High stakes: How sanctions relief could impact EU-Iran trade
The new Iranian administration may agree on a revised JCPOA with the US. But if the economic benefits are paltry, political support will drain away.
Middle East and North Africa
Greece in the eastern Mediterranean: Turning engagement into influence
The convergence of geopolitical rivalries in the eastern Mediterranean has enhanced Greece’s standing. But it could also expose it to feuds that outpace its diplomatic and security capacity.
After Barkhane: What France’s military drawdown means for the Sahel
Emmanuel Macron took allies by surprise when he announced the end of Operation Barkhane. But his new plans do not appear to offer the change of tack the Sahel needs.
Four steps to support Europe-Iran trade under a revived JCPOA
Even if the JCPOA is restored, European companies will hesitate to trade in Iran. European and American officials should work together to give companies the comfort they need.
A familiar victory: Iran’s divides under a new president
Raisi’s election victory will not make Iranian politics any less volatile. Instead, it signals another of the cyclical changes in Iran’s politics that have taken place since 1979.
Cooling-off: How Europe can help stabilise the Middle East
As countries across the Middle East pause to take stock of recent conflicts, Europeans need to do more to support dialogue
Turkey beyond Erdogan: How the EU risks letting down Turkish democrats
The Turkish president no longer commands all before him. The EU should turn its attention to supporting democratic forces in the country.
Prospects for EU-Turkey relations from a German point of view
The EU and Turkey have a mutual strategic interest in developing a constructive, cooperative, and sustainable relationship
Why Europe needs a rights-based policy after the Gaza conflict
ECFR council members call on Europe to push forward a rights-based policy to break the cycle of conflict in Israel-Palestine
Council of despair: Iran’s uncompetitive presidential election
Iran’s presidential election will do little to boost frontrunner Ebrahim Raisi’s popular legitimacy