While the short to medium term looks grim for the Saudi economy, the kingdom’s youth are digital optimists who see Covid-19 not as a curse but rather as an opportunity.
Author: William Law
Canada’s lost legacy of honest MENA broker
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailFor years Canada was seen as a nation that in the Middle East charted a different and nuanced course from the United States. But having surrendered that role it seems unlikely now to retrieve it.
The US Election and the Middle East
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailPresident Trump’s fight for a second term may spill over into US policy in the Middle East between now and 3 November.
The US and the UAE squeeze Lebanon
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailWith Lebanon staring into an economic abyss, the Americans and the Emiratis apply pressure and make demands that the Lebanese cannot possibly fulfil.
Saudi Arabia: missiles, Covid-19 and the Hajj
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailBattered by Houthi missile strikes, a resurging coronavirus and a low oil price, Saudi Arabia dramatically reduces the scale of the Hajj.
Israel and Palestine: on the eve of annexation
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailUS views will influence what Netanyahu decides to do on 1 July. Those of other major international actors might do so too. But domestic political considerations may be even more important.
Sisi’s line in the sand
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailEgypt’s President Sisi is threatening military action in support of the warlord Khalifa Haftar as the Tripoli-based GNA seeks to take the key coastal city of Sirte.
Humanitarian aid plunges even as Yemeni prospects worsen
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailHumanitarian aid to Yemen faces drastic cuts in a country stalked by war, famine and now Covid-19.
Jordan’s King Abdullah feels the heat as West Bank annexation looms
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailJordan’s king is fighting back against the looming Israeli annexation of West Bank territory that includes the Jordan Valley.
Oman faces a rise in Covid-19 cases
Posted on Categories Arab Digest EmailA jump in coronavirus cases has put further pressure on Oman’s economy as Sultan Haitham grapples with a “perfect storm” of low revenues and rising debt levels in the midst of the pandemic.