In-depth
The U.S. Role in a Changing Mideast
America must appreciate that it cannot dictate events in the Arab world, especially in the light of the Arab spring, veteran Middle East expert, Edward P. Djerejian, tells the Council on Foreign Relations.
One thing that is very important to influence the outcome of the Arab Spring and Awakening is to demand more political participation by the people in the affairs of their lives politically, economically, and socially. You can call it democracy, but it will be democracy with very Arab and Islamic characteristics. Whatever we can do to influence the evolution of these societies under more stable, democratic and free economic paths is where the United States should be crafting its policies.
Israel Debates a Strike on Iran
Michael Herzog of the Washington Institute takes a look at the issue currently dominating the Israeli public agenda: To strike Iran, and if so, when?
[M]ost Israelis believe that Iran is bent on acquiring nuclear weapons. They also regard a nuclear-armed Iran as a mortal threat to their country’s future and are highly skeptical that international sanctions and diplomacy will curtail Tehran’s aims. Therefore, the debate focuses on the cost-effectiveness of a unilateral Israeli strike (in both strategic and practical terms), as well as its timing and potential impact on U.S.-Israeli relations.
Daily Digest
Times of Israel: Hate crimes against Arabs constitute terrorism, says vice prime minister
Haaretz: As Assad celebrates end of Ramadan, fate of vice president casts shadow on festivities
Jerusalem Post: US congresswoman calls on EU to ban Hezbollah
Ynet: Rabbis and MKs make secret trip to Turkey
New York Times: U.S. Says Iraqis Are Helping Iran to Skirt Sanctions
Washington Post: In Egypt’s Sinai, violence poses new challenge for peacekeepers
Wall Street Journal: Kidnapping, Spats on Docket of Syria Rebel Boss
