Early Friday morning, Israel launched a series of strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and military assets, describing the operation as a preemptive measure to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The action follows months of rising tensions and comes amid heightened alerts across Israel in anticipation of a potential response.
The Middle East Institute (MEI) hosted an on-the-record, public press briefing featuring top MEI experts to assess the latest developments, explore the implications for regional security and diplomacy, and examine how US and international actors are responding.
A follow-up briefing will be held at 2pm EDT to provide additional perspective and analysis as news develops.
Speakers
Ken Pollack
Vice President for Policy, Middle East Institute
Kenneth M. Pollack, PhD, is a former senior official at the CIA and National Security Council with decades of experience in US national security and Middle East policy. He is the author of 10 books on regional military affairs, US strategy, and the geopolitics of the Gulf, Iran, and Iraq.
Alex Vatanka
Senior Fellow, Middle East Institute
Alex Vatanka specializes in Middle Eastern regional security affairs with a particular focus on Iran. He was formerly a Senior Analyst at Jane’s Information Group in London. Alex is also a Senior Fellow in Middle East Studies at the US Air Force Special Operations School (USAFSOS) at Hurlburt Field and teaches as an Adjunct Professor at DISAS at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
Colby Connelly
Senior Fellow, Middle East Institute
Colby Connelly's work focuses on oil and gas markets, liquified natural gas (LNG), aboveground risk, corporate strategy, and the impact of the energy transition on oil- and gas-producing states. He is also a senior analyst at Energy Intelligence, where he works with the firm’s research and advisory practices.