What has become of Aleppo, one of the world’s oldest cities in Syria? Sha Lalapet traces its historical significance and explains its current state in light of the Syrian conflict.
Tag: Middle East
How to DIY a Free (or Cheaper) “Degree” in IR, Part 2: Regional Concentrations
Part 1 of this series outlined the MOOC IR “degree” project and introduced courses about the basics of IR. This part builds on the foundational courses to suggest possible regional concentrations. Middle East No doubt the Middle East, in the throes of unrest and endless conflict, is one of the most important regions Read More…
Analysis: The Broken Ceasefire in Syria
How did the Syrian ceasefire change relations between US and Russia? Sha Lalapet analyses the week-long Syrian ceasefire and the international implications that unfolded as a result.
Interview with James Appathurai
Andi Asimetaj interviews Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy and NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia, James Appathurai.
Friends in Low Places: North Koreans in the Syrian Civil War?
According to unconfirmed reports, North Korean soldiers have been aiding the Syrian government against opposition forces. Jeremy Paquin explains how military co-operation between the two unlikely allies has been going on for the past several decades, culminating in today’s Syrian conflict.
Building Unity in the Middle East: Can the Gulf Cooperation Council be a Force for Change?
Is the Gulf Cooperation Council building unity and stability in the Middle East? Pierre-Olivier Bussieres looks at the history, problems, and future prospects of the GCC and why it matters.
Iraq’s Destabilizing Security: Can Corruption be Tackled?
Will reforms be enough to tackle corruption? In light of recent protests, Layla Wahbi discusses corruption within Iraq and what reforms would mean for the country’s security institution.
Saudi-Iranian Rivalry Politicizes OPEC and Derails Doha Deal
Adlan Taramov analyzes recent OPEC Doha meeting and its outcome in the context of global oil price war and Saudi-Iran rivalry.
Will Middle East tensions lead to lower oil prices?
How will tensions in the Middle East affect oil prices?
Russia’s Global Strategy: Moscow’s Motivations in Ukraine and Syria
Russian activities in Ukraine and Syria share similar motivating factors. Sandy Vingoe examines Russia’s global strategy of aggressively countering threats to Russia’s political buffer states.