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
Insights Stay ahead of issues affecting business confidence in MENA.
3 To Watch: tracking trends that matter
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
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Israeli attacks on Lebanon endanger ceasefire; Washington pushes Morocco-Algeria rapprochement
The US-led ceasefire in Lebanon falters amid Israeli strikes and lack of disarmament progress; Washington pushes for Algeria-Morocco peace.
October 24, 2025
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – US–Qatar diplomacy enters new phase; Russia’s influence in Syria wanes
A new military training base reaffirms Qatar’s strategic importance to Washington as Damascus redefines its relationship to Russia.
October 17, 2025
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – KSA liberalises markets amid fiscal pressure; Morocco’s Gen Z protests resume
Saudi budget pressures test the viability of state-led diversification while in Morocco, Rabat weighs its response to Gen Z 212.
October 10, 2025
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – oil flows from the KRG to Turkiye resume; Washington and Ankara reset bilateral ties
Landmark restart of KRG–Turkiye oil exports coincides with a Trump–Erdogan summit underscoring closer policy alignment.
October 3, 2025
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Special Edition: Iran, sanctions and escalation risk
UN sanctions on Iran are set to snap back amid stalling diplomacy, increasing the risk of regional escalation.
September 26, 2025
News and analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Syria unveils Suwayda roadmap; Israel advances in Gaza City
Syria hopes the Suwayda plan will lead to a repeal of the Caesar Act. The Gaza City offensive and UN genocide finding further isolate Israel.
September 19, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin – Israel escalates in Doha and Gaza
Israel’s strike on Qatar effectively torpedos hopes for a diplomatic solution to ending the war in Gaza.
September 12, 2025
Analysis
The business of defence in Saudi Arabia
As global insecurity rises, Saudi Arabia is accelerating efforts to localise defence production.
August 22, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
The Israeli cabinet has voted to support West Bank annexation, signalling that a takeover of the territory is now active political agenda.
July 26, 2025