Bahrain to bid for UN Security Council seat: What to know If its candidacy is successful, it would allow the Arab world's smallest nation to have a significant say in critical decisions impacting the Middle East, particularly the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Bahrain
Analysis Wary of Houthis, Gulf states fear blowback of US escalation in Yemen The Houthis' identification with the Gaza conflict has also made it complicated for Gulf states to participate in operations against the group. By Jennifer Gnana In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics
Analysis From BRICS to dwindling oil revenues, 2024 was mixed year for Gulf The ongoing conflict in Gaza, big international investment deals, low oil revenue and increased curtailing of democratic rights dominated Gulf politics and economy in 2024 By Jennifer Gnana In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics
Gulf states reach out to new Syrian leaders ahead of Jordan talks: What we know Bahrain's King Hamad sent a letter to HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, while the UAE has held direct contact with opposition groups. Qatar is set to reopen embassy in Damascus soon. Syria
Analysis Beyond congratulations, Trump faces changed, eastward-looking Gulf By Jennifer Gnana In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics
Analysis US lawmakers act to boost Israel-Arab military coordination to counter Iran By Megan Mineiro In Washington, DC, reporting on US Congress
Bahrain’s ongoing political crisis threatens stability The Bahraini government is taking a strong stand against the militant Shiite opposition factions that have become more radical in the past few years. Saudi Arabia
Will Bahrain use military trials against Shiite leader's supporters? Bahrain recently amended its constitution to expand military courts' jurisdiction, perhaps in anticipation of fiery protests once a verdict is announced in the trial of Sheikh Isa Qassim. Bahrain
How will Trump’s anti-Muslim Brotherhood inner circle view Qatar? While Qatar’s support for groups such as Hamas has caused tense ties with the United States in the past, Donald Trump’s presidency could create even more challenges for Qatar. Saudi Arabia
Bahrain shifts foreign policy with eye on Turkey Bahraini officials want to deepen their ties with Turkey as regional politics become more unstable. Gulf
Democratic lawmakers slam Trump over Bahrain reception Manama critics on Capitol Hill assail decision to host independence celebration at president-elect's Washington hotel. Bahrain
Who in the GCC wants a union? Gulf Cooperation Council states consider transforming into a union to arm themselves against Iran’s increasing dominance and the growing instability in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia
Tensions flare between Hezbollah, Gulf states Analysts say Hezbollah has made a sharp pivot toward confrontation with Gulf states, in part as a result of its alliance with Iran. Gulf
Will warming ties with Iran impact Morocco’s relationship with Saudi Arabia? Morocco announced the appointment of an ambassador to Tehran, ending a seven-year break in diplomatic ties. But concerns are emerging about the reaction of Saudi Arabia, an ally to the kingdom and enemy of Iran. Saudi Arabia
Meet the likely successor of Islamic State’s Baghdadi After IS spokesman and second-in-command Abu Mohamed al-Adnani was killed in an airstrike last month, there are indications that Bahraini citizen Turki al-Binali may replace him. Saudi Arabia
Egypt hopes to refashion tourist industry in style Egypt is turning to the world of fashion to reinvent its threadbare tourism business. Bahrain
Can Bahrain count on Moscow to fill Washington’s shoes? As Bahrain seeks closer ties with Russia, other Arab countries have their doubts about the relationship, yet they recognize Moscow’s growing role in the region amid Washington’s receding influence. Saudi Arabia