The late Saudi prince was a polarising figure involved in many regional issues, particularly counter-terrorism. In many ways the repercussions following the death of Crown Prince Nayef, heir to the Saudi throne, are far greater than those that followed the death of his predecessor Prince Sultan nine months ago. Read more »
The Guardian
Reform in Arab Gulf regimes is unattainable – for now
Much has been said over the past 12 months about the need for reform and democratisation by Arab Gulf governments. While it is evident that Gulf governments have an aversion to genuine democratic reform, it is far too simplistic to put the blame for political stagnation squarely on them. For behind these governments is a network of interests so powerful and intricately woven that it acts as a resistance lever even in the rare instances where serious political reform is suggested. Read more »
No repeat of Kyrgyzstan in Arab states
Arabs feel hopeless, having learned the hard way that trying to overthrow their corrupt or repressive regimes is a futile exercise. Read more »
Time for Arabs to get serious about Iraq
The Arab countries have been slow to establish ties with post-Saddam Iraq. But it’s in everyone’s interest that they do. Read more »