Why Iran’s involvement in Syria may backfire
It is a commonly held view that Iran has emerged as a winner from the war that has raged in Syria since 2011. Though the survival of Syrian President…
Analytics
Are debt crises in Argentina and Turkey a global warning sign?
Are brewing exchange rate and debt crises in Argentina and Turkey localised events without broader implications? Or are they early warning signs of deeper fragilities in bloated…
What’s next for Syria?
“Who is that, guys? That’s a woman. That’s Khaled Sofar. That’s Mohammed Saleh. Who is that? Who is that?” A few moments pass, as the…
Turkey is not a hopeless case
Turkey is preparing for a fateful election. If the ruling party wins again then democratic prospects will look quite grim, at least according to most opposition…
The Desperation to Keep Turkey Different
It’s the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, but in Istanbul smokers huddle outside offices, couples sip beer and sex workers call out to young men from…
Businesses In Saudi Arabia Struggle With Changing Regulations
The Mobile Market center is a popular place in Riyadh for anyone who needs computer accessories or help with their cell phone. The two-story mall,…
Has Khamenei signaled dead-end for Iranian regime’s adventures?
The United States’ important policy shift against Iran’s growing ambitions, spelled out in a 12-article speech delivered by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, is leaving…
Here’s What Turkey in Crisis Can Learn From Other Central Banks
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan may have finally conceded to his financial lieutenants’ currency-rescue plan, but a look back across recent eleventh-hour rate hikes in…
Iran’s wrecked economy and violations of human rights
The recent US withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal has stirred a new fierce debate between opponents and supporters of the notorious agreement. On one…
Qatar ‘forging its own path’ one year into Saudi blockade
As Salwa Road leads closer towards the Qatar-Saudi border, traffic thins out considerably, until not a single car can be seen in either direction. The…