Politics

Saudi Arabia’s divided anti-Houthi coalition

Rescuing the state of Yemen

United Yemen’s future looks increasingly doubtful. August 2022 saw fierce fighting between members of Saudi Arabia's anti-Houthi coalition forces in the southern Yemen governorate of Shabwa. By Stasa Salacanin
By Stasa Salacanin
Khaled Hroub on Hamas

"A project of resistance"?

Hamas' influence may be on the rise, but as yet the movement has failed to assume national leadership. Palestinian political analyst Khaled Hroub examines the factors at play with Michael Young
By Michael Young
Russia, Ankara and Damascus

Who decides Turkey's foreign policy?

Following months spent considering a military incursion into northern Syria, Turkey now appears to want talks with Syria to ensure security and the return of refugees. From Istanbul Ayse Karabat analyses what caused the about-turn for Qantara.de
By Ayşe Karabat
Ukraine conflict

How Russia is winning the information war in the Middle East

A wide network of official and unofficial outlets and social media in Arabic parrot pro-Russian talking points about Ukraine. They are often lies, yet somehow the reports still appeal to people in the Middle East. By Cathrin Schaer and Emad Hassan
By Cathrin Schaer & Emad Hassan
Saudi Arabia

When a tweet gets you 34 years in prison

The ruling is part of an ongoing clampdown on dissent and minorities in the kingdom. But so far, it's unlikely to have an effect on the kingdom's newly polished image as a global oil provider in times of crisis. Jennifer Holleis reports
By Jennifer Holleis
The Holocaust, colonialism and mutual understanding

Time for a refresher in humanity

It is possible to write about the Holocaust and the crimes of colonial powers without downplaying anything. In her latest book, Charlotte Wiedemann focuses on the numerous blind spots in our culture of commemoration. By Rene Wildangel
By René Wildangel
Indian democracy at 75

Narendra Modi’s damaging dominance

In office for more than eight years, Narendra Modi’s high popularity across India and formidable electoral clout make him nearly invincible. But, while his success in amassing political power is unquestionable, his ability to use it for the benefit of the vast majority of citizens remains very much in doubt. By Shashi Tharoor
By Shashi Tharoor
Pakistan turns 75

Islamabad has serious issues

Seventy-five years ago, Pakistan emerged, along with India, from the British Raj. A country with potential – were it not for the ongoing tensions with India and many home-grown economic problems. Haroon Janjua reports from Islamabad
By Haroon Janjua
The Islamic Republic and Putin's war

Iran's sacred mission in Ukraine?

Since Ali Khamenei, Iran's most powerful man, has openly and unconditionally come out in support of Putin's war in Ukraine, logistical help is on its way, with an allegedly civilian airline playing a key role. By Ali Sadrzadeh
By Ali Sadrzadeh
Data centre plans in Saudi Arabia

Google puts Saudi activists in danger

Internet giant Google is creating a "cloud region" in Saudi Arabia. It says it will protect users there. But digital rights activists say the firm will be putting the lives of government critics at risk. Cathrin Schaer reports
By Cathrin Schaer
Afghanistan

One year on, Taliban torn over reforms

One year on from the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan, some cracks are opening within their ranks over the crucial question of just how much reform their leaders can tolerate.
"The Kashmir Files"

Serving up Indian propaganda

The highly controversial Indian blockbuster "The Kashmir Files“, on the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus in the 1990s, is characterised by unilateral representations, negative stereotypes and historical inaccuracies. By Dominik Muller
By Dominik Müller