Tag "Hezbollah"
Team Obama’s Low-Risk, High-reward Move in Syria
Contrary to critics, Obama’s decision to deploy Special Operations troops to Syria is neither a giant step forward into a quagmire, nor a meaningless symbolic gesture. In fact, as far
The March 8 Alliance’s effect on Lebanon’s economy
The March 8 Alliance coalition that holds together Lebanon’s pro-Syrian factions remains strong despite the Syrian Civil War continuing into its fifth year. How will the March 8 Alliance affect
Yemen conflict reveals shortcomings of Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy
With its vast oil riches and status as custodian of Islam’s holiest sites, Saudi Arabia has long practiced conservative and discreet foreign relations. But since his ascent to the throne, King Salman has
Will Jabhat al-Nusra eclipse Islamic State in Syria?
Jihadist groups have made some recent military gains against the regime forces in Syria. Both the Assad regime and Islamic State are under extreme political and economic pressure. Could Jabhat
Increased security risk ahead for Golan Heights’ economy
The Syrian Civil War is intensifying along the border with Israel. This will upset the political balance of the region and will impact the economy of the Golan Heights with
Yemen’s Houthi rebels’ goals remain unclear
Yemen is rudderless following the resignation of its president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi on January 22. The Houthi rebels’ ultimate goals and Yemen’s future, tied to regional stability, remain in
Five reasons LAF will keep Lebanon stable
The recent military operations at the Sunni border town of Arsal highlight that the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will remain crucial to holding the country together amid its political crisis.
ISIL in Iraq Series: New enemies challenge ISIL’s continued advance
ISIL has conquered substantial territory in past weeks, but also gained new enemies. The increased focus on and military contra against ISIL means that the group cannot continue for long.
Iran-U.S. relations improving despite nomination setback
Iran-U.S. relations turned especially reactive in April 2014. But buried beneath the tough rhetoric and diplomatic posturing are indications of long-term potential for improved relations. After this tumultuous month of diplomacy,
Gaza flare up jeopardises 2012 ceasefire
The 2012 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian faction that controls the Gaza Strip, seems ready to fall apart. In retaliation for the assassination of three Islamic Jihad leaders on March