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.

The challenges for Pezeshkian will be navigating Khamenei's influence in addressing the nuclear issue, the regional landscape after the Gaza war, and the economy
July 10, 2024

For India, Chabahar could provide a hedge against U.S. economic pressure while for Iran, any foreign investment is welcome to combat sanctions
July 9, 2024

Remembering their bitter experiences, Iranians are preparing for increased volatility and returning to assets they have used for the past 45 years to protect their savings and ensure their livelihoods
July 3, 2024

Whether it be overhauling the economy, boosting social justice, equal rights for women or reducing Iran’s international isolation, Iranians are more united than ever against the status quo
July 1, 2024

Ali Larijani's rise and fall through his political career illustrates the importance of familial links in Iran's political arena
June 26, 2024

Most non-Western governments want to maintain relative neutrality and believe that engaging Russia diplomatically is necessary for achieving peace
June 24, 2024

Pezeshkian's best chance to win the presidential elections might be if no one gets a majority in the first round and there is a runoff
June 20, 2024

Diplomatic cooperation in the health sector has a proven track record in improving lives even as it avoids the deepest political divides
June 18, 2024