All Policy Analysis by Simon Henderson

Coming the same week as Secretary Pompeo’s Middle East tour, the incident is a powerful example of the regional threat posed by Iran.

All eyes will be on the secretary’s speech this week, so striking the right balance between President Trump’s domestic imperatives and the realities of regional policy is crucial.

The whirlwind tour could yield some surprises, but substantial positive outcomes will be hard to come by without clear, unified messaging from the administration.

Photographs from Prince Talal Bin Abdulaziz's funeral provide a predictive glimpse into Saudi political life.

Ministerial changes seemed likely in the wake of the Khashoggi crisis, but some of the specifics came as a surprise.

Riyadh’s allies need to adjust more to the kingdom’s dynamic decisionmaking, once noted for being slow and cautious.

The cartel’s uncertain future may be shaped by any number of economic and diplomatic wildcards, including Russian outreach, Qatari gas exports, and U.S. turmoil over the Khashoggi murder.

The imminent polls will not alter the power structure of the strategically positioned Gulf state, but they could affect its simmering Shia unrest and wider regional politics.

The resultant congressional furor could throw a wrench in arms sales and other important bilateral policy matters.

Riyadh’s shifting, dubious storyline presents a dilemma for allies who want to reestablish good working relations with the world’s largest oil exporter.

A conversation with a Qatari ambassador sheds light on what is required to address Gaza’s most pressing humanitarian needs and build on the latest ceasefire talks.

The world oil market will be the most sensitive indicator of how increased sanctions affect Iran.

Trying to stop Iran’s nuclear proliferation is a task better suited to allied intelligence services than customs authorities and procurement channels.

The high-profile nature of the meeting reaffirms Israel’s success in developing ties with Gulf states, as well as the independent character of Oman’s leader.

The prospect of MbS ruling for decades was once thought to portend stability for the kingdom, but that judgment now seems premature.

With friends like these in Washington, no wonder the crown prince believes he can get away with outrageous actions.

The crisis casts doubt on whether Western officials can continue excusing the crown prince’s domestic authoritarianism.

Rumors of murder squads, jet identification numbers, and other ominous details will likely exacerbate regional rivalries.