Ryan Crocker

Ryan Crocker, a former U.S. ambassador to six countries, Susan Ziada, and Gordon Gray, discuss the crucial roles of ambassadors in protecting U.S. citizens abroad during crises. They share insights from recent alerts in Qatar and delve into the complexities of Middle Eastern diplomacy. The conversation touches on the importance of effective communication and relationships amongst agencies, especially in times of conflict. They also evaluate the impact of political ambassadorships versus those with formal training, emphasizing the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Ehud Eran, former assistant foreign policy advisor to Israel's Prime Minister, Rhonda Slim, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute, and Ryan Crocker, a former U.S. ambassador to several Middle Eastern nations, dive into the escalating conflict in the region. They discuss the implications of the October 7 attack by Hamas and the rising tensions with Hezbollah and Iran. The conversation highlights the complexities of Israel's military strategy, the humanitarian crises unfolding, and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions amid the threat of broader war.