01/08, 07:00
Editorial summary
Riyadh wants a broader strategic bargain with Washington while Israel, Iran, and Gulf shipping face a widening security shock. Some voices expect containment through diplomacy, while others expect escalation and a harder U.S. strike to break the deadlock.
Lead piece
Whether Saudi Arabia can evolve from energy partner to broader strategic ally for the United States in a more volatile Middle East.
Key actors
Saudi ArabiaJordanArà bia SauditaLindsey Graham
Discussion: Foreign Policy, RTÉ Analysis and Comment, Formiche.net, Ara
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Economic Integration in the Middle East Is a False God
(Foreign Policy | Steven A. Cook)
Reading: The author argues that while regional integration may benefit Middle Eastern states in some ways, it is largely a Washington obsession that would neither significantly advance U.S. strategic goals nor materially change regional geopolitics.
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Fears Middle East war could expand as conflict reignites
(RTÉ Analysis and Comment)
Reading: The current trajectory suggests escalation, not resolution: ceasefire hopes have collapsed, more states are getting pulled in, and there is little evidence of a viable diplomatic endgame.
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Scatta la nuova offensiva Usa contro l’Iran. E Teheran è più sola che mai
(Formiche.net | Gianfranco D'Anna)
Reading: Iran’s continued attacks through the Pasdaran have trapped Tehran in worsening isolation and made a forceful U.S. response both likely and strategically aimed at breaking the stalemate.