The hottest Middle East Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1391 implied HN points 25 Feb 25
  1. Shlomo Mantzur was a caring father and grandfather who loved spending time with his family. He raised his children to be optimistic and focused on the present.
  2. He was kidnapped at the age of 85 during a violent attack in Israel, becoming the oldest known hostage in the conflict. Many people, including soldiers, expressed a determination to bring him home safely.
  3. Mantzur's early life in Iraq included some happy memories, but he often didn't talk much about his past. His daughters remember him as someone who enjoyed making art and sharing treats with them.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2179 implied HN points 19 Feb 25
  1. Kfir Bibas, a baby taken by Hamas, represents the core of the conflict and highlights its tragic consequences.
  2. Yarden Bibas was released after a long time in captivity, but his family has faced immense loss and grief.
  3. Hamas claims to be returning the bodies of Kfir and his family, marking a painful end to their ordeal.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2267 implied HN points 17 Feb 25
  1. The situation in Gaza includes severe human rights violations and reports of torture. It's really troubling and many people feel compelled to speak out about it.
  2. Critics of Israel's actions often face accusations of antisemitism, which confuses the discussion about the state's actions with issues related to all Jewish people.
  3. Many people are frustrated with the political leaders who seem to support harmful actions against vulnerable populations, and it's important to hold them accountable regardless of their party.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger 100 implied HN points 13 Jun 25
  1. Israel has launched an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, reportedly killing key military leaders and scientists. This move raises tensions in the region significantly.
  2. Iran has responded by launching drones towards Israel, marking a potential escalation of conflict. The situation remains very dynamic as both sides prepare for further actions.
  3. The future depends heavily on Iran's next steps; it could either remain cautious or retaliate forcefully, which could lead to a wider war in the Middle East.
Noahpinion 24588 implied HN points 18 Jan 25
  1. The Middle East is moving away from constant warfare, with many regions experiencing peace. This shift could lead to economic recovery as people focus on constructive opportunities.
  2. Technology and geography are becoming more favorable for the Middle East. Innovations like cheap solar power and desalination can help support growth in a region with traditionally limited resources.
  3. The region's demographics are shifting positively, providing a 'demographic dividend.' With a more balanced age structure, there is great potential for economic development and workforce growth in the coming years.
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Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge 14008 implied HN points 04 Oct 24
  1. Israel faced significant challenges with its air defenses when Iranian missile strikes were more successful than previous attacks. This suggests that Iran has been learning and improving its strategies.
  2. There's a mix of opinions about whether Iran was really trying to hit specific targets or just sending a message. Some believe the strikes were accurate while others think they were done to avoid major damage.
  3. Tensions are rising as Israel and the US are contemplating serious military responses against Iran, while Iran has managed to strengthen ties with other countries like Saudi Arabia amidst these conflicts.
Pieter’s Newsletter 259 implied HN points 28 Oct 24
  1. Israel's recent attack on Iran was smart and planned, aiming to weaken Iran's defenses without causing much harm to civilians.
  2. The attack has raised doubts about Iran's leadership and how they protect their citizens, leading to growing discontent among the Iranian people.
  3. The situation highlights a stark contrast between Israel's modern military and Iran's struggling forces, showing a potential for change in the region.
John’s Substack 5 implied HN points 03 Mar 25
  1. Israel has a nuclear deterrent that plays a crucial role in its national security. This means that having nuclear weapons helps protect Israel from potential threats.
  2. The competition between Israel and Iran is significantly influenced by nuclear weapons. This rivalry affects both countries' strategies and military decisions.
  3. Understanding how nuclear weapons shape international relations is key to grasping the complexities of Middle Eastern politics. It adds another layer to the security concerns in the region.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2440 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. A small percentage, only 3%, of Jewish Israelis view Trump's plan for Gaza as immoral. This highlights a significant difference in perspectives regarding morality in relation to political actions.
  2. A majority of Jewish Israelis support the controversial plan to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza. This reflects a broader societal attitude towards Palestinians, where many see them as less deserving of rights.
  3. This lack of empathy and understanding has consequences that extend beyond politics, affecting social values and perceptions within Israeli society. It suggests a deep-seated issue of moral awareness that influences various aspects of life.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 3088 implied HN points 02 Feb 25
  1. Releasing terrorists for hostages creates a tough moral dilemma. While we want to bring our loved ones home, it can lead to more violence in the future.
  2. The love of life is a core value in Israel, contrasting with groups that embrace death. This makes the emotions surrounding loss and the release of attackers even more painful.
  3. There is a strong, unbreakable bond among the Jewish community that drives the desire to rescue hostages, even at great risk. This unity is essential for healing and strength.
Vicky Ward Investigates 459 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. Tiffany Trump's pregnancy is seen as a strategic move for Donald Trump to connect with Arab American voters in Michigan. This could help him gain support in a key swing state.
  2. Michael Boulos, Tiffany's husband, has a Lebanese background which adds a new dimension to Trump's political outreach. Trump's comments show an attempt to appeal to the Arab community while maintaining his stance on foreign policy.
  3. The influence of Michael's father, Massad Boulos, is growing. He is actively lobbying for Trump's campaign and could play a significant role in future political dynamics.
Glenn’s Substack 1039 implied HN points 24 Sep 24
  1. The conflict in Gaza is spreading and could bring in more countries, which worries local leaders facing protests for not being tougher against Israel and the US.
  2. Ukraine is struggling with a lack of resources, and the situation is getting worse as public support is fading and political divisions grow.
  3. Both the Middle East and Ukraine are heading towards major wars, and the US seems to lack a clear plan to deal with these rising tensions.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1451 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Trump believes the main issue in the Middle East isn't a Palestinian state, pushing against decades of U.S. policy. He argues that a different approach is needed.
  2. He proposed that the U.S. could take control of Gaza and develop it, suggesting Palestinians could relocate to another country. This idea has sparked both support and backlash.
  3. Trump aims for peace in the region without a Palestinian state, similar to prior agreements with other Arab nations. Critics warn this could lead to more conflict and displacement.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2184 implied HN points 28 Jan 25
  1. Jordan and Egypt have rejected a plan by Trump to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to their countries. Both nations emphasize their support for Palestinians staying on their land.
  2. There is concern that Trump may still attempt to pressure these nations into compliance with his plan. The resistance from Jordan and Egypt suggests significant challenges for achieving that goal.
  3. There is a critique of how political and media classes share similar views, limiting diverse perspectives and accountability regarding issues like the treatment of Palestinians.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 3134 implied HN points 20 Jan 25
  1. Three women were recently released after being held hostage by Hamas for 15 months, marking the start of a ceasefire. This exchange includes bringing back some Israeli captives in return for Palestinian prisoners.
  2. Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a young Israeli man, was taken by Hamas during an attack at a music festival where many were killed. His fate was uncertain for a long time, which caused great distress to his family.
  3. The ongoing situation involves deep emotions, with the families of the hostages expressing their feelings about ceasefires and the impact on their loved ones. They seek answers and hope for peace in a troubled region.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1634 implied HN points 31 Jan 25
  1. Many Palestinians are still being killed in Gaza, even after a ceasefire was announced. The ongoing violence raises concerns about the true nature of this supposed ceasefire.
  2. Palestinian lives are often viewed as less valuable compared to Israeli lives. This unequal perspective contributes to the ongoing violence and suffering in the region.
  3. There are troubling instances of dehumanization where Palestinians are seen as expendable. This mindset can lead to tragic outcomes, such as the killing of innocent civilians, including children.
Freddie deBoer 3743 implied HN points 15 Jan 25
  1. The situation in Syria was complicated, with many different groups fighting for power, making it hard to identify who the 'good guys' were.
  2. Ideas like the Arab Spring, which aimed to promote freedom, often failed because they didn't take into account the local issues and conflicts that already existed.
  3. Many people in the U.S. tried to solve problems in the Middle East with big ideas, but found out that the reality was much more complex than they thought.
The Saturday Read 459 implied HN points 19 Oct 24
  1. Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, was killed by Israeli forces, highlighting ongoing violence in Gaza. His death might temporarily limit the threat from Hamas, but deep issues remain unresolved for both sides.
  2. A kibbutz resident expressed that after recent violence, his focus has shifted solely to protecting his own family rather than helping those in Gaza. This shows the intense personal strife and survival mindset amidst conflict.
  3. The region faces a complex situation where even after Sinwar's death, the future remains uncertain. It raises concerns about possible retaliation and the rebuilding of Gaza, which has suffered immense destruction.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 3046 implied HN points 15 Jan 25
  1. Israel is close to making a deal with Hamas to release captives. The first step involves freeing 33 hostages, including children and the elderly.
  2. The deal has three phases that could lead to the end of the conflict, but each phase relies on the success of the previous one.
  3. If the deal works, it will bring mixed feelings in Israel, with joy for the hostages' return but also anger and disappointment about the circumstances.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2514 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal that takes effect soon, but there's been violence leading up to it. This makes the situation very dangerous for people in Gaza right now.
  2. Trump's team played a key role in this ceasefire, and some believe that his victory is actually better for Gaza than Biden's administration, which didn't act decisively to stop the violence.
  3. There's a glimmer of hope that the ongoing suffering in Gaza might finally be easing, but the overall fight for peace and justice is far from over. People are allowing themselves to feel hope, even if it's challenging.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1993 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. Israel faces tough decisions about negotiating with terrorists to free hostages. Many believe it shows their commitment to saving lives, while others worry it encourages future attacks.
  2. A significant portion of Israelis support these hostage deals, reflecting a strong desire to rescue captives regardless of the risks involved.
  3. This debate about saving individuals vs. long-term security has been ongoing for decades, highlighting deeper questions about strength and vulnerability in Israel.
The Dossier 209 implied HN points 10 Feb 25
  1. The Palestinian cause is seen as an ideology rather than a true national identity, similar to other violent movements in history. It doesn't have a unique cultural or ethnic background.
  2. Support for violent actions against Israel is widespread among Palestinians, reflecting a deeper ideological commitment rather than just reactions to specific events.
  3. Some suggest relocating Gazans to other Arab countries after conflicts, arguing it's a way to address the violence and instability that often follows their actions.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1534 implied HN points 09 Jan 25
  1. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu can't attend the Auschwitz commemoration due to war crime charges from the ICC. This situation is highly ironic since it's a significant event related to Jewish history.
  2. The ICC's charges against Netanyahu have been criticized by the Biden administration as having no legal basis, but Poland has not taken action to support his attendance.
  3. Important legal concepts like 'crimes against humanity' and 'genocide' were created by Polish-born Jews after the Holocaust, which adds another layer of irony to the accusations against Israel today.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 3612 implied HN points 08 Dec 24
  1. Bashar al-Assad, the dictator of Syria, has been overthrown after 24 years in power. This change is seen as a major event for the modern Middle East.
  2. Despite the cheers for his fall, there are concerns about the new leaders. Some of the rebel groups that took over were previously linked to more extreme factions like al-Qaeda.
  3. The departure of Assad raises questions about the future of Syria. It is uncertain if the new power dynamics will be better or worse for the country's people.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2421 implied HN points 15 Dec 24
  1. A six-year-old boy in Gaza, who lost his legs due to violence, uses a roller skate to help him move. His situation highlights the painful realities many children face in conflict zones.
  2. Many children in Gaza now feel that death is imminent, with a significant number wishing for it. This shows the deep emotional and psychological scars caused by ongoing violence.
  3. The author expresses deep sorrow for the plight of children like Mohammad. It’s important to acknowledge the sadness of such situations without trying to put a positive spin on them.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2633 implied HN points 10 Dec 24
  1. Syria's recent change in leadership happened despite the efforts of the Biden administration, not because of them. Many believe the U.S. played a minor role in this shift.
  2. President Biden claims that the weakening of Assad's supporters like Iran and Russia is due to his policies, but many disagree with this view. There is a belief that these countries have lost power for other reasons.
  3. Israel's actions in the region have been more impactful than U.S. influence. Some argue that Israel took bold steps that went against what the U.S. wanted, contributing significantly to the change in Syria.
The Saturday Read 419 implied HN points 05 Oct 24
  1. The Middle East is facing ongoing violence and conflict, especially after significant events like the Hamas attack on Israel. Many believe lasting peace will require changes in Iran.
  2. There is no single 'Catholic vote' in American politics; Catholics often have diverse views that don't fit neatly into either party. This means candidates should engage with Catholic voters carefully.
  3. Green Day's album 'American Idiot' had a powerful impact by encouraging youth to oppose George W. Bush. Its fun style helped spread a serious political message.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2686 implied HN points 08 Dec 24
  1. The Syrian government led by Assad is being replaced, likely by groups supported by the U.S. This shows a shift in power dynamics in the region.
  2. Al-Qaeda has been rebranded as a more 'woke' group, with media portraying them in a softer light despite their violent past. This reflects a significant change in how such groups are viewed.
  3. The ongoing U.S. efforts in the area involve a long game strategy, suggesting that while current actions may not yield immediate results, they are part of a larger plan for eventual dominance.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2086 implied HN points 13 Dec 24
  1. People often care more for pets than for suffering children in places like Gaza. This shows a disconnect with real human suffering while prioritizing our comforts.
  2. Being 'shattered' or deeply affected by tragic events can lead to personal growth. It helps us reconnect with our feelings and strengthens our human empathy.
  3. True beauty and understanding can emerge from heartbreak. Experiencing pain can clear our vision and help us appreciate life and nature in a deeper way.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1813 implied HN points 17 Dec 24
  1. Ireland's criticism of Israel has grown significantly, becoming more intense than other countries, including some in the Arab world.
  2. The Israeli government decided to close its embassy in Ireland, citing the country’s extreme stance against Israel.
  3. The roots of Irish antisemitism are highlighted through personal family history and the historical context of Ireland's relationship with the Jewish community.
The Chris Hedges Report 159 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. Many Muslim leaders prioritize their relationships with Western powers over their own people, leading to betrayal, especially regarding Palestine. This often results in silence or complicity in the face of violence against their communities.
  2. The oppression faced by Muslim communities is deeply tied to colonial and imperial actions, which continues to create divisions and reap devastation across the region. The struggle in Gaza highlights the extent of this systemic injustice.
  3. Young Muslims are seeking strong, moral leadership that stands for justice and integrity. They feel disillusioned by leaders who fail to uphold these values, and they are inspired to look to historical figures who embodied true resistance.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2039 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. Israel has been heavily involved in Syria, claiming it won't interfere while bombing the country and occupying parts of it. This seems contradictory and raises eyebrows.
  2. Syria is now opening up its economy, which could lead to outside influences taking advantage of its situation. This is often called disaster capitalism.
  3. There's a lot of anger towards wealthy elites as economic inequality rises. This could lead to serious social unrest if people feel they have no other options for change.
The Chris Hedges Report 591 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. Israel often makes agreements with the Palestinians that it does not keep. This leads to renewed violence after initial phases.
  2. There is ongoing suspicion and blame between Israel and Hamas over who is breaking ceasefire terms. Both sides have different interpretations of the deals.
  3. Historically, peace agreements have often not been fulfilled, leading to continued conflict and suffering for the people involved.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1941 implied HN points 11 Dec 24
  1. The term 'terrorist organization' is often used politically, depending on whether a group benefits or harms U.S. interests.
  2. Groups that fight against the U.S. or its allies usually get labeled as terrorists, while friends of the U.S. can commit violence without that label.
  3. This inconsistency shows that the label is more about controlling narratives than about actual behavior.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1984 implied HN points 09 Dec 24
  1. Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria, marking a significant change in the Middle East. This could reshape alliances and power dynamics in the region.
  2. There's excitement about the potential for change, with people celebrating in the streets. Yet, there are concerns that the future may bring harsh rule or further conflict instead of a peaceful democracy.
  3. Western countries are preparing for various outcomes in Syria, including military actions to counter any threats that arise after Assad's departure.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 3535 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. People often argue about definitions of words instead of focusing on real-life impacts and solutions. It's important to prioritize human well-being over getting stuck in technical debates.
  2. Allowing Palestinians to move to safer places can be a positive solution. Instead of considering it 'ethnic cleansing,' it should be seen as a humanitarian effort to help those in need.
  3. Many people in Gaza might want to leave for better opportunities, especially after facing conflict. Supporting their choice to move could lead to a more peaceful future for everyone involved.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1298 implied HN points 13 Dec 24
  1. The fall of Assad's regime in Syria marks a major change in the country's political landscape. Many people are unsettled about what this means for safety and future leadership.
  2. Syria's Christians are particularly worried about their safety and what might happen next now that Assad is gone. There are fears that the new leaders might not protect them.
  3. The harsh reality of Assad's regime is becoming clearer as people look back on the horrors of his rule. Many are seeking answers about missing loved ones and want to confront the legacy of violence in places like Sednaya prison.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1247 implied HN points 09 Dec 24
  1. The Assad dynasty ruled Syria for 53 years with extreme violence and family power struggles, resembling a mix of Mafia operations and royal court intrigue. This brutal regime led to significant suffering and loss of life in the country.
  2. Bashar al-Assad's regime faced major uprisings during the Arab Spring, resulting in a horrific and bloody response that left around 600,000 Syrians dead. The backing of allies like Iran and Russia helped him maintain power amidst chaos.
  3. Recent events show a dramatic change as statues of Assad are toppled, prisons are opened, and many oppressors are fleeing. However, while this moment brings hope, the uncertainty of the future still looms large in the Middle East.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2198 implied HN points 01 Nov 24
  1. South Africa has submitted a lot of documents claiming there's clear evidence of genocide by Israel. They say they actually have too much evidence to handle.
  2. Israeli forces are allegedly blocking Palestinians from returning to their homes, which has raised concerns about ethnic cleansing. A high-profile conference was even held to discuss resettling Gaza.
  3. Aid reaching Gaza is extremely low, and reports show many civilians, including journalists, are being killed. This has been highlighted by various news outlets despite a lack of action from powerful countries.
Diane Francis 719 implied HN points 08 Aug 24
  1. There is concern that a regional war in the Middle East is actually already happening. Israel's actions have sparked wider conflict and retaliation is expected.
  2. The situation is escalating with more U.S. military presence and attacks on American soldiers in Iraq. Countries are advising their citizens to leave the area as tensions rise.
  3. Many people are leaving Israel, with reports saying nearly half a million have departed. This ongoing conflict has become more complex than just battles in Gaza and Lebanon.