The Current With war in the Middle East, what is Carney’s foreign policy?
Mar 16, 2026
Roland Paris, a former foreign policy adviser and university director, and Bessma Momani, a political scientist with NATO expertise, join Adrienne Arsenault, reporting from Riyadh. They unpack diplomatic travel and economic diplomacy, regional security risks in the Gulf, shifting public statements on the war, and efforts to diversify Canada’s international partnerships. Short, sharp takes on strategy and regional tensions.
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Saudi Visas Issued Fast Reveal Anger And Confidence
- Adrienne Arsenault reported that Saudi visas were issued in one day during Ramadan, signaling Saudi anger and confidence.
- She described daily ministry notes of dozens of intercepted drones and missiles even though life in Riyadh felt normal because of geography and defenses.
Buffer Geography Masks The Scale Of Attacks
- Riyadh felt calm despite frequent interceptions because vast desert buffers and strong military defenses dampen the perceived threat.
- Analysts note Kuwait and other nearer cities closed public events, while Riyadh's geography and pipeline shifts lessen immediate disruption.
Hormuz Bottleneck Undermines U.S. Leverage Over Oil
- The Strait of Hormuz bottleneck exposes U.S. limits: major consumers like China and India can adapt, undermining U.S. leverage.
- Saudi pipeline diversion to the Red Sea shows regional workarounds reduce the Strait's strategic chokehold.