Washington’s Post‑Midterm Calculus: Options and Risks in a Standoff with Iran
How Washington’s strategic, legal and diplomatic options shape the risk of escalation with Iran after the midterm elections.
Diplomacy
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Why a Diesel Export Ban Would Harm U.S. Interests
Banning diesel exports to curb prices risks market disruption, lost investment and strained alliances, with limited relief for consumers.
How Xi Jinping Viewed the United States During the Trump Years
An evidence-based look at Beijing’s strategic response to U.S. policy under Trump and the lasting effects on bilateral ties.
Gulf Hedging Fails to Shield Region from War’s Fallout
Gulf states’ security balancing has not prevented economic and security fallout from regional war, exposing limits of current strategies.
Gulf Hedging Fails to Shield States from Regional War Fallout
Gulf states’ balancing acts — with Washington, Tehran and other partners — have not prevented economic and security fallout from regional conflict.
China’s Quiet Advance: How Beijing Gained Ground as U.S. Influence Waned
In 19 months Washington ceded economic and diplomatic ground to Beijing, reshaping regional ties and global institutions.
U.S. Pressure to Send Korean Forces to Hormuz Strains Alliance
Washington’s demand that Seoul deploy forces to the Strait of Hormuz is creating political friction and strategic dilemmas for the U.S.–South Korea partnership.
Why Some Conservatives Embrace International Law’s Practical Benefits
How conservative principles intersect with the practical advantages of a rule-based global order.
Ambiguous Signals: What Sergio Gor’s Remarks Mean for U.S. Policy in South Asia
Unclear envoy statements raise questions about who sets U.S. messaging on South Asia and the diplomatic consequences for partners like India.
Trump Sends Saudi Nuclear Agreement to Congress, Conditioning It on Riyadh’s Recognition of Israel
Washington transmits a civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia to Congress, conditioned on the kingdom’s formal recognition of Israel.