The outcome of the upcoming high-stakes U.S. election is likely to be influenced by a third party – Russia – but only if Moscow succeeds in beguiling a part of the electorate with disinformation. To preserve the integrity of the 2020 election, greater societal investment will be needed, along with a rapid response mechanism to […]
The Navigator from CGP
Uighur Jihadists in Syria
Uighur transnational jihadists fighting in Syria have served as a force multiplier for insurgents there. Without a substantial intervention by the United States, Uighur fighters could gain ground in Idlib, the only Syrian province that still has a large local and foreign jihadist presence. Uighur jihadists in Syria pose an overlooked yet significant regional and international […]
What the Cease-fire Means for Idlib Residents
*Mapping done using Google Maps/Google Earth tool Opposition-held Idlib continues to experience a massive humanitarian crisis that is unlikely to abate any time soon, despite the current Turkish-Russian brokered cease-fire. Around 3.5 million people are trapped in an ever-shrinking piece of territory with no consistent access to food, water, shelter, healthcare, or education services. […]
Demographic Engineering in Syria Sets the Stage for Future Conflicts
As the Middle East keeps lurching from one crisis to another, the U.S. government’s traditional view of these crises – through a “nation-state first” lens – and engagement in these crises with said lens will likely continue producing policy failures or dead ends. These dismal results in the region have to do in part with […]
Turkey’s High Stakes in Northwest Syria
After weeks of intense conflict in Syria’s northwestern province of Idlib, a cease-fire is finally in place. Though violations continue, it appears that the two guarantors – Turkey and Russia – remain determined to see it stick, at least for now. This presents the international community with a rare opportunity to insert itself in a […]
Saudi Deradicalization Faces the Future
The ongoing Saudi social and cultural transformation discourages religious extremism and encourages deradicalization as the Kingdom attempts a “course correction” toward moderation. Saudi Arabia is in the throes of a monumental transition. This shift, set in motion by Vision 2030,” the signature initiative of de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has expanded since […]