Michael Duffy is a freelance writer from the UK who writes about international politics and security with focus on the MENA region. His twitter handle is @mduffy8901.

Image: “5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 11, 2014) A Saudi Marine fires an Mk19 grenade launcher during a joint machinegun live-fire exercise with U.S. Marines from Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), as part of exercise Red Reef 15 in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, Dec. 11, 2014. Red Reef, is part of a routine theater security cooperation engagement plan between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and Royal Saudi Naval Forces that serves as an excellent opportunity to strengthen tactical proficiency in critical mission areas and support long-term regional security. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released)”