MESOPOTAMIA NEWS MID-EAST SAMPLERIran consolidates control in Syria, Iraq; tensions in eastern Med
– The Middle East Center for Reporting and Analysis – 2. Nov 2020
The Middle East Center for Reporting and Analysis presents new research on Iran’s attempt to consolidate control along the Euphrates river in Syria, as well as concerns about detainees being released from Al Hol camp. We also covered challenges regarding the role of pro-Iranian paramilitaries in Iraq, tensions in the eastern Mediterranean, Israel’s “campaign between the wars” in Syria and other issues of importance in the Middle East.
This is a crucial time in the region due to rising tensions between Turkey and its neighbors as well as the end of the arms embargo on Iran and the US elections. Our researchers in Syria and Iraq conduced interviews with locals and continue to provide essential information on emerging threats and developments. Click on the bold links below to read our articles.
MECRA this month produced several unique perspectives on Iraq and Syria.
A look at Iran’s attempt to consolidate control west of the Euphrates river between Deir Ezzor and Albukamal. Omar Abu Layla compiled this report, read here.
In Iraq we looked at Salah al-Din governorate and tensions with the Hashd al-Shaabi and local villagers. This is linked to wider tensions with pro-Iranian elements of the Popular Mobilization Forces. Read here.
Detainees are being released from Al-Hol camp in Syria, some of whom are suspected ISIS members and others of whom may face struggles in Syria because of suspected ties to ISIS. Locals express concern about the situation at Al-Hol and the detainees. Read our article here.
Our updated daily digest of Iran-US tensions and overall tensions in the region, read it here.
At MECRA we have also published articles in media looking at recent developments in the region.
Read Jonathan Spyer’s look at how this era may be the end of the age of insurgency at Foreign Policy.
Seth J. Frantzman writes at Long War Journal about Israel’s “Campaign Between the Wars” in Syria and also at Defense News Israel’s new sensory protective barrier around Gaza.
Jonathan Spyer and Benjamin Weinthal write at Newsweek looking a the controversy over F-35 sales to Qatar. Seth J. Frantzman also wrote at Newsweek about how Israel and the UAE can cement their new relations. Also Seth Frantzman looks a the broader context of F-35 sales in the region at The National Interest.
Seth Frantzman writes at The Hill about the recent rocket attacks on the Kurdish region in Iraq and Iran tensions with Kurdish parties in Baghdad.
Jonathan Spyer examined the tensions in the eastern Mediterranean where Turkey, Greece and other states appear on a collision course. Seth J. Frantzman spoke to Arab News about the tensions between Turkey and Greece.
Our work was also mentioned in Greek television media, DW, on Rudaw, at a Fuel For Truth webinar, Arab News, Christian Post, Media Line, and was translated to Arabic and other languages
For interview requests email us: mecra@mideastcenter.org
The Middle East Center for Reporting and Analysis
https://www.mideastcenter.org/