Analysis
Can Syria provide a viable alternative to blocked regional trade routes?
Amid upheaval caused by the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, Syria is presenting itself as an alternative route for commercial transport.
May 14, 2026
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This page provides a snapshot of some of our written coverage of financial market and macroeconomic trends, policy issues, and the security, geopolitical and energy landscapes.
Our analysis is forward-looking and directional in focus, pinpointing emerging sector trends and policy issues with the potential to affect decision-making. We are supported by an on-the-ground network and team of international experts.
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Latest Insights
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Spending to stand still under Saudi Vision 2030
The impact of the US–Israeli conflict with Iran on Saudi Arabia’s economy is best understood as an intensification of pre-existing constraints.
March 27, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Iran drills, diplomatic deadlines and global energy risk
Despite the timing of recent Iranian naval drills, the drivers of the US-Iran confrontation remain unchanged, with oil being secondary in the dispute.
February 27, 2026
Archive
Analysis
Can Syria provide a viable alternative to blocked regional trade routes?
Amid upheaval caused by the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, Syria is presenting itself as an alternative route for commercial transport.
May 14, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Spending to stand still under Saudi Vision 2030
The impact of the US–Israeli conflict with Iran on Saudi Arabia’s economy is best understood as an intensification of pre-existing constraints.
March 27, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Iran drills, diplomatic deadlines and global energy risk
Despite the timing of recent Iranian naval drills, the drivers of the US-Iran confrontation remain unchanged, with oil being secondary in the dispute.
February 27, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – What does the addition of a second aircraft carrier say about US strategy towards Iran?
The deployment of the USS Gerald Ford to the region signals the US is serious about striking Iran.
February 20, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Syrian government consolidates control over north east
Damascus has asserted control over north east Syria, putting an end to Kurdish ambitions for autonomy.
February 13, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Riyadh, royalty and Britain’s defence pitch; the Saudi–UAE bet on Black Sea cable
The UK’s Prince of Wales is set to visit Riyadh to reinforce political, economic and security ties and Saudi–UAE advance the Black Sea cable project.
February 6, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Region moves towards more assertive digital governance; what the Saudi-Turkiye-Pakistan talks mean for regional order
Egypt is the latest regional state to signal tighter regulation of children’s access to social media.
January 30, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Saudi and UAE pursue competing security models
The trajectory points away from collective Gulf defence and towards a fragmented but competitive security environment.
January 23, 2026
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Iran unrest intensifies and regional escalation risks grow; Jordan regains relevance in Washington
Nationwide protests in Iran have intensified as US weighs military and cyber options. Security cooperation improves Jordan’s standing in Washington
January 16, 2026