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Institute for the

Study of war

ISW is a non-partisan, non-profit, public policy research organization that advances an informed understanding of military affairs through reliable research, trusted analysis, and innovative education.

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Middle East

Iran & Proxies

Iran Update

Iran Update Special Report, May 30, 2026

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) and The Critical Threats Project (CTP) at the American Enterprise Institute are publishing daily updates to provide analysis…

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Middle East

How Iran Hopes to Control the Strait of Hormuz: It’s Not Just About Fees

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Russia & Ukraine

Ukraine’s Fortress Belt: The Key to Sustaining the Frontline

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China & TaiwanContemporary & Future War

Lessons-learned with Chinese Characteristics: Understanding the Limits of PLA Efforts to Adapt to Contemporary Warfare

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Contemporary & Future WarRussia & Ukraine

Ukraine’s Intermediate-Range Strike Campaign and New Mechanized Attacks Herald the Start of a New Phase of the War

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INSTITUTE FOR THE

STUDY OF WAR

The Institute for the Study of War advances an informed understanding of military affairs through reliable research, trusted analysis, and innovative education. We are committed to improving the nation’s ability to execute military operations and respond to emerging threats in order to achieve U.S. strategic objectives.

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David H. Petraeus Center for

Emerging leaders

The Petraeus Center selects, develops, and launches emerging national security leaders.

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General Jack Keane Center for

National Security

The Keane Center produces open-source intelligence on ongoing conflicts, issues early warnings, proposes policy options, and identifies strategic risks and opportunities for the United States and its allies.

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