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The World Next Week: Al Qaeda Resurfaces in Iraq, Egyptians Vote on a Constitution, and Thais Protest Ahead of Elections

<p>Sunni gunmen protest against Iraq&#8217;s Shiite-led government in Fallujah on January 7, 2014. (Stringer/Courtesy Reuters)</p>
Sunni gunmen protest against Iraq’s Shiite-led government in Fallujah on January 7, 2014. (Stringer/Courtesy Reuters)

By experts and staff

Published
  • James M. LindsayCFR Expert
    Mary and David Boies Distinguished Senior Fellow in U.S. Foreign Policy

The World Next Week podcast is up. Bob McMahon and I discussed ongoing violence in Iraq’s Anbar province, Egypt’s constitutional referendum, and anti-government protests in Thailand.

[audio: https://www.cfr.org/content/publications/media/editorial/2013/20140109_T…]

The highlights:

For more on the topics we discussed in the podcast check out:

Violence in Iraq: Max Boot and Ned Parker discuss the current situation in Iraq and what can be done about it. Max Boot also explains how al-Qaeda terrorized its way back in Iraq. The New York Times writes that the war in Iraq did not end when the United States withdrew. Al-Jazeera reports on the deal struck between the Iraqi military and tribal leaders to fight Al-Qaeda militants.

Egyptian Referendum: The Wall Street Journal describes the “odd partnership” between the Islamist Party and secularist liberals to support the constitution. CBS News reports on clashes last week between police and Muslim Brotherhood supporters. Steven Cook analyzes the current situation in Egypt. Al-Jazeera writes about Egyptians living abroad who will vote in the referendum.

Thai Protests: The New York Times analyzes political divisions in Thailand. UPI discusses the protesters’ plans to shut down Bangkok. Reuters reports on economic concerns exacerbated by the protests. Josh Kurlantzick writes about the amnesty bill that sparked protests and asks if Thailand can move forward in 2014.