Iraq
How U.S.-Iran Tensions Could Disrupt Iraq’s Fragile Peace
Ranj Alaaldin Tue, Jun 4, 2019, 8:00 AM
The U.S. must grasp the magnitude of the crisis Iraq could face if a clash with Iran draws in Iran’s proxies.
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Middle East and North Africa
Recognizing Israel’s Claims to the Golan Heights: Trump’s Decision in Perspective
Scott R. Anderson Fri, Mar 22, 2019, 4:29 PM
A slapdash rollout and decision at odds with the international community are an uncomfortable fit for the complex and hotly contested political history of the Golan Heights.
Syria
A Primer on Syria’s Constitutional Committee
Nicholas Norberg Sat, Dec 22, 2018, 4:29 PM
As new U.N. Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen prepares to assume his position on January 7, it is an opportune time to revisit the Syrian constitutional drafting effort and its role within the larger Syrian peace process.
Middle East and North Africa
Federalists, Heed the Lessons of Iraqi Consolidation
Lisa Blaydes Sat, Aug 18, 2018, 9:00 AM
Failed efforts suggest a federalist system based in Baghdad might create new problems.
Omphalos
Deconcentrating Power in Arab-Majority Countries
Zaid Al-Ali Fri, Aug 17, 2018, 1:27 PM
Many states in the Arab world have debated the value of decentralization and federalism, but none has successfully adopted a constitution that satisfies those objectives.
Middle East and North Africa
A Fourth War With Hamas in Gaza?
Daniel Byman Fri, Aug 17, 2018, 7:00 AM
As Hamas explores new tactics following the March of Return, the fate of civilians in Gaza remains uncertain.
Middle East and North Africa
Federalist Dreams for the Middle East
Chibli Mallat Thu, Aug 16, 2018, 1:59 PM
“Federalism” has specific connotations in the Middle East, which must be understood before suggesting federal reforms as solutions to the region’s most persistent conflicts.
Middle East and North Africa
Federalism in the Middle East: A Collection of Essays
Mila Versteeg Mon, Aug 13, 2018, 9:13 AM
Events of the last decade suggest a growing momentum for federalist governance around the world.
Yemen
The U.S. 'Yellow Light' in Yemen
Daniel Byman Fri, Aug 3, 2018, 8:36 AM
Daniel Byman analyzes the benefits and costs of continued U.S. support for the Saudi and Emirati intervention in Yemen.
Middle East and North Africa
Why Be a Pawn to a State? Proxy Wars From a Proxy’s Perspective
Daniel Byman Tue, May 22, 2018, 8:25 AM
At best, proxies can hope for resources and assistance from a foreign power—but they should never count on it lasting over time.