World Won’t Let Catalonia or Kurdistan Come Quietly onto the Map
Independence for Catalonia and Kurdistan would upend the regional order in Europe and the Middle East.
Iraq
Iraq’s Kurds Deserve the West’s Support for Their Own State
How much longer do they need to wait?
Iraq Takes Similar Approach to Separatist Challenge as Spain
Both governments try to stop independence referendums by legal means. Neither appears to be succeeding.
After Caliphate’s Fall, A Spending Challenge
Once the Islamic State is defeated, governments will face the challenge of rebuilding.
Catalans, Kurds, Given No Other Choice, Announce Referendums
Denied more autonomy by Madrid and Baghdad, the two minorities push for votes on independence.
Defeat in Mosul Will Not Eliminate the Islamic State
Pushing the Islamic State out of Mosul could bring more destruction to the capitals of Europe.
A Tale of Two Cities in Mosul
A sense of normalcy is returning in liberated Eastern Mosul. In Western Mosul, the Islamic State still rules.
After Mosul Falls, What Then?
The Iranians, Russians, Saudis and Turks are all jockeying for influence in Iraq while America looks on wearily.
What the Upcoming Battle of Mosul Tells Us About the Iraqi State
Mosul fell because of the Iraqi state’s dysfunction. The counteroffensive may succeed, but it won’t be enough.
Can We Now Finally Bury the “Bad Intelligence” Myth?
By continuing to blame “bad intelligence” for the Iraq War, Western leaders are shirking their responsibility.
Partition Is Not the Answer to Iraq’s Problems
Splitting the country in three wouldn’t make Iraq more governable. What it needs is different leadership.
Kurdish Independence Would Reverberate Across Region
Independence for the Kurds could destabilize Iraq’s neighbors and upset long-standing alliances.
Timing Ideal for Iraq’s Kurds to Declare Independence
Regional factors have arrayed in the Kurds’ favor. Things might not stay the same for long.
“Era of Sykes-Picot is Over”: Kurdish Leader
Iraq and Syria cannot be put back together again.
After Paris, Obama Stays the Course Against Islamic State
Politicians thumping their chests are letting the shock of the attacks cloud their judgement.