Author: OpEd Column Network

The Necessity of Multilateralism

[Cynthia M. Lardner] It is not just multilateral relations between countries that are suffering, it is also the institutions created through multilateral treaties, especially those tied to the Rome Statue, that are failing their essential purpose. Even the stability of the EU has been threatened by nationalism, including Brexit.

Houthis: Iran’s New Hezbolla in Making

[Manish Rai] Iran is transferring the know-how in ballistic missiles to Yemenis. Iran is also using Yemen as a testing ground for its missiles. The greater Iranian support to Houthis is not surprising. What's surprising is that the Houthis, who claim they are fighting to liberate Yemen (in name of Yemeni nationalism), have blindly chosen to take orders from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, even when these orders completely contradict their agenda.

The Spanish Labyrinth

As the socialist-led government takes over in Spain, newly minted Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez faces at least two daunting tasks: cleaning up the wreckage wrought by years of European Union (EU) enforced austerity and resolving the Catalan crisis exacerbated by Madrid’s violent reaction to last fall’s independence referendum. Unfortunately, his Party’s track record is not … Continue reading The Spanish Labyrinth

Hard to Replace Khalifa Haftar in Libya

[Manish Rai] Khalifa Haftar, a veteran general and strongman in Libya has recently returned to his stronghold and headquarter in the eastern city of Benghazi following an extended absence, including reported treatment in Paris hospital for a stroke. General Haftar has been part of the Libyan political scene for more than four decades, shifting from … Continue reading Hard to Replace Khalifa Haftar in Libya

Understanding the Chinese Approach to Gulf Affairs

[Muhammad Zulifikar Rakhmat] China’s expanding role in the Gulf during recent years has prompted much analysis, from both inside and outside the PRC. While these studies have enriched our understanding to a certain extent, they often fail to provide a sufficiently nuanced interpretation. A more comprehensive approach is necessary. The existing literature on China-GCC relations frequently … Continue reading Understanding the Chinese Approach to Gulf Affairs

Are We Really on a Road to Nowhere?

[Robin Limb] Food production is a unique industry - without it, nothing else happens. Unfortunately, it has also become a highly politicized industry, with stakeholders of all colors and creeds rushing to join the party. It is no longer just about putting food on your plate: it involves multinational giants, NGO's, governmental organizations, and many others besides, all with their own agenda to peddle.

Quds Force a Threat for Peace in the Middle East

[Manish Rai] Qud force, which is the Iranian regime’s primary foreign action arm for executing its policy of supporting terrorist organizations and extremist groups across the region and around the world, is clearly an obstacle for the process of peacemaking and stabilization in the Middle East.