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A display shows currency exchange information, in the Grand Bazaar in Tehran, Iran, August 17, 2026.
Middle East

How Iran has staved off economic collapse despite the US-Israeli war

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has promised 'unprecedented' squeeze on Tehran. Why hasn't this worked already?

MQ-9 Reaper drone
QiOSK

The Iran war flushed $1.3 billion of Reaper drones down the drain

The military has lost 25% of its fleet over the past five months

President Donald J. Trump meets with his cabinet at Camp David, Maryland.
Middle East

Why the Trump administration will have to accept a Hormuz toll

It wouldn't be unprecedented, and Gulf countries are already seeking out alternatives to the strait, which means its importance will eventually diminish

An international meeting chamber in the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland
Middle East

The rise or fail of middle powers will determine Middle East peace

The region has long lurched from crisis to crisis. A better approach is possible but demands an diplomatic "table" with yes, everyone invited.

People walk next to a symbolic mockup of an Iranian missile and an Iranian flag at Imam Hussein Square in Tehran, Iran, on July 12, 2026.
Middle East

Surprise strikes signal Iran is digging in for a long war

As hopes for a peace deal with the US fade, Tehran appears to be preparing to fight through the end of Trump's presidency

Eisenhower Nasset Suez
Middle East

Will Trump meet his Suez moment & seize Hormuz deal on the table?

Oman and Iran appear close to a temporary arrangement to reopen the Strait — which Washington should welcome if it keeps traffic open and free