Arab Gulf States Institute

10/14/2026

Resolving conflicts in the Middle East and meeting global challenges requires international commitment and action now in short supply. So why engage? – Kristin Smith Diwan

Resolving conflicts in the Middle East and meeting global challenges requires international commitment and action now in short supply. So why engage?

10/14/2026

As host of Gulf Cup 27, Saudi Arabia won its first trophy in over 20 years while demonstrating how sports can project soft power and foster connections. – Nuha Khan

As host of Gulf Cup 27, Saudi Arabia won its first trophy in over 20 years while demonstrating how sports can project soft power and foster connections.

10/13/2026

The defense pact with Saudi Arabia is pulling Pakistan deeper into the region’s conflict, jeopardizing its relations with Iran. – Umer Karim

The defense pact with Saudi Arabia is pulling Pakistan deeper into the region’s conflict, jeopardizing its relations with Iran.

10/13/2026

For the first time in years, the Houthis may find themselves facing a coalition rather than a single country. – Fatima Abo Alasrar

For the first time in years, the Houthis may find themselves facing a coalition rather than a single country.

10/09/2026

If the U.S. F-35 sale goes through, it will add a new layer to Saudi airpower. But the fifth-generation fighter by itself will not address Saudi Arabia’s present and future vulnerabilities. – Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco

If the U.S. F-35 sale goes through, it will add a new layer to Saudi airpower. But the fifth-generation fighter by itself will not address Saudi Arabia’s present and future vulnerabilities.

10/07/2026

Video – Is the U.S.-Iran Stalemate a “New Normal” or the Prelude to Another Explosion? with Ali Alfoneh, Kristin Smith Diwan, Amb. William Roebuck, and Hussein Ibish.

10/06/2026

As Gulf countries seek alternative routes beyond the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon is positioning Tripoli as a complementary Mediterranean gateway alongside Syria, but long-standing political and financial risks could limit serious capital inflows. – Said Bakr

As Gulf countries seek alternative routes beyond the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon is positioning Tripoli as a complementary Mediterranean gateway alongside Syria, but long-standing political and financial risks could limit serious capital inflows.

10/05/2026

Under Rezaei, the SNSC could prove constructive or paralyze strategic decision making. – Ali Alfoneh https://agsi.org/analysis/mohsen-rezaei-at-the-helm-of-irans-supreme-national-security-council/

10/02/2026

The thaw between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is likely designed to project a united front, particularly against the Houthis in Yemen. – Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

The thaw between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is likely designed to project a united front, particularly against the Houthis in Yemen.

10/02/2026

The Saudi current account moved back into deficit in the second quarter of 2026, but the external sector position of the kingdom remains very strong. – Tim Callen https://agsi.org/analysis/saudi-current-account-back-in-deficit-in-the-second-quarter/