From Guantanamo to Minneapolis
After 9/11, the detention center in Cuba became synonymous with the excesses of the “war on terror” and unchecked executive power. More than 20 years later, the U.S. is weaponizing the same legal and political apparatus as part of its campaign against migrants.
Saudi Arabia’s Break With Interventionism
After decades of shifting alliances that failed to deliver stability, Saudi Arabia now has a “zero-conflict” policy toward its neighbors. It is this, rather than a turn to Islamism, that is paradoxically creating tension with the United Arab Emirates and Israel.
Why Iran Is Witnessing a Gold Rush
Threats of war and the collapsing rial have devastated hopes for normalcy among ordinary Iranians and triggered a flight to gold in all forms, as people seek refuge for their savings and a sense of security amid economic turbulence.
Sports and Legitimacy in Eastern Libya
As Benghazi hosts European soccer giants and boxing celebrities, Khalifa Haftar’s regime in eastern Libya is betting on sports and reconstruction to win over Libyans and the West.
How MAGA-Inspired Politics Are Reshaping Japan and South Korea
In Japan and South Korea, a culture war playbook inspired by MAGA is fueling a new political wave on the right. Its supporters rail against supposedly rigged elections and the communist “menace” from China and North Korea, demand zero immigration and oppose civil rights for the LGBTQ+ community.