John Calabrese
Contributor
John Calabrese teaches international relations at American University in Washington, DC. He is the book review editor of The Middle East Journal and a non-resident senior fellow at the Middle East Institute. He previously served as director of MEI’s Middle East-Asia Project.
Analysis
AI and the U.S.-Gulf Tech Axis
The convergence of Gulf capital and energy with U.S. technology leadership signals the emergence of a U.S.-Gulf AI axis with global economic and geopolitical implications.
The U.S.-China-Iran Oil Triangle in Flux
The coming weeks will offer clarity about whether President Trump’s claim – “China can now continue to purchase Oil from Iran” – signals an informal recalibration of Washington’s Iran sanctions strategy or a tactical feint without lasting repercussions.
Post-Assad Syria: A Testing Ground for Gulf Ambitions and U.S. Strategy
The fall of the Assad regime has not only reopened Syria to regional reintegration but also exposed the fragmented ambitions of Gulf powers seeking to shape its future.
Ambition, Investment, Collaboration: Trump’s Visit Redefines U.S.-UAE Tech
Trump’s visit to the UAE, centered on artificial intelligence, investment, and defense, will not only highlight the scale of Emirati aspirations but also reveal the complex interplay of state, business, and family networks now shaping the U.S.-UAE relationship.
Redlines and Realpolitik: Saudi Arabia’s Diplomatic Test Ahead of Trump’s Visit
Trump’s trip to Saudi Arabia has the potential not only to reinforce the deep-rooted U.S.-Saudi alliance but also to expose the fault lines that could undermine future cooperation.
Saudi Arabia’s Water Future: Addressing Scarcity and Ensuring Sustainability
Continuous innovation, efficient institutional coordination, and further international collaboration will be critical to ensuring the kingdom’s water security remains robust in the face of evolving challenges.
