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.
Like the development of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), creation of a new regional security forum could develop organically through continued interactions between Iran and its Arab neighbors
March 27, 2023
Several developments could change Iran's calculus regarding Israel, notably more Arabs' acceptance of the state of Israel and normalization of relations with it
March 22, 2023
Despite hundreds of billions in assistance provided by the U.S. since 2003, corruption and mismanagement have taken a toll on Iraqi businesses
March 20, 2023
The U.S.'s toppling of Saddam Hussein allowed Iran to expand its regional influence, but it also caused backlash that spurred terrorism and threatened territorial integrity
March 17, 2023
Prolonged negotiations over security assurances preceded Beijing's breakthrough in restoring diplomatic relations, sources say
March 13, 2023
How the China-brokered Iran-Saudi deal will impact the Middle East and the world at large
March 10, 2023
Creative and flexible diplomacy can ensure that information is provided while giving Iran a face-saving path to cooperation
March 6, 2023
As the head of the IAEA visits Iran, concerns are also rising about Saudi nuclear intentions and inadequate safeguards
March 3, 2023
