Blog: The War for Washington

Blog: The War for Washington

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The new commander since March 1, 2026, Major General Ahmad Vahidi, has always been considered a hardliner, and he proved it when he ordered attacks on the Arab Gulf states. After President Masoud Pezeshkian (above on Sept. 25, 2025) apologized to those states and promised that this would not happen again, Mr. Vahidi severely reprimanded the president and the attacks resumed with a vengeance.
Middle East Forum Online
Inside Iran’s Fragmented Decision-Making Structure
Iran’s Competing Power Centers Are Shaping Negotiations, Escalation Risks, and Regional Strategic Decisions
May 24, 2026
 · 
Amatzia Baram
Across the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa, meanwhile, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been projecting power and competing for port access, the right to establish military bases, and political influence in Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, and Djibouti.
Middle East Forum Online
Are Washington’s Most Important Gulf Allies on a Collision Course?
A Consequential Fault Line in the Middle East Runs Not Just Between Riyadh and Tehran but Between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi
May 24, 2026
 · 
Hussein Aboubakr Mansour
Israel does not need this aid to remain a tier-one defense power. Defense exports hit $14.79 billion in 2024, the fourth consecutive record year. Image: An Israeli Air Force F-35.
Middle East Forum Online
The U.S.-Israel Aid Era Is Ending; Drift Is the Greatest Risk
The Only Open Question Is Whether the Transition Is Built or Improvised
May 24, 2026
 · 
Gregg Roman
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