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
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Israel’s intervention in Suwayda signals an intent to deter Damascus from reasserting control in a region where Israel seeks to project influence.
July 19, 2025
Commentary
The Houthis: A force the world cannot ignore
The Houthis’s latest strikes on Red Sea shipping underscore not only their resilience, but also their evolution into an autonomous and rising regional power.
July 14, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
The UK has restored diplomatic relations with Syria, marking the latest milestone in the new Syrian government’s return to the international stage.
July 11, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to visit Washington for crucial meetings with President Donald Trump.
July 4, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin –Special Edition: Israel–Iran
The Iran-Israel ceasefire may have paused the violence, but the underlying geopolitical fault lines remain. Whether this ceasefire leads to lasting de-escalation or merely a temporary lull will depend on the ability and willingness of Iran, Israel and the US to pursue a sustainable diplomatic settlement.
June 27, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin –Special Edition: Israel–Iran
Israel’s strike on Iran, decapitating the Iranian command structure before it could mobilise, has sent shockwaves around the region
June 20, 2025
Personality Profile
Decision Makers: Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
A full leadership assessment of Erdoğan – including personality traits and beliefs, and how these inform his strategic posture and decision-making.
June 18, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Hamas is reviewing a new ceasefire proposal for Gaza, designed to bring a temporary halt to hostilities.
May 31, 2025
Opinion
Cyprus’s 2026 EU presidency: a strategic opening for Middle Eastern diplomacy
Nicosia is uniquely placed to draw on its regional relationships and direct EU efforts towards increasing stability in the Middle East.
May 29, 2025