Iraqi flag
Iraqis Are Increasingly Positive on Governance, but Waning National Identity a Warning Sign
With signs of fewer Iraqis prioritizing their national identity, Iraqis are likely to see another elections cycle shaped by subnational identities in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
May 8, 2025
  • Munqith Dagher
  • Karl Kaltenthaler
Rebuilding Syria May Require Federalism
If Sharaa wants to avoid repeating Assad’s mistakes, he may have to genuinely decentralize political power and establish a federal system, though this would raise difficult questions about resource allocation.
Feb 28, 2025
  • Fabrice Balanche
Somalia: The New Frontline in the Islamic State’s Global Expansion
In its latest propaganda campaign, the Islamic State is underscoring the strategic significance of Somalia in its expansionist agenda.
Feb 27, 2025
  • Mustafa Hasan
Reconsidering Cairo's Approach to the Sudanese Civil War
Since the outbreak of the crisis in Sudan in April 2023 between the country's warring generals, Cairo has faced a dilemma regarding how to approach the war on its southern borders.
Jan 30, 2025
  • Mohamed Maher
  • Mohamed Farid
The Presidency of Joseph Aoun in Lebanon Must Set a New Precedent for the Country
Lebanon’s election of Army Chief Joseph Aoun after two years of stagnation and political paralysis heralds the potential for a new and better future for the country.
Jan 29, 2025
  • Philippe Massoud

In Memoriam: Dr. David Pollock, 1950-2024

David Pollock
David Pollock: A Retrospective
David’s endless optimism, insightful and entertaining anecdotes, and thoughtful comments on his colleagues’ work were all defining features of his time at The Washington Institute. His mentorship will undoubtedly continue to inspire the dozens of young professionals who worked with him, continuing his legacy.
Jan 11, 2024
  • Catherine Cleveland