The IMEO Public Briefing features high-level insights into the evolving dynamics of the Middle East and North Africa. Join us for an engaging discussion featuring Q&A's from live audiences and engagement with regional experts.
IMEO Public Briefing | Yemen at a Crossroads: Conflict, Fragmentation, and Regional Security | September 29, 2026
Yemen remains caught between an unresolved internal conflict and its growing role in wider regional tensions. Fresh from extensive fieldwork in Yemen, Baraa Shaiban, one of the country’s most noted analysts and practitioners, joins Dr. H.A. Hellyer of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) for a one-on-one conversation on Yemen’s shifting political and security landscape, including internal divisions, the role of the Houthis, and the impact of regional military escalation. The discussion explores the implications for Red Sea security, Yemen’s prospects for stability, and the possibility of an inclusive political process.
Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
Questions? Join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
16 Apr 2026
IMEO Public Briefing | Lebanon Under Pressure: Navigating Conflict, Crisis, and Uncertainty | April 15, 2026
At a moment of heightened tension, Lebanon finds itself navigating overlapping crises—security risks at its borders, political stagnation at home, and continued economic hardship. As violence intensifies, lives are lost and communities are increasingly displaced, deepening the human toll and compounding an already fragile national landscape. This discussion takes a step back to assess what is unfolding, why it matters, and how these dynamics connect to broader regional trends. Lebanon analysts explore potential scenarios ahead and reflect on where space for stability, dialogue, and recovery may still exist.
Featuring Maya Gebeily (Reuters Bureau Chief for Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan), Dr. Dania Koleilat Khatib (The Research Center for Cooperation and Peace Building Co-Founder and Director), Firas Maksad (The Eurasia Group's MENA Practice Managing Director), and Dr. Makram Rabah (American University of Beirut Assistant Professor of History). Moderated by Dr. H.A. Hellyer (The Royal United Services Institute Senior Associate Fellow). Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
Ask questions and join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
18 Mar 2026
IMEO Public Briefing | The View From the Gulf: GCC Perspectives on the US–Israel–Iran War | March 17, 2026
The unfolding confrontation between the United States, Israel, and Iran is prompting urgent questions across the Gulf about regional security, escalation risks, and the stability of energy markets. Gulf analysts and practitioners will explore how GCC states are interpreting the conflict and its implications for the region. The panel will examine security dynamics, economic impacts, and potential risks to energy infrastructure, while also considering how Gulf governments may approach diplomacy and strategic positioning as the crisis evolves.
Featuring Sara Akbar (OilSERV Kuwait Chairperson & CEO), Rashid Al-Mohanadi (Center for International Policy Research Vice President), Sheikha Najla Al Qassimi (Former UAE Ambassador), Dr. Elham Fakhro (Harvard Kennedy Middle East Initiative Research Fellow), and Shahad Turkistani (Johns Hopkins University PhD Candidate). Moderated by Adel Hamaizia (Highbridge Advisory Managing Director). Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
Ask questions and join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
11 Mar 2026
IMEO Public Briefing | Escalation and Deterrence: US–Israel Strikes on Iran and What Comes Next | March 10, 2026
Recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran—and Tehran’s response—have raised urgent questions about regional stability and the risk of wider conflict. Regional experts examine the situation through a security and strategic lens, focusing on the mechanics of what occurred, the deterrence calculations driving decision-making in Washington, Tel Aviv, Tehran, and the Gulf states, and the potential escalation pathways ahead.
Featuring Dr. Ali Vaez (ICG Iran Project Director), Dr. Ori Rabinowitz (Hebrew University Senior Lecturer), Mohammed Baharoon (B'Huth Director General), and Professor David Des Roches (Thayer Marshall Institute). Moderated by Ambassador Hesham Youssef (EIP Senior Advisor). Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
Ask questions and join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
21 Oct 2025
IMEO Public Briefing | Part II: Israel and Palestine — Voices for Peace | October 16, 2026
Join IMEO for a virtual conversation about the lived human realities in Israel and Palestine. Highlighting the work of activists, peacebuilders, and humanitarian leaders, the segment explores ongoing efforts to foster resilience, dialogue, and reconciliation. This webinar is the second of a two-part series that examines how current dynamics are shaping political life, humanitarian efforts, and the search for pathways toward peace.
Facilitated by Eva Armour, Seeds of Peace Executive DirectorQuestions?
Join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
10 Oct 2025
IMEO Public Briefing | Part I: Israel and Palestine — Political Realities | October 8, 2025
Join IMEO for a virtual conversation with analysts and policy experts who examine how shifting domestic politics and regional trends are shaping prospects for diplomacy and political solutions, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Israel and Palestine. This webinar is the first of a two-part series that examines how current dynamics are shaping political life, humanitarian efforts, and the search for pathways toward peace.
Facilitated by Dr. Mike Yaffe, USIP Former Vice President
Questions? Join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
5 Jun 2025
IMEO Public Briefing | US-Saudi-Middle East Relations After the Trump Visit | June 3, 2025
Join IMEO for a virtual conversation examining the trajectory of U.S. relations with Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East following President Trump’s landmark visit to Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Doha in May 2025. The discussion will reflect on the outcomes of the trip, focusing on economic engagement, strategic cooperation, and points of political alignment and divergence. Featuring HRH Prince Turki AlFaisal and former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Michael Ratney, the dialogue will provide high-level insights into the evolving dynamics of this critical partnership in a shifting global landscape. Facilitated by Adel Hamaizia, Harvard Belfer Center MEI.
Questions? Join our mailing list at info@middleeastoptions.org
Music Featured in Video: Arabian Nights by Sight of Wonders
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