Politics

German resolution on antisemitism in education

A brazen act of state repression

German lawmakers are considering a new draft resolution that claims to combat antisemitism in educational institutions. Instead, it presents a one-dimensional view of Jewish life and erases crucial space for debate on Israeli politics and Germany's role in Gaza.
By Thomas Herzmark
Turkey's Gülen movement

The promise of Islamic moral governance

Though often portrayed as unique, the teachings and tactics of the Gülen movement have generally aligned with those of Turkey's Sunni mainstream. The movement's fraught relationship with the AKP reveals deeper tensions within the country's religious-political landscape. With both camps failing to establish a more ethical, Islam-based politics, a critical reassessment is overdue.
By Salim Çevik
US election 2024

What Trump's victory means for Iran

Donald Trump has won the US presidential election. Many Iranian opposition members hope that this will lead to the overthrow of the Islamic regime. But Trump's actions, especially in foreign policy, are not always predictable.
By Farhad Payar
US election 2024

Time to vote for Trump? How the Democrats are losing Arab voters

Arab-Muslim voters in the US are turning away from the Democrats because of their support for Israel. In Michigan, a Democratic mayor has even endorsed Trump. The US election may well be decided in this state, which is home to about 240,000 Muslims.
By Leon Holly
Hezbollah's new leader Naim Qassem

Stepping out of Nasrallah's shadow

Naim Qassem is a veteran of Hezbollah in Lebanon. A member since its foundation, he could never escape the shadow of Nasrallah. Now, he's the boss, and a man the Israeli government says is living with a death sentence.
By Karim El-Gawhary
UAE in Gaza

Securing a role in the postwar plan

The United Arab Emirates is supplying vital humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza. Behind the scenes, it is working closely with Israel and the US to plan for the future of the enclave—and to secure a role for itself—once the war is over.
By Mohammed Magdy
Turkey and Syria

A renewed partnership?

Damascus and Ankara came to blows following the outbreak of civil war in Syria. Now, the Turkish government and the Assad regime are seeking rapprochement. A diplomatic breakthrough would have consequences beyond regional relations—including for Germany.
By Yaşar Aydın
German policy in the Middle East

A historic failure

Germany has isolated itself worldwide with its stance towards Israel. The current coalition will soon be a thing of the past, but Germany may reap the consequences of its foreign policy failures for a long time to come.
By Daniel Bax
Hezbollah in Lebanon

Infiltrated but strategically undefeated

Hezbollah may have been infiltrated by Israel, but it is far from defeated. Its most powerful missiles are yet to be deployed. To prevent the situation from spiralling completely out of control, look to Gaza.
By Karim El-Gawhary
War in Sudan

"It's all about power, not democracy"

Tensions have momentarily eased in Sudan. Following the Geneva talks, aid supplies are flowing into the country via two corridors. But an end to the war remains out of sight, says analyst Oman Mirghani, editor-in-chief of Sudanese newspaper Al-Tayar.
By Mohammed Magdy
Europe and Gaza

The EU must regain its moral responsibility

Human rights are enshrined in the EU’s DNA, but in Gaza, the EU is complicit in blatant violations. Can the Union return to its moral principles and stop Israel and its own member states from trampling on international law?
By Michelle Pace
Impending arrest warrant for Netanyahu

Germany’s dilemma at the ICC

The International Criminal Court could soon issue arrest warrants for Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defence Minister Gallant and two Hamas leaders. As several states attempt to influence the verdict, Germany is torn between solidarity with Israel and commitment to international law.
By Elisa Rheinheimer