If Erdogan believes it is up to any state and any region to choose its own name, then no longer should the Turkish government complain when diplomats and officials speak of the Kurdistan Regional Government, Iraqi Kurdistan, or even South Kurdistan.

Before Saddam Hussein was ousted, Iraqi Kurdistan was more democratic than the rest of Iraq, but this is no longer the case.

A review of Brigadier General Gholamreza Baghbani's career trajectory solidifies a pattern of generational change in the IRGC QF in which former QF field operatives are pursing prominent political and advisory positions.

If Kurdistan is truly going to become a new Dubai or Bahrain and bolster its wealth and living standards to first world levels, it must rein in corruption or change the leadership which refuses to do so.

The career of Iraj Masjedi, including his service at Base Ramezan and his promotion to senior adviser to Qassem Suleimani, highlights a cycle of generational change within the IRGC QF, and offers an indication of where to find Iran's future Quds Force leaders.

The fight against terrorism is no closer to success today than it was a decade ago when, in the wake of the September 11 terror attacks, President George W. Bush declared a Global War on Terrorism.

By following fluctuations in the careers of other individuals in Major General Qassem Suleimani's network, we can assess his power in the Islamic Republic.

Should Qassem Suleimani pursue politics, he may be replaced by his deputy, Brigadier General Esmail Qaani, who is believed to be directing the IRGC QF’s activities in Afghanistan.