Iran war
What we talk about when we talk about US strategic ‘credibility’ – from Vietnam to Iran
‘Credibility is on the line’ has long been a refrain guiding U.S. foreign policy.
The Mecca alliance meets the Red Sea – Saudi Arabia’s new defense pact faces its first major test
The pact with Turkey and Pakistan has evolved quickly from a vague political commitment. Riyadh hopes it will help it navigate a thorny Middle East crisis.
Rapid Houthi advances in Yemen pose massive strategic risks for Saudi Arabia in the Gulf
The resumption of fighting, paired with the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, complicates regional strategy and energy policy for the Gulf powerhouse.
Houthi advance boosts Iran’s leverage over the US and Saudi Arabia – but may cost rebel group its legitimacy back in Yemen
Seizure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait complicates a widening conflict in the Persian Gulf. It also risks reigniting Yemen’s civil war.
Pete Hegseth is rebuilding the Army’s ‘brass ceiling’
Half of the officers who have been fired or blocked from promotion are women or Black. A scholar who studies the US military explains why that’s dangerous.
A new Houthi front and expanded Iranian attacks risk sinking Gulf nations’ choke‑point workaround and widening shipping risks
The ongoing war in Iran has created an expanding zone of risk for shipping, including for Saudi Arabia’s strategy of redirecting oil exports away from Hormuz.
Iraq is emerging as the Middle East’s strategic connector – but can it turn foreign competition into advantage?
Iraq has pursued friendly relations with many countries who are themselves at odds. The strategy has lots of upside for war-torn Iraq – but holds key risks as well.
Israel’s ‘campaign between the wars’: How strategy to contain Iran and its allies risks further straining ties with US
Israel has long sought to gain a military advantage by degrading its adversaries’ military capabilities outside of times of direct conflict.
How are Saudis viewing the US‑Iran war? Our polling suggests Gulf kingdom is split on key issues
Surveys in the Gulf kingdom point at ongoing support for the US-Saudi alliance.
US‑Iran deal leaves the future of Lebanon uncertain – and subject to Israel playing the spoiler
President Donald Trump has talked of a potential role for Syrian forces in fighting Hezbollah – a move that would raise alarm in Lebanon.