Analysis
View AllWould the F-35 Address Saudi Arabia’s Air Defense Gaps?
If the U.S. F-35 sale goes through, it will add a new layer to Saudi airpower. But the fifth-generation fighter by itself will not address Saudi Arabia’s present and future vulnerabilities.
Where Does Lebanon Fit in the Emerging Regional Trade Network?
As Gulf countries seek alternative routes beyond the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon is positioning Tripoli as a complementary Mediterranean gateway alongside Syria, but long-standing political and financial risks could limit serious capital inflows.
Mohsen Rezaei at the Helm of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council
Under Rezaei, the SNSC could prove constructive or paralyze strategic decision making.
A Saudi-UAE Thaw?
The thaw between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is likely designed to project a united front, particularly against the Houthis in Yemen.
Oct 9, 2026
Food Baskets for the Faithful Servants
The October 9 edition of the Iran Media Review considers Iranian media questions regarding aid distribution to government employees and the resentment building among Iranians left outside the circle.
Oct 6, 2026
Is Iran’s Economy in Free Fall or Will It Prove Resilient?
The October 6 edition of the Iran Media Review examines contrasting assessments of Iran’s economy.
Oct 2, 2026
Signs of Life: Tehran Signals Continuity at Home and Abroad
The October 2 edition of the Iran Media Review explores Iranian media efforts to demonstrate regime continuity.
Sep 30, 2026
U.S.-Iran Impasse
The September 30 edition of the Iran Media Review considers analysis on the underlying impasse between the United States and Iran – that neither side will surrender leverage without reciprocal concessions.
Oct 2, 2026
Saudi Current Account Back in Deficit in the Second Quarter
The Saudi current account moved back into deficit in the second quarter of 2026, but the external sector position of the kingdom remains very strong.
Oct 1, 2026
Saudi Fiscal Deficit To Be Larger Than Budgeted in 2026
The Saudi Ministry of Finance now expects a larger-than-budgeted fiscal deficit in 2026 as expenditure increases to support the economy.
Saudi Labor Market Holds Firm in Face of Regional Conflict
The regional conflict has so far had a limited impact on the Saudi labor market.
Jul 31, 2026
Data Confirms a Large Economic Contraction in Saudi Arabia in the Second Quarter
The Saudi economy contracted sharply in the second quarter of 2026. Any recovery will be slowed by the recent renewal of hostilities in the region.
A New Generation Is Putting Bahraini Cuisine on the Map
Chefs Suman Ali Sayed and Dona Murad are introducing Bahraini cuisine to eateries abroad, attracting international diners increasingly interested in distinct food cultures and histories.
Talli Circle: Traditional Weaving Connects Emirati Women
Talli Circle, a new platform highlighting a traditional Emirati form of weaving, is reconnecting young Emirati women with their culture, heritage, and mothers and grandmothers.
Al-Falaj Connects Researchers to the Scattered Archives of Arabia
Saudi author and anthropologist Ghada AlMuhanna Abalkhail launched al-Falaj, an open access digital directory, to help users explore the Arabian Peninsula's visual and documentary heritage.
Hind Al Mulla Is Taking Home Bakery Global
After building highly successful restaurants in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Emirati pastry chef Hind Al Mulla plans to take the Home Bakery group global while providing a platform for other Emirati entrepreneurs.
A New Gulf Partnership
In May, President Donald J. Trump embarked on a trip to the Gulf that signals a new era in U.S.-Gulf relations. AGSI's A New Gulf Partnership series explores the ways U.S. strategic relations with these countries are evolving and offers policy recommendations for the U.S. administration to maximize political and economic influence.
Nov 13, 2024
Energy and Climate Initiative
AGSIW’s Energy and Climate Initiative explores Gulf energy and climate policies, technological advances, and pressing political, social, and environmental issues ahead of COP28.
Nov 5, 2024
U.S. Presidential Election
AGSIW’s U.S. Presidential Election series explores Gulf perspectives on the 2024 election and considers how the election results may shape the future of U.S. engagement in the Gulf region.
Sep 6, 2024
Trees of the Gulf
This series looks at the vital role certain trees play in the region's collective memory, survival, and plans for the future.
All Analysis
Would the F-35 Address Saudi Arabia’s Air Defense Gaps?
If the U.S. F-35 sale goes through, it will add a new layer to Saudi airpower. But the fifth-generation fighter by itself will not address Saudi Arabia’s present and future vulnerabilities.
Where Does Lebanon Fit in the Emerging Regional Trade Network?
As Gulf countries seek alternative routes beyond the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon is positioning Tripoli as a complementary Mediterranean gateway alongside Syria, but long-standing political and financial risks could limit serious capital inflows.
Mohsen Rezaei at the Helm of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council
Under Rezaei, the SNSC could prove constructive or paralyze strategic decision making.
A Saudi-UAE Thaw?
The thaw between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is likely designed to project a united front, particularly against the Houthis in Yemen.
Gulf Oil Exporters to Build Storage in Asia
Gulf national oil companies are looking to increase stockpiles in Asia to meet customer needs, address their energy security concerns, and enable a nimbler response to unexpected market disruptions.
China’s Cautious but Steady Advance in the Gulf
Beijing keeps treading carefully around conflict in the Middle East while seeking opportunities to deepen ties with key country partners through a longer-term regional engagement strategy.
