MEF Dispatch: U.S.-Cyprus Ties, Europe’s No-Go Zones, a nd America’s Future in the Middle East

U.S.-Cyprus Ties, Europe’s No-Go Zones, and America’s Future in the Middle East

By Winfield Myers ● Nov 24, 2024

Smart Brevity® count: 5 mins...1287 words

Today’s MEF Dispatch covers topics spanning the globe, from Cyprus to the Middle East, and from Europe to the U.S. We note that Cyprus-U.S. ties are sure to strengthen given positive domestic influences in both countries and Turkey’s increasing hostility to the island nation. In the waning days of the Biden administration, we urge the president to invite Prime Minister Netanyahu to the Oval Office to demonstrate his opposition to the Netherlands-based International Criminal Court’s politicized indictment of the Israeli leader.

Also in Europe, we report that “no-go zones” are proliferating across the continent as increasing numbers of Muslim immigrants create de facto sharia-ruled areas where non-Muslims are unwelcome. We cover one woman’s journey from antisemitism inculcated in her Syrian upbringing to her embrace of Zionism after her move to Europe. In America, we offer suggestions for the type of Middle East policy-makers President-elect Trump should look to as he staffs the executive branch. Hint: practitioners with ground-level experience in the region are a much better choice than politicized theorists with few real-world accomplishments in their resume.

Picking the Right Middle East Policy Makers

Selecting the right policymakers for Middle East roles is a crucial task during presidential transitions.

Why it matters: Ensuring the right balance of experience, instincts, and temperament is vital for effective governance in the Middle East.

Focus on practitioners, not theorists: Practical experience trumps theoretical knowledge in this region. Candidates who have worked on the ground and negotiated with local stakeholders bring invaluable insights that go beyond academic credentials.

Balancing hawks with pragmatists: A diverse team that includes both hawks and pragmatists ensures policies are bold yet realistic. This balance is essential for navigating the intricate dynamics of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Keep politics out of critical roles: Political appointees often lack the expertise needed for key Middle Eastern policy positions. These roles should be filled by professionals with a deep understanding of regional dynamics, not political allies.

To read the full article, click here.

If Biden Really Opposed the ICC, He Would Invite Netanyahu to the Oval Office

The International Criminal Court's (ICC) indictment of Israeli leaders has sparked significant controversy in international law.

Why it matters: The ICC's actions have strained diplomatic efforts and impacted peace processes in the Middle East. If the Biden administration truly opposes the ICC's decision, a bold gesture – like inviting Netanyahu to the Oval Office – could shift international perceptions.

ICC's controversial move: The ICC indicted Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Gallant, despite accusations being grounded in contested legal and factual assertions. The move is politically motivated rather than legally justified.

Diplomacy at a crossroads: By inviting Netanyahu to the White House, Biden could dismantle the stigma the ICC seeks to impose on Israeli leaders. Such an act might encourage other nations to reassess their stance towards Israel and foster a renewed dialogue for peace.

To read the full article, click here.

FWI Exclusive: PayPal Closes Account of Iranian-Controlled Institute in Berlin

PayPal has closed the account of the Berlin-based Al-Mustafa Institute due to its connections with Iran, raising concerns about international security.

Why it matters: Al-Mustafa Institute, linked to the Iranian regime, is under scrutiny for its role in recruiting for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force (IRGC-QF). This highlights ongoing international efforts to curb terrorism financing and influence.

Germany's investigation: German authorities are examining the institute's activities, focusing on potential espionage and recruitment. This move aligns with broader efforts to counter Iranian influence in Europe.

Global implications: The closure could signal a shift in how international financial platforms handle sanctioned entities, potentially leading other countries to reevaluate their own policies toward Iran-linked organizations.

To read the full article, click here.

Europe Is Turning Into One Big No-Go Zone

The Migration Research Institute reports a significant rise in no-go zones across Europe, a stark consequence of open-border policies.

Why it matters: These zones, where law enforcement struggles to maintain order, pose serious challenges to public safety and social cohesion, threatening the stability of European societies.

Security concerns: German police and officials admit to challenges in areas with high concentrations of Muslim immigrant populations. Such areas have seen rising crime rates and reduced access for emergency services, highlighting a growing governance issue.

Policy implications: The establishment of no-go zones underscores the need for European countries to reassess their immigration policies and integration efforts. Failure to address these issues could lead to further erosion of public trust and social fragmentation.

To read the full article, click here.

Speech Before the 20th Annual Economist Cyprus Forum

U.S.-Cyprus ties are set to strengthen, marking Cyprus as a key strategic partner for Western interests.

Why it matters: Once viewed as a weak link, Cyprus is now seen as a solution to various geopolitical challenges, highlighting its growing strategic importance in the region.

Diplomatic evolution: The U.S. and Cyprus recently concluded their first-ever Strategic Dialogue, signaling a shift from viewing Cyprus as a problem to a vital partner. This reflects a broader trend of bipartisan support for Cyprus in U.S. foreign policy.

Geopolitical factors: Cyprus's strategic location and proactive diplomacy have elevated its role in Western security strategies, especially as regional dynamics shift with Turkey's changing alliances and Russia's aggression in Ukraine.

To read the full article, click here.

Rawan Osman: An Arab Woman’s Journey from Antisemitism to Zionism

Rawan Osman, a Lebanese-Syrian activist based in Germany, has gone from antisemitism to advocating for Zionism, shedding light on pervasive biases in the Arab world.

Why it matters: Osman's story demonstrates the impact of antisemitic propaganda in the Arab world and the transformational power of uncensored information. Her journey highlights the need for open dialogue and understanding to combat ingrained prejudices.

Breaking barriers: Through her platform, Arabs Ask, Osman fosters dialogue between Arabs and Israeli Jews, challenging misconceptions and promoting peace. Her experience exemplifies the potential for change when individuals have access to diverse perspectives.

A call to action: Addressing antisemitism and extremism is crucial for regional peace. Osman's journey serves as a reminder of the importance of education and dialogue in overcoming historical biases and building a more inclusive future.

To watch the full podcast episode, click here.

Azerbaijan Treats the Khojaly Massacre as Original Sin, but Its Narrative Is Fiction

Azerbaijan's narrative of the Khojaly massacre is challenged by historical evidence, revealing a manipulated account used to justify political agendas.

Why it matters: The Khojaly myth is a tool used by Azerbaijan's leadership to strengthen its rule and distract from domestic issues. Understanding the truth is essential for informed policy decisions and international relations.

Historical discrepancies: Reports from the time highlight inconsistencies in the Azerbaijani narrative, with inflated casualty figures and conflicting accounts of the event's circumstances. This challenges the legitimacy of Azerbaijan's claims and its use of the event for propaganda.

Policy implications: The United States and other nations should reject Azerbaijan's narrative. Accurate historical understanding is crucial for developing balanced policies and fostering peace in the region.

To read the full article, click here.

As this edition of the MEF Dispatch illustrates, America and her allies face both trials and opportunities at home and abroad. Will the new administration take full advantage of its opportunities to strengthen Western interests in the Middle East and bolster Israel’s security? What of Europe, beset by a growing hostile population that refuses to assimilate and expects native-born Europeans to bend to their will? These vital topics and more receive the type of in-depth, learned coverage you’ve come to expect from the Middle East Forum. Our next issue of the Dispatch will strive to keep you informed about the most important developments that affect our safety, our allies, and our world.

Sincerely,
Winfield Myers
Managing Editor, Middle East Forum
Director, Campus Watch

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