Brian M Downing and the world at war. Timely, thoughtful, and nonpartisan analysis of military matters. @BrianMDowning1.
Brian M Downing This series has considered a few scenarios of Saudi Arabia in 20 years or so: a liberalizing monarchy, internal turmoil and disintegration, a regional economic and military power, and conflict with Israel. A strong kingdom could try to expand its power in the Middle East and avenge Read More …
Brian M Downing Saudi Arabia is likely to emerge from the ongoing conflict with Iran as master of the Gulf. The US and Israel are seeing to that, though they may rue the day. In coming years Mohammad bin Salman, the 33-year-old heir apparent, may make his realm vastly more Read More …
Brian M Downing The Yemeni civil war has been underway for three and a half years. The Houthis took hold in the Shia north, drove deep into the Sunni south, and neared Aden. The drive south was unwise from the start. It took the Houthis into hostile land and elicited Read More …
Brian M Downing It’s been some time since Luca Brasi disappeared under uncertain circumstances while meeting with the Tattaglias. The redoubtable Brasi was often on the outs with the Corleone family but reports indicate that shortly after a rapprochement at a family wedding, the Don sent him to meet with Read More …
Brian M Downing The US is walking away from the JCPOA and sectarian conflict is poised to spread, intensify, and probably go on for years. The US and Israel are foursquare on the Sunni side. Iran and Saudi Arabia have been at odds since Khomeini came to power in 1979 Read More …
Brian M Downing The US and Britain, along with Kurdish-Arab SDF allies, have established themselves in eastern Syria. Washington and Riyadh are discussing a contingent from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. President Trump recently said the US would soon be out of Syria. The statement has been dialed back Read More …
Brian M Downing Warrior-king Abdul Aziz ibn Saud gathered tribal forces on the Arabian Peninsula after World War One and established a personal Kingdom in 1932. Since his death in 1953, Saudi Arabia has been ruled by his sons – actually by a clique within his numerous offspring. In recent Read More …
Brian M Downing Mohammed bin Salman, heir apparent and de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, is in Washington this week. Discussions will bear on the geopolitics of the Middle East and the political economy of the United States. The prince brought his checkbook. High on the agenda is dealing with Read More …
Brian M Downing Mohammad bin Salman is solidifying his position as future king of Saudi Arabia. The aged king has ceded authority to him and may step down in coming months. At home, Mohammad is directing a sweeping industrialization program and a modest reform effort. In world affairs, he’s determined Read More …