Publication

This analysis contends that Western policy towards the so-called Islamic State (IS) is inextricably intertwined with the policies the US and EU have towards Iran, the civil war in Syria, and the sectarian crisis in Iraq. The analysis’ author further explains how the ongoing crisis in the Middle East reflects 1) the changing relationship between the West and Russia; 2) the US’ growing reluctance to engage in the MENA region; 3) Europe’s ‘entrapment’ in the area’s problems; and 4) the growing multipolarity within the Middle East.