Saudi Arabia Attempts a Political Comeback in Lebanon

Saudi Arabia Attempts a Political Comeback in Lebanon

After months of keeping a low profile, following the unexpected resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri and his ambiguous stay in Riyadh in November, Saudi Arabia is attempting yet again to intervene in Lebanese politics. Longstanding relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia suffered a serious blow following Hariri’s surprise resignation while in Riyadh in…

The World Cup has Political Dimensions, and They’re All to Russia’s Benefit

The World Cup has Political Dimensions, and They’re All to Russia’s Benefit

The act of playing and watching football should always remain apolitical, but it’s impossible not to notice the political dimensions of hosting the World Cup, all of which decisively play to Russia’s favor. It was a very prudent move for President Putin to work his hardest over the years in getting FIFA to ultimately grant…

Expanded War, Hunger, Disease, Death in Yemen. No Big Deal to US

Expanded War, Hunger, Disease, Death in Yemen. No Big Deal to US

The United States is closely following developments in Hudaydah, Yemen. I have spoken with Emirati leaders and made clear our desire to address their security concerns while preserving the free flow of humanitarian aid and life-saving commercial imports. We expect all parties to honor their commitments to work with the UN Office of the Special…