The idea that the Middle East is experiencing a period of unprecedented, dynamic transformation is so trivial that it does not bear repeating, either in Russia or anywhere else. Yet, far less trivial is a contemplation of the crisis of the system of nation-states in the region and the “end of Sykes-Picot,” about which many analysts have written, including this writer.
The region, however, continues to stun those closely following its turbulent transformation. In the near future, yet another state — namely, an independent Kurdistan, which may be formed in northern Iraq — threatens to be added to the already self-proclaimed, cross-border Islamic State (formerly known as ISIS, the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham) or caliphate — irrespective of how long the latter will last.
