Reese Erlich’s new book on Syria combines on-the-ground reporting with an encyclopedic background in the region’s history.
The Syrian Labyrinth
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Middle East & North Africa
Wanna-Be’s Doing the Islamic State’s Bidding
The Islamic State’s calls for retaliation against Western attacks are apparently being heeded.
Ayatollah Khomeini May Have Been Savage, But He Drew the Line at Nukes
The Supreme Leader oversaw plenty of state-sponsored violence, but viewed nuclear weapons as forbidden by Islam.
Is the Islamic State Capable of Nuclear Terrorism?
Will the Islamic State attempt to procure nuclear material as Al Qaeda once did?
Gaza and the Bipartisan War on Human Rights
During and after Israel’s war on Gaza, bipartisan congressional majorities have worked to undermine war crimes investigations by the United Nations and human rights groups.
Bashing Obama to Make Way for Hillary
Hillary Clinton and her hawkish Democratic allies are already running hard to the right of Obama.
Recognizing Palestine
As more European governments line up to recognize a Palestinian state, Israel (and the U.S.) look more isolated than ever.
Islamic State Offers Beheading as a Perk to Recruits
The Islamic State may use beheading as a tool to recruit fighters.
All (Muslim) Apologies
Tips on how to proceed as a media-savvy Muslim during Eid celebrations.
Iraq Awash in Carnage Long Before the U.S. Invasion
From the Assyrian Empire to the Mongols to the present, Iraq has been the perpetrator and victim of epic levels of violence.