Middle East Security

Updated Syrian Air Force and Air Defense Capabilities

This presentation examines Syrian Air Force and air defense capabilities as of May 2013 compiled by the Institute for the Study of War.

2013 Iraq Update #17B: Iraq On The Edge

Iraq continues its slide towards widespread violence. Over the weekend, the Iraqi government has issued an ultimatum to anti-government protesters following an attack in Anbar province that left five soldiers dead.

The Smart and Right Thing in Syria

"The American refusal to proffer lethal aid serves only to undermine the credibility of the U.S. with the opposition, while strengthening the hand of Qatar and Saudi Arabia." ISW Founder and President Dr. Kimberly Kagan writes for Hoover Institution's Strategika.

Maliki's Authoritarian Regime

Today, political and military power in Iraq is highly centralized in Prime Minister Maliki’s personal office. This will have important implications for the future of Iraq and the trajectory and durability of its democratic transition.

Elizabeth O'Bagy on Issues Facing Syrian Refugees with PBSNewsHour

At least 3 million Syrians have been displaced from their homes but remain within their war-torn country with no way to escape. PBS NewsHour reports.

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Overview

The Institute for the Study of War launched its Middle East Security Project in November 2011. The project seeks: to study the national security challenges and opportunities emerging from the Persian Gulf and wider Arab World; to identify ways the United States and Gulf States can check Iran’s growing influence and contain the threat posed by its nuclear ambitions; to explain the shifting balance of power within the Middle East caused by recent upheaval, and assess the responses of the United States and Arab States to address these changes as they emerge.

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Syria Update: Assad Targets Sunni along Syria’s Coast

Recent violence against Sunni communities in Syria’s coastal region raises new concern over sectarianism in Syria. It also suggests to some that Assad will move to form an Alawi state.

Iranian Strategy in Syria

The Islamic Republic of Iran has conducted an extensive, expensive, and integrated effort to keep President Bashar al-Assad in power as long as possible.

Latest Media

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Updated Syrian Air Force and Air Defense Capabilities

Video: U.S.’s Updated ‘Bunker Buster’ a Threat to Iran?

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Middle East Security Maps

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Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Activity Outside of Baghdad December 2011-November 2012

Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Activity Inside Baghdad December 2011-November 2012

Map of Syria

ISW in the News

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U.S. B-2 Bombers Conduct Training Mission Over South Korea

Video: ISW Senior Naval Analyst Chris Harmer on the U.S. conducting B-2 Stealth Bomber training missions as tensions rise with North Korea.

WSJ: U.S. Marines to be placed on Mideast ships

ISW Senior Naval Analyst Christopher Harmer discusses the plan to place Marine Corps Special Operations forces on ships throughout the Middle East in order to respond to crises.