Middle East
Unravel the enigmatic tapestry of the Middle East, where ancient history collides with modern geopolitics in a region teetering on the edge of transformation.
Saudi Arabian Handball Federation: A Game Changer in the Desert
Vince Vanguard
The Saudi Arabian Handball Federation is a sports phenomenon rising from the Middle Eastern sands, transforming not just local handball but impacting international sports arenas with a unique blend of discipline and strategic prowess.
Sailing Through History: The 1819 Persian Gulf Campaign
Martin Sparks
Dive into the adventurous tale of the 1819 Persian Gulf campaign, where British forces confronted local rulers to curb piracy, marking an important chapter in maritime history.
Ahmed Mater: Art That Puts Tradition and Modernity on Canvas
KC Fairlight
Ahmed Mater, a Saudi Arabian contemporary artist and medical doctor, bridges the gap between tradition and modernity through his diverse artistry, capturing cultural identity and the human condition in his unique works.
Nabi Salih: A Tale Liberals Don’t Want You to Know
Vince Vanguard
Discover the unpolished and contentious history of Nabi Salih, a village that wades through complex geopolitics while challenging popular narratives.
The Al Wizarat: A Tale of Power and Influence
Vince Vanguard
Uncover the strategic maneuvers and influential tactics that established Al Wizarat as a dominant political force in the Middle East.
A Revolutionary Mind: The Intriguing Journey of Abolhassan Banisadr
Martin Sparks
Dive into the story of Abolhassan Banisadr, Iran's first president post-revolution, a man who dared to lead a nation through remarkable change with a vision that intertwined tradition and modernity.
Abolhassan Banisadr: The Iranian President Who Couldn't Lead Iran
Vince Vanguard
Abolhassan Banisadr's presidency in Iran was chaotic and brief, marking a tumultuous chapter in Iran's history. As Iran's first president after the Islamist revolution, his inability to lead effectively is a tale of political failure.
Yarmouk Martyrs Brigade: The Shadowy Faction Stirring Syria
Vince Vanguard
The Yarmouk Martyrs Brigade, a rogue faction originating in Southern Syria, illustrates the perilous fusion of power and radical ideology as they leave their mark in the tumultuous Middle East landscape.
Idlib: A Lens into Syrian Struggles and Hopes
KC Fairlight
Idlib Governorate in Syria is a poignant battleground of human resilience amid conflict. Inhabited by around 3 million, it reveals stories of struggle and slim glimmers of hope.
Idlib: The Syrian Cauldron that Defies Liberal Narratives
Vince Vanguard
Idlib Governorate is a geopolitical hotspot in Syria, revealing the chasm between ideals and reality. Its complex history challenges simplistic views on international politics.
Atef Abu Saif: A Voice from Gaza
Martin Sparks
Atef Abu Saif, a Palestinian writer and political figure, uses his storytelling to illuminate the complexities of the Palestinian experience and advocate for peace and cultural understanding.
Atef Abu Saif: The Literary Maverick Ruffling Political Feathers
Vince Vanguard
Atef Abu Saif, a Palestinian author born in Gaza, is known for his bold writings on life amidst conflict, challenging political narratives and compelling readers worldwide to face harsh truths.
The Curious Case of Walayah: A Cultural and Political Exploration
KC Fairlight
Walayah, a concept rooted in Shia Islam, influences political dynamics in regions like Iran and Iraq by intertwining religious authority with governance.
Duraid Kashmoula: Navigating Complexity in a Turbulent Region
KC Fairlight
Duraid Kashmoula steered Nineveh through Iraq's stormy post-invasion period from 2003 to 2009. His leadership offers a glimpse into the challenges of navigating complex political and cultural landscapes.
The Remarkable Journey of Duraid Kashmoula
Martin Sparks
Duraid Kashmoula's leadership in Nineveh province exemplifies resilience and unity during Iraq's challenging post-invasion period.
Duraid Kashmoula: A Conservative Icon Challenging Modern Narratives
Vince Vanguard
Duraid Kashmoula's tenure as the Governor of Ninawa Province during Iraq's tumultuous period paints a fascinating picture of conservative leadership in action.
Omar Al-Abdallat: The Jordanian Sensation Shaking Up the Music Scene
Vince Vanguard
Omar Al-Abdallat is a powerhouse in the music industry, known for his passionate embrace of Jordanian culture and tradition. His music resonates deeply, challenging trends while showcasing his unwavering commitment to authenticity.
Bahrain Shines Bright Amidst the Splash in 2022 World Aquatics Championships
Vince Vanguard
Bahrain made waves at the 2022 World Aquatics Championships in Hungary, defying expectations and setting new precedents for smaller nations engaging in global sports.
Kirkuk: Between Borders and Ballots
KC Fairlight
In Kirkuk, an oil-rich city in northern Iraq, the idea of deciding its future through a status referendum has been as electrifying as it is contentious. A hotbed of ethnic diversity, this 2017 vote for Kurdish independence sparked heated debates on autonomy and sovereignty.
The Kirkuk Status Referendum: A Pivotal Moment in Iraq's History
Martin Sparks
The Kirkuk status referendum represents a critical juncture in Iraq's history, highlighting the complex interplay of ethnic tensions, oil wealth, and geopolitical interests in the region.
Muntadher Mohammed: The Man Who Threw a Shoe and Sparked a Movement
Vince Vanguard
Muntadher Mohammed's shoe-throwing incident against President George W. Bush in 2008 became a powerful symbol of resistance and sparked widespread protests against U.S. policies in the Middle East.
The Enigmatic Al-Malikiyah Subdistrict: A Tapestry of Cultures and Conflicts
KC Fairlight
Al-Malikiyah Subdistrict in Syria is a culturally diverse region facing geopolitical conflicts and challenges, highlighting the complexities of ethnic coexistence and international interests.
Suleiman of Germiyan: A Beacon of Renaissance in Medieval Anatolia
Martin Sparks
Discover the vibrant legacy of Suleiman of Germiyan, a ruler whose blend of cultural patronage and political acumen illuminated the medieval Anatolian landscape, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Isfahan Metro: The Gamechanger Iran's Liberals Never Saw Coming
Vince Vanguard
Isfahan Metro isn't just a public transport system. It's modern Iran blending tradition with innovation, changing the rhythm of its historic streets.