With his corrupt rival term-limited out of office, the favorite of Western elites hopes to patch together a potent electoral coalition that can overcome potential vote-rigging.
Abdullah Abdullah looks again to Afghan presidency
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Posts Categorized: Middle East
New Iran president’s reformist drive still uncertain
Less inflammatory than Mahmoud Ahmadinejad but probably too weak to make genuine policy concessions.
Iraqi Kurd vote could cement autonomy, inspire diaspora
If, as expected, the Kurdistan Democratic Party triumphs, the win will cement the regional government’s autonomy.
Kerry calls for U.N. Syria action as Putin mulls fourth term
Russian president takes advantage of string of diplomatic and media victories, would be country’s longest-serving autocrat since Joseph Stalin.
Rowhani signals compromise ahead of first U.S. visit
But is the self-styled moderate simply serving as a propaganda tool for Iran’s clerical leadership as it seeks to co-opt domestic opposition?
Could Kerry’s Syria gaffe prevent U.S. intervention?
The U.S. Secretary of State suggested in off-the-cuff remarks that if Assad handed over his chemical weapons and let them be destroyed, conflict might be averted. Immediately, diplomats worldwide jumped on the proposal.
Erdogan against the ropes with stalled Kurdish peace
The prime minister’s hope for an expansion of presidential powers relies on support from Kurdish legislators – an unlikely prospect if Ankara doesn’t bend.
Obama faces Syria pushback at home and abroad
There are quite a number of Democrats in the Senate who remain unpersuaded that unleashing Tomahawk missiles on Damascus is an optimal way of resolving their crisis and persuading President Assad to stand down from his use of chemical weapons.
Republicans boost Obama on Syria intervention
Unlikely support from conservative opposition that has hampered his domestic agenda puts U.S. president in strong position as he gears up to join Sunni rebels fighting the Assad regime.
Egypt backtracks on Brotherhood dissolution- for now
The interim Prime Minister’s apparent about-face on his calls to dissolve the group should inspire some skepticism.
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