Geopolitical Report ISSN 2785-2598 Volume 46 Issue 7
Author: Giuliano Bifolchi

Conducting effective Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) research in the Middle East and the Arab world poses a significant challenge for intelligence analysts. The region’s complexity, marked by linguistic diversity, cultural nuances, and fragmented information landscapes, requires a deliberate and strategic approach.

In this report, we present several practical suggestions to aid analysts in navigating these difficulties, especially when they lack fluency in the region’s primary languages such as Arabic and Persian (although also Turkish and Hebrew are fundamental).

While mastering one or more of these languages is highly beneficial, it is not always workable. Analysts often find themselves assigned to projects requiring quick turnaround without the necessary linguistic background. To overcome this, leveraging specialised OSINT tools can mitigate these language barriers and improve research efficiency.

Suggested OSINT Tools for Overcoming Linguistic Barriers

• 2lingual. A meta search engine designed to perform simultaneous searches in two languages. This tool is useful when an analyst does not speak the target language but needs to access information from multiple sources quickly. It allows for searches in both English and the regional language, broadening the information accessible while minimising translation errors.
• Yamli. This tool is ideal for analysts with basic knowledge of Arabic but who face difficulty typing in Arabic script. Yamli converts Latin script into Arabic, allowing the user to input phonetically in English while receiving Arabic search results. However, analysts must know essential Arabic keywords such as akhbar (news), siyassiya (politics), or iqtisad (economy) to navigate content effectively. To maximise the potential of Yamli, analysts can develop a glossary of crucial terms relevant to their research focus (or attend SpecialEurasia’s courses where we provide a key terminology vocabulary).
• Parseek. Focused on Persian-language content, Parseek is a search engine tailored to Iranian sources. Since Persian is a critical language in understanding geopolitical and security issues in Iran and its neighbours, this tool can be invaluable. For analysts unfamiliar with Persian, integrating browser-based translation plugins can allow for rapid translations of content into English or other languages.

Enhancing Search Strategies

While these tools are essential starting points, analysts should also consider employing advanced search techniques to maximise the effectiveness of their OSINT investigations. This includes using region-specific search engines and databases and cross-referencing findings with international sources to verify the credibility of information. Analysts should become familiar with important regional platforms, such as news agencies, academic institutions, and think tanks, which offer valuable information that applies to their areas of interest.

Conclusion

OSINT research in the Middle East and the Arab world requires a mix of strategic planning, the right tools, and a foundational understanding of the region’s languages and cultures. While language barriers can complicate investigations, tools such as 2lingual, Yamli, and Parseek provide practical solutions to overcome these challenges.

Intelligence analysts must remain adaptable and continuously refine their methods to stay effective in a region where the availability of open-source information is often fragmented and influenced by local dynamics.

For those seeking more advanced techniques, specialised training in Web Intelligence (Webint) and OSINT, we invite to have a look at our training courses or contact us at info@specialeurasia.com.