The conflict with Qatar is fundamentally about the possibility of democracy in the Arab world. That's why Saudi and Trumpian autocrats are on the same side.
Author: Charles Richardson
EOFY election roundup
As the financial year comes to a close, we tie up some loose ends on recent electoral news.
Deadline in Belfast
The shadow of Brexit and the precariousness of Theresa May's position are making it hard to put together a new government in Northern Ireland.
Election preview: Albania
Albania continues to move towards political stability, with its prime minister seeking a mandate to negotiate entry to the European Union.
Georgia on their minds
Republicans win an astronomically expensive Congressional race in Georgia, and almost lose the low-profile one in neighboring South Carolina.
France reins in its president a little
France's president wins a parliamentary mandate: a less impressive one than seemed likely a week ago, but a remarkable achievement for all that.
A cliffhanger and a landslide, part II
Emmanuel Macron is on track for a very big parliamentary majority. The centrist forces that in Britain swung behind Jeremy Corbyn had in France a genuine centrist to rally to.
A cliffhanger and a landslide, part I
Theresa May was an unlikely front person for right-wing populism. Perhaps that's why she did so badly.
Election preview: France, again
In the week's other election, France starts the process of choosing its new parliament. President Emmanuel Macron looks like getting the result he wants.
Live Britain
The exit poll shows Britain headed for a hung parliament. Live updates as results come through.
The World is Not Enough 