Middle East – Page 2

Neoliberalism: How America Got Rich, Lost Its Morals, and Built a Delusional Deep State Along the Way

September 8, 2024September 13, 2024

The U.S. may have lost its moral compass somewhere in the neoliberal haze, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. The key to reversing the damage is remembering that not everything has to revolve around profit margins and stock prices. There’s still time to write a new story—one where collective wisdom triumphs over corporate greed, and where the American Dream means more than just getting rich while everyone else sinks.

It Is High Time for Bangladesh to Rein the Social Engineering Media

March 21, 2024

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Smart Bangladesh vision promises a future of boundless potential, yet beneath the gleaming veneer lies a crucial question: can a nation be truly smart if its citizens are not safe online?

Aerial Strikes on ‘Terrorism’ and the Need for China’s Diplomatic Manoeuvring in the Pakistan-Iran Conflict

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024

The international community has not forgotten the numerous instances of the US violating Pakistani airspace under the pretext of targeting radical militants, yet there has been no comparable Pakistani retaliation against US interests. Given the current tensions with three of its four neighbours—India, Afghanistan, and now Iran—it would be imprudent for Pakistan to let the situation escalate, as this could invite interference from these powerful neighbours and extra-regional actors.

Categories: Africa / Central Asia / Middle East / South Asia

Resonance of War Drums Signalling an Expanding Conflict in the Middle East

January 17, 2024January 17, 2024

For the US, addressing these proxy conflicts presents multifaceted challenges. Morally, the US must navigate the complexities of engaging in regions with high civilian densities and intricate political landscapes. Financially, sustained military engagements demand significant resources, with an ever-present need to justify these expenditures to both domestic and international audiences.

Categories: America / Middle East

The Houthis and the Global Trend Towards Offensive Realism Redefining Resistance

December 24, 2023

This maneuver by the Houthis has precipitated a crisis in the US’s hegemonic status. America’s foremost objective has been to contain the Israel-Palestine conflict, preventing its escalation into a full-fledged regional war. However, the involvement of the Houthis, coupled with Hezbollah’s participation, transforms the conflict into a regional affair, albeit one restrained by diplomatic efforts and international pressure.

Categories: America / Middle East / Western Europe

Pan-Arab Fraternity Can be a Game Changer Against the Israeli Genocide in Gaza

December 22, 2023December 22, 2023

Recent developments in the region underscore the urgency of this call for a pan-Arab fraternity movement. The Arab world continues to grapple with complex geopolitical challenges, often exacerbated by external influences. While there have been instances of attempts to unite Arab nations and peoples, they have often fallen short due to internal divisions and the imposition of foreign ideologies. To address these issues effectively, it is imperative to foster a sense of shared identity and purpose that transcends sectarian and national boundaries, and this can be achieved through a pan-Arab fraternity movement.

Categories: America / Middle East

A Geostrategic Perspective of the Decline of Hegemonic Stability Theory and Emergence of Augmentism

December 13, 2023

The proposed “Augmentation Theory” or “Augmentism” represents a comprehensive approach to geostrategy that integrates key elements from the Theory of Defensive Realism, the Theory of Balance of Power, the Theory of Neoclassical Realism, and the Theory of Liberal Institutionalism. Augmentism is a very delicate balancing act that will seek to work only on the positive and sustainable growth of international relations, not otherwise, but one that can lead an emerging power into a more secure and influential position in the global arena.

Strategic Insights into Israel-Hamas War, Information Warfare, and the Quest for Lasting Peace

October 15, 2023

The Hamas offensive, Israel’s defence strategies, and the wider implications across the Middle East have unveiled the bursting nature of regional politics. This ever-evolving chessboard, where alliances shift and new actors come to the forefront, underscores the utmost importance of a deep understanding of the interplay between power, diplomacy, and conflict. Besides, the erosion of trust in mainstream media echoes the profound influence of information warfare on public discourse. In a world awash with falsehoods and competing narratives, strategic thinkers must adeptly distinguish fact from fiction and appreciate the broader consequences of these trends on the global political stage. Additionally, we must keep in mind that the illusory nature of ceasefires stands as a poignant reminder that peace is not a mere absence of conflict but a multifaceted endeavour requiring the resolution of underlying issues. In the realm of strategic thinking, we must acknowledge that temporary halts in hostilities do not guarantee enduring peace. True peace necessitates a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of conflict and aspires to establish a genuine, lasting stability.

Categories: America / Middle East

Bangladesh Must Shift Narrative from Climate Vulnerability to Energy Sovereignty in the Face of Geopolitical Climate Agendas

September 19, 2023

It’s essential to acknowledge that Bangladesh’s branding as one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations can have a discouraging effect on foreign investments. Typically, investors tend to steer clear of regions with such branding. If Bangladesh leans heavily on climate funds and aligns closely with Western narratives regarding their climate agenda’s economic implications, it could face significant challenges in achieving a sovereign energy mix that ensures a balanced energy supply. Such a balanced mix would be less susceptible to the ups and downs of geopolitical turbulence. The energy future of Bangladesh is not merely a challenge; it’s an exhilarating opportunity to seize control of its destiny in a world defined by shifting energy paradigms and geopolitical rivalries.

Categories: Indo-Pacific regions / Middle East / South Asia / Western Europe

The IMEC Initiative: A Game Changer or a Mere Mirage?

September 11, 2023

From a geopolitical standpoint, IMEC can be viewed as a strategic response to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a program that has extended China’s influence across Asia, Africa, and Europe. By cultivating stronger bonds between these three important geopolitical zones, IMEC has the potential to offer an alternative pathway for nations seeking to diversify their economic ties and reduce dependency on China.

Categories: America / Indo-Pacific regions / Middle East / South Asia / Western Europe