The issue leads with a focus on Israel, where the inclusion for the first time of an Arab party in a governing coalition adds a new dimension to the normalisation deals struck by Bahrain and the UAE last year and could enable further outreach to the Gulf
Politics coverage includes an examination of concerns that Qatar's shura elections could be marred by tribal affiliations, a look at the new-found appetite of Saudi Arabia's anti-graft body for senior targets, and the role Muscat may be playing in persuading the Houthis to sign a peace deal with Riyadh.
Defence and security coverage includes a focus on concerns about the supply of Chinese armed drones.
Energy coverage leads with Iraq, where the news that a discreet, but politically well-connected, Saudi company might partner with Schlumberger to develop the Akkas gas field in Iraq’s Western Desert could be a boost to Baghdad’s plans to substantially increase its gas supply, while also firming up the recent rapprochement with Riyadh.
The issue also includes a new map of Yemen, published alongside a revised risk management report for the country.
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