In addition to producing the flagship fortnightly Gulf States Newsletter, GSN’s team of experienced analysts also produce briefings and reports on a range of topics and issues that affect the region. Our expertise can be tapped by anyone and delivered in a range of formats. For more information contact Nick Carn. nick@gsn-online.com
Welcome
For over thirty five years, GSN has been breaking news and providing informed analysis on the people, politics and resources of the Gulf region.
Our information is based on independent research and staff expertise. We are not a web-based aggregator that rehashes wire stories and press releases.
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HEADLINES
Abu Dhabi rides high over global financial crisis, remakes itself as a post-modern urban centre
An increasingly assertive Abu Dhabi is looking to draw in international partners and assets, to consolidate its traditional position as the UAE’s federal capital and engineering hub, and to emerge as the Gulf city that uses its wealth to plan development with respect for social traditions and environmental constraints while emerging as a significant new international player. GSN examines the oil-rich emirate’s growth strategy and attitudes towards spending money – at home and on less wealthy emirates. more (opens a new window)
Assertive Saudi
Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic confidence has grown during the last three years. As King Abdullah has consolidated at home, he has forged a foreign policy based on national self-interest but which also pushes a positive global and regional agenda. It’s not just for its wealth that Riyadh is now a destination of choice for major international leaders. Saudi Arabia is also developing militarily, and GSN analyses its combat aircraft procurement plans, and competition among exporters to supply the region. more (opens a new window)
‘Threat’ to Iran
Speculation has died down that the United States or Israel might attempt to bomb Iran’s nuclear facilities,. But with the world transfixed by Barak Obama’s victory GSN has been sounding out opinion in the analyst and intelligence communities to ask whether the period between the US election and the 20 January inauguration might yet become a time of high risk, with hawks on all sides looking to consolidate their positions before the new man moves into the Oval Office. more (opens a new window)
Bahrain violence points to polarisation
Street violence flared in Bahrain during late September and October, leading to another major security hunt for a group of Shia protestors who were allegedly involved in a serious assault on three men. The crowd threw a Molotov cocktail at a car that contained three Bahraini Shia male civilians who escaped with light injuries. Bahraini security insiders told GSN the attackers believed the vehicle carried a Bahraini Secret Intelligence Service (BSIS) surveillance team.
Whatever the truth – no completely independent witnesses are yet available – the incident should be seen against the background of growing tension in Bahrain, as the authorities maintain a firm line which leading opposition figures fear will only deepen disenchantment among young Shiite men.
The attack took place in early hours of 30 September on Zayed Bin Omeira highway in the Demistan region as the men returned from the Bahraini International Circuit. The estimated 25-strong attacker group included a number of men dressed in women’s abayas, the victims stated. Bahraini security sources claimed the Al-Haq movement had recently started to attack police and BSIS ‘watchers’ and sources, in an organised counter-intelligence drive. more (opens a new window)
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