The hottest Middle East Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Levantine Travels

Gideon's Substack • 35 implied HN points • 09 Feb 26
🏝 Travel Middle East
  1. The security crisis has sharply reduced tourism and strained Israel's economy even as construction and population growth continue to drive a long-term building boom.
  2. Political life feels deeply polarized and pessimistic: many fear postponed elections, see no clear alternative leadership, and view protests and Arab-party realignments as potentially transformative but also risky.
  3. Jordan is poorer but notably stable, with Aqaba boosted by foreign investment that brings both growth and local resentment, and the region overall faces governance challenges as fragmentation and outside influence complicate democratic development.

Meditations On A Six Year-Old Amputee Crawling Through Gaza With The Help Of A Roller Skate

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2421 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

World roundup: February 8 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 766 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Global temperatures have been rising, nearing the 1.5 degree Celsius threshold set in the Paris Climate Agreement.
  2. Ceasefire hopes in Israel-Palestine appear to be fading, with increased military focus and potential for a ground invasion in Gaza.
  3. Political tensions and armed conflicts in various African countries, including Guinea-Bissau, Niger, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

World roundup: February 3-4 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 786 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The United States conducted airstrikes on Iranian-linked targets in Iraq and Syria, resulting in casualties and tension with the governments of those countries.
  2. In the Israel-Palestine conflict, Hamas is considering a ceasefire proposal while the Israeli military expands its operations in Gaza.
  3. President Macky Sall of Senegal postponed the country's presidential election, sparking protests and concerns about a potential self coup.
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World roundup: January 20-21 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 845 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The official death toll in Gaza surpasses 25,000 with no indication of conflict resolution in sight.
  2. US military conducts strikes in Yemen leading to plans for a sustained military campaign.
  3. Taiwanese citizens express decreasing faith in the United States amidst concerns over military aid.

World roundup: January 30 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 786 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Ceasefire negotiations ongoing between Hamas and Israeli government, but proposal faces challenges
  2. Saudi Arabia's Aramco abandons goal to increase oil production capacity, reasons unclear
  3. US considering retaliatory actions for drone strike that killed soldiers in Jordan, tensions with Iran rising

Michael Oren: Is Israel About to Strike Iran’s Nuclear Facilities?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 955 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Israel may be considering a military strike on Iran's nuclear sites soon. There are signs that tensions are rising in the region.
  2. The International Atomic Energy Agency has condemned Iran for not keeping its nuclear promises, which has added urgency to the situation.
  3. The U.S. is reacting by evacuating nonessential staff from its embassy in Baghdad and warning its diplomats in Israel to stay put.

With UN blessing, the US and Israel impose the master’s plan

Aaron Mate • 226 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  1. The US has historically used its power at the UN to protect Israel from accountability for actions against Palestinians.
  2. A new resolution backed by the US supports a plan that disregards Palestinian rights, showing a shift in global consensus towards their situation.
  3. Israel is now the dominant military power in the region, openly rejecting the idea of a Palestinian state and pushing for the emigration of Palestinians from Gaza.

Chaos In Iran

Theory Matters • 5 implied HN points • 10 Mar 26
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Iran’s government is a fragile, hollowed-out authoritarian system facing deep domestic pressure from economic collapse, drought, and recurring mass protests, and it lacks broad legitimacy.
  2. Military strikes or targeted killings risk backfiring by creating martyrs, uniting elites, and sparking wider chaos, and airpower alone is unlikely to produce stable democratic change without a clear plan.
  3. There are no easy answers: past interventions show forced regime change is costly and unpredictable, so policymakers should act with caution and prioritize long-term, non-military strategies.

Matti Friedman: Israel’s Prisoner’s Dilemma

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1993 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  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.

Gaza update: October 7 2023

Foreign Exchanges • 1474 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Hamas launched a significant attack on Israeli settlements and military outposts, leading to casualties on both sides.
  2. The possibility of a new Gaza war is looming, as indicated by Israeli rhetoric and actions.
  3. Immediate concerns include potential hostage situations and international reactions to the conflict.

America Needs a New Iran Policy

The Liberal Patriot • 805 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. A new bipartisan coalition for a different approach on Iran is overdue.
  2. The US faces challenges from within in crafting a strategic approach to Iran.
  3. Steps like creating a new network of foreign policy thinkers and examining various challenges are necessary for a sensible US policy on Iran.

Is Trump Wavering on Iran?

John’s Substack • 14 implied HN points • 25 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Trump's State of the Union can be read as him pulling back from attacking Iran because he only demanded a clear pledge that Iran will never get nuclear weapons.
  2. Iran's foreign minister already publicly said Iran will never develop nuclear weapons, and Trump did not insist Iran give up enrichment, ballistic missiles, or support for proxies, which makes a negotiated outcome more feasible.
  3. Almost every country, US military leaders, and Trump's advisers are urging against a war due to its risks and political costs, while Israel and its powerful US lobby remain the main forces pushing for military action.

World roundup: February 6 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 707 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Hamas responds to ceasefire proposal in Gaza, but concerns remain about the potential for a complete derailment of the peace talks
  2. Colombian government and ELN rebels extend ceasefire for six months, with agreements to halt kidnapping and recruit underage individuals
  3. US Senate confirms Kurt Campbell as the new deputy secretary of state, showing the administration's focus on China as a primary foreign policy concern

What if Hamas Surrendered?

In My Tribe • 622 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  1. When a group like Hamas holds out in conflict, it can cause more suffering for the people they claim to represent. Surrender might be better for their community.
  2. If Hamas were to surrender, Israel might pull out its troops but would face internal political issues. There could also be a call for support from outside nations to help govern Gaza.
  3. Pro-Palestinian activists may find it harder to engage the public if Hamas gives up. Their focus on blaming Israel could be lost as the media attention shifts away from Gaza.

Fuck the Wall Street Journal

Discourse Blog • 707 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
📰 News Middle East
  1. Support for Palestine is increasing, but mainstream media is failing to represent the crisis accurately.
  2. The Wall Street Journal published something extremely hateful and dangerous.
  3. Consider subscribing to Discourse Blog for more in-depth coverage.

‘Trump Is the Decider’: Inside the Fight over the Administration’s Iran Policy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 885 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  1. There are two main groups within Trump's political circle: those who want less military involvement and those who support staying engaged, especially with Iran as a key issue.
  2. The debates between these groups are intense because they see the situation in Iran differently, with some viewing it as a risky war while others see it as a necessary fight against a nuclear threat.
  3. Recent comments from significant figures, like Tucker Carlson and Senator Rand Paul, highlight concerns about potential escalation into larger conflicts, indicating the stakes are high.

An Israel-Palestine Reading List

Glenn Loury • 793 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
📚 Literature Middle East
  1. The reading list on Israel-Palestine conflict includes diverse perspectives and historical accounts from authors like Norman Finkelstein, Rashid Khalidi, and Benny Morris.
  2. The list delves into topics such as the historical roots of conflict, political dimensions, peace efforts, and the impact on Palestinian society.
  3. Authors like Avi Shlaim and Michael Oren provide insights into strategies, regional context, and key personalities during significant events like the Six-Day War.

Is Peace Between Israel and Syria Really Possible?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 737 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. There is a chance for peace between Israel and Syria with new leadership in Syria. This new government seems more open to deals than the previous regime.
  2. If Israel makes peace with Syria, it could lead to better stability in the region and might help end conflicts involving groups like Hamas.
  3. The idea of peace with Syria is not new for Israel, and past history shows that making this peace could still be very difficult.

Was Iran’s Nuclear Program ‘Obliterated’—or Just Set Back a Few Months?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 792 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🌐 International Middle East
  1. A report suggests that U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear program had only minor effects, raising questions about their overall impact.
  2. The strikes targeted key facilities associated with Iran's nuclear efforts, including offices linked to a prominent scientist.
  3. Experts and agencies are now trying to determine exactly how much progress Iran's nuclear program has lost due to these military actions.

Let Yourself Be Shattered By Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2086 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

Why the Jews of Khazaria, the Himyarites and GokTurk Empire are Keys to Universal History

Matt Ehret's Insights • 1297 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
💾 History Middle East
  1. The Khazar Kingdom in Central Europe had a significant role in uniting different faiths and cultures under one alliance for centuries.
  2. The GokTurk Empire played a major role in facilitating Silk Road trade routes between Asia and Europe.
  3. The ecumenical alliances between Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Confucian leaders in history helped maintain peace and preserve trade routes, but eventually faced challenges from Venetian and Byzantine powers.

World roundup: January 11 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 786 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. South Africa has brought genocide charges against Israel at the International Court of Justice, seeking to halt the assault on Gaza.
  2. The Israeli government's response to the South African filing indicates they understand the significance of a potential ruling demanding a halt to their military campaign.
  3. US and UK have carried out strikes against Houthi-linked targets in Yemen in response to attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

The Persecution of Francesca Albanese

The Chris Hedges Report • 691 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  1. Francesca Albanese is a key figure who reports on human rights violations in Palestine. She faces serious backlash, including threats and government sanctions, for her work.
  2. Her recent reports accuse major corporations and institutions of profiting from the suffering of Palestinians. She believes these actions violate international law.
  3. The sanctions against Albanese show a troubling trend where powerful nations avoid accountability for war crimes. This undermines trust in global justice and human rights.

World roundup: January 22 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 727 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. There is movement towards a potential hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, with the involvement of the US administration and potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange offers from Israel.
  2. Today in history includes significant events such as the Ottomans defeating the remnants of the Mamluk army in 1517, the start of the 1905 Russian Revolution with the Bloody Sunday massacre, and the birth of the Republic of Mahabad in 1946.
  3. The Israeli government's offer to Hamas for a ceasefire and phased prisoner exchange may not meet all of Hamas's demands but could open up possibilities for improving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

World roundup: January 17 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 746 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. A new study reveals that Greenland has lost more ice than previously thought, making the remaining ice sheet more vulnerable to melting.
  2. The Jordanian government accuses the Israeli military of damaging field hospitals in Gaza, prompting concerns about ongoing attacks on medical facilities.
  3. Historical events from January 17 include the decisive Russian victory at the Battle of Sarikamish, the execution of Patrice Lumumba in 1961, and the start of Operation Desert Storm in 1991.

Netanyahu Hilariously Claims Israel Doesn't Seek To Intervene In Syria's Affairs

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2039 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

Special Edition: The War That Could Change the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 825 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Israel is currently facing attacks from Iran, leading many people to seek shelter. This situation could significantly impact the region and the world.
  2. Historian Niall Ferguson and other experts will provide insights on the conflict, which are important for understanding its historical and political context.
  3. The dynamics of U.S. political support for Israel are changing, with key figures like Donald Trump taking strong positions, which may affect future relations.

World roundup: January 15-16 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 746 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Reports of renewed fighting in northern Gaza between Israeli forces and Palestinians
  2. US targeting Houthi anti-ship missiles in Yemen, leading to concerns about escalation
  3. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un declares South Korea as the primary enemy and halts pursuit of Korean reunification

World roundup: February 5 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 648 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Saudi Arabia as part of his Middle East trip.
  2. Hamas is deliberating on a ceasefire proposal with some hope for an agreement.
  3. Discussed historical events: the Siege of Cádiz and Alexandru Ioan Cuza becoming Domnitor of Romania.

Israel, Iran, and Russia

Diane Francis • 1298 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The relationship between Russia and Iran is dangerous as they support each other's military activities and share resources. This partnership can worsen conflicts in the Middle East and pose threats globally.
  2. Russia has been using the situation in Israel to distract from its own actions in Ukraine. The narratives pushed by Russia aim to weaken Western support for Ukraine while exploiting the violence in Israel.
  3. To find peace, it's important for both Russia to be stopped in Ukraine and for Hamas and Hezbollah to be dealt with. A united effort from wealthy Arab nations, alongside the U.S. and Europe, is needed to negotiate a two-state solution for Palestinians.

World roundup: January 6-7 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 786 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. This weekend in history had notable events like a joint attack on French Guiana, Galileo's discovery of Jupiter's moons, and the start of the Bataan Death March.
  2. The situation in Israel-Palestine continues to worsen, with talks of further military operations, humanitarian crises, and diplomatic tensions.
  3. There is escalating conflict in regions like Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen, with concerns about airstrikes, military actions, and potential regional wars.

They're Still Slaughtering Civilians In Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1634 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  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.

World roundup: January 18 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 727 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Israeli military advances in Gaza amid high Palestinian casualties and humanitarian crisis
  2. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejects US pressure for Gaza ceasefire and Palestinian statehood
  3. Pakistani military retaliates against Iran with missile strike on Baluch separatist groups