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.
Saudi Arabia’s unprecedented strikes on Iraqi militias mark the collapse of a decade-long strategy of patient engagement. Riyadh’s new approach—punish the factions while strengthening the state—will depend on whether it can weaken Iran-aligned groups without further undermining Baghdad.
Will the defeats of candidates backed by the pro-Israel lobby in the U.S. begin to influence and reshape Washington’s foreign policy—particularly regarding Palestine, Iran, and Gulf security?
The Gulf faces a defining moment for its security, economy and strategic partnerships. What kind of Gulf will emerge after the war, and how can its states build a more resilient regional order that safeguards both security and development?