STRATFOR: Security and Straight Shooting in Europe and the Middle East

If you ever wonder why seemingly obscure countries like Yemen, Qatar and Bahrain get so much attention, just look at these two narrow straits, and know that nearly 50% of the world's seaborne oil passes through them daily. 

Then think about the global economic meltdown that would result if the straits were disrupted. 

So when unrest in Yemen sends its injured (and U.S.-friendly) despot packing, or when Iran helps foster Shiite unrest in Bahrain, or when Saudi Arabia struggles with its own leadership transition... you need know what's really going on and how it could end up affecting you.

STRATFOR

Europe: A Shifting Battleground, Part 1

June 7, 2011 1228 GMT

In the first of a two-part series, STRATFOR examines the geopolitical changes in Europe that have shifted Moscow and Washington's focus to the former Communist countries in Central Europe. (With STRATFOR maps) [more]