The moves on the Iraqi gameboard show that when it comes to warfare, military strategy and conflict management, Iran plays chess while the US plays backgammon.
In Charts: Iran

A collection of charts, graphs and maps exploring Iran — its people, economy and its military.
Middle East: Ever More Unstable

A review of seven Mideast conflicts, each one ever more intractable.
The Killing of Qassem Soleimani: The US Misreads the Tea Leaves

The killing of Mr. Soleimani is bound to boost the hardliners in Tehran who are now expected to win next month’s Iranian parliamentary election.
What’s at Stake in Lebanon

Lebanon’s peaceful revolution faces being crushed by Iran-backed Hezbollah terrified of a new Middle East politics.
Putin (Clumsily) Seeks to Exploit Gulf Tensions

Putin still has much to learn to make the most of the opportunities that arise from the United States’ strategic shifts and tactical fumbles.
Macron’s Grand Design: The Russia-Iran Deal for Trump

Macron seems to be prepping a tempting offer: How about letting Russia back into the G8 (as Trump wants), in exchange for Trump cooling his fire on Iran?
Middle East: Towards a Nuclear Arms Race

U.S. policy is confounding efforts to prevent the Middle East from barreling towards a nuclear and ballistic missiles arms race.
US Vs. Iran: The Gulf of Tonkin Precedent

Are the warmongers in the U.S. faking attacks from supposed Iranian sources? The lessons of the Vietnam War provide a clear warning.