Op-ed

The 2015 Iran nuclear negotiations ultimately resulted in the fragile Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). While the deal initially raised hopes for sanctions relief, normalized relations between Iran and the West, and resolving the nuclear disputes, it proved short-lived and failed to meet objectives. Structural weaknesses, persistent …

On May 13, 2025, in a surprise announcement during his first post-inauguration Gulf tour, President Donald Trump declared that he will be “ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria in order to give them a chance at greatness.” The venue — the Saudi–U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh — …

In the world of politics, there is always that seductive lie: “Security comes from the barrel of a gun.” It’s a lie that Benjamin Netanyahu has peddled for years under the guise of “defending Israel’s existence.” But perhaps the turning point in this game is today—when Netanyahu, Israel’s …

In December 2024, history recorded the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria when Russian support should have been at its peak. Over the past three years, Moscow confidently implemented a new strategy in Syria by replacing regular troops with the Wagner Group and securing influence through …

As China and the European Union (EU) mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, the global geopolitical landscape presents both a challenge and an opportunity for a deeper, more meaningful partnership between the two. Recent gestures of goodwill from both sides suggest a thaw in what has, …

As tensions persist between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, and the broader regional balance sees an assertive China building its influence, an unlikely opportunity emerges: Russia, traditionally a behind-the-scenes actor in South Asia, could step forward to mediate a lasting resolution. If successful, such mediation would not only …

The opening months of US President Donald Trump’s second presidency have sent shockwaves through the system of US alliances. Within weeks, the new administration suddenly reversed its support for Ukraine, threatened an end to its NATO commitments, and launched trade wars against its closest allies. Although the disruption …

What happens when the world’s oldest traditions are combined with cutting-edge digital technologies? Faith and diplomacy could just discover their next revolution. In the not-too-distant past, religious leaders had to travel across boundaries to address their people. Today, they use social media platforms, AI-powered assistants, and virtual services …

The year 2025 is proving to be a pivotal moment in the global political landscape, marking a significant shift from globalism to regionalism. As traditional multilateral institutions become less effective, regional organizations are stepping up to tackle key economic, security, and shared challenges. This new wave of regionalism …