SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.
Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on the Middle East affairs commenting on the reasons for Saad Hariri’s delay in forming the Lebanese government said: The Lebanese government has suffered from an internal crisis in recent years, especially after the 2018 elections; in this way, the governments that came to power could not form a cabinet or continue to work due to some issues such as internal protests or lack of internal political understanding.
Strategic Council Online – An expert on international affairs commenting on the results of holding the two rounds of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Joint Commission meeting in Vienna said: Considering the desire of all parties to continue the negotiations, it can be said that the scenario of reviving the JCPOA is not far-fetched.
Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert of Zionist regime affairs says the public opinion in Israel believes Benjamin Netanyahu’s thirst for power is the sole reason behind the prolongation of the political deadlock, adding that political groups inside the Zionist regime have reached the conclusion that Israel needs to continue its path without Netanyahu.
Online Strategic Council—Opinion: Madam Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, 38 years old, educated in the United States and candidate of the ruling party for the position of President of Kosovo, was elected as the new President of Kosovo in the third round of voting in the 112-seat parliament with the positive vote of 71 MPs. In this voting, 11 votes were disqualified and two opposition parties and one Serb-minority party boycotted voting in the parliament. Osmani-Sadriu, former speaker of the parliament, is the second women to be elected president in Kosovo after the Balkans conflict. She is holding a ceremonial position now however she plays the leading role in determining Kosovo’s foreign policy while she is the commander in chief of the armed forces. She became the interim chief of cabinet in November 2020 after Hashim Thaci resigned as the president of Kosovo. Thaci submitted his resignation before a court in the Netherlands began investigating war crimes. Hashim Thaci is awaiting the court.
Mahmood Fazeli—International affairs analyst
Online Strategic Council—Interview: A university professor says Iraqi prime minister is trying to resolve some of the economic and financial problems of his country through Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries.
Strategic Council Online – The sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility is, in view of the head of Iran Atomic Energy Organization, tantamount to “nuclear terrorism” and according to the available signs and evidences, the finger of blame has been pointed at the Zionist regime; now the question is what is the proportional and reciprocal response to this terrorist movement and what dimensions can it have?
Dr. Ali Karbalaei Hosseini – International Law Expert
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of Afghanistan issues says the Istanbul meeting is in fact complementary to the Moscow conference and it seems there is an agreement between the Americans and the Russians behind the curtains on the future of Afghanistan and the structure of power, adding that such efforts are far from success without soliciting the prior agreement of the neighbors and the incorporation of their viewpoints.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An analyst of West Asian issues says Americans are seeking to stabilize their presence in Syria and keep parts of their forces in the north and south of Syria, saying that Americans are definitely seeking long-term plans in Syria.
Online Strategic Council—Interview: An expert of Middle East issues referred to the approach by Benjamin Netanyahu the prime minister of the Zionist regime concerning the issue of revival of the nuclear deal and his efforts to obstruct the return of the US to the JCPOA, saying Netanyahu has always made efforts to exploit the intensification of conflict between Tehran and Washington to advance his own goals.
Strategic Council Online – Since the plan for the 25-year comprehensive cooperation was sketched between Iran and China in Dey 1394 (December 2015), following the visit of President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China to the Middle East and signing of the cooperation plan document in Farvardin1400 (March/April) 2021), the issue of promoting Iran-China relations has been the focus of national and international scientific-political circles. The existence of differences, conflicting views, and various political and economic analyses from the very beginning of this document indicates that a clear understanding of the nature of this cooperation, the scope of activities, and its positive or negative consequences have not yet been achieved. In order to understand the consequences of signing a 25-year comprehensive cooperation document for domestic and international observers, it is necessary to take a brief look at the structural changes in the international system, regional developments, and Iran’s domestic policies.
Fatemeh Mahrough – Assistant Professor of International Relations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
SCFR Online – Opinion: Developments in the South Caucasus and Central Asia indicate that transit competition has become an arena for a new staging of influence among Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The upcoming Palestinian elections, after nearly two decades of hiatus, could affect the arrangement of political forces, the legitimacy of institutions, and the future path of Palestinian governance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The direct war of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran, disruption of nuclear inspections, and intensification of great power competition have taken the non-proliferation crisis beyond the issue of Iran’s nuclear program.
SCFR Online – Opinion: In the Iran–U.S. equation, China pursues a cautious balance between its energy and transit interests with Tehran and considerations related to sanctions and competition with Washington.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The simultaneity of pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb has turned the geography of energy and shipping into a new arena for the emergence of new risks, costs, and leverage.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The Makkah Pact, signed on August 7, 2026, between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, is more than an answer to geopolitical vacuums; in practice, it faces a “deterrence dilemma” and “differing threat perception.” While this pact symbolizes a transition toward regional self-reliance, its first field tests and the complexities of relations with regional actors will determine its real meaning.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The reason for Washington’s reluctance to enter directly into war with Ansarullah is military and economic limitations, electoral considerations, and concern about the expansion of the crisis at two energy chokepoints.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Ansarullah’s recent lightning-fast operation and surprise advances on Yemen’s western coast have rapidly transformed the equations of the war in that country and developments in West Asia, and have challenged the calculations of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the West, and the Israeli regime.