Middle East11 min read
Why Nobody Can Conquer Yemen
Rome, the Ottomans, Egypt and a Saudi-led coalition all marched into Yemen. None held it for good. The mountains, the sea gate below them and the bargains that rule both explain why.
Region
Middle East
Rivalries from the Eastern Mediterranean to the Gulf: Israel, Turkey, Iran, the Gulf monarchies and Yemen.
Middle East10 min read
Can Iran Close the Strait of Hormuz?
Before 2026, a fifth of the world's oil passed through one narrow channel off Iran's coast. Since the war began in February, Iran has largely shut it. How did it do it, what can get around it, and can it last?
Middle East10 min read
Israel vs Turkey: Can Old Allies Avoid a Clash?
In 1958, Turkey was one of Israel's secret partners. In 2026, Israeli jets struck a Syrian air base 70 km from Turkey's border. How did old allies become rivals, and can they step back?