Afkār is a publication of the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, providing short-form analyses, insights, and perspectives on regional issues and developments from the Council's experts and outside contributors. Afkār is published in English and Arabic, and is edited by Omar H. Rahman.
Amid rising external pressures and post-war vulnerabilities, Iranian authorities have released a statement hinting the country could act when it perceives clear signs of danger instead of waiting to be attacked, fueling debate over whether this posture makes conflict less likely or more risky.
Although Trump’s 20-point plan does not say much about Gaza’s economic reconstruction and recovery, what is known raises significant concerns. Yet there are better alternatives on the table that can still be incorporated.
With Lebanon’s government facing immense pressure on all sides, it is increasingly relying on negotiations to navigate its perilous and rapidly shifting environment.