As the situation evolves following Israel’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Middle East Institute will host a follow-up on-the-record public briefing at 2:00 PM ET. This expert panel will examine the broader strategic context, including US policy options, implications for regional stability, and potential responses from key actors.
Join us for timely insights from seasoned former policymakers and national security analysts.
See our morning press briefing here.
Speakers
Ken Pollack
Vice President for Policy, Middle East Institute
Dr. Pollack began his career as a Persian Gulf military analyst at the CIA and served twice on the National Security Council, first as director for Near East and South Asian affairs and then as director for Persian Gulf affairs.
Amb. Barbara A. Leaf
Distinguished Diplomatic Fellow, Middle East Institute
Ambassador Leaf served as Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs from 2022 to 2025, where she shaped US diplomacy across the Middle East and advised Secretary Blinken on post-Oct. 7 Israel-Gaza crisis response. She previously served as US Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates from 2014-2018, and was the first Director of the State Department’s Office of Iranian Affairs.
Brian Katulis
Senior Fellow, Middle East Institute
Brian Katulis is a foreign policy expert who has advised senior US officials and lawmakers on national security strategy, drawing on experience at the White House, State Department, and Pentagon. His work has shaped major debates on U.S. policy toward Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and the Palestinian territories.