Recent Posts

Despite government deal, YPJ refuses to lay down arms

The Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), affiliated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), pledged to continue fighting despite the agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF. YPJ spokesperson Rukhsan Mohammed told the British newspaper The Telegraph in remarks published today, Tuesday, 3 February, that “the struggle of the Women’s Protection …

Read More »

Iran Update, January 24, 2026

Key Takeaways Syria: The Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) agreed to extend their ceasefire in northeastern Syria for 15 days on January 24. The continued ceasefire will help ensure that the government offensive does not inflict lasting harm on US counter-Islamic State in Iraq and al Sham …

Read More »

The US Is Not Built For War Or Peace

A minor power outage in San Francisco offered a quiet preview of a strategic vulnerability hiding in plain sight. As traffic signals went dark, dozens of autonomous Waymo vehicles stalled, unable to read the roadway. With hazard lights blinking, they gridlocked intersections and slowed large parts of the city to …

Read More »

After Erdogan: Who Will Control Turkey?

Introduction It’s the strongman’s dilemma. When one leaves power — one way or another — does one pave the way for a successor? With an aging leader, Turkey may have to face that question sooner rather than later. There is no official confirmation, but sources allege that Turkish President Recep …

Read More »

Europe Falls Behind in the South Caucasus Connectivity Race

The EU lacks leadership and strategic planning in the South Caucasus, while the United States is leading the charge. To secure its geopolitical interests, Brussels must invest in new connectivity for the region. To promote the planned new Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) across the South Caucasus, …

Read More »

Iran Update, February 2, 2026

Toplines The Iranian regime is conducting a concerted campaign that involves diplomatic, informational, and military lines of effort to try to prevent US military action against Iran. Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Abbas Araghchi, President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Secretary Ali Larijani have conducted a flurry of …

Read More »