Security

Over the year, there were some small steps forward on Yemen. But as diplomatic efforts continue in 2022, there will still be no quick fix to end the war.

The debate on U.S. policy in the Middle East needs to move away from abstractions like “commitment” versus “withdrawal” and engage with the real questions of just what interests in the Middle East justify the presence of U.S. military force and what threats justify its use.

In this series, AGSIW helps frame the larger debate on U.S. defense posture in the Gulf and explores options for restructuring the United States’ policy goals and military presence in the region.

From December 7-9, UAESF 2021 assessed geopolitical trends in the region.

UAE, Saudi, and affiliated local forces have begun withdrawing from locations across southern and western Yemen; while couched as “redeployments,” together the moves suggest the Saudi-led coalition is actively looking for an exit strategy.

As the EU tries to overcome its strategic confusion, the transition to a greener economy could provide opportunities for EU-GCC relations.

As the Gulf Arab states have asserted themselves as active shapers of regional security, their military experience, supplier diversification efforts, and domestic industry developments – in tandem with their traditional financial clout – have gained them greater leverage over European security partners.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE, because of their ties to key military leaders, will play a major role in what comes next in Sudan.