Analysis
Since 2012, the Week in Review keeps you ahead of the curve with in-depth analysis of the trends in the region, based on Al-Monitor’s world class reporting.
Hope for Yemen? Plus, three quick takes on the IMF’s outlook for Iran, Lebanon and Egypt
The UN-Saudi peace initiative may be the best hope in an otherwise gloomy regional forecast during "The Great Lockdown."
Will Iran back UN-Saudi initiative for cease-fire in Yemen?
For Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, Yemen is too big to fail; for Iran, it’s a penny stock investment to keep the kingdom bogged down in a quagmire.
How the pandemic, plummeting oil prices could reshape Middle East
COVID-19 will weaken fragile states, raising risk of failure but creating openings for diplomacy.
Iraq’s post-pandemic future depends on breaking Iran’s hold
The Trump administration tells Iraq it faces a 'decision point' in choosing America or Iran.
Is there a coronavirus peace dividend for Israelis and Palestinians?
Cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian leaders to contain the coronavirus sparks hope for deeper cooperation as Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz edge closer to a unity government.
Historical context: Biden’s 2002 vote on Iraq war
Congress passed a new resolution on the use of force in the Middle East; the United States retaliates against Iran-backed militias in Iraq; and an 18-year-old debate returns.
UAE offers regional road map to deal with Iran
Policies on coronavirus, nuclear issues may help recast regional security discussions, complement US policies.
Egypt turns the page on Mubarak era
Hosni Mubarak, forced from office during Arab Spring, forged lasting US partnership; his departure signaled new chapter for Egypt, region.
The urgent conversation Trump, Putin need to have about Syria
As Idlib refugee crisis grows, US risks superpower confrontation over missiles.
Egypt shows diplomatic finesse forging Gaza cease-fire
Hamas' agreement to refrain from attacks, for now, puts Gaza on the back burner for Israeli elections.
Pagination
Netanyahu, regional leaders hedge on possible Trump win in November
The Israeli prime minister is under pressure to deliver on a cease-fire during his Washington visit next week; Biden can’t heal Democrat divisions over Israel and the Gaza war.
Lebanon FM warns of 'devastating’ regional war if Israel escalates campaign against Hezbollah
In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Lebanon's top diplomat, Abdallah Bou Habib, adds that security in the south ultimately depends on a strong Lebanese army and an agreement on the border – not war.
US, Iran guarantors of shaky deterrence between Israel and Hezbollah
Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah is not ready to go to the mattresses over the killing of another senior commander on Wednesday, and Iran doesn't want a war while it favors the threat of confrontation as a deterrent.
G42-Microsoft partnership in Kenya 'just the beginning,' says UAE trade minister
In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi discusses momentum in UAE trade with the US, the benefits of economic diversification and Africa’s priority in UAE trade policy.