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Regional Affairs

Gulf States Double Down on a Weak U.N.

Resolving conflicts in the Middle East and meeting global challenges requires international commitment and action now in short supply. So why engage?

President Donald J. Trump arrives for a multilateral meeting with the Gulf Cooperation Council during the United Nations General Assembly, Sept. 22. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

From Basra 2023 to Jeddah 2026: Football, Soft Power, and Gulf Ambitions

As host of Gulf Cup 27, Saudi Arabia won its first trophy in over 20 years while demonstrating how sports can project soft power and foster connections.

Players and staff from Saudi Arabia's team celebrate with the trophy after winning the Gulf Cup at the King Abdullah Sports City stadium, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, October 6. (REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa)

Heightened Threats Test the Pakistani-Saudi Defense Pact

The defense pact with Saudi Arabia is pulling Pakistan deeper into the region’s conflict, jeopardizing its relations with Iran.

Pakistani JF-17 Thunder jets fly past during the sea phase of Pakistan navy's Multinational Exercise AMAN-23, in the North Arabian Sea near Karachi, Pakistan, February 13, 2023. (REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro)

The Houthis Confront the Mecca Alliance

For the first time in years, the Houthis may find themselves facing a coalition rather than a single country.

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.

A cargo ship navigates the Mediterranean Sea along the coastline of northern city of Tripoli, Lebanon, December 6, 2021. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)

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.

Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman meets UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, September 29. (Saudi Press Agency/Handout via REUTERS)

Is the U.S.-Iran Stalemate a “New Normal” or the Prelude to Another Explosion?

On October 6, AGSI hosted a discussion on the U.S.-Iran stalemate and the prospects for a cease-fire.

President Donald J. Trump speaks to the United Nations General Assembly, Sept. 22, 2026, at the UN headquarters. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

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.