Anatomy of a Purge: MbS’s Actions, Saudi Arabia’s Crisis, and Its Coming Collapse

Anatomy of a Purge: MbS’s Actions, Saudi Arabia’s Crisis, and Its Coming Collapse

The ongoing purge in Saudi Arabia, together with the kidnapping and extorted “resignation” whilst on a trip to Saudi Arabia of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, is posing a host of questions about the man at the centre of this drama: the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and the country’s de factor ruler Crown Prince…

If the Saudi Arabia Situation Doesn’t Worry You, You’re Not Paying Attention

If the Saudi Arabia Situation Doesn’t Worry You, You’re Not Paying Attention

While turbulent during the best of times, gigantic waves of change are now sweeping across the Middle East. The magnitude is such that the impact on the global price of oil, as well as world markets, is likely to be enormous. A dramatic geo-political realignment by Saudi Arabia is in full swing this month. It’s…

China and the US: Comparing Leadership Selection

China and the US: Comparing Leadership Selection

The US selection of leaders has virtually nothing to do with democratic processes and outcomes. It is useful to contrast this with the process in China. In most instances, China’s selection of leaders is far more meritocratic, successful and performance-based. In both the US and China, the process lacks transparency. US Economic, Political and Cultural…

Libya: The Forgotten Reason North Korea Desperately Wants Nuclear Weapons

Libya: The Forgotten Reason North Korea Desperately Wants Nuclear Weapons

The United States and its allies continue to cajole and threaten North Korea to negotiate an agreement that would relinquish its growing nuclear and ballistic-missile programs. The latest verbal prodding came from President Trump during his joint press conference with South Korean president Moon Jae-in. Trump urged Pyongyang to “come to the negotiating table,” and…