Steven Simon

The Peril of Civil Breakdown

The US political situation radiates instability. How likely is extremist violence in the aftermath of the election?

These Disunited States

It is time to consider a radical solution to stave off the prospect of political violence and even civil war in the US.

How Can We Neutralize the Militias?

The threat of violence from domestic far-right extremists calls for a measured and well-coordinated response from law enforcement and intelligence services.

Turning Away from the Middle East

The Biden administration will seek to rejoin the nuclear deal with Iran, but its main focus will be on domestic affairs and relations with China.

The Middle East: Trump Blunders In

The assassination of Qassim Suleimani has left almost everyone, at home and abroad, confused about President Trump’s policy toward Iran.

Iran: The Case Against War

Long wars begin with the conviction that they will be short

Reckless in Riyadh

On the future of the United States–Saudi relationship

Eve of Destruction

Powder Keg in Syria

A New Plan for Syria

The most realistic short-term US policy goal in Syria is to find ways to limit the areas of the country in direct conflict. This goal is not as far-fetched as it sounds, and there is already a basis for pursuing it.

A Failure of Intelligence?