Analysis: Since Assad's return to the Arab League in May, the country's Captagon trade has continued to boom. But will it affect regional efforts to reintegrate Syria?
Analysis: Aimed at securing funding and international legitimacy, Assad's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is symbolically significant, but it remains to be seen what form this strategic partnership will take.
Analysis: Mass protests last year changed Iran in significant ways. One year on, the Islamic Republic still faces a legitimacy crisis, as a cultural revolution continues to challenge the balance of power between state and society.
Analysis: The ambitious rail and shipping project announced at the G20 summit will strengthen India's economic and political ties to the Middle East while providing an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative.
Analysis: The military coup in Niger has captured the attention of officials in Rome, who are worried that regional instability will fuel migration to Europe, threaten energy deals, and expand Russian influence in West Africa.
Analysis: Both Riyadh and Abu Dhabi see the conflict as an opportunity to expand their regional influence, but diverging interests in Sudan have compounded the competitive dynamic between the two Gulf powers.
Analysis: Saudi-hosted peace talks on the Ukraine war are part of Riyadh's diplomatic strategy to achieve recognition on the global stage and balance ties in an emerging multipolar order.
Analysis: Gulf states are approaching the political turmoil in Niger with caution, wary of its impact on regional stability but also looking for opportunities to project influence if the chance arises.
Analysis: Sanctions have so far prevented the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and other Arab states from making significant investments in Syria following the regional normalisation of Bashar al-Assad's regime.
Analysis: Controlling the rapid rise of the drug captagon was a major factor behind Gulf nations' normalisation with the Assad regime. But it's unclear how willing Damascus is to crack down on the lucrative industry.
