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Oman's diplomatic stature will rise

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OMAN

This underlines the country’s diplomatic value as the go-to regional mediator and validates its traditional foreign policy of neutrality.

Qatar could become a low-profile mediator

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QATAR

This followed Qatar's December 14 rejection of Egyptian charges that it had assisted the Islamist perpetrator of a bomb attack on a cathedral in Cairo. The accusation is the…

Norms can undermine Middle East and Africa transitions

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MENA/ AFRICA

Transitions following a peace agreement are typically seen as major opportunities for democratisation and new constitution making, and sometimes for national dialogue…

Rivalry will shape Gulf states’ relations

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GULF STATES

The restoration of diplomatic relations ends a seven-year period of intense competition between the two countries. The deal is a diplomatic agreement and does not address the root…

Omani-Saudi-Emirati tensions may rise in the Gulf

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GULF STATES/OMAN

Former territorial tensions between Muscat and its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbours have receded in recent decades, allowing smoother cross-border links. However, the…

Yemen war may see a lull, but peace prospects are poor

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YEMEN

This complicates direct talks that began recently between Saudi Arabia and the Huthis on a resolution to the wider conflict. Meanwhile, the first visible signs of progress in…

Adding women in peace talks can improve outcomes

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INTERNATIONAL

Women in peace negotiations.

Poorer Oman may align more closely with Saudi Arabia

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OMAN

The sultan this month paid his first foreign visit to Saudi Arabia, establishing institutions for ongoing cooperation. Under the previous ruler, Muscat was wary of Riyadh’s…

Israel-Hamas-Hezbollah manoeuvring endangers Lebanon

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PALESTINIANS/ISRAEL/LEBANON

The killing of Hamas leaders abroad follows existing Israeli policy. However, the greater significance stems from the challenge presented to the wider Iranian ‘Axis of…

Negotiations to end Yemen’s conflict may yet surprise

Location:

YEMEN

This follows statements on August 4 by a member of the Huthi-led Ansar Allah movement that there is optimism surrounding Saudi-Huthi talks. These developments come despite recent…