Publication

This publication offers insights into recent sociopolitical developments in the Middle East and their potential implications for the region’s overall stability. Key insights include 1) the greater Middle East appears to be on the verge of an unprecedented explosion as a result of a multitude of smaller clashes, eruptions and conflicts; 2) perhaps the most important regional trend is the return of the conflict between Sunnis and Shiites, driven by regional actors´ quests for both dominance and revenge; 3) before any practical solution is attempted to address national boundaries, as well as many social and political issues, the region's grassroots level core-crises must be defused; and 4) Russia is leading the effort to defuse the region, but it is unclear this endeavor will succeed before the region descends into further violence.