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281. Tehran’s Armenian weapons supply route

Author:
Alexander Grinberg
Publication Date:
02-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
Armenia is one of several routes used by Iran to smuggle arms to its regional proxies and clients. It also manufactures its own versions of Russian weapons that are used only by these groups and provides them with the knowledge to locally manufacture Iranian arms.
Topic:
Weapons, Proxy Groups, and Regional Security
Political Geography:
Iran, Middle East, and Armenia

282. Changes in the military deployment of the United States and their implications for Israel’s wars in the region

Author:
Eytan Gilboa
Publication Date:
01-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
At the start of the Gaza War, President Biden warned Iran and its proxies against launching an all-out attack on Israel and sent aircraft carriers to the region to clarify his intentions. The withdrawal of the Gerald R. Ford carrier from the Mediterranean could be interpreted as a sign of American weakness, diminish deterrence of Iran, and undermine US mediation efforts in Lebanon.
Topic:
Armed Forces, Military Affairs, Deterrence, Regional Security, and 2023 Gaza War
Political Geography:
Iran, Middle East, Israel, Palestine, Gaza, and United States of America

283. Mapping the Post-Assad Landscape

Author:
Eran Lerman
Publication Date:
12-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
The collapse of the Assad regime weakens Iran and the CRINK Axis, but Islamist radicalism and rising Turkish influence demand Israel’s military vigilance and diplomatic engagement.
Topic:
Diplomacy, Islamism, Bashar al-Assad, and Regional Security
Political Geography:
Iran, Turkey, Middle East, Israel, and Syria

284. Geostrategic Factors, Not Humanitarian Considerations Mold Public Opinion in the West

Author:
Hillel Frisch
Publication Date:
11-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
Analysis of Google searches shows Israel has greater freedom of action than it may imagine in view of the focus on the potential regional ramifications of the conflict between Israel and Iran over the Palestinians and Gaza.
Topic:
Public Opinion, Geopolitics, Humanitarian Crisis, and 2023 Gaza War
Political Geography:
Middle East, Israel, and Palestine

285. Hezbollah in Africa: Iran’s Proxy Expands its Reach

Author:
Efraim Inbar
Publication Date:
11-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
The terror group’s financial and operational expansion across Africa threatens Western interests and regional stability. A US-imposed ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon could leave Hezbollah’s money laundering, arms trading, drug trafficking and terrorist training.
Topic:
Hezbollah, Proxy Groups, and Regional Stability
Political Geography:
Africa and Lebanon

286. Erdoğan’s New Front: Exploiting Israel for Regional and Domestic Leverage

Author:
Hay Ertan Cohen Yanarocak
Publication Date:
10-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
By framing Israel as a national security threat, the Turkish President deflects attention from the country’s internal challenges while addressing evolving regional power dynamics, including concerns about Iran, Hezbollah, and the Kurdish presence in northern Syria.
Topic:
National Security, Hezbollah, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Regional Security
Political Geography:
Turkey, Israel, Palestine, Syria, and Middle East and Africa

287. Hezbollah’s Expanding Threat in Africa: A Looming Challenge for Israel and the U.S.

Author:
Efraim Inbar
Publication Date:
10-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
The IDF is battling Hezbollah in Lebanon to enable Israel’s 85,000 displaced citizens to return safely to their homes. Less known is the significant security challenge Hezbollah poses to Israel and the United States in Africa. Hezbollah, with Iran’s backing, has steadily expanded its financial and operational presence across the African continent, establishing networks that could be weaponized against Western interests. This development represents not only a direct threat to Israel and the U.S. but also to the stability of fragile African states where Hezbollah has built strongholds.
Topic:
Security, Non State Actors, Hezbollah, and Proxy Groups
Political Geography:
Africa, Middle East, Israel, Palestine, and Lebanon

288. The Gaza War and Europe: Can the Continent Play a Positive Role in The Middle East?

Author:
Efraim Inbar
Publication Date:
09-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
Europe borders the Middle East, and the continent cannot insulate itself from events in this region. Its options, however, are limited: Europe is hardly a strategic actor with the political will and requisite capabilities to intervene. Moreover, the Middle East is not easily amenable to foreign intervention. Nevertheless, Europe cannot ignore developments that impact its national security and if it concentrates its efforts, it may have a modest input in ensuring that pro-stability forces gain the upper hand.
Topic:
Foreign Policy, Diplomacy, Humanitarian Crisis, and 2023 Gaza War
Political Geography:
Europe, Middle East, Israel, Palestine, and Gaza

289. Iranian Subversive Efforts in Jordan: A Strategic Threat Requiring a Robust Response

Author:
Eran Lerman
Publication Date:
07-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
Against the background of Hamas' ongoing war with Israel (and the expressions of support for it among Palestinians and Islamists in Jordan), the Iranian regime has intensified its efforts to subvert the Hashemite monarchy. The arrests in March 2024 of Iranian agents involved in smuggling arms to Muslim Brotherhood elements in Jordan are part of a campaign to counter the role of Tehran in bringing both drugs and weapons over the Syrian and Iraqi borders into Jordan. Tensions rose further over Jordan's supportive role in foiling the Iranian attack on Israel on 14 April 2024. For the Iranian regime, the destabilization of Jordan is a vital precursor for the strategic goal of turning Judea and Samaria into "another Gaza", as Supreme Leader 'Ali Khamenei suggested back in 2014: hence the importance of American and Israeli support for Jordan. The stability of the Kingdom (and thus the need to reduce economic and social strains) is a vital interest of both Israel and the West.
Topic:
Foreign Policy, Islamism, Muslim Brotherhood, and Regional Security
Political Geography:
Iran, Middle East, and Jordan

290. Israel, Europe, and the Russia-Iran Axis

Author:
Emmanuel Navon
Publication Date:
06-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS)
Abstract:
With the world divided between a U.S.-led order of democracies on the one hand, and a cartel of aggressive autocracies – China, Russia, Iran and North Korea – on the other, that is challenging America and its allies, Europe has an important role to play in Israel’s war against Iran and its proxies.
Topic:
National Security, Autocracy, Proxy Groups, and Regional Politics
Political Geography:
Russia, Europe, Middle East, Israel, and Palestine

291. Challenges to Democracy: The 2024 Election in Focus

Author:
PRRI Staff
Publication Date:
10-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
PRRI: Public Religion Research Institute
Abstract:
While most Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, they have more positive assessments of how things are going in their communities and personal lives. Seven in ten Americans (70%) believe things in the country are going in the wrong direction, including most Republicans (94%) and independents (70%), compared with 41% of Democrats. While a majority of Americans (54%) also believe that things in their home state are going in the wrong direction, 56% of Americans believe things in their local communities are going in the right direction. Roughly eight in ten Americans, across party lines, believe that things in their personal lives are going in the right direction. Americans are divided on whether American culture and way of life since the 1950s has changed for the better, with Republicans and Democrats holding opposite views. Republicans (68%) are more likely than independents (48%) and Democrats (31%) to say that American culture and way of life has mostly changed for the worse since the 1950s. White Christian groups and Hispanic Protestants are the most likely to say American culture and way of life has changed for the worse since the 1950s.
Topic:
Elections, Democracy, and Domestic Politics
Political Geography:
North America and United States of America

292. Why Kosovo institutions must urgently enhance the security of its waters? Building critical infrastructure resilience

Author:
Jon Limaj and Mentor Vrajolli
Publication Date:
12-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:
In recent years, threats to critical infrastructure have increased. This is primarily due to growing global threats and the digitalization of key operational processes, including those in the water sector. Consequently, the Government of Kosovo, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, has placed significant emphasis on ensuring resilience in this sector. While Kosovo has legislative frameworks in place on protecting critical infrastructure, including the Water Law and Law on Critical Infrastructure, there are gaps in implementation. Furthermore, there is a lack of full alignment with the EU Water Framework Directive. Comprehensive integration and legislative amendments are necessary for effective water management.
Topic:
Security, Water, Infrastructure, and Resilience
Political Geography:
Europe and Kosovo

293. Kosovo in Russian Foreign Policy- Discourse Fostering Instability in Kosovo and Countering Euro-Atlantic Integration

Author:
Ramadan Ilazi, Ardit Orana, and Jeta Loshaj
Publication Date:
11-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:
Russian influence and interests in the Western Balkans are primarily centered around Serbia. According to a 2024 survey by the International Republican Institute (IRI), for Kosovar citizens, after Serbia (83%), Russia (8%) is seen as the main threat to the country, while 87% say that the country’s foreign policy should only be pro-European Union and pro-West, and 59% say that the Russian invasion of Ukraine is completely unjustified. Main takeaways from this paper include: Russia deploys state-controlled media (RT, Sputnik) and partners with Iranian outlets to spread narratives portraying Kosovo as a failed state, full of instability. Russia capitalizes on deep cultural, religious, and political ties with Serbia to maintain influence in the Balkans, utilizing ties with the the Serbian Orthodox Church and with Serbian elites to the detriment of Kosovo. There are indications that Russia had prior knowledge of or involvement in the Banjska terrorist attack in Kosovo, aimed at escalating tensions. By stirring instability in Kosovo, Russia aims to divert Western attention and resources away from Ukraine, creating a multi-front challenge for NATO and the EU.
Topic:
Foreign Policy, European Union, Strategic Interests, Instability, and Regional Politics
Political Geography:
Russia, Serbia, and Western Balkans

294. Strengthening Protection Mechanisms of Gender Based Violence in Kosovo

Author:
Adelina Hasani and Vesa Kroçi
Publication Date:
07-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:
Femicide and insufficiently addressed gender-based violence represent major security concerns in Kosovo, yet they have not been adequately prioritized as immediate issues by the full spectrum of state mechanisms. Activists in Kosovo have consistently demanded that gender-based violence be declared and treated a national emergency, a plea that state institutions have not taken into consideration. Within just five days in April 2024, two women in Kosovo were victims of femicide, murdered by their partners. Gender-based violence and femicide pose significant security threats to women. From January to March 2024, 698 cases of gender-based violence were reported to the police, compared to 2,638 cases reported throughout 2023. Despite the high number of reported cases, many cases remain unreported due to the complex socio-economic challenges’ women face across different regions of Kosovo. There are several reasons highlighting the inadequacies in addressing the prevention of gender-based violence. Recent research conducted by the Kosovo Centre for Security Studies elaborates on several problems concerning gender-based violence in Kosovo. There are some of them: Women’s trust in security and justice institutions is critical for reporting gender-based violence. However, the leniency of the judicial system towards perpetrators and the prolonged duration of domestic violence cases discourage women from seeking justice. There is a lack of sensitivity and expertise among law enforcement authorities, especially in rural areas, to handle genderbased violence cases effectively. The absence of property ownership among women is a significant barrier to their economic independence and security. Despite legal provisions for equal property rights, women often relinquish their inheritance, leaving them with limited resources and options when facing violence. This lack of financial autonomy leaves women in a troubling situation where they may feel compelled to return to their abusers. Many women withdraw their complaints of gender-based violence due to third-party interventions, often under family pressure. There is a tendency among family members and officials to blame women for reporting abuse, further discouraging them from seeking help. Women reporting domestic violence often endure double discrimination from institutions, society, and their families. There is limited information about rights and available support services for victims of gender based violence in Kosovo. The lack of awareness intensifies feelings of vulnerability and exacerbates the sense of helplessness when seeking solutions. There is also insufficient investment in support services for victims and consequences for perpetrators. Insufficient and unstable funding for shelters poses a significant challenge to supporting survivors of domestic violence. Without adequate resources, shelters struggle to maintain essential services and meet the increasing demand for their services. There is also a lack of sustainable institutional support for victims, leading some to return to their abusers. Addressing gender-based violence and femicide requires a holistic approach from all institutions involved in handling cases arising from diverse circumstances. In this analysis, we aim to examine the shortcomings in implementing protection orders for victims and the physical protection of shelters and the Centre for Social Work (CSW) from perpetrators.
Topic:
Security, Women, Gender Based Violence, Protection, and Femicide
Political Geography:
Europe and Kosovo

295. A discussion of Kosovo- NATO relations and prospects for greater cooperation

Author:
Leureta Lumi
Publication Date:
06-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:
Membership of Kosovo in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is regarded as a national interest across Kosovo’s political spectrum and receives substantial public support. According to the 2022 Security Barometer by the Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS), an overwhelming 92 percent of all citizens in Kosovo are in favor of joining NATO. This support is even more pronounced among the Kosovo Albanians, where the approval rate soars to 99.5 percent. This is the only objective in Kosovo that enjoys this level of public backing. Kosovo’s Security Strategy 2022-2027 states ‘The irreplaceable aim of the Republic of Kosovo is NATO membership and integration as the mechanism that provides long-term strategic security’. NATO’s leading role in ending the 1999 war and averting a potential genocide in Kosovo is widely seen as a major reason behind the strong public support for the alliance. However, this sentiment has been reinforced by recent developments, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, intensifying Kosovo’s appreciation for NATO membership. The urgency for Kosovo to join NATO is further heightened by the unresolved bilateral disputes with Serbia and the increasingly adversarial positions of Serbian President Vucic towards, as shown by a recent statement from him, which implies that on Kosovo, Serbia should learn from Azerbaijan, adding that: “They waited 27 years for special geopolitical circumstances”. The Banjska terrorist attack in September 2023, which is believed to have been orchestrated with the support of Serbian security institutions and in cooperation with Russia, reinforces the perception that Serbia sees a military solution to the “Kosovo problem”. Although Kosovo benefits from NATO’s protection via the KFOR mission, NATO’s stance on Kosovo remains status-neutral, with no significant advancement in NATO-Kosovo political relations since 2016. This paper delves into these challenges and seeks to explore the obstacles Kosovo faces on its path to NATO membership. Accordingly, this paper includes an analysis of the current NATO-Kosovo relations, options for Kosovo to enhance these relations and overcome key challenges, including exploration of the Partnership for Peace and the Membership Action Plan (MAP), a review of NATO accession processes in Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia, and concluding remarks with recommendations.
Topic:
NATO, Public Opinion, Regional Security, and Security Cooperation
Political Geography:
Europe and Kosovo

296. Addressing Zambia’s Water Security Challenges

Author:
Leleti Maluleke
Publication Date:
08-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Good Governance Africa (GGA)
Abstract:
This policy briefing outlines the scale of Zambia’s current water crisis and examines its impact on agriculture, the environment, and the economy. Based on this analysis, it recommends a multifaceted approach to improve water management and distribution. Key recommendations include enhancing governance frameworks, investing in infrastructure, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and addressing gender inequalities in water access.
Topic:
Security, Agriculture, Environment, Water, and Economy
Political Geography:
Africa and Zambia

297. Climate Change Act and the role of local government

Author:
Busisipho Siyobi
Publication Date:
11-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Good Governance Africa (GGA)
Abstract:
South Africa’s response to addressing climate change has come full circle with the passing of the Climate Change Act1 in July 2024. This breakthrough comes at a time when South Africa is warming by approximately 0.2°C per decade2 , contributing to climate impacts ranging from extreme heat and drought to sea level rise and flooding. The results of these extreme weather events have been devasting to livelihoods and, subsequently, socio-economic development, which have been worsening over the years. The Climate Change Act is a significant step, as it shows progression and commitment to advance South Africa’s climate resilience, and to see it through achieving a just energy transition. However, the success of the overall climate change response is only as strong as its implementation. This policy briefing will assess the Act and provide a roadmap on how it can be effectively operationalised to achieve its mandate.
Topic:
Climate Change, Development, Resilience, and Local Government
Political Geography:
Africa and South Africa

298. Improving water governance in South Africa to ensure a water-secure country

Author:
Leleti Maluleke
Publication Date:
03-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Good Governance Africa (GGA)
Abstract:
This policy briefing outlines the pressing water challenges facing South Africa and proposes recommendations to address them. Among these are increasing water insecurity, including severe droughts, inadequate water conservation measures, outdated infrastructure, and unequal access to water resources. We outline some of the existing policies and frameworks to address these challenges and provide recommendations for strengthening water governance in general. The briefing emphasises the need for immediate action to safeguard water security and ensure equitable access to clean water.
Topic:
Security, Water, Infrastructure, and Governance
Political Geography:
Africa and South Africa

299. Inclusive biodiversity conservation and the unsustainability of ‘sustainable use’

Author:
Ross Harvey
Publication Date:
06-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Good Governance Africa (GGA)
Abstract:
The South African Government’s Reviewed National Biodiversity Economy Strategy (2024) continues to promote trophy hunting as a conservation tool. This policy briefing challenges this approach, arguing that trophy hunting, particularly of endangered species, should be removed from the national biodiversity strategy due to overstated economic benefits and high ecological costs. Instead, the briefing suggests exploring sustainable, non-consumptive alternatives to trophy hunting. Successful pilot programmes should be expanded, integrating local communities into ecotourism and conservation-enhancing agriculture. This strategy aims to join fragmented landscapes into larger, ecologically sustainable areas, providing sustainable livelihoods while conserving biodiversity. Moreover, the current focus on consumptive use, such as game ranching and trophy hunting, needs re-evaluation. This philosophy creates unrealistic revenue expectations and promotes fundamentally unsustainable practices. The briefing emphasises the need to prioritise ecological sustainability over consumptive use, aligning with the constitutional duty to protect the environment for future generations. These recommendations are based on the analysis that the economic value of trophy hunting is often inflated and that the opportunity costs are significant. Non-consumptive alternatives can better support both conservation and community livelihoods, ensuring a genuinely inclusive conservation strategy.
Topic:
Conservation, Sustainability, Hunting, and Biodiversity
Political Geography:
Africa and South Africa

300. What You Should Know About the Women, Peace, and Security Act of 2017

Author:
Our Secure Future
Publication Date:
01-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Our Secure Future
Abstract:
In October 2017, the United States passed the Women, Peace, and Security Act, a piece of landmark legislation that recognizes women as powerful agents of change in peace and security operations. This legislation came into being thanks to the efforts of the US Civil Society Working Group and seeks to make the US a global leader in promoting women’s active engagement in conflict prevention, relief, and recovery. Originally published in 2018, this policy brief includes 2023 updates on the United States WPS Act and serves as a guide on the history, implementation, and funding of the act.
Topic:
Security, Civil Society, Women, Legislation, Peace, Women, Peace, and and Security Act
Political Geography:
North America and United States of America