For over a decade, the U.S. Mideast policy has been trapped in a vicious cycle. Every administration that enters the White House declares, in one way or another, that the region is no longer a priority, and that the future lies in Asia and the Indo-Pacific—the arena of great-power competition with China, as well as… Continue reading America’s Dilemma in the Middle East

With indirect talks between Washington and Tehran stalling and tensions rising around the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf states face tough choices with far-reaching implications that go beyond threats to energy supplies or increased transport and insurance costs, extending to cities, critical infrastructure and national economies. As Qatar and Oman intensify their mediation efforts, the Gulf… Continue reading Mediation for Long-Term Stability: A Vision for Gulf Security

Lebanon’s sectarian political system has survived civil war, economic collapse, and repeated waves of popular protest. Yet its endurance masks a striking contradiction: Most Lebanese appear to reject its organizing principles, but few are willing to take the risks required to challenge it. A nationally representative survey of 3,000 Lebanese citizens conducted by the authors… Continue reading Most Lebanese Reject Sectarian Rule. What’s Preventing Change?