إيران

Michael Eisenstadt examines the parallels between the development of Iran's chemical warfare program during the war with Iraq and its nuclear program today.

Given Moscow's potential ability to undermine Iran diplomacy, Washington has yet another compelling reason to reestablish faith in -- and fear of -- America's willingness to use military strength.

A number of U.S. interests could be served by expanding support to strategic Gulf partners in their efforts to curb Iranian aid to local fighters.

At a time when sanctions are having a significant impact on the Iranian economy, the P5+1 should allow the pressure to work to full effect instead of yielding on nuclear activities that threaten vital U.S. interests.

Washington must urgently reestablish the credibility of its military threat, along with other steps, to guard against noncompliance from Tehran.

By dramatically increasing its sponsorship of terrorism and cementing its partnership with Hezbollah in Syria, the Iranian regime is posing more of a threat to regional and international security than ever.

The Ukraine situation will affect Washington's Middle Eastern priorities, but not to such a degree that it will stymie a strong U.S. response to Russian actions, since America has the power to act in the region without Moscow if necessary. Ukraine could well make it necessary.

Recent U.S. efforts to enforce sanctions and insist on strict interpretation of the Geneva agreement provide a backdrop for the two leaders' upcoming discussion of the Iran nuclear issue.

Despite offering nominal support for Iran's nuclear negotiating team, Khamenei and his circle continue to criticize the talks and could sabotage them outright if internal dynamics go against President Rouhani.