Diplomacy & International Relations

Iran protests seem different. They may lead to real change (Alex Vatanka – Middle East Institute)

Iran’s latest protest wave did not begin as a grand ideological crusade. It began the way breakdowns often do, with daily life becoming unlivable....

Potential US military strikes on Iran: This won’t be another 12-Day War (Jason H. Campbell – Middle East Institute)

After more than two weeks of sustained public protests against the regime, the Iranian government has grown increasingly desperate to quell what has metastasized...

What Ankara Sees in Riyadh — and Why It Still Needs Abu Dhabi (Gönül Tol – Middle East Institute)

As the rivalry between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi sharpens in Yemen and beyond, Turkey has begun edging closer to Saudi Arabia. Turkish Foreign Minister...

Iran’s protests: the regional and international responses (IISS)

IISS experts assess the strategic tools and objectives of Iran’s foes, neighbours and partners as the regime battles the largest protests in its history. Iran’s...

The Arctic camp where troops are training for war with Russia (Dan Bloom and Esther Webber – Politico)

In the deep snow of the Arctic mountains, Britain’s Royal Marines are readying for war with Russia. The elite troops are introduced to the...

Germany’s far right loosens its embrace of Trump (James Angelos – Politico)

Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has long sought close ties to the Trump administration in its quest for powerful international allies and...

Who is on Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza? (Claire Keenan – BBC)

The White House has released the names of the members who will form the Trump administration's new "Board of Peace" for Gaza. With the...

Energy secretary discusses plans for Venezuela’s oil, minerals (Axios)

Energy Secretary Chris Wright is looking to secure oil and critical minerals deals with Venezuela in the next few weeks ahead of a trip...

Iran Update, January 16, 2026 (Institute for the Study of War)

The Iranian Regime’s Securitization: The regime will likely tighten security around possible upcoming protest dates due to its fears of renewed unrest. It remains...

Latest articles