Pro-Regime Talking Heads Spin Bahrain State Department Report

by Emile Nakhleh The State Department’s Inspector General’s report on the US Embassy in Bahrain, which I have been asked to comment on, has generated much reaction, both among the pro-government factions and within the opposition. The opposition fears that a… Continue Reading

Whatever’s Happening In The Gulf Is Probably About Iran

by Derek Davison Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain all recalled their ambassadors from Qatar last Wednesday, citing Qatar’s support for organizations and individuals that threaten “the security and stability of the Gulf states”: The statement said they… Continue Reading

Saudi Arabia: Sulking in the Tent

by Thomas W. Lippman The rulers of Saudi Arabia are becoming masters of a diplomatic style best described as sulking in the tent. If a country or organization is not performing in a way that suits them, they issue a… Continue Reading

Ambassadorial Recall Signals Deepening Rifts Among Gulf Sheikhs

by Emile Nakhleh Yesterday’s public announcement by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain that they’re withdrawing their ambassadors from Qatar signals a serious rift within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The seismic regional changes that have occurred… Continue Reading

Washington’s Anemic Resolve on Egypt’s Human Rights

by Emile Nakhleh The unexpected resignation of Hazem al-Biblawi, Egypt’s interim prime minister, and his government this week and the appointment of Ibrahim Mehlib, a Mubarak-era industrialist, as a new prime minister seem to pave the way for Field Marshal… Continue Reading