by Charles Naas In his first inaugural address Franklin Roosevelt stated that “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” He, of course, was referring to the deep depression and collapse of the American economy. But it is good… Continue Reading
by Charles Naas Last weekend in Vienna the world’s major powers and several additional nations with some direct or regional interest in the chaotic situation that has torn Syria apart—19 in all, including the UN and the EU—took one tiny step… Continue Reading
by Charles Naas The nuclear agreement with Iran, finally reached in Vienna in July, has now been accepted by all the negotiating partners. Pope Francis has endorsed the deal. Even Saudi Arabia and the Emirates have extended grudging support. Indeed, all countries have… Continue Reading
by Charles Naas The P5+1 negotiating team and Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, much like Sisyphus in Greek mythology, have pushed the burden of mutual understanding on Iran’s nuclear program to the hilltop. Now they see if they can avoid… Continue Reading
by Charles Naas The first steps in righting US policy and actions in the Middle East are recognition and acceptance of what we have wrought and what we can or cannot do to alter the current political realities. Clarity is required above all.