Najaf clerical institution: Navigating challenges in post-Sistani era The growing influence of Iran-backed militias and shifting social dynamics in Iraq's predominantly Shiite central and southern regions raise concerns that, following Sistani's death, Iraqi Shiites may turn to non-traditional religious authorities Alfadhel Ahmad Dec. 25, 2024 Opinion
The high stakes for Syria’s Kurds: A Make or Break moment With Assad’s fall and shifting regional dynamics, Syria’s Kurds find themselves cornered, and their hard-won gains imperiled. The question remains: can the SDF and Syrian Kurds more broadly chart a path forward in this uncertain chapter of Syrian history? Mohammed A. Salih Dec. 24, 2024 Opinion
Arab Spring, Syria and Iran In Syria, the world awaits to see how the new government will form. There is much hope that an inclusive democratic government will emerge from the ashes of the civil war, but many are concerned that based on the history of Islamic extremism by the main group that took over this victory will devolve into a new home of terrorists or an unending civil war. Paul Davis Dec. 16, 2024 Opinion
Chaos and opportunity in Syria: The path forward for Iraq The evolving relationship between Iraq and Syria is at a critical juncture, marked by both opportunity and risk Mohammed A. Salih Dec. 12, 2024 Opinion
Assads Fall, What Comes Next The clash between this new government and Kurdish forces is inevitable, as is the violent response from Iran through its proxy Hezbollah. Paul Davis Dec. 09, 2024 Opinion
The Battle of Aleppo and the end of authoritarian rule in Syria The Syrian regime's exhausted army, collapsed economy, and the weakness of its allies resulted in its rapid downfall Abdulhakim Bachar Dec. 08, 2024 Opinion
Should the world be concerned with Turkish interference in Syria How much control does Turkey exert on the rebel groups? Paul Davis Dec. 02, 2024 Opinion
A Soft Manifesto: Kurds and cultural diplomacy in a reshaping world This soft manifesto explores the importance of cultural diplomacy in today's world, particularly for nations striving for recognition and influence on the international stage Soran Naqishbandy Nov. 29, 2024 Opinion
What’s in a census? Kurdish anxieties about Iraq’s population census In Iraq, a census is far more than a simple enumeration; it is deeply political. The 2024 population census has sparked concerns, particularly among Kurds, reflecting growing anxiety about their position and future in Iraq. Mohammed A. Salih Nov. 27, 2024 Opinion
War Crimes Vs. War The current ICC arrest warrant against Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, implicating him in war crimes, comes during the war and with no attempt to collect direct evidence. This rush to judgment indicates more of a political move than an attempt to enforce justice. Paul Davis Nov. 25, 2024 Opinion
Mohammed A. Salih Modest expectations for PM Sudani's Washington visit: U.S. policymakers should prioritize economy and relations with KRG 8 months ago