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Paul Iddon

Iddon

Paul Iddon is a freelance journalist based in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan who writes about Middle East affairs

Israel's devastating war exposed the weakness of Iran's air force. With another round of hostilities inevitable, could Tehran turn to China for advanced jets?

19 August, 2025

The fall of Assad reignited hopes that Syria could revive its tourism industry and aid post-war recovery, but subsequent crises have complicated these ambitions

07 August, 2025

Despite modernising fast and loosening old norms, Saudi Arabia still upholds its alcohol ban - a clear signal that tradition continues to call the shots

10 July, 2025

Israel, Russia, Turkey, and the United States have all deployed troops in Syria since 2011. How long will they stay in the post-Assad era?

23 June, 2025

Trump's hint that the US could use the term Arabian Gulf rather than Persian Gulf sparked anger in Iran, highlighting how sensitive the issue remains

14 May, 2025

Analysis: After Israel's strikes last year and amid heightened tensions with the US, do Iran's air defence capabilities still pack a punch?

17 April, 2025

Turkey and Israel’s ties have fluctuated for decades, from strategic alliances to diplomatic rifts. The Gaza war is the latest chapter in their rocky history.

27 March, 2025

Analysis: Since Assad's fall, hundreds have been killed in the escalating conflict between the Turkish-backed SNA and Kurdish-led SDF in north Syria.

21 January, 2025

Analysis: With the new political order in Syria still unclear, Kurds face an uncertain future amid competing domestic and regional interests.

06 January, 2025

Analysis: After the fall of the Assad regime, will the Islamic State try to re-establish a foothold in Syria?

12 December, 2024