The recent unveiling of a framework for future talks about Iran’s nuclear program has some hailing it as a great step towards an Iran without nuclear weapons, while others believe giving Iran any nuclear capability is a step in the wrong direction. While this framework represents significant progress, it does not go far enough in … Continue reading
Terrorist groups use a variety of different methods for funding. Many of them, including Al Qaeda and Al- Shebab, heavily rely on donations and money laundering in order to support their operations. The Islamic State is no exception. While it takes advantage of other funding opportunities, including black market crude oil sales and looting, both … Continue reading
Last Monday, Saudi Arabia became the first country to be elected to a non-permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council—and then decline the honor. It’s clear that Saudi Arabia, one of America’s closest allies in the region, is expressing its displeasure with U.S. policy in the Middle East. However, the cooling of relations between Washington … Continue reading
Gasoline prices, like prices of any commodity, are determined by many factors including supply-and-demand, government policy and even the weather. Gasoline is unique, however, because it is very nearly the only energy source used in transportation. Its monopoly on transportation amplifies the impact its price has on the economy. Low gas prices translate to more … Continue reading
In today’s world where people get their news from platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, and Google, ethical standards reasonably come into question. Entire internet platforms are now starting to notice the impact they have on public opinion, and are starting to take a stand for what they feel is right. Take, for example, last … Continue reading
During the last decade the spectacular growth and development of Iran placed the Persian nation as a superpower in the Middle East and one of the most relevant actors on the international stage. However, 2012 was a challenging year for the country and 2013 promises to be even more turbulent. With an economic crisis developing, … Continue reading
On the eve of talks between the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and the Turkish government, three female members of the outlawed organization are found dead in Paris. The three women were no ordinary women; each was a high-ranking member of the PKK. Sakine Cansiz was a founding member, a symbol of the struggle. Fidan Doğan … Continue reading
The erupting conflict between Israel and Gaza this week is nothing new- a very similar escalation in operations occurred just a few years ago, between the same two parties. In late December 2008, Israel invaded the Gaza strip in attempt to eliminate Hamas militants in an operation referred to by many, including Gazans themselves, as … Continue reading
On Wednesday morning, The New York Times reported that the conflict in Syria is evolving into a civil war. An extension of the 2011 Arab Spring, many Syrians have been calling to depose Bashar al-Assad, the western educated Syrian dictator. This was met by violent clashes between the Syrian people and the strong military, with … Continue reading
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