Tag "Iraq"
Islamic State takes advantage of cash economies in Iraq and Syria
Backed by hundreds of millions of dollars in locally generated funding, the Islamic State has reaped the benefits of cash-driven economies in Iraq and Syria. The US-led military campaign must
New terror threat from the Khorasan Group?
While international attention has focused on the atrocities of the Islamic State (IS) and the response of the US-led alliance against IS, the Pentagon recently introduced a new group called “Khorasan.” Here is a
Opinion: The economic case for a unified Iraq
With ethno-sectarian tensions at a high, observers, stakeholders, and policymakers of Iraq are calling increasingly for a break-up of the country along ethnic and sectarian lines. But a break-up would be
Can the EU create a common defence policy?
Although countries have framed the debate about arms exports to Russia and Iraq in largely economic or national terms, defence policy also plays an important part in these debates, especially
Mosul Dam recapture reveals poor Iraqi infrastructure
The recapture of the Mosul Dam from the Islamic State (IS) by Iraqi and Kurdish forces underscores the instability of Iraq’s infrastructure. Without continued US military support, IS is sure
How Iran benefits from a ‘New Cold War’
With a ‘New Cold War’ between the U.S. and Russia seemingly in its early stages, Iran has much to gain from the conflict by playing both sides. Remember when Iran
Will commercial airlines avoid conflict zones?
Commercial airlines are reconsidering flying over “hot” conflict zones after the recent Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 crash over eastern Ukraine. How long will this change last? EU and US sanctions and
Is Khalifa Haftar Libya’s next strongman?
Violence in Libya has moved the country close to a failed state. With the United States determined to prevent another Islamist takeover in the region, is General Khalifa Haftar in line to
Crises around the world put a wrench in Fed plans
Investors’ flight to safety will eventually limit the Fed’s ability to normalize rates. When the US announced new sanctions on Russian officials before Wall Street opened on July 17, most
Can the Islamic State become a legitimate state?
The Islamic State (IS) has made swift gains in Iraq and Syria, has established a self-claimed Caliphate, and has asserted it is abolishing borders. But can it achieve its goals and create
