Tag: diplomacy

The Saudi Gambit in Washington

/ Essays

Saudi Arabia is in a position to become a major international player but to sustain such a role it needs to consolidate its leadership in the Middle East.
The Arab Summit, which concluded in Jeddah last weekend, may well have just confirmed the Kingdom’s leadership of the Arab World. But now Riyadh needs to transform that into a regional leadership role.
Such a regional undertaking requires—in addition to taking the lead on the political settlement of the various crises that have plagued the region—the sagacious management of its relationships with both the United States and Israel.  » Read more about: The Saudi Gambit in Washington  »

Iran-Saudi Arabia: A Regional Transformation?

/ Essays

The expected resumption of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran has the potential to reshape the dynamics of the Middle East by bringing an end to proxy wars and creating opportunity for regional stability.

Erdogan’s Endgame with Egypt

/ Global Forum

Rapprochement with Egypt is a necessary first step for Turkey to break out of its self-induced isolation, but it will require concessions that Erdogan may not be willing to make.

Neither East Nor West

/ Essays

As the Covid-19 response of powerful states like the U.S. and China falters, it is also failing regions on the margins of great power politics, like Africa. It is time weaker states take a long look at their dependence on the world’s juggernauts for their own security.

A Whole Government Effort

/ Q & A

In reaffirming the U.S. role in the Middle East, anti-terrorism expert Gerald Feierstein explains that it is not enough to just fight violent networks; leaders must also address the root causes of extremism

Reinventing Peace in Syria

/ Essays

For Syria, and the rest of the world, the era of liberal peacebuilding has passed. But there are other ways to make peace, which call for a return to basics and a new kind of “software”

Waiting for Uncle Sam

/ Essays

For decades, the United States has billed itself as an “honest broker” in the Palestinian-Israeli peace talks. Ten principles for renewing confidence in U.S. leadership, and the Arab-Israeli peace process.

Saud Al-Faisal: Statesman Diplomat

/ Midan

Saudi Arabia’s longtime minister of foreign affairs, Prince Saud Al-Faisal passed away this Ramadan. He was among the kingdom’s most influential men. A former Egyptian foreign minister reflects on the Arab statesman and diplomat.

Dining with Darius

/ Essays

The tale of the Persian empire is one of vast farms, game reserves, and fisheries, elaborate kitchens staffed by thousands, and power. Centuries later, nations are still engaging in culinary politics.