Brookings: Topics - Iran

The Iran Hostage Crisis: 30 Years Later

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Three decades after Iran seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, igniting a 14-month hostage crisis, Suzanne Maloney examines the current state of power in the Islamic Republic. Maloney says that the recent demonstrations in Iran are an extension of the country's unanswered conversation of legitimate ruling authority, and that responses by hard-liners indicate a belief that any reform would beget revolution.

The Iran Talks in Geneva: Too Soon to Tell

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kenneth Pollack says recent discussions between the P5-plus-one and Iran were not earth-shaking, with several questions remaining unanswered in the aftermath. However, Pollack does find it interesting that the Iranians demonstrated some willingness to compromise on small interests and there was no attempt to grandstand at the meeting.

Iran Gives Nod to Inspections, More Nuclear Talks

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iran has agreed to a second round of discussions over its disputed nuclear program following a meeting in Geneva with diplomats from the United States and other world powers. Suzanne Maloney joined PBS' NewsHour to discuss how this week's talks were a positive step and what to expect from future engagement between the United States and Iran.

Iran Sanctions: Who Really Wins?

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iranian officials agreed in principle with the United States and five other international powers in Geneva to export their uranium enrichment program in exchange for a halt in UN sanctions action. Djavad Salehi-Isfahani argues that sanctions would be the wrong choice anyway. Existing sanctions have had no discernible effect on Iran's nuclear policy, and harsher sanctions may actually strengthen President Ahmadinejad's populist control of the economy.

Obama's Announcement About Iran's Secret Enrichment Facility

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes that Friday’s announcement by President Barack Obama and his French and British counterparts about Iran’s covert nuclear activities had all the ingredients of a blockbuster. Maloney explores the likelihood that the announcement will force Iran's hand and outlines the potential impact on the stances of Russia and China.

A Better Base for Cutting Nuclear Weapons

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama's decision to rethink and revamp the plan for Poland-based defenses against Iranian missiles was met with some criticism at home and in Eastern Europe for giving too much to Russia. However, argues Brookings President Strobe Talbott, the new strategy is a pragmatic step to counter Iran's real short-range missile threat, strengthens the transatlantic alliance, and better serves the goals of U.S.-Russian strategic arms reduction.

Previewing the United Nations General Assembly: A Discussion with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:30:50 GMT

Event Information:

September 18, 2009, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM

World leaders are now in New York as the United Nations General Assembly opens its 64th session. Last week, Brookings hosted Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for a speech previewing the U.S. agenda for the assembly, including addressing Iran, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, climate change, and the Middle East peace process.

Which Path to Persia? : Options for a New American Strategy toward Iran

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Which Path to Persia? objectively presents the most important policy options available to the United States in crafting a new strategy toward Iran.

Developments in Iran and North Korea

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Indyk joined Andrea Mitchell to discuss the inauguration of Mahmoud Ahmedinejad to a second term as president of Iran. Indyk and Mitchell also spoke about former President Bill Clinton’s trip to North Korea, in which he secured a pardon for two U.S. journalists being held by the government.

Iran and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's Second Term

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two months after a landslide election that was widely viewed as fraudulent, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, will be inaugurated this week for a second term as president of Iran. Suzanne Maloney examines both what has happened in Iran since the election and new questions regarding the stability of the regime moving forward.

China's Temptation to Invest in Iran's Oil Industry

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Erica Downs examines what is behind the recent Iranian invitation to China to invest $43 billion in Iran's oil industry. Downs argues that Iran is aiming to lessen the impact of additional international sanctions by adding to its meager refining capability, but she also believes there are several reasons China will be unwilling to deliver everything Iran wants.

Minimizing Potential Threats from Iran: Assessing Sanctions and Other U.S. Policy Options

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney testified before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs on recent developments in Iran and the possibility of new sanctions. Maloney noted that while sanctions may be the only effective means of persuading Iran to cooperate, the willingness of the international community is limited and Iran is somewhat insulated because of its already poor economy and extensive petroleum exports.

Political and Economic Woes Thwart Return to Normalcy in Iran

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following his return from Tehran, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani speaks to NPR’s Marketplace about festering political and economic discontent in Iran following the June elections. Bringing the country’s economy in for a soft landing will pose a significant challenge to the government, he notes, as Iranian citizens struggle to get back to their daily lives.

Iran: Recent Developments and Implications for U.S. Policy

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney testified before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on recent developments in Iran after the June 12 election and resulting protests across the country. Maloney addressed the current internal political crisis, the efficiency of additional international sanctions against Iran and offered suggestions for U.S. policy going forward.

Iran’s Quest for Regional Preeminence: Implications for Middle East Security

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 14, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
July 15, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

On July 14-15, the Saban Center at Brookings and the United States Central Command partnered for the first time to convene a joint conference. Over one-hundred-and-fifty participants came together to analyze developments in Iran, including Iran’s support of terrorist groups, Iran’s foreign policy, and the Iranian nuclear program.

The Beginning of the End in Iraq

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The withdrawal of U.S. combat troops from Iraq's cities is the beginning of the end of the American part of the war, writes Bruce Riedel. He outlines both the enormous costs already paid by going to war and explains how al-Qaeda and Iran benefited from years of U.S. foreign policy focusing almost entirely on Iraq.

The G8: From Trieste to L’Aquila

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Binda believes the recent G8 foreign ministers meeting in Trieste has set the stage for pragmatic and operative discussions at the upcoming G8 summit. Bindi examines key issues of the debate including Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and the future role of the European Union in global governance.

Options for a New American Strategy Toward Iran

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a new Saban Analysis Paper, six Brookings experts analyze the main policy approaches toward Iran. In examining the benefits and drawbacks of the nine options—including engagement, persuasion, airstrikes, and containment—the authors refrain from recommending one policy over the other. Rather, they present the details of the policies in a manner that allows readers to understand the complexity of the challenge that is Iran and decide for themselves which group of policies is best.

After the Iranian Uprising

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Looking past Iran’s recent election crisis, growing trade and budget deficits will hamper Ahmadinejad’s second term and his penchant for redistributionist policies, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani warns. While the administration will face pressure to continue expansionist policies, Salehi-Isfahani predicts that Iranians will pay the price through high inflation and low growth.

Misreading Tehran

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the wake of post-election unrest in Iran, Suzanne Maloney writes that many of America’s Iran watchers failed in their assessments. She says to make sure we aren’t caught by surprise with Tehran’s politics again we need to understand the deep republican streak of the Iranian people—and the lengths to which their leaders will go to stifle it.

The Many Crises of Iranian Youth

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With Iran at a political impasse, Navtej Dhillon and Daniel Egel write that the youth of Iran, who account for nearly 40 percent of the voting age population, have been profoundly disappointed by the promises of the Islamic Republic and are yearning for opportunities for economic advancement.

How the Economy Plays into Iran's Turmoil

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview on NPR’s Marketplace, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani reports from Iran that the post-election political stalemate has put a halt to much economic and social activity in Tehran. Winning back the full participation and confidence of Iran’s “technical elite”—its doctors, engineers, and lawyers—will be a grave challenge for the new government.

Diplomacy with Iran: The Show Must Go On

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Examining both recent events and historical circumstances, Suzanne Maloney points to robust U.S. diplomatic engagement with Iran as the optimal strategic option and candidly outlines what U.S. policymakers should—and should not—hope to accomplish.

Iran's Election: Economic Fears and Discontents

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani continues to monitor post-election unrest from Tehran. He writes that deep social and economic divisions will continue to weaken the fabric of Iranian society, and will present a challenge for the next government as it attempts to reverse growing inequality in the country.

Which Path to Persia? Options for a New American Strategy Toward Iran

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 23, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

With Iran in the grip of post-election uncertainty, the question of how to approach America’s most vexing Middle East policy challenge has become acute. On June 23, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings hosted a discussion with the authors of a new monograph titled "Which Path to Persia? Options for a New American Strategy toward Iran," which outlines nine policy options for the United States in its approach to Iran during this pivotal time.

Iran's Economy: Trouble in Tehran

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani assesses Iran's recent economic performance in Foreign Policy magazine, arguing that the country’s policymakers have amassed a mixed record. While government spending in the past year was based on safe estimates of oil prices, high levels of social spending will be hard to maintain and the private sector will struggle to revive the Iranian economy in 2009.

The Two Faces of Twitter: Revolution in a Digital Age for Iran

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The role of Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter in recent Iranian street demonstrations shows the power of digital technologies. At the same time that these technologies facilitate grass-roots communications, they also sow the seeds for future political repression, writes Darrell West.

Can Iran’s Reformers Exploit Fissures in the Regime?

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes that no matter who emerges victorious in Iran's current struggle for political power, the future of the Islamic Republic will look nothing like the country the world has known for the last 30 years.

Obama's Twitter Strategy

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The reform movement in Iran has been bolstered by the use of new media including YouTube and Twitter. Ariel Kastner suggests that the Obama administration should be vigilant in protecting access to these outlets and make dissatisfaction clear when countries attempt to block their citizens from using such outlets.

Is Iran Ripe for Revolution?

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman explores the massive demonstrations that have swept parts of Iran since the election on June 12 and what they might mean for the clerical regime. He argues that while there is reason to believe there is growing interest in reform in the country, this period of unrest is fairly unlikely to bring it.

What if Ahmadinejad Really Won?

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As demonstrations continue in the wake of the Iranian election, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani writes from Tehran that the concentration of protests in Iran's large urban areas is not a coincidence: rural and small town voters may prioritize different social and political issues than their young, urban counterparts.

Reacting to Iran's Disputed Presidential Election Outcome

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was proclaimed the landslide winner in Iran's presidential contest amid accusations of widespread election fraud. Suzanne Maloney argues that although the election has poisoned the atmosphere for diplomacy, it has not changed the fact that negotiations represent the best of a range of unappealing options available to Washington.

An Absurd Outcome to Iran's Presidential Election

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney explores the main questions left after Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s win in Iran. Among these questions, Maloney addresses how much the vote was manipulated and whether Obama can still pursue diplomacy as an option with a fractured Iran.

What to Read on Iranian Politics

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney examines Iran’s internal and international relations by offering an annotated syllabus on Iranian politics. Focusing on serious analysis, Maloney offers suggestions ranging from the formation of the Islamic Republic to the presidency of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Iran's Presidential Elections: A Surge of Reformists in Politics

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The highly anticipated Iranian presidential election marks a major turning point in Iranian politics. With over 30 million expected voters, Djavad Salehi-Isfanani analyzes the campaign, what’s at stake and states that this election demonstrates Iranian political progress.

The Scouting Report: Iran's Presidential Election

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 10, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

To examine the outlook for and implications of Iran’s presidential election on June 12, Brookings expert Suzanne Maloney and Senior Politico Editor Fred Barbash took questions in the June 10 edition of the Scouting Report.

Iran's Presidential Election: What to Watch For

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Iranians go to the polls in their hotly contested presidential election, Suzanne Maloney analyzes the vote as being both a referendum on the polarizing first term of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and an opportunity for the reformist movement to revive itself after crushing defeats in recent years. She also cautions the Obama administration against making public statements in favor of any outcome, for fear of stoking a hardliner backlash.

Strategies for Engagement: 2009 CUSE Annual Conference

Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 29, 2009, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

On May 29, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings (CUSE) will host experts and officials from both sides of the Atlantic for the 2009 CUSE Annual Conference to examine the prospect of engagement with Iran and Russia, and how to deal with groups such as Hamas and the Taliban.

Tough Times Ahead for the Iranian Economy

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani questions if Iran’s next president will proceed with the difficult but necessary reforms to build healthy and viable non-oil export sectors. Or, in the hopes of gaining political points, will they opt for short-term populist policies?

Global Economic Crisis: Coping Mechanisms in Oil-Exporting Economies of the Middle East

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani argues that the ongoing economic slowdown may stimulate development of new tradeable industries in oil-exporting countries. While large stocks of reserves may allow some countries to delay reform, external trade deficits and budget shortfalls will force some, like Iran, to consider more urgent fiscal adjustments.

In Search of Lost Time: Turkey-U.S. Relations after Bush

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The past eight years witnessed a sharp evolution of the Turkey-US relationship, but a change in rhetoric substance was ushered in with the second Bush administration that eventually came to the rescue. Sinan Ülgen argues the election of Barack Obama provides an opportunity for Ankara and Washington to put behind their differences decisively and to concentrate on advancing a more ambitious transatlantic agenda.

Iran: Poverty and Inequality Since the Revolution

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thirty years after the Iranian revolution proclaimed social justice as a principle tenet, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani analyzes trends in inequality, poverty, and access to education and health services. While strides have been made, the record of the Ahmadinejad administration, up for re-election, is mixed.

President Obama's Speech: An Appraisal from the Middle East

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Expectations for the Obama administration in the Middle East and Muslim world are characterized by a realistic optimism, says Tarik Yousef, speaking on a BBC Arabic radio broadcast. Yousef highlights the importance of the new President’s symbolic changes in rhetoric and discusses the tests that the new administration will face in the region, from the stalled Arab-Israeli peace process to the relationship with Iran. What will beckon the administration first, however, are a pressing set of domestic policy challenges.

Renew Diplomacy in the Middle East

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 05, 2009, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

Israel's continued engagement against Hamas in Gaza, now being waged with ground forces, further complicates Barack Obama's agenda for the Middle East, which also includes withdrawing from Iraq and capping Iran’s nuclear ambitions. On January 5, Martin Indyk and Kenneth Pollack offered a public memo to President-elect Obama with recommendations on how to deal with the urgent challenges that will confront him across the volatile region.

Refashioning Iran’s International Role

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Since its explosive beginnings nearly three decades ago, the Islamic Republic of Iran has been the poster child for recalcitrance and misconduct in the international system—the archetype for a new category of rogue or outlaw state. Suzanne Maloney and Ray Takeyh examine how to deal with Iran and its multiple foreign policy challenges.

Sunni and Shi ’a Terrorism: Differences that Matter

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There are significant and little appreciated differences in the trajectory of Sunni extremist terrorism and that of Shi’a extremism. 2007-2008 Federal Executive Fellow Thomas F. Lynch explores the differences that exist across six key areas that impact American policy considerations, especially in light of steadily escalating tensions with Iran.

Middle East Needs Obama's Touch

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama will face a series of challenges in the Middle East demanding urgent attention: an Iraq that could still unravel, an Iran approaching the nuclear threshold, a faltering Israeli-Palestinian peace process, and weak governments in Lebanon and the Palestinian territories. Martin Indyk and Richard Haass outline what the initial goals of the Obama administration should be in the region.

Managing Nuclear Proliferation in the Middle East

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel and Gary Samore write that attempts to stop Iran's nuclear program have failed. They offer suggestions to the incoming Obama administration on how to move forward with a new approach to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability.

Sanctioning Iran: Current Impact, Future Prospects

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 16, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The sixth session of the Iran Working Group was held on December 16, 2008, at Brookings. Several analysts shared their expertise on the current state of sanctions against Iran – in particular, on the current measures targeting certain Iranian banks – and on the prospects for the incoming U.S. administration to achieve multilateral consensus on a diplomatic strategy toward Tehran, particularly from key actors such as Russia and China.

Afghanistan, Iraq and Iran: An Update

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 16, 2008, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

On December 16, Brookings hosted foreign policy experts Suzanne Maloney, Michael O’Hanlon and Kenneth Pollack for a discussion on the state of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as Iran’s nuclear and regional ambitions.

Beyond Iraq: A New U.S. Strategy for the Middle East

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Indyk and Richard Haass argue to be successful in the Middle East, the Obama administration will need to move beyond Iraq, find ways to deal constructively with Iran, and forge a final-status Israeli-Palestinian agreement.

American and Iran: Flawed Analysis, Missed Opportunities, and Looming Dangers

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For 30 years, the United States has tried to deal with Iran and its revolutionary ideology without a well grounded understanding of what motivates and inspires Iranians. Bruce Riedel analyzes the past, current, and possible future relationship between the U.S. and Iran.

Saban Forum 2008

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 17:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 05, 2008, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
December 06, 2008, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
December 07, 2008, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

On December 5-7, in the month before the new U.S. administration enters office, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings brought together top Israeli and American policymakers, journalists, and members of the public and private sectors, as well as leaders from Britain and Turkey to discuss the most critical issues in the Middle East.

Pathway to Coexistence: A New U.S. Policy toward Iran

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration may be tempted to take the easy way out by offering merely new rhetoric and modest refinements to the carrot-and stick approach that has failed its five predecessors. Suzanne Maloney and Ray Takeyh believe this would be a mistake. Today, to deal effectively with a rising Iran, the United States must embark on a far deeper reevaluation of its strategy and launch a comprehensive diplomatic initiative to attempt to engage its most enduring Middle Eastern foe.

Restoring the Balance in the Middle East

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Indyk and Richard Haass joined Charlie Rose to discuss the newly released Saban Center at Brookings-Council on Foreign Relations book Restoring the Balance: A Middle East Strategy for the Next President. They highlighted three major foreign policy challenges in the region that President-elect Obama will need to focus on and detailed some of the recommendations found within the book.

Restoring the Balance: A Middle East Strategy for the Next President

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 02, 2008, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

A Time for Diplomatic Renewal: Toward a New U.S. Strategy in the Middle East

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Indyk and Richard Haass note that President-elect Obama will face a series of critical, complex, and interrelated challenges in the Middle East that will demand his immediate attention: an Iran apparently intent on approaching or crossing the nuclear threshold as quickly as possible; a fragile situation in Iraq that is straining the U.S. military; weak governments in Lebanon and Palestine under challenge from stronger Hezbollah and Hamas militant organizations; a faltering Israeli-Palestinian peace process; and American influence diluted by a severely damaged reputation.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: Military and Political Influence in Today's Iran

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 18, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The fifth session of the Iran Working Group, jointly organized by the Saban Center for Middle East Policy and the United States Institute of Peace, was held on November 13, 2008, at the Brookings Institution. The featured speakers were Dr. Michael Connell, director of Project Iran at the Center for Naval Analyses, and Dr. Kenneth Katzman, specialist in Middle East Affairs at the Congressional Research Service and author of The Warriors of Islam: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.

U.S. Elections and Iran

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes that Iran will loom large on the agenda of the next American president. Maloney believes Barack Obama's willingness to talk to Tehran represents a promising start, and that history suggests engagement is appropriate, but also notes Tehran will need to demonstrate it is prepared to rejoin the international community.

U.S. Policy Toward Iran: Missed Opportunities and Paths Forward

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes that U.S. policy toward Iran is in a profound state of disarray as international support for sanctions or use of force has dwindled recently. Maloney argues that the U.S. must first understand where the miscalculations occurred, and that the next administration should be prepared to outline a new way forward on Iran.

The Next U.S. President and the Middle East?

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 15, 2008, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

On October 15, 2008, the Brookings Doha Center, a Project of the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution, hosted Ambassador Martin Indyk, Director of the Saban Center, for its first policy discussion of the post-Ramadan season. The policy discussion entitled covered some of the most important challenges and responsibilities facing the next administration with regard to U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

Diplomatic Strategies for Dealing with Iran

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes about diplomatic options for the next administration in dealing with Iran. Maloney offers ideas on how Iran may respond to new U.S. initiatives by exploring previous cases of dialogue, and she concludes by presenting a sense of how Tehran views talking with Washington.

A Grand Strategy for America in the Middle East

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 05, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings hosted Senior Fellow Kenneth Pollack for a discussion of his book A Path Out of the Desert: A Grand Strategy for America in the Middle East. In the book, Pollack offers a long-term strategy to improve the political, economic and social problems that underlie the region’s many crises.

Global Turmoil: Pakistan, Russia, Georgia and Iran

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

How can the interconnection of Pakistan, Russia, Georgia and Iran affect the United States? Brookings President Strobe Talbott, Ted Koppell and Neal Conan discussed this question on NPR's Talk of the Nation.

Has Poverty Increased in Iran Under Ahmadinejad?

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Contrary to recent findings by the Central Bank of Iran, Brookings Djavad Salehi-Isfahani argues poverty rates in Iran are not high when compared to international standards for developing countries, nor do they appear to be rising. However, income inequality is on the rise and poses a challenge to President Ahmadinejad in his 2009 re-election bid.

Middle East: A Path Out of the Desert

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kenneth Pollack joined washingtonpost.com readers to discuss his new book A Path Out of the Desert: A Grand Strategy for America in the Middle East.

Iran and U.S. Missile Defense

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ivo Daalder joined Diane Rehm to discuss Iran's test-firing of a series of missiles and the Bush administration's continued pursuit of a Europe-based missile defense shield to counter the threat from Iran.

The Youth of Iran

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 10, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The fourth session of the Iran Working Group was held on July 10, 2008, at the Brookings Institution. The featured speakers were Iason Athanasiadis and Dr. Djavad Salehi-Isfahani. They shared their expertise on the topic of the youth of Iran, a crucial demographic group between the ages of 15 and 29 that comprises more than one-third of the nation’s population.

It Would Benefit China to Be Tougher on Iran

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Philip Gordon assesses China's role in recent diplomatic initiatives meant to contain Iran's nuclear program. Gordon believes China should stop refusing to place significant sanctions on Iran, and that Chinese leaders should focus on the long-term regional and global impact of a nuclear capable Iran instead of the short-term impact of their energy relationship.

A New Approach to Missile Defense in Europe

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer addresses the Bush administration's continued desire to install a missile defense system in Europe to counter Iranian weapon threats. Pifer believes that because Iran has not yet developed a missile capable of reaching all of Europe or the U.S., the program's timetable should be slowed to ensure all interested parties, including Russia, are comfortable with the plans.

U.S. Foreign Policy and the 2008 Presidential Campaign

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 26, 2008, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Brookings's Opportunity 08 and Managing Global Insecurity projects hosted Senator Chuck Hagel for a discussion of U.S. foreign policy in the context of the 2008 presidential campaign. Senator Hagel examined the global challenges that the next president will inherit and the responsibilities of the presidential candidates to address these challenges.

Beijing's Role in the Middle East

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 26, 2008, 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM

The Crisis in the Middle East Task Force addressed the topic of “The Rise of China: Beijing’s Role in the Middle East” in its eighth and final session. This session, hosted by the Saban Center for Middle East Policy on June 26, 2008, examined the changing nature of the relationship between the United States, China and the Middle East.

L’Italia, attore centrale nei negoziati con l’Iran?

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi discusses Italy’s inclusion in the 5+1 Group and negotiations with Iran. (Italian with translation available)

McCain pourrait faire une vraie ouverture vers l'Iran, comme Nixon en Chine en 1972

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse joined LeMonde.fr to discuss foreign policy in the presidential campaign. Vaisse compares Barack Obama with John McCain on the issues, and also in terms of ideology and political instincts. (French)

The Changing Nature of State Sponsorship of Terrorism

Thu, 29 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The current United States approach to state sponsorship of terrorism is flawed, writes Daniel Byman. He suggests that instead of simply managing a list of state sponsors, Washington needs to recognize the complexity of sponsorship, monitor states using a broad definition of what constitutes state sponsorship, and use diplomatic pressure as well as political and economic penalties when needed.

The Changing Nature of State Sponsorship of Terrorism

Wed, 28 May 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 28, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy hosted a policy luncheon on May 28, 2008, launching a Saban Center analysis paper of the same name. The paper’s author, Daniel Byman, presented a summary of the paper’s findings. Bruce Hoffman, Senior Fellow at the U.S. Military Academy and Professor at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, provided comments. Bruce Riedel moderated the discussion.

Iran's Economy: Short Term Performance and Long Term Potential

Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In recent remarks at a Congressional staff briefing hosted by Security for a New Century, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani addressed current trends in Iran’s economy. He noted that high levels of investment, an increasingly active private sector, low poverty levels, and a lively public debate on the economy provide hope for long-term stability and development. Yet high levels of youth unemployment, especially among women, and weak institutions remain areas for concern.

The Future of U.S.-Syrian Relations

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In congressional testimony, Martin Indyk argued that the current policy of isolating Syria has had mixed results. He believes that the next U.S. president should consider a different approach that could foster a more productive relationship allowing mutual goals to be realized in the troubled region.

U.S. Policy and Syria: Who's Converting Whom?

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Peter Rodman argued "the conditions do not exist for an improvement of relations with Syria as long as Syrian policies remain hostile to important interest of ours in the Middle East." He concluded that Syria must change course in relation to Iraq, Lebanon, and Arab-Israeli peace before the U.S. reaches out to the country.

Iraq, Petraeus, Iran: Coming to Grips with Reality

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In his recent briefing to Congress on the current state of Iraq, General David Petraeus emphasized Iran's role in Iraq by mentioning the country and its newly found influence numerous times. Bruce Riedel notes that a "weak and malleable" Iraq places Iran in a position that leaders of the Islamic Republic could have only hoped for prior to the U.S. invasion.

Hawkish Engagement Needed with Iran?

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon believes that "hawkish" diplomatic contact with Iran is needed, because it is likely to "set the U.S. up more effectively to galvanize the kind of growing international pressure on Iran that is probably our only long-term hope of producing better behavior from Teheran."

Analyzing Iran's Domestic Political Landscape: 2008 and Beyond

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 16, 2008, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

On April 16, 2008, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at The Brookings Institution and USIP’s Muslim World Initiative convened a meeting of the Iran Working Group to discuss the parliamentary election results, their implications for the Iranian presidential elections and their potential impact on Iran’s relationship with the West.

U.S. Strategy in Iraq

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker complete their testimony before Congress, Ivo Daalder joins Diane Rehm to discuss the status of Iraq.

Gulf Trip Report: Qatar and the United Arab Emirates

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In February, Martin Indyk and Richard Haass engaged leading Gulf policymakers in detailed conversations about what they are looking for from a new American president. While all those with whom they spoke were fascinated by the American presidential primary elections and seem to be following the results closely, few have yet focused on the possibility that a significant change in U.S. foreign policy might result from a new administration in Washington. There was also a significant disconnect between leaders and publics: The leaders are focused on how the next administration will deal with complex regional security challenge posed by Iran, whereas the publics are hoping that a new president will resolve the Palestinian issue and press authoritarian governments to be more open, transparent and accountable.

S970: The Iran Counter-Proliferation Act of 2007

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the Senate Finance Committee, Philip Gordon shared his perspective on the Iran Counter-Proliferation Act (S970). He argued that while the bill recognizes a "broad set of diplomatic, political and economic measures,” in order to change Iran's behavior, "we must take great care not to provoke divisions within the international coalition that has been forming to contain Iran."

How the Iraq War Has Empowered Iran

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Five years into war in Iraq, Suzanne Maloney assesses the changed and growing relationship between Iraq and Iran. She concludes that Iran's investments in Iraq reflect the fact that Tehran has an interest in ensuring a friendly government in Baghdad, and that the U.S. will have to utilize new approaches to contain Iran.

Iraq: Winners and Losers at Five Years

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Five years into the Iraq War, Bruce Riedel provides an interim report on the winners and losers to date. He writes that one of the biggest losers, despite the troop surge, is the United States. Riedel concludes by noting the next president "will face a monumental challenge of how to find a way to end a war we never needed to fight but whose legacy will haunt Americans for decades to come."

Iran, Terrorism, and Weapons of Mass Destruction

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman assesses Iran’s past and current use of terrorism as well as the threat of proxy groups using weapons of mass destruction at the request of the country's leaders. He concludes by offering recommendations for decreasing Iran’s support of terrorist organizations.

Iran Working Group: Implications of Iran's Parliamentary Election

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 18, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

Iran continues to pose a serious challenge for U.S. foreign policy. As a consequence, the domestic politics of the Islamic republic have acquired greater salience in the U.S. policymaking community. Effective solutions to the strains in U.S.-Iranian relations may come from acquiring a nuanced understanding of Iranian internal politics as they affect the Islamic republic’s foreign policy. To address the existing and potential dilemmas at the core of U.S.-Iranian relations Saban Center for Middle East Policy and the U.S. Institute of Peace have jointly launched the Iran Working Group.

Are Iranian Women Overeducated?

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With the number of women outnumbering men two to one in Iranian universities, closing this gender gap in education has been hailed as one of the country’s most important achievements. Because women graduates are one-third less likely to work than men, there is concern about women taking up precious spaces at publicly subsidized universities. Djavad Salehi-Isfahani, visiting fellow with the Wolfensohn Center for Development, discusses the unnecessary use of affirmative action that universities are taking to control the imbalance in enrollments and argues limiting women’s educational rights will hinder the country’s economic development.

The Future of the Middle East

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 04, 2008, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On March 4, Brookings hosted journalist and author Robin Wright for a discussion of her new book, Dreams and Shadows: The Future of the Middle East. Wright focused on the pivotal countries and regions of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories and Morocco, drawing on first-hand interviews with many of the region’s key players.

Advancing Religious Freedom and Human Rights in Iran

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom Suzanne Maloney offers thoughts on the trends underway within Iran regarding human rights and religious freedoms as well as what the U.S. can do to approach policy concerns.

New Directions: The Opportunities and Challenges Ahead in the U.S.-Muslim World Relationship

Sat, 16 Feb 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 16, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

The 2008 U.S.-Islamic World Forum, held from February 16-18, 2008, in Doha, Qatar, was an immense success, bringing together key leaders in the fields of politics, business, media, academia, and civil society from across the Muslim world and the United States. Now in its fifth year, the forum has become the foremost meeting for positive cross-cultural engagement among leaders from the United States and the Muslim world.

It's Not About Iran

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Shibley Telhami writes that the United States could make a costly mistake by believing that Arab nations are currently motivated by a perceived Iranian threat and that the specter of Iran alone brought the Arab nations to the Middle East conference in Annapolis last fall. Telhami notes that the Bush Administration reliance on this belief was clearly reflected in the President’s recent speech in the United Arab Emerites.

The Iranian Nuclear Program after the National Intelligence Estimate

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Philip Gordon offers possible outcomes following a recent U.S. National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) that downplays the risk of the Iranian nuclear weapon ambitions. He concludes that the findings will make it harder for the U.S. to gain support for sanctions against the program and that the NIE "will facilitate Iran’s potential development of a nuclear weapon in several ways."

The Future of the Syrian-Iranian Alliance

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Bilal Saab and Bruce Riedel argue that the Bush Administration pushed for a meeting in Annapolis "to gather the pro-U.S. Arab states under the aegis of a peace process for the purpose of containing or at least balancing the rising power of Iran."

The Iran National Intelligence Estimate and Intelligence Assessment Capabilities

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 20, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Dr. Gary Samore of the Council on Foreign Relations presented ideas on the technical significance of the recently released National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) on Iran and its implications for diplomatic efforts to prevent or delay Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Time to Start Talking to Tehran

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney and Ray Takeyh argue that in order to come to an understanding with Iran, the United States must open dialogue with the country instead of forcing a military confrontation.

George Bush, Nicolas Sarkozy et le Programme Nucléaire Iranien

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse discusses George Bush, Nicolas Sarkozy and the impact of the recent NIE on Iran.

Nuclear Proliferation at a Crossroads: Iran, the U.S., and the Arab States

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 11, 2007, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

About seventy members of the public, the media and the diplomatic corps attended a public debate and discussion hosted by the Brookings Doha Center. The event was held at the Diplomatic Club in Doha, Qatar and was broadcast live in Arabic on Al Jazeera Mubasher. On the panel were Ambassador Greg Schulte and Dr. Mehran Kamrava. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Hady Amr.