المعهد الملكي لدراسات الدفاع والأمن (قطر)

Negotiating the future US presence in Iraq

The United States and Iraqi governments are currently at loggerheads over the nature of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) which allows US forces to continue in Iraq beyond 31 December 2008. The key issue for an agreement is a clarification of Iraq�s sovereignty.

Iraq after Petraeus: How do you solve a problem called militia?

One of the many issues that face General Ray Odierno as he settles his massive military frame into the chair left empty by General David Petraeus is how to deal with the militias. Maintaining the momentum of the recent military successes relies on the continuing professional development of the Iraqi Security Forces. But if these forces are to have credibility the militia issue must be tackled.

Jordan embraces a new Middle East: King Abdullah�s visit to Iraq

King Abdullah of Jordan became the first Arab head of state to visit Iraq after the fall of Saddam. His visit signals a pragmatic policy towards a changing Middle East.

The Cedar Dissolution: Lebanon�s Civil Strife

The latest stand-off between Hezbollah and the Lebanese government underlines the primacy of the Shia movement. They have now fundamentally challenged the terms of the grand bargain between Lebanon�s many different sects and confessions.

Petraeus report to Congress � upbeat but still a long way to go

Despite the upbeat, though sober report presented by General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker, the fact remains that the US still has no workable exit strategy other than to hope for the best and be prepared to exploit whatever favourable opportunities might arise.