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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.
Contact us at afkar@mecouncil.org.

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The Unlikely Election of Another Reformist in Iran

Amid deep public apathy that should have made victory nearly impossible, a snap election has brought to power the little-known reformist politician Masoud Pezeshkian. How did it happen?

Hamidreza Azizi
Central Bank Digital Currencies’ Impact on MENA Economies – Council Views

Experts from the ME Council and its network analyze the potential impacts of central bank digital currencies on MENA economies and the future of money globally.

Nader S. Kabbani, Tarik M. Yousef, Ahmet F. Aysan, Nasser Saidi, June Park, Rabah Arezki
The Importance of Diplomacy: How Qatari Mediation is Impacting Gaza

Throughout the ongoing Gaza war, Qatar has emerged as an outsized power in attempting to reach a peace agreement—and has become a prime target for criticism in the process. 

Khalid Al-Jaber, Ambassador Patrick Theros
The Middle East in the Wake of October 7: Interview with Tarik M. Yousef Marking 100 Afkār Posts

“We can now really speak about two Arab worlds: the Gulf and everyone else.” 

Tarik M. Yousef
What Does President Raisi’s Death Mean for the Islamic Republic?

Amid regional tensions, the fatal helicopter crash raises questions about Iran’s future domestic and foreign policy.

Hamidreza Azizi
Economic Diversification is the GCC’s Top Priority

Saudi Arabia has taken great steps to diversify its economy – Kuwait must follow suit.

Nasser Saidi