …

With Astana’s entry, the Abraham Accords have entered into a new phase. Today, in a monumental step, Kazakhstan joined Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bahrain, and Sudan as the sixth member of the Abraham Accords. The decision may come as a surprise to many observers, who have …

Mohammed Ayoob Israeli maximalism and wavering US support do not bode well for a lasting Israel-Palestine settlement. After less than a month, the ceasefire in Gaza is already under immense pressure. In fact, one wonders if it is already irremediable. The trio of American mediators—Vice President JD Vance, …

Desmond Lachman President Trump’s management of the US economy is setting his party up for failure in the 2026 midterms. James Carville, Bill Clinton’s political advisor, famously said that when it came to elections, “it’s the economy, stupid.” This week’s convincing Democratic Party triumph at the polls in …

Graham Allison President Trump’s statements about nuclear testing affirm his determination to ensure that the United States maintains the most powerful nuclear arsenal in the world. Last week, President Trump announced that “because of other countries[’] testing programs,” he had “instructed the Department of War to begin testing …

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a set of 17 metallic elements that have become indispensable to modern technology and defense industries. Although they are not truly “rare” in the Earth’s crust, they are difficult to find in concentrated deposits and are expensive to separate and refine. The group …

Iraqis will vote for a new parliament on November 11, which is important for Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and reflects the views of the young population that sees the political system as benefiting only those in power. Many voters feel disillusioned with democracy in Iraq, believing it …