Emerging Trends in Chemical Weapons Usage

Interpreting chemical weapons use and the likelihood of chemical weapons proliferation in the Middle East.

The world may be on the brink of a new era of chemical weapons proliferation. Repeated chemical weapons attacks by the governments of Russia and Syria have undermined three factors traditionally thought to discourage the use of such weapons: lack of benefit, taboo, and the threat of retaliation. These governments’ “successful” use of these weapons, combined with a Middle East with a smaller U.S. security footprint, could make the region ripe for a new wave of CW proliferation similar to one that prevailed in the 1960s-1980s. This study will examine the drivers for the sustained return of chemical weapons use in the Middle East and suggest tools for the U.S. Government to deter, monitor and respond.

All Emerging Trends in Chemical Weapons Usage Content

Filter by

1 - 1 of 1 results

Emerging Trends in Chemical Weapons Usage in the Middle East

Syrian president Bashar al-Assad’s use of chemical weapons has emboldened other states to pursue similar strategies. In a new brief, Natasha Hall assesses the risks of chemical weapons proliferation and usage after the Syrian conflict.

Report by Natasha Hall — October 16, 2024