Middle East
Evolving U.S. Relations with Gulf Monarchies
For many years, Washington viewed the Gulf monarchies as key allies in the Middle East. The U.S. established a vast military presence, including bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. These
U.S. Stays Open to Iran Diplomacy Amid Continued Strikes
Secretary of State Marco Rubio on U.S.-Iran Relations On July 20, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the United States’ willingness to engage in diplomatic talks with Iran, despite ongoing military actions. Speaking
Escalating Tensions between the U.S. and Iran as Strikes Continue
In a significant development early Monday, the United States launched another series of airstrikes against Iran, following the reported death of another American service member. Iran reacted by launching attacks targeting Bahrain, home to the
ISIS Rebuilding Amid U.S. Troop Withdrawal from Iraq
The Islamic State (ISIS) is quietly rebuilding its presence as the United States prepares to withdraw its remaining troops from Iraq. This development raises concerns about the potential exploitation of a security vacuum by ISIS,
Escalating Tensions: U.S.-Iran Conflict Intensifies
The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has led to a series of military strikes and rising tensions in the Middle East. Recent developments have resulted in significant consequences for both nations. Recent
Jordan’s Increasing Role in U.S. Operations Against Iran
Recent developments have placed Jordan at the center of U.S. military operations against Iran. Iran’s attacks on Jordan, including a recent incident that resulted in the death of two U.S. servicemen, underscore a growing complexity
Proposal for Shared Control of Strait of Hormuz
A research group in London has proposed using a defunct European pact on coal and steel as a model to form a coalition of countries that would jointly manage the Strait of Hormuz. This proposal
U.S. Expands Airstrikes in Iran Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions
The United States has intensified its airstrike operations against Iran. This escalation occurred early Friday with further attacks on bridges and the demolition of a tower at an important Iranian port. These actions align with
U.S. Faces Challenges in Control of Strait of Hormuz
The United States initiated military action against Iran with the goal of curbing its nuclear ambitions. However, the conflict has shifted focus, concentrating on control of a vital oil-shipping route instead. This adjustment in strategy
LGBTQ Cruise Faces Restrictions in Muslim-Majority Countries
A recent cruise catering to gay passengers circled the Mediterranean after two Muslim-majority countries refused it permission to dock. Turkish authorities cited ‘moral values’ as a reason for rejecting the ship. The Scarlet Lady, chartered