All Policy Analysis by Simon Henderson

The imminent polls will not alter the power structure of the strategically positioned Gulf state, but they could affect its simmering Shia unrest and wider regional politics.

The resultant congressional furor could throw a wrench in arms sales and other important bilateral policy matters.

Riyadh’s shifting, dubious storyline presents a dilemma for allies who want to reestablish good working relations with the world’s largest oil exporter.

A conversation with a Qatari ambassador sheds light on what is required to address Gaza’s most pressing humanitarian needs and build on the latest ceasefire talks.

The world oil market will be the most sensitive indicator of how increased sanctions affect Iran.

Trying to stop Iran’s nuclear proliferation is a task better suited to allied intelligence services than customs authorities and procurement channels.

The high-profile nature of the meeting reaffirms Israel’s success in developing ties with Gulf states, as well as the independent character of Oman’s leader.

The prospect of MbS ruling for decades was once thought to portend stability for the kingdom, but that judgment now seems premature.

With friends like these in Washington, no wonder the crown prince believes he can get away with outrageous actions.

The crisis casts doubt on whether Western officials can continue excusing the crown prince’s domestic authoritarianism.

Rumors of murder squads, jet identification numbers, and other ominous details will likely exacerbate regional rivalries.

If Riyadh did in fact order Khashoggi’s detention, it may be miscalculating the likely negative impact on U.S. diplomacy and Western investment.

Iranian disruption of Saudi production could wreak havoc on global oil markets, and be challenging to counter absent clear fingerprints from Tehran.

A new pipeline agreement will further establish Egypt as the energy hub of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Environmental concerns, uncertainty over export routes, and future security risks overshadow the latest progress in bringing the Leviathan field online.

President Trump is likely expecting some progress to emerge from this week’s diplomacy, but ongoing concerns with Islamabad’s stances on terrorism, Iran, and other issues mean he shouldn’t hold his breath.

A further delay in the Saudi Aramco sell-off adds to a growing picture of policy unpredictability.

The king has refused to be sidelined during the crown prince’s other recent instances of overreach, so he may intervene in this episode as well.

The strategic Gulf island on the frontline against Iran faces formidable financial and diplomatic challenges, made more complicated by looming parliamentary elections.