Abbas Djavadi

Iranians Have Paid Dearly For Fateful Misjudgment

We were responsible for what happened. Perhaps we deserved it. But it is still up to us to change things for the better.

Iraq Is More Democratic Than Iran

Whatever one thinks about the U.S. motivation behind the overthrow of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein and the post-invasion violence, destruction, and chaos, at least in terms of free and fair elections, Iraq today is far more democratic than neighboring Iran.

Erdogan's Outburst Could Damage Turkey's Standing

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's fiery exchange with Israeli President Shimon Peres on January 29 at the World Economic Forum in Davos may earn him votes in Turkey's March local elections or sympathy on the "Arab Street." But it could well harm Turkey's role as a bridge between the West and the Muslim world and as a would-be mediator between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Moreover, it won't help Ankara's relations with Washington or the country's EU membership bid.

Iraq, Turkey, Iran Vulnerable To Ethnic Conflict

Occasionally, I have heated discussions with my Turkish and Kurdish friends. Most of those from Iraqi Kurdistan warn that it would declare independence if things fall apart in Iraq. But would it be viable?

Would Disabling Hamas Benefit All Sides?

It is unlikely that Hamas will be completely destroyed by Israel's offensive. But if it is disabled or severely weakened and unable to operate as it did before, at least for a few years, Israel could have relative peace in the south and seriously consider making peace with Syria, which has been another source of instability for Israel.

Today's Gaza Tragedy Sets Stage For Tomorrow's

A conflict between neighbors for a day or a month might be tolerable, but a continuing drama that lasts for years becomes a living hell for both sides. Whether you are the strong, prosperous neighbor or the poor and desperate one, the only choice is to end the conflict or live in hell.

Nothing Simple About Disbanding Of Iranian Rebel Base

Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, who has found himself sandwiched between the demands of an influential neighbor, Iran, and the presence of a large occupation force of mostly U.S. soldiers, assured Iranian leaders during a recent visit to Tehran that a "solution acceptable to all parties" was imminent to the contentious issue of an Iranian rebel camp on Iraqi soil.

Changing U.S.-Iran Relations Won't Be Easy

Although U.S. President-elect Barack Obama has expressed a willingness to sit down and talk with Iran's leadership, doubts remain over whether the Iranian leadership has sufficient flexibility to reach a meaningful agreement.

Commentary: Tehran Watches, And Wiggles, As Iraqis Debate Pact

Iranian condemnation of the agreed status-of-forces deal between Washington and Baghdad is somewhat surprising, considering the position that Ahmadinejad and others in Tehran expressed as the pact was being negotiated.

Germany's 'Green Obama' Breaks New Ground

Germany's Green Party has elected an ethnic Turk as its co-chairperson -- a clear sign of maturity for a country that has long refused to embrace and integrate immigrants, especially from Turkey, into mainstream society.

Moscow Presses Turkey

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is scheduled to arrive in Ankara to discuss the presence of U.S. warships in the Black Sea, as well as Turkey's proposed Caucasus Stability and Cooperation Pact. Like many EU states, Turkey cannot afford to annoy Moscow and will look to advance dialogue in the Caucasus, while the Kremlin seeks a free hand in the region.

Are U.S., Iran Moving Past Confrontation?

The rhetoric of war and confrontation seems to be on the wane, which can only improve the prospects for peace in the region and relieve some of the pressure on world oil prices.

Important, Doable, But (For Now) Improbable

The good news is that Israel is talking peace with Syria, an important Arabic player. The bad news is that real peace can't happen between the two countries before the United States has a new president.

Viewpoint: Elections Bring Nothing New

Abbas Djavadi, the head of RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service, gives his view of yesterday's parliamentary elections, which the ruling Yeni Azerbaycan Party (YAP) looks set to win.

Iraq: Turkish Troops In Northern Iraq? Yes, No, Perhaps

Turkey: The Iraqi Equation -- Did Ankara Miss The Train?

Turkey: Ocalan's Apology Wins Little Sympathy

Turkey: Preparations Under Way For Trial Against PKK's Ocalan

Turkey: Fairness Discussion May Postpone Ocalan Trial

Turkey: Media Shows Bias Ahead Of Ocalan Trial