Iran is facing international pressure over its nuclear program and assassinations of top officials. Meanwhile, its move to lift subsidies could stir public revolt.

The war is threatening the region’s access to much-needed supplies, but certain countries are more vulnerable than others to food shortages and unrest.

Any sharp drawdown of U.S. forces in Iraq grants Iran a golden opportunity to expand its influence there and threatens to inflame sectarian tensions.

The August explosions in Beirut were the latest in a series of man-made disasters that have led some experts to say Lebanon is becoming a failed state.

Saudi Arabia has made unprecedented investments in international sports. Critics accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing” its reputation for human rights abuses.