The events in Iraq affect core U.S. interests, and Washington should be prepared to help both battle jihadist forces and press for political reforms over the long run, says CFR’s David Palkki.

UN gestures aside, Iran cannot be considered a credible partner for a coalition of states seeking to resolve the Syrian civil war, writes CFR’s Ray Takeyh.

As the presidential debate season opens, expect plenty of contrasts between how Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump view U.S. interactions in the world, writes CFR’s Elizabeth Saunders.

Iraqi Kurds have enjoyed virtual autonomy for more than two decades, but formal independence might finally be in reach due to changing realities facing Iraq and Turkey, writes CFR’s Steven A. Cook.

Saudi Arabia’s intervention in Yemen marks a more assertive foreign policy that is less inclined to rely on the United States and could intensify the sectarian rift with Iran across the region, write…