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
Personality Profile
Decision Makers: A personality profile of Donald Trump
An excerpt from our assessment of President Trump’s key leadership traits and how these shape his decision-making and actions.
March 25, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Netanyahu’s large-scale aerial campaign and the reintroduction of ground troops into Gaza have exacerbated internal divisions within Israel
March 22, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Syria at a crossroads: Diplomatic and economic breakthroughs offer glimpses of a future beyond war, yet sectarian violence and political fragility threaten to unravel any progress.
March 13, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
The presence of Israeli tanks in the West Bank has raised concerns about whether this could signal a shift towards de facto annexation.
February 28, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a crucial mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war.
February 21, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Jordan’s King Abdullah is walking a diplomatic tightrope, balancing Jordan’s opposition to Trump’s Gaza plan with the strategic need to maintain strong ties with the US.
February 15, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas are entering their second phase as the US winds down efforts to provide humanitarian aid for Gaza’s recovery.
February 7, 2025
Personality Profile
Decision Makers: A personality profile of Ahmed al-Sharaa
Ahmed al-Sharaa has a history of shifting allegiances – raising the question: Is his rebranding as a “moderate” leader a genuine transformation, or merely a strategic move that will last only as long as it serves his interests?
February 7, 2025
Analysis
MENA Strategic Bulletin
The temporary freezing of financial aid is a policy shift with potential to reshape the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape.
January 31, 2025