FOREIGN AFFAIRS; Editor’s Picks: Instability in the Middle East

 A number of recent essays in Foreign Affairs cover the latest developments—and offer paths forward.

January 23, 2024  |  View in Browser

The lights are flashing red for many observers of the Middle East. The region is flirting with a dangerous escalation of conflict, as Israel's war in the Gaza Strip continues to take a devastating toll. A number of recent essays in Foreign Affairs cover the latest developments—and offer paths forward. Marwan Muasher and Natan Sachs each offer recommendations for how to move toward a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Narges Bajoghli and Vali Nasr examine the rise of the so-called axis of resistance—an alliance among Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, Iran, and other groups. And Alexandra Stark argues that the United States should respond to Houthi aggression with diplomacy rather than military action. Start reading below:

The Greater Goal in Gaza For Lasting Peace, Israel Must End Its Occupation of Palestinian Land By Marwan Muasher

Peace Between Israelis and Palestinians Remains Possible But to Get There, Both Sides—and America—Need to Be Realistic About What’s Achievable Now By Natan Sachs

How the War in Gaza Revived the Axis of Resistance Iran and Its Allies Are Fighting With Missiles and Memes By Narges Bajoghli and Vali Nasr

Don’t Bomb the Houthis Careful Diplomacy Can Stop the Attacks in the Red Sea By Alexandra Stark