The Stimson Center’s Middle East Program seeks to inform policy discussions on the Middle East by leveraging regional expertise, convening dialogues, and producing rigorous, non-partisan analysis and scholarship. The program assesses regional geopolitical developments with a focus on conflict management, regional security, and post-conflict peacebuilding. Through sustained engagement with policymakers, scholars, and subject-matter experts, the program aims to advance practical policy thinking rooted in on-the-ground realities.
A core pillar of the program is the convening of high-level Track 1.5 and Track 2.0 regional dialogues that bring together policymakers, academics, and experts to conduct joint analysis, discuss de-escalation processes, and advance regional cooperation. The program also organizes issue-area roundtables to develop impactful policy recommendations informed by global lessons learned and regional experience. The program’s analysis and policy outputs are directly informed by the insights generated through these dialogues and roundtables.
Significant segments of Omani society appear to be in growing solidarity with Tehran’s “axis of resistance” against Israel as anti-U.S. narratives gain popularity
August 26, 2024
Women face significant discrimination in Iran but have become increasingly prominent in the public sphere, most recently as advocates for their fathers running for president.
August 22, 2024
Criminal syndicates have taken advantage of weak law enforcement in the Persian Gulf and security gaps in Yemen and Syria to smuggle drugs and weapons, jeopardizing Middle Eastern security and its citizens' well-being.
August 19, 2024
Iran has consistently sought to improve relations with its Arab neighbors while supporting militant proxies that have created considerable anxiety among those same neighbors
August 14, 2024
Iran weighs two options to retaliate for the killing of a senior Hamas leader - a calculated, calibrated military response or a diplomatic offramp through a Gaza ceasefire
August 12, 2024
Araghchi's credentials could partially shield him from domestic criticism should Iran make concessions on key issues
August 12, 2024
The killing of Haniyeh could allow Iran to increase its regional influence by harnessing Arab outrage at Israel and fostering Sunni-Shi’ite convergence
August 8, 2024
The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has shaken the confidence of Iran-aligned Iraqi leaders in Iran’s ability to ensure the safety of visiting foreign dignitaries
August 7, 2024
