The issue leads with a look at the Gulf’s younger royals who have taken on greater influence in the decisions and political philosophies of their respective governments. Specifically, the recent ambitious movements made within Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are explored.
GSN also takes a look at Abu Dhabi in this issue’s politics section and how the emirate has moved from a successful campaign in bolstering its commercial and leisure sectors into a focus on military and diplomatic strength. The shakeup of the emirate’s police force is also reported upon in a later defence article.
The Diplomatic Brief section addresses the deal struck between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the Iranian regime for the release of hostages.
Finance and Business coverage includes a look at the Japanese investment conglomerate SBI who have made moves within Saudi Arabia, establishing deals in mid-January.
The Risk Management Reports are on Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudan has taken a recent trip to the UK. GSN explores his diplomatic moves in the context of Trump pressure, elections within the country and border security concerns on both Syrian and Kuwaiti sides.
A following map of Iraq illustrates areas of Defence and diplomatic importance.
The GSN view for issue 1195 focusses on Kuwait wherein what is claimed to be a clamp-down on abuse of the system has left tens of thousands without citizenship.