It’s the 100th anniversary of the first Muslim democracy
One century ago, Azerbaijan declared independence, becoming the first democratic state in the Muslim world and one of the first nations to give women the right to vote.Continue Reading →
Iraq elections expose Iran’s vulnerability
The victory of a nationalist in Iraq's elections has dealt a blow to Iran's interests and begs the question of…
Angels, demons, double standards in Trump’s Mideast
Donald Trump has withdrawn the U.S. from the Iran nuclear accord. But his criticism rings hollow in a region dripping…
China on Iran nuclear deal: energy, U.S. & North Korea
China's stance towards the Iran nuclear deal is rooted in three concepts: energy supply, its relationship with the U.S. as a super power and the North Korean nuclear issue.Continue Reading →
Donald Trump plays with fire in Jerusalem
In vowing to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, Donald Trump has torn up the diplomatic rule book,…
Pragmatic France swallows hard, forges ties with U.S.
France is looking past gaping political differences with Donald Trump to carve out a special relationship based on solid military…
Iran outpacing Saudi Arabia in Middle East struggle
Rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia, aspirants for leadership of the Islamic world, is at the crux of conflict across the Mideast, with deadly results.Continue Reading →
What’s in store for Syria if Islamic State is defeated?
Islamic State fighters are on the run in Syria. But if they are defeated on the battlefield, the aftermath could…
Kurds under pressure to scrap independence vote
The Kurdish region of northern Iraq is under pressure to scrap an independence vote that critics say could hinder the…
Blockade of Qatar: Gulf residents feel the pinch
A blockade by Saudi Arabia and allies of Qatar is hitting residents of the Gulf in their daily lives amid expectations that the row will rumble on.Continue Reading →