Fikra Forum

Spring 2023 Polling

UAE Public Opinion: Still Friendly to United States, Split on Israel, Hostile to Iran

A fresh opinion poll of UAE citizens, commissioned by The Washington Institute and conducted by a reliable independent regional firm in April 2023, reveals some of the most pro-American and anti-Iranian attitudes of any Arab country surveyed lately. On normalization with Israel, views are more mixed—yet surprisingly moderate, given this poll’s timing during Ramadan.

May 31, 2023

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David Pollock

Fikra Forum

New Kuwait Poll Shows Little Interest in Protests Despite Deadlock, Split Views of Global Powers

In a new public opinion poll commissioned by The Washington Institute and conducted in March-April by an independent regional firm, Kuwaitis appeared averse to any disruptions at home or around the region, even as tensions grow across Kuwait’s political scene.

May 18, 2023

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Frances McDonough

New Saudi Opinion Poll Shows 40 Percent Still Back Some Ties with Israel; Three-Fourths Say Rocket Fire Against Israel Will Have Negative Effects

A rare public opinion poll in Saudi Arabia, commissioned by the Washington Institute and conducted in March/April 2023 by a

May 15, 2023

New Bahrain Poll Reveals Support for Russia, Entente with Iran, Split on Israel

A rare public opinion poll in Bahrain, commissioned by the Washington Institute and conducted in March/April by an independent regional

May 3, 2023

The Washington Institute's Interactive Polling Platform

Fall 2022 Polling

Israeli and Arab foreign ministers, along with U.S. Secretary of State Blinken, at the Negev Summit - source: Reuters

Forty Percent of Saudis and Emiratis Still Accept Israeli Contacts, Even Under Netanyahu

Approval for contacts with Israelis remained steady through 2022, even as hesitancy on Abraham Accords continued.

Jan 19, 2023

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David Pollock

Fikra Forum

New Egyptian Opinion Poll: Continued Dissatisfaction with Government Performance, Almost Half Reject Mass Protests, and Mixed Views on Foreign Relations

The most recent poll results from Egypt suggest a disconnect between public opinion and pubic policy, especially on economic concerns and relations with Israel.

Dec 21, 2022

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Mohamed Abdelaziz

Fikra Forum

New Lebanon Opinion Poll Shows Continued Internal Dissatisfaction and Desire for International Partners

Lebanese respondents expressed positive views of the maritime deal and World Cup in Qatar, but seemed disappointed by almost everything else.

Dec 20, 2022

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Frances McDonough

Fikra Forum

New UAE Poll Shows Nuance on Domestic Issues; Growing Public Uncertainty over U.S. Relations; Split Views of Iran & Israel

Although many results are consistent with past polling, the most recent Emirati survey reveals interesting perspectives on Iran, the economy, and other issues.

Dec 20, 2022

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Catherine Cleveland

Fikra Forum

New Saudi Poll: Some Surprises on the U.S., Iran, Israel, Oil, and More

Saudis voiced their thoughts on global partners, internal dynamics, and regional issues, including opinions on the Iranian protests and nuclear dilemma.

Dec 16, 2022

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David Pollock

Turkey

Fikra Forum

Turkey’s Elections: a Referendum on the Future of the Republic

Though the Turkish opposition has a serious shot at unseating Erdogan, their success is far from guaranteed—even if they win in the polls.

May 12, 2023

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Magnus Norell
Kurdo Baksi

Fikra Forum

Roots of the Rift between Turkey and Iraqi Kurdistan's PUK

The tensions between Turkey and the PUK are not new, though recent actions by both sides have exacerbated the situation despite shared economic interests.

Apr 28, 2023

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Mehmet Alaca

Fikra Forum

Can the Turkish Opposition’s Refugee Policies Actually Improve Syrians’ Situations?

With elections approaching, the Turkish opposition may have an opportunity to rethink Syrian refugee policies.

Apr 10, 2023

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Joshua Levkowitz

Fikra Forum

Turkey’s Opposition, Straining at the Seams

Opposition factions face numerous difficulties in the lead-up to the next elections, as internal disputes may undermine their success.

Mar 16, 2023

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M. Bahadırhan Dinçaslan

Fikra Forum

Putin’s Position in MENA and the Turkish Elections

Putin’s shift in MENA policy suggests efforts to smooth the way for Erdoğan’s electoral bid.

Feb 24, 2023

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Baraa Sabri

Fikra Forum

The Coming of Erdoğan’s Fourth War for Control: The AKP’s Looming Showdown with Turkey’s Nationalists

Although his alliance with the MHP has kept him in power, Erdoğan increasingly views the nationalist party as a threat that needs to be dealt with.

Feb 10, 2023

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Hasim Tekines

Turkish president Erdogan at NATO headquarters in Brussels

Fikra Forum

Sweden, Turkey, and the Concessions for NATO Membership

Turkey's refusal to approve Sweden's NATO membership is yet another foreign policy tool being used by Erdoğan ahead of 2023 elections.

Dec 9, 2022

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Magnus Norell

Fikra Forum

Re-evaluating Turkish Nationalism: A Bulwark Against the Religious Establishment

While the past few decades saw a dip in any political references to Turkey’s founder, opposition groups and the AKP alike have returned to Atatürk as a key political symbol of nationalism ahead of the elections.

Nov 10, 2022

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M. Bahadırhan Dinçaslan

Iraq

Fikra Forum

What Are Sadr’s Plans for the Elections in Iraq?

Although the Sadrist Movement withdrew from politics, participating in the upcoming provincial elections would provide them with critical momentum that they don't want to miss out on.

May 24, 2023

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Feyzullah Tuna Aygün

Fikra Forum

Roots of the Rift between Turkey and Iraqi Kurdistan's PUK

The tensions between Turkey and the PUK are not new, though recent actions by both sides have exacerbated the situation despite shared economic interests.

Apr 28, 2023

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Mehmet Alaca

Fikra Forum

Sadr’s Withdrawal and the New Splinter Group of Ashab al-Qadiya

By suspending the Sadrist Movements activities, Sadr hopes to prevent the growth of a new Mahdist splinter group that threatens his religious and political credibility.

Apr 28, 2023

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Haider al-Musawi

Photo of an oil facility in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Fikra Forum

KRG Oil and the Slipping Dream of Financial Independence

Following the ICC's decision, the KRG has limited options in its fight for financial independence from Baghdad.

Apr 6, 2023

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Nawras Jaff

Fikra Forum

How Iraqis View Life after the Fall of Saddam—Twenty Years Ago and Today

Two decades after the fall of Saddam Hussein, widespread frustration with the current state of Iraq is leading increasing numbers to express a negative view of life in the post-Saddam era.

Mar 19, 2023

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Munqith Dagher

Fikra Forum

Electoral Law: Signaling a Short-Lived Run for Iraq’s Independent MPs?

A change to the Sainte-Laguë representation system will significantly hinder the ability of smaller parties and independent candidates to win seats in Iraq's next elections.

Mar 16, 2023

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Ashleigh Whelan
Mohanad Adnan

New Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani attends the first regular session of the Council of Ministers in Baghdad in November 2022 - source: Reuters

Fikra Forum

Iraq’s Endless Electoral Law Debate

The Coordination Framework is poised to yet again change Iraq's electoral law, continuing a history of such changes that have destabilized and delegitimized the political system.

Mar 2, 2023

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Feyzullah Tuna Aygün

Fikra Forum

Variables the United States Should Consider on Dollar Smuggling in Iraq

U.S. pressure on Iraq to prevent dollar smuggling and dinar laundering can protect Iraq’s sovereignty and weaken Iran. But if executed without deliberation, this pressure could allow Russia and China to enhance their positions in the Middle East.

Feb 15, 2023

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Frzand Sherko

Iran

Fikra Forum

Opposition in the Iranian Diaspora and among Iranian Reformers: The Case of Mousavi

As an Iranian opposition coalesces in the diaspora, challenges loom on the horizon. How the diaspora approaches reformists inside Iran calling for a new constitution will help demonstrate just how cohesive Iran’s disparate opposition groups can become.

Mar 3, 2023

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Majid Nikouei

Fikra Forum

Iran’s Mounting Missile Threats to Neighboring Countries

Iran's ballistic missile program poses regional threats that require international solutions.

Feb 16, 2023

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Mohammad Abu Ghazleh

Iran’s Pressure on Azerbaijan: Two Birds with One Stone

Aware of Azerbaijan's growing economic influence and strength, Iran is taking measures to ensure the tensions remain in its favor.

Apr 21, 2023

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Arash Aalaei

The Fractured Opposition to the Islamic Regime

The Iranian opposition has aligned itself well with the recent protest movement, but evidence of its ability to play an organizational or leadership role in future protests remains limited.

Feb 7, 2023

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Ata Hoodashtian

What Do Iran’s Protests Mean for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region?

Internal instability in Iran may cause significant religious, economic, and political repercussions across the border in Iraq.

Jan 17, 2023

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Zubir R. Ahmed
Nawzad Shukri

Iranian Daughters: Struggling for the Rights Their Mothers Lost in the Revolution

Activists fighting for women's rights in Iran today have learned from their predecessors' mistakes and are more determined than ever to achieve gender equality.

Jan 13, 2023

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Sepideh Zamani

Iranian Counterculture and Gen Z

Decades of underground counterculture have led to an informed and interconnected youth in Iran, now eager for freedom and change.

Jan 4, 2023

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Arash Aalaei

The Gulf

UAE President Muhammad bin Zayed - source: Reuters

Fikra Forum

Making Sense of the UAE’s Latest Leadership Appointments

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed's recent decisions aim to refresh the image of UAE leadership, ushering in the next generations of rulers.

May 12, 2023

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Dr. Clemens Chay

Fikra Forum

Syria’s Normalization and the GCC: Adjusting to A New Modus Vivendi

Though GCC member states may disagree on Syria's normalization, the collective memory of past conflicts and the desire for regional stability will likely override internal divisions.

May 10, 2023

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Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco

Crown Prince Muhammad and President Xi walking in Riyadh.

Fikra Forum

The Gulf Navigates a Multipolar World

Amid global uncertainty, Gulf states are seeking to strike a delicate balance between old and new partners.

Feb 24, 2023

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Fawzi al-Zubaidi

Fikra Forum

Saudi Arabia’s Sports Promotion is a Win-Win for the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia's increased investment in sports represents an effort to empower youth and expand the economy, rather than "sportswashing."

Feb 16, 2023

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Fahad Nazer

Fikra Forum

A Stabilizing Factor: Oman’s Quiet Influence amid Mounting Uncertainty in the Gulf

Based on its sound reputation as a conflict mediator and talks facilitator, Oman is well-positioned to tone down flaring rivalries in the Gulf and prevent tensions from spiraling out of control.

Dec 22, 2022

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Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco

Fikra Forum

Saudi Arabia’s Surprise Soccer Victory

The Saudi men’s team’s major upset against Argentina in their opening World Cup match has brought together many Saudis and the Arab world writ large in celebration, demonstrating the powerful pull of the game.

Nov 23, 2022

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Faris Almaari

Fikra Forum

MbS and Saudi Arabia’s Israel Policy: What Can We Expect from the New Prime Minister?

As Prime Minister, MbS won't throw out the Arab Peace Initiative altogether, but he will likely reframe it.

Nov 7, 2022

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Aziz Alghashian

Fikra Forum

Pragmatic Re-Balancing: the Saudi Dual Outreach to Israel and Iran

While the Middle East remains littered with flashpoints, Saudi Arabia is reaching out to Israel and Iran in an attempt to defuse simmering tensions and build consensus, with the Kingdom shifting from a confrontational to fence-mending approach.

Sep 20, 2022

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Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco

Yemen

Fikra Forum

Migration from the Horn of Africa to Yemen: Not Just a Passing Phenomenon

Though Yemen struggles with economic, political, and environmental issues of its own, more and more migrants are crossing the country's borders in hopes of a better life.

May 25, 2023

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Muneer Binwaber

Fikra Forum

Political Settlement in Yemen: Challenges and Future Prospects

In order to reach a sustainable political settlement in Yemen, all parties must be involved in negotiating the geographic and military dimensions of the country's future.

May 23, 2023

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Adel Dashela

Fikra Forum

Another Round of Negotiations with the Houthis: AQAP as Potential Spoiler in Yemen

If talks with the Houthis continue to ignore key Yemeni stakeholders, al-Qaeda is poised to absorb disillusioned tribal groups into its ranks.

May 16, 2023

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Mohamed Mokhtar Qandil

Syria

Fikra Forum

The Brussels Conference: An Opportunity to Inject Transparency into Syrian Earthquake Aid

With a focus on "the future of Syria," the Brussels Conference can be a platform through which Western and Arab countries can coordinate aid to Syria in an era of normalization.

Jun 2, 2023

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Bassam Barabandi

Fikra Forum

The Border of the EU Starts at Syria’s M4

Driven by forced conscription, economic deterioration, and lack of opportunities, Syrians are increasingly crossing the M4 in northern Syria on their journey to Europe.

May 26, 2023

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Rena Netjes

Fikra Forum

Drug Addiction in Syria: A Decades-Long Disease

Syria's rise in the world of drug trafficking has only exacerbated the preexisting drug crisis inside its borders, as a lack of opportunities leaves many vulnerable.

Apr 25, 2023

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Emad Bouzo

Trucks from the Autonomous Region, NE Syria, deliver aid after 2023 earthquake

Fikra Forum

UN Aid in Northwest Syria—Or Lack Thereof

In the direct aftermath of the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria, EU-funded UN aid was delivered to Damascus despite the Assad regime’s disastrous track record, which includes stealing aid from international institutions. On the ground in Northwest Syria, frustration with the UN is rising, especially as aid from neighboring countries entered quickly.

Mar 6, 2023

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Rena Netjes

Fighters of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), walk together near Baghouz, Deir Al Zor province - source: Reuters

Fikra Forum

Turkish Drone Strikes and Building Concerns About Washington in Syria’s Autonomous Administration

Some U.S. allies believe the Biden administration has been noticeably muted regarding Turkey's escalations in northern Syria and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Jan 11, 2023

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Baraa Sabri

Fikra Forum

Exploring Russia's Views on Humanitarian Aid in Syria

With the UN Security Council set to vote on whether to extend UN cross-border aid efforts into northwest Syria, Russia is once again poised to jeopardize humanitarian assistance to the 4.1 million civilians who rely on this lifeline to survive.

Jan 4, 2023

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Jonathan Robinson

Abu Muhammad al-Jawlani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, speaks in a recorded interview released in Jan. 2019. Photo credit: Screenshot by Cole Bunzel via Twitter.

Fikra Forum

The Future of al-Jawlani’s Pragmatism in Idlib and Afrin

Despite years of overhauling HTS’s global reputation, al-Jawlani’s strategy in northwest Syria has long been driven by opportunism instead of ideology.

Nov 8, 2022

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Yilmaz Saeed

Fikra Forum

Daesh’s Forgotten Massacre in Deir al-Zour

Justice for the victims of the al-Shaitat massacre is only just starting to emerge, and the international community must do its part.

Oct 24, 2022

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Omar Abu Layla

U.S. Middle East Policy

Fikra Forum

Variables the United States Should Consider on Dollar Smuggling in Iraq

Feb 15, 2023

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Frzand Sherko

Fikra Forum

Turkish Drone Strikes and Building Concerns About Washington in Syria’s Autonomous Administration

Some U.S. allies believe the Biden administration has been noticeably muted regarding Turkey's escalations in northern Syria and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Jan 11, 2023

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Baraa Sabri

A supporter of Tunisia's Islamist Ennahda Party protests against the Tunisian president's 2022 coup - source: Reuters

Fikra Forum

Tunisia: Caught Between the IMF and International Isolation

In the absence of strong international support, Tunisians have been left to face the worsening political and economic crises on their own

Dec 12, 2022

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Maher Latif

Fikra Forum

Two Years On, the Abraham Accords Bear Fruit

The Abraham Accords agreement between the UAE and Israel has made important steps in the direction of regional economic and political cooperation.

Oct 26, 2022

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Mohamed Maher

Fikra Forum

Will Haftar’s Heir Be an Ally of the Russians or the Americans?

As Libya's political dynamics continue to change, Washington's next moves are more important than ever.

Oct 21, 2022

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Khalil El Hasse

President Joe Biden meets Palestinian Authority President Abbas in July 2022

Fikra Forum

Reactions of Palestinian Media and Political Leaders to Biden’s Visit to the Region

Palestinians felt that Biden’s visit did little to aid the Palestinian cause, despite attempts by the Palestinian Authority to portray the trip as a success.

Sep 26, 2022

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Jalal Selmi

Fair-Observer-Arab-NATO-Middle-East-politics-Iran-news-GCC-news

Fikra Forum

The Middle East NATO: From Fiction to Fact

In light of increased regional tensions, the idea of a Middle East NATO is becoming more and more realistic, this time with the possibility of Israeli-Arab cooperation.

Sep 14, 2022

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Mohamed Chtatou

Fikra Forum

Women’s Rights—Why the West Shouldn’t Abandon the Middle East

A Reaction to Biden’s trip to the Middle East through the lens of women’s rights.

Aug 31, 2022

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Jemima Shelley

Israel

Regional Crisis and Regional Cooperation: Israeli Response to the Earthquake in Syria and Turkey

Israeli aid efforts to Turkey and Syria have been multifaceted after the earthquake, despite the difficult political circumstances.

Mar 6, 2023

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Nir Boms
Joelle Rosenthal

Fikra Forum

The Netanyahu Government’s Approach to Russia and Ukraine

Despite increased pressure on both sides, Netanyahu is likely to maintain Israel's nonaligned approach to the conflict in Ukraine in an effort to preserve his immediate regional interests.

Feb 28, 2023

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Daniel Rakov

Fikra Forum

Morocco, Israel, and the Future of the Negev Forum

Morocco is preparing to host the upcoming Negev Forum summit, an opportunity for the Kingdom to expand economic ties and bridge regional divides.

Feb 16, 2023

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Mohamed Chtatou

Fikra Forum

Forty Percent of Saudis and Emiratis Still Accept Israeli Contacts, Even Under Netanyahu

Approval for contacts with Israelis remained steady through 2022, even as hesitancy on Abraham Accords continued.

Jan 19, 2023

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David Pollock

Fikra Forum

Tracking the Religious Zionist Party Bloc in the Settlements

An analysis of Israel's last five Knesset elections indicates that settlement demographics have played a big role in the rise of Israel's ultra-nationalist, far-right bloc.

Nov 22, 2022

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Alex Harris
Sander Eizen

Surging Violence: Hamas Attempts to Reshape the West Bank’s Political Landscape

With an opportunity to subtly expand its influence in the West Bank, Hamas is less likely to risk an all-out war with Israel from Gaza as they did in 2021.

Apr 5, 2023

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