Middle powers assert interests independently from the West. Saudi Arabia remains a partner on some issues but takes its own path on oil policy and relations with China and Russia.
Julien Barnes-Dacey analyses Saudi Arabia’s geopolitical manoeuvres and their impact on both the West and the EU
There are wider differences that are blocking a sustainable solution and raising the prospect of ongoing tensions and clashes down the line
Julien Barnes-Dacey comments the latest clashes in Syria, between Arab and Kurdish factions
Rather than tying themselves to particular global camps, key GCC states are now assertively setting their own agendas and balancing between global players to maximise their gains
Julien Barnes-Dacey comments on the place of the GCC countries in the world, in the context of Saudi Arabia’s peace talks on Ukraine
In a multipolar world, as Julien Barnes-Dacey and Hugh Lovatt note, the West must either invest significant resources in shaping global affairs or learn to adapt to others’ priorities
Julien Barnes-Dacey and Hugh Lovatt comment on Europe´s place in a multipolar Middle East
The question of whether this regional rapprochement can translate into a meaningful, inclusive settlement between the warring Yemeni parties remains to be seen
In an interview with France24, Julien Barnes-Dacey analyses how the restored diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran could influence the Yemen conflict
The question of whether this regional rapprochement can translate into a meaningful, inclusive settlement between the warring Yemeni parties remains to be seen
Julien Barnes-Dacey on the ripple effects of Saudi-Iran rapprochement
These moves are most definitely not driven by a primary focus on the plight of Syrians inside the country or any unified regional desire to improve the country’s pretty desperate circumstances
Julien Barnes-Dacey comments on the rapprochement between the Syrian government and its Arab neighbors
The fundamental reality here is that China was able to step in because they had the relationship and the leverage with all sides to try and push this forward
Julien Barnes-Dacey argues that the US, long the undisputed shaping power in the Gulf, has failed to bridge the gap between Iran and Saudi Arabia
The United States has long been the undisputed power shaping relations in the Persian Gulf
Julien Barnes-Dacey’s analysis on the role of China as mediator in the Middle East
Washington is right to counter Iran’s brutality at home and abroad, but that shouldn’t stop it from engaging with an adversary to preserve regional peace
The West must do more to prevent conflict with Iran, write Julien Barnes-Dacey and Ellie Geranmayeh