Algerian Presidential Election 2024: A Predictable Outcome As Algeria prepares for its upcoming presidential election, the outcome seems already determined. Experts suggest that the incumbent President Abdelmajid Tebboune is likely to secure another term in office, given the lack of viable opposition candidates. The strong influence of the military in Algerian politics has historically played a crucial role, and Tebboune continues to have their support. Additionally, a crackdown on dissent has significantly reduced the number of challengers, with only two candidates left to oppose Tebboune. Although the remaining candidates share similar economic agendas, Algeria’s economic stability remains a concern. While…

Fears of escalating tensions between the Israel Defense Forces and Palestinian militant factions in the West Bank are at an all-time high this week. Israel’s recent ground-and-air operation resulted in the deaths of dozens of militants, prompting Hamas to call on Palestinians to rise up against Israel. Although Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has condemned the Israeli raids, his forces are not expected to join Hamas. However, the risk of a major escalation in the West Bank is growing as Iran-backed militias, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, could potentially carry out more attacks. The West Bank, home to 3…

The End of an Era: Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and the Western Sahara Conflict For five decades, the Western Sahara has been a territory at the heart of conflict, with Morocco’s King Mohammed VI now potentially witnessing its historical resolution. The region, rich in phosphates and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, has been claimed by both the local Sahrawi people seeking autonomy and Morocco, leading to repeated clashes with neighboring Algeria. This summer, France made a significant diplomatic shift by supporting Morocco’s plan for the Western Sahara, which includes creating autonomous political institutions while maintaining control over crucial aspects. The recognition…

Assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas Leaders Escalate Middle East Tensions The recent killings of top Hezbollah and Hamas leaders by Israeli forces have intensified tensions in the Middle East. The assassination of Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukur in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran have raised concerns about further conflict. Israel holds Shukur responsible for a deadly attack in the Golan Heights, while Haniyeh’s death follows an assault on Israel by Hamas, triggering the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Experts warn of the severe repercussions of these assassinations. Kelly Petillo of the European Council on Foreign Relations believes the…

The recent assassinations of top leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas have escalated tensions in the Middle East. Israel claimed responsibility for the killing of Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukur in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. These assassinations follow deadly attacks by both groups, leading to a war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The deaths of Shukur and Haniyeh have far-reaching consequences for the region. The moves are likely to boost support for Hamas and Hezbollah, potentially impacting peace negotiations and reconciliation efforts. The assassinations also put pressure on Iran, which supports both groups financially and militarily. The…

New European Approach Towards Syria: Rethinking Strategy European countries are considering changing their stance on Syria, with eight nations showing willingness to thaw ties with Syrian President Bashar Assad. These countries are proposing the creation of an EU-Syria envoy and designating “safe zones” within Syria for returning migrants. Although the situation in Syria remains complex and unsafe, some European nations see potential benefits in renewing ties with Assad. This shift comes as Syria was readmitted to the Arab League in 2023 and amidst ongoing conflict in the country. Despite the potential economic benefits of normalizing relations, experts raise concerns about…

The recent raid by Libyan security forces on a coffeeshop in Zuwara has sparked fear among migrants trying to reach Europe. The arbitrary arrests and human rights violations in Libya are alarming international organizations like the United Nations. With mass graves being discovered and ongoing abuses against migrants, the situation in Libya remains dire. Despite a decrease in departures to Italy, more migrants are traveling through Libya due to the country’s lawlessness. The lack of order in Libya, with different administrations and militias in control, creates an attractive yet dangerous route for migrants seeking better opportunities in Europe. International pressure…

Abdul Qader Basmaji, a Syrian refugee, experienced detainment and deportation from Turkey back to Syria, losing everything he had built in Istanbul. Despite the economic crisis in Syria, many refugees like Basmaji are forced to return, facing uncertain and dangerous futures. With little to no financial support, returning to Syria often means starting from scratch in a war-torn country with limited resources. In Lebanon, the situation is no better, with reports of forced deportations and human rights violations against Syrian refugees. Families like Trad’s face heartbreak as loved ones disappear after being deported without warning. International organizations urge countries like…