The hottest Middle East Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

After Assad

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1984 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

How the Iran Strikes Seal Netanyahu’s Legacy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 792 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Netanyahu views himself as the protector of Israel's security, which has defined his time in office. He believes that Iran poses the biggest threat to Israel, especially with its ambitions for nuclear weapons.
  2. The conflict between Netanyahu and Iranian leader Khamenei symbolizes a larger struggle in the Middle East, focusing on Israel's existence versus Iran's desire to eliminate it.
  3. Netanyahu's political survival has been linked to his tough stance against Iran, allowing him to remain in power despite various crises.

"Terrorist Organization" Means Whatever The US Wants It To Mean

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1941 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  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.

The Life and Death of the Oldest Hostage in Gaza

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1391 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.
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World roundup: January 23 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 668 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Israeli military operations in Gaza resulted in significant civilian casualties and backlash
  2. US carried out airstrikes in Iraq in response to previous attacks on US personnel
  3. Growing tensions in Somalia as the Somali president seeks support amidst regional conflicts

"Too Much Evidence" Of Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2198 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

World roundup: January 25 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 648 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Negotiations in Israel-Palestine are facing challenges due to leaked recordings and mediation issues with Qatar and Egypt.
  2. Gaza is experiencing a severe risk of malnutrition, with aid agencies struggling to provide for the population.
  3. Mali's ruling junta has announced the scrapping of a 2015 peace deal with separatist rebels in a move involving Algeria.

Did Iran Just Sneak Out Critical Nuclear Material from Fordow?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 709 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Iran moved 16 cargo trucks to its Fordow nuclear site just before a US attack, sparking concerns about their contents.
  2. Experts worry that Iran may have secretly relocated critical nuclear materials before the bombing.
  3. The US's military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities were claimed to be a success, but the situation is more complex than it seems.

The Deep Roots of Irish Antisemitism

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1813 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

World roundup: February 1 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 609 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza are on the rise, though there are significant details still unsettled.
  2. US and UK considering recognizing a Palestinian state, but the nature of this recognition remains unclear.
  3. Iran is pulling its Revolutionary Guard personnel out of Syria amidst growing tensions with the US over recent drone strikes.

The Middle East Metastasizes

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The conflict in Gaza is spreading, involving more countries and possibly leading to a larger war in the Middle East.
  2. Iran and Russia are actively trying to provoke the U.S. and distract from their own challenges, aiming to weaken America's influence.
  3. This situation could lead to more violence and instability, with the potential for greater harm to civilians and a complicated global response.

Michael Oren: Trump Takes a Wrecking Ball to the Middle East Status Quo

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1451 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

Bari Weiss: The Holiday from History Is Over

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4196 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The ordinary citizens of Israel demonstrated remarkable heroism and courage during times of tragedy and conflict, embodying a spirit of resilience and sacrifice.
  2. The harrowing events of October 7 in Israel served as a wake-up call about the reality of war and the importance of defending a free society.
  3. The experience in Israel prompts reflection on the universal themes of courage, sacrifice, and readiness to defend one's home and values, posing important questions about individual and societal responses to crisis.

Re-Designating the Houthis Is a Major Error

Eunomia • 668 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The Biden administration's decision to re-designate the Houthis as terrorist group is causing harm to the people of Yemen.
  2. The re-designation undermines efforts to prevent famine in Yemen and could strengthen the Houthis' power.
  3. Re-listing the Houthis as terrorists risks reigniting conflict and will have severe consequences for innocent Yemenis.

World roundup: February 7 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 569 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. On February 7, 1992, the Maastricht Treaty was signed by 12 European Community member states, deepening European integration and contributing to the formation of the European Union.
  2. In Israel-Palestine, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas's ceasefire proposal and expressed the intention to continue military actions until achieving 'absolute victory'.
  3. On February 7, 1497, Dominican friar Girolamo Savonarola conducted the notorious 'Bonfire of the Vanities' in Florence, burning thousands of luxury items, including books.

World roundup: January 27-28 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 609 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Historical events from January 27-28 include the end of the Siege of Leningrad, the liberation of Auschwitz, and the signing of the Paris Peace Accords ending the Vietnam War.
  2. Current events highlight progress towards a Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal, amidst allegations, challenges, and potential changes in aid strategies.
  3. On the international scene, actions range from ISIS claims in Turkey, militia clashes in Syria and South Sudan, electoral situations in Finland and Venezuela, to potential aid package blocks in Hungary by Prime Minister Orbán.

How close is war with Iran?

Bad News • 1159 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The prospect of war with Iran is increasing, especially with recent comments from U.S. Ambassador to Israel and new military operations.
  2. The U.S. and Israel are collaborating on military exercises and contingency plans against Iran, indicating a serious military posture.
  3. The U.S. military's Support Sentry plan shows a strategic framework for potential military action against Iran, with consequences beyond war.

World roundup: January 9 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 687 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is trying to convince Israeli leaders to stop killing Palestinian civilians, improve humanitarian situation in Gaza, and plan for a post-conflict scenario.
  2. US military carried out an airstrike in Iraq to foil a rocket attack on Ayn al-Asad airbase.
  3. Ecuador is facing a security crisis with violent incidents, including hostage situations, escalating across the country.

World roundup: February 9 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 550 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The Siege of Caizhou in 1234 marked a significant victory for the combined Mongol-Song Dynasty against the Jin Dynasty in China.
  2. The end of the Guadalcanal Campaign in 1943 was a crucial victory for the US in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
  3. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered military action in the southern Gazan city of Rafah, causing concern for the population's safety.

World roundup: January 29 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 589 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. An overview of historical events on January 29, including a battle in 1258 and 1814
  2. The Israeli military's approach to the Gaza operation involves setbacks and challenges in degrading Hamas's capabilities
  3. A proposal for a 45-day ceasefire and prisoner exchange being relayed to Hamas

World roundup: January 19 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 628 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Argentine rebel leader José de San Martín led his army across the Andes Mountains into Chile in 1817, marking a milestone in Latin American independence movement.
  2. Roselle in New Jersey was the first community to be lit entirely with electric lighting via overhead wires in 1883, designed by Thomas Edison.
  3. Israeli tensions surfaced as cabinet member Gadi Eizenkot prioritized hostage recovery and suggested a ceasefire deal with Hamas, contrasting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approach.

Natan Sharansky: Why Can’t Israel’s Leader Visit Auschwitz?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1534 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  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.

WATCH: Douglas Murray Meets the Son of Hamas

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4187 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Mosab Hassan Yousef, son of one of Hamas's founders, became an Israeli informant and helped prevent terror attacks, later converting to Christianity.
  2. Yousef has been vocal about the damage Hamas has caused to Palestinian society and the extreme hate-filled beliefs that fuel radical Islamic terrorism.
  3. Yousef's unique perspective, moral clarity, and firsthand experience make his insights important in understanding and combatting terrorist groups.

Autochthonous Wars

Yasha Levine • 648 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The debate over Jewish autochthonous status to the Holy Land is complex and influenced by personal bias and politics.
  2. Genetic studies on Jewish ancestry can be interpreted in multiple ways, leading to conflicting conclusions.
  3. The issue of Jewish identity and origins is more of a cultural and political question than a scientific one.

Taking Power Amidst the Turbulence (w/ Dylan Saba) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 93 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The Gaza genocide exposes the limits of the post‑World War II, U.S.‑led rules‑based order and signals a weakening of American hegemony, producing a more chaotic and unstable global balance. This erosion of norms increases geopolitical instability even if U.S. military power remains significant.
  2. Effective resistance can come from targeting strategic chokepoints—ports, supply chains, and critical infrastructure—and from building cross-border solidarity, since smaller or marginalized actors can inflict outsized impacts when they act strategically. Examples like actions at ports and Yemen’s strikes show how leverage at circulation points can matter more than conventional military power.
  3. Democracies are consolidating authoritarian measures to suppress dissent while the left has been weakened by electoral cooptation; to push back requires rebuilding militant, long‑term movements and broad solidarity networks outside reliance on party elites. Sustained grassroots organizing, labor coordination, and community institutions are necessary to pressure power and defend civil liberties.

Hubris to Humiliation

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Israel's surprise attack by Hamas has highlighted serious issues within its government and military. The focus on internal politics and building settlements may have weakened their military readiness.
  2. Iran's involvement in the attack is significant, as it aims to strengthen regional opposition to Israel and disrupt potential peace deals. This raises worries about a broader conflict in the region.
  3. The ongoing conflict raises questions about how Israel can effectively respond without worsening its internal divides or causing more civilian harm, as the situation in Gaza remains dire.

Jonathan Greenblatt’s Argument For Zionism Is Very Shoddy

Singal-Minded • 391 implied HN points • 15 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East
  1. Groups don't automatically have a right to their own country; history plays a big role in who gets to control land.
  2. Zionism is based on specific historical events and struggles of the Jewish people, not on a universal principle of self-determination for all groups.
  3. Understanding the complexities of land and identity is important; not every displaced group has the right to create their own state.

Neighbor Tuesday: Israel, Gaza, Palestine

The Friendly Neighbors • 1002 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The conflict in Israel, Gaza, and Palestine is complex and involves multiple sides with long histories.
  2. It's important to show solidarity and compassion for both Israeli and Palestinian neighbors.
  3. As Christians, it's possible to support Israel while also praying for peace in Palestine and recognizing the humanity of all involved.

How Palestinian History Is Systemically Forgotten (w/ Micaela Sahhar) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 119 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
💾 History Middle East
  1. Palestinian history and memory are systematically erased, so families must reconstruct the past from fragments, photos, deeds, and ephemeral records to keep their story alive.
  2. Diaspora Palestinians carry intergenerational trauma and identity, with family stories, keys, and cultural practices acting as essential links to homeland and sources of resilience against dominant narratives.
  3. The violence of 20th-century dispossession and the ongoing assault on Gaza form a continuous pattern of erasure and suppression, making archival resistance, witness-bearing, and international solidarity vital to preserving truth.

Iran has fallen*

Unreported Truths • 55 implied HN points • 13 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. The Iranian government has lost its legitimacy by using mass violence against unarmed protestors, making it effectively a "zombie" state that survives only by force.
  2. Nationwide protests met with brutal repression, internet blackouts, and graphic evidence of killings have produced thousands of deaths and a crisis whose short-term outcome depends on whether security leaders or foreign powers choose to intervene.
  3. Longstanding economic mismanagement, corruption, and prior security failures weakened the regime, and external actions that embarrassed or damaged its capabilities helped accelerate the current uprising.

World roundup: January 24 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 530 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Groundwater depletion is accelerating in many parts of the world, especially in dry regions with extensive cropland.
  2. Some aquifers have shown a decline in depletion where governments have improved water management.
  3. Negotiations around the ceasefire plan for Israel-Palestine are progressing, with disagreements on the duration and terms of the ceasefire.

The People of Gaza Are Being Starved to Death

Eunomia • 550 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. There is a man-made famine in Gaza causing mass starvation and disease.
  2. The UN warns that the situation in Gaza is a major humanitarian catastrophe requiring urgent action.
  3. Ceasefire alone won't be enough to stop the crisis; a significant relief effort is needed to prevent further loss of life.

Talking Iran with The Judge

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 27 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. A guest on the 'Judging Freedom' show discussed U.S. misadventures and interventions around the globe.
  2. The conversation focused mainly on Iran and the risks associated with U.S. policy toward that country.
  3. There was a clear hope that President Trump will avoid initiating military action or "pulling the trigger" against Iran.

Houthi and the Blown Ships

Murtaza Hussain • 511 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have significantly impacted global economy and shipping insurance rates.
  2. U.S. faces a challenge in dealing with the Houthis due to their adaptability and the potential need for a regime change operation in Yemen.
  3. Focus should be on addressing conditions that fuel violence and moving conflicts to the political realm, rather than moralizing about 'Good Guys' and 'Bad Guys.'

The Air In Gaza Smells Like Corpses

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1606 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East
  1. Gaza has a strong smell of death from the destruction and loss of life happening there. This image is powerful and haunting.
  2. The suffering in Gaza is connected to the wider state of the world, where we cannot escape the pain and consequences of war.
  3. Even as we try to move on in our daily lives, the horrors happening in places like Gaza stick with us, shaping our thoughts and feelings.