جدیدترین مطالب

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

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Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

أحدث الوظائف

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

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Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

LATEST CONTENT

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

Loading

Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

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Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

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Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

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Kuwait

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

Objectives & Motivations of Bin Salman Regional Tour

2021/12/23

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Regional tour of Mohammad Bin Salman to five countries of Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar (Persian Gulf Cooperation Council members) is considered to be the most important political, economic and security momentum of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in the last days of 2021. It is also interpreted as a remedial measure for fragile situation of Saudis at the regional and world levels. It should be noted that one of the objectives of Mohammad Bin Salman was to consult with the authorities of littoral Arab states of Persian Gulf and to make a consensus to confront some of the regional as well as the global issues such as Yemen, Iran, JCPOA revival, etc.
Hamid Khoshayand, Expert of Regional Issues

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

Saudi Political-Economic Pressures on Lebanon, Its Consequences

2021/12/11

Strategic Council Online – Interview: Former Iranian ambassador to Lebanon said that Saudi Arabia in any case seeks to create chaos, form a kind of political vacuum and create crisis in Lebanon. Riyadh also intends to lead the Resistance to the civil war and tarnish its image in that country. He noted: The main problem of Riyadh is the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and with the resignation of Mr. Qardahi, Saudi Arabia will not take a positive step to solve Lebanon’s economic problems.

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

Strategic Objectives of Saudi Arabia for Fanning Tension in Lebanon

2021/11/13

Strategic Council Online- Opinion: Any effort aimed at economic collapse of the coalition government is at first stage a kind of investment made by Saudi Arabia for the next Lebanese election in March 2022.
Hossein Sayahi, Researcher, International Affairs

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

The Baghdad conference: objectives and outcomes

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online-Opinion: On 28 August 2021, Baghdad was host to one of the most important regional meetings entitled the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Guests participating in this one-day meeting included high-ranking officials from influential Arab and non-Arab states. The Baghdad conference was highly significant from two respects: first, the level and arrangement of participants that have deep differences bilaterally, trilaterally and on many aspects, second, the goals which were pursued in the meeting at domestic, regional and international levels.
Barsam Mohammadi—International issues analyst

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

Parliamentary Elections in Qatar, Its Regional Consequences

2021/09/12

Strategic Council Online – Note: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recently issued a decree announcing the holding of parliamentary elections in that country on October 2. Although the election is considered a practice of democracy in a country with a tribal system, it challenges the approach of other tribal regimes, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, rather than the real electoral aspects.
Hassan Hanizadeh – expert on the Middle East affairs

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

Roots and outcomes of the diplomatic crises between Riyadh and Beirut

2021/06/04

Strategic Council Online—Interview: Former director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Middle East, while referring to the tensions in the relations between Riyadh and Beirut which resulted in the resignation of the Lebanese foreign minister, said if interests of Saudi Arabia are secured in the composition of the next Lebanese cabinet, the pressure would decrease and their policies will also change. Otherwise, he said, pressures will continue on Lebanon and they will create obstacles so as a stable government is not formed in Beirut.

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

Why Saudi Arabia has changed its approach to Iraq?

2021/04/20

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Middle East affairs and assistant professor of international relations in the Human Sciences Research Center says relations between Baghdad and Riyadh have faced many highs and lows during the past several decades.

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

Prospect of NATO Presence in Persian Gulf

2021/03/08

Strategic Council Online – An expert on geopolitical affairs commenting on NATO cooperation with Arab states, especially those in the Persian Gulf, said: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia since their independence had been under British tutelage and were totally dependent on that country and after Britain withdrew from east of the Suez Canal, the United States replaced it. In fact, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf think that by setting up their bases Western countries would provide them with security, but this is not the case, as we see today that Saudi Arabia is the target of the Yemeni missiles.

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

US Arms Strategy in West Asia

2021/02/02

Strategic Council Online – The US methods and incentives to sell arms to West Asia are more in line with building business for defense contractors than building security in West Asia.
Mahmoud Fazeli – Expert on international affairs

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

The Inseparability of the Lebanese Front from the Axis of Resistance

2026/06/02

SCFR Online–Opinion: By providing an extensive network of social, healthcare, educational, and post-war reconstruction services, Hezbollah has established a strong social base for itself among Lebanon’s Shiites and Sunnis, and even beyond that, among other segments of Lebanese society, including Christians. Hezbollah has never been an external actor imposed upon Lebanon; rather, it is a phenomenon fundamentally born out of the occupation and crimes of the Zionist regime and itself influenced by popular resistance.

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

The Increasing Efforts of the Zionist Regime to Redefine Borders and the Regional Order and Its Consequences

2026/06/02

SCFR Online– Opinion: Security and military developments in the region over recent months indicate that the ongoing crises and wars in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syrian territory encompass broader dimensions of geopolitical and geostrategic transformations. In this context, the increased military presence and control of the Zionist regime over parts of the territories of these areas, along with proposals regarding the creation of buffer zones or even the expansion of security borders, have raised serious questions about the future of the regional order and its consequences for the countries of West Asia.

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

The Components of Iran’s Deterrence Power

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: At a time when regional security equations have reached a sensitive stage under the influence of Iran’s strategic confrontation with the United States and the Zionist regime, the question of the nature of Tehran’s defensive power has gained greater significance than ever before. While Washington and Tel Aviv rely on their technological superiority, the Islamic Republic of Iran has presented a model of deterrence that extends beyond the material calculations of the world’s classical militaries. This power, rooted in the connection between “the field” and “the people,” has not only altered the balance of power in recent conflicts but has also disrupted adversaries’ calculations when confronting Iran’s strategic depth.

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

The Persian Gulf; A Cold Battlefield Between Beijing and Washington

2026/05/31

SCFR Online – Opinion: The competition in recent years between the United States and China encompasses various geographical regions—including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, the Arctic and Antarctic, and Africa—as well as multiple domains such as economics and technology. Within this context, a strategic competition has also emerged in the Persian Gulf region across economic, technological, and military spheres.

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

Europe’s Enduring Dependence on Persian Gulf Energy

2026/05/28

SCFR Online – Opinion: The dominant discourse in the field of European energy security over the past two decades has revolved around diversification of supply sources and the gradual reduction of dependence on fossil fuels. This narrative, which gained particular momentum after the Ukraine gas crisis in 2006 and its intensification in 2014 and 2022, was based on the assumption that Europe could free itself from the geopolitical vulnerabilities arising from dependence on specific suppliers through investment in renewable energy, imports of liquefied natural gas from diversified sources, and the establishment of new infrastructure. However, a closer analysis of energy trade data and the structure of the global oil and gas supply chain presents a different picture. Europe has not only failed to meaningfully reduce its dependence on the Persian Gulf, but in some sectors — particularly in liquefied natural gas imports — this dependence has deepened. This reality, which is often overlooked in public discourse, raises fundamental questions about the sustainability of Europe’s energy security strategies and their impact on regional power equations.

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