Charles Railey

I recently retired from the federal government, having worked for many years on Middle East issues and regional media. My fascination with the region has never changed and this is one reason why the work of Watching America caught my eye. I live in the DC area with my wife, two grown children, and three cats.

Israel: From the Cities of America to John Bolton: Trump’s Vendetta Campaign against Opponents Reaches New Heights

Charles Railey - September 1, 2025. Published in Globes

The elderly president, vengeful and bearing a grudge, is conducting an all-out war against individuals, private and public institutions, cities and against U.S. states.

Israel: The Big Change: Even Trump Understands That 1 of His Big Dreams Will Not Be Fulfilled

Charles Railey - August 15, 2025. Published in Maariv

[W]e are standing on the threshold of a polarized and sometimes chaotic new era.

Israel: Behind the Message to Washington: Qatar Is Using Humanitarian Aid To Attack Israel

Charles Railey - August 1, 2025. Published in Maariv

[I]t was important for Qatar to show the Americans that it is capable of reaching an agreement, even in Gaza.

Israel: Epstein Conspiracy: When the Monster Has a Life of Its Own and Rises Up

Charles Railey - July 22, 2025. Published in Israel Hayom

It is doubtful that the Trump administration faces a greater danger than that of dealing with the Jeffrey Epstein files, because this is a danger that grew from within.

Israel: Israel Sets Its Sights on Trump, and the Iranian Nuclear Facility Is Not the Only Reason

Charles Railey - June 19, 2025. Published in Globes

American involvement in the war will completely change the equation in Israel, Iran, and throughout the region

Israel: The President Who Forgot History: Trump Blames Biden for Wave of Antisemitism

Charles Railey - June 13, 2025. Published in Maariv

[A]lmost half of the Jews in the United States believe that President Trump himself is antisemitic.