Tag "Islamic State"

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Economics International

GRI’s Weekly Risk Outlook

European leaders clash with new Greek government over bailouts. The Islamic State extends its territorial reach. New U.S. housing data due out. Indian and Sri Lankan leaders meet. A labor dispute

Middle East/North Africa Security

Financial self-sufficiency fuels terrorist climate

The beginning of 2015 has been marked by further Islamic extremist activities with horrific attacks in Paris, Maiduguri, and Istanbul, to name a few. Aside from the mutual goal of

Middle East/North Africa Security

Jordan’s intensifies its campaign against ISIS

Jordan’s decision to deepen its involvement in Iraq and Syria has widespread implications, including dramatically increasing the country’s power and regional influence. It also emphasizes the uncertainty of the region’s economic

Middle East/North Africa Politics

In Saudi Arabia, new king Salman seeks stability

The formal succession of power in Saudi Arabia brings former Crown Prince Salman to the throne of the Arab world’s largest economy. When news broke of the death of King

Middle East/North Africa Security

Middle East defense spending fuels security dilemma

Middle East countries are expanding defense budgets at a rapid rate. Between 2014 and 2020, MENA defense spending is expected reach $920 billion despite low oil prices. While investment in

Middle East/North Africa Security

Booming business for black market weapons dealers in Iraq and Syria

As war continues to rage in Iraq and Syria, the demand for guns and ammunition has skyrocketed. Weapons dealers have capitalized on rising prices and are making a hefty profit.

Security Sub-Saharan Africa

Boko Haram poses threat to Nigeria’s stability

Boko Haram, fuelled initially by economic grievances, has vowed to destroy southern Nigeria’s Westernized economy, insisting that northern Nigeria hardly benefits from the roughly $50 billion a year the south receives

Middle East/North Africa Natural resources and energy

Jordan-Israel energy deal faces public opposition

With increased conflict in Iraq and Syria and diplomatic disagreements with Israel, the Jordanian public’s dissatisfaction with King Abdullah is growing. With a struggling economy, Jordan must strike a careful

Middle East/North Africa Politics

Russia is further isolated by supporting Syria’s regime

Russia is still holding up the Assad regime economically, politically, and militarily. However, the rapidly unfolding situation in Syria’s civil war may put Putin’s strongest Middle East alliance in jeopardy.

Middle East/North Africa Politics

Turkey has much to lose in Kobani

With the Islamic State’s insurgency in Kobani still raging economic fallout in Turkey has already begun. The Turkish state is making significant unforced errors, with damaging long-term consequences for its