As assumptions about the apparent success of operations against Islamic State are challenged by the group's recent victories, the Iraqi government is running out of options, writes Julian Karssen.
The signing of a long-anticipated nuclear deal between Iran and Western states has generated a palpable sense of optimism, as the country stands to gain much from the prospective lifting of economic sanctions. However, because the deal does little to restrain Iran's involvement in Middle Eastern proxy conflicts, significant scepticism remains, writes…
As the Turkish government launches a two-front counter-terrorism campaign against the Islamic State (IS) and local Kurdish militants, the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) appears to have its eye on improving its performance at the voting booth. However, the strategy looks unlikely to produce the dramatic turnaround that the AKP is hoping for,…
With the Syrian regime suffering major territorial losses in recent months, Russia has increased its military presence in the country to prevent the fall of the current government. Although Russia and the West may temporarily cooperate in fighting the Islamic State (IS), fundamental differences remain, writes Saif Islam and Julian Karssen.