The new, still-unsteady leaders of Kuwait and Oman cannot afford to take the same risks as their predecessors. They will need Europe’s support if they are to maintain their independence.
The Israel-UAE peace deal provides multiple wins for both countries, and for the US. But it could yet deepen the region’s political fault lines.
Saudi Arabia took a major risk in launching the oil price war. There may be a political price to pay.
The coronavirus has hit the Middle East and north Africa at a time when the region is already burdened with multiple problems, including a series…
The Saudi leadership’s recent robust moves could mark the start of the crown prince’s long-awaited ascent to the throne
The fractious context of the Gulf means Oman’s new ruler could soon find himself seeking to emulate his predecessor and championing regional diplomatic dialogue
Saudi Arabia is suspending its assertive foreign policy, seeking to prevent an escalation in tensions
Policymakers have closely watched the emergence of an apparent rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as an ostensible attempt at rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, in recent weeks. The dynamics of the Gulf can have significant implications for European economic and political interests.