Blogs

The piece argues that Iran’s presidential elections are essentially a controlled façade rather than genuine democratic processes. Though President Ebrahim Raisi’s sudden death in May 2024 prompted a new electoral cycle with six vetted candidates, all were affiliated with the regime and loyal to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, ensuring little real policy divergence. The Guardian Council filtered out all but hardline male clerics and a nominal reformist, creating the illusion of choice while reinforcing conservative dominance. Moreover, the presidency in Iran holds limited authority — ultimate power resides with Khamenei, who, since 1989, has steadily centralized control in his hands, rendering both elected institutions and their leaders largely symbolic. In short, the article contends that no matter who wins, Iran’s domestic and foreign agendas — especially its nuclear program and regional interventions — will remain unchanged, as they are guided by the Supreme Leader's ideology.

I started my first day on Capitol Hill not knowing where anything was, who anyone was, or where I was even supposed to enter the building. It was a very cool experience walking up the road to where I eventually found the entrance and saw the shining Capitol dome.

Cybercrime is an increasing threat, with the FBI reporting more frequent and sophisticated attacks, resulting in higher recovery costs. Organizations struggle to combat these evolving techniques and...

While Israel-Palestine demands global attention — due to its historic and contemporary impact on regional security, military posturing, and governance — the article argues that observers should avoid reducing all Middle Eastern politics to this single conflict. Highlighting events like Morocco’s devastating 2023 earthquake, the Arab Uprisings, and the fight against ISIS, Henne emphasizes that other crises and shifts unfold independently of the Israel-Palestine dynamic. He cautions that too narrow a focus, or what he terms a “reductio ad Israel,” risks neglecting key humanitarian and strategic developments across the region. Ultimately, while Israel-Palestine remains a central issue, analysts must maintain a broad lens to fully comprehend the evolving Middle Eastern landscape.

The author argues that North Korea’s recent behavior — marked by ballistic missile tests and the launch of a military satellite in November 2023 (reportedly aided by Russia) — reflects Pyongyang’s embrace of a “new Cold War” framework, pitting the U.S., Japan and South Korea against China, Russia and North Korea. Kim Jong Un views this emerging bipolar or multipolar global order as advantageous, enabling North Korea to shed its isolation by aligning strategically with Moscow and Beijing. However, both China and Russia continue to exploit North Korea for geopolitical leverage rather than as fully dependable allies. Within this revived Cold War context, Pyongyang’s aggressive military posture — including a nuclear doctrine that explicitly allows first use under certain conditions — poses a heightened security threat on the peninsula.

Reflecting on my ongoing journey with Pegasus Players, I've discovered a profound sense of connection and acceptance that I haven't experienced elsewhere on campus. Within the vibrant community of Pegasus, I found a place where my unique talents and perspectives were not only welcomed but celebrated. It's a space where I feel understood, supported, and valued.

The article examines Moscow’s strategic balancing act amid rising tensions in the Red Sea, where Russia strives to advance its influence without overt engagement. By maintaining relationships across conflicting parties — including Iran, the Houthis, and Western nations — Russia avoids taking sides, thereby preserving leverage. It emphasizes that while the U.S. and NATO focus on protecting shipping lanes from Houthi attacks, Russia quietly bolsters its regional naval posture, asserting itself as a cautious yet opportunistic actor. Ultimately, the piece argues this hedging strategy enables Russia to reinforce its geopolitical presence in the Red Sea while minimizing direct confrontation risk.

The piece explores Russia’s strategic push to establish naval support centers in the Red Sea through agreements with nations like Sudan—and potentially Eritrea—to secure basing rights. Moscow’s efforts build on its 2022 Maritime Doctrine and longstanding Syrian naval presence, aiming to reinforce naval operations along vital trade routes through the Suez Canal. Despite legal deals, instability in Sudan—marked by coups and factional violence—has delayed full implementation. Meanwhile, Moscow appears to be courting Eritrea as an alternative, harking back to Soviet-era bases on the Dahlak Islands. Russia’s ambitions are rooted in protecting energy exports and maritime trade—roughly 8–10% of Russia’s foreign trade flows through the Suez and Red Sea—while solidifying its influence in the region.

The field of computer forensics is growing as law enforcement sees the value of IT professionals in combatting cybercrime. Tracking digital activity is crucial for protecting citizens and supporting...

Norwich student, Ana Lemler, shares her unique trip to Kosovo as part of their International Cadets Week to represent Norwich. Students had the opportunity to learn about the rich history, culture, and food, as well as its military and political past. Ana shares how the trip opened her eyes to a new global perspective.