Babel: Translating the Middle East

Reflecting on two decades of Middle East policy, Jon Alterman shares insights on the evolution of the region's geopolitical landscape. He discusses the shift from historical studies to practical policymaking, emphasizing the importance of effective communication. The conversation dives into the complexities of conveying intricate ideas in a changing media environment and highlights the significance of curiosity-driven dialogue. As Alterman transitions to a new role, he offers valuable advice for newcomers in the field, stressing the need for nuanced conversations.

Mohanad Hage Ali, deputy director for research at the Carnegie Middle East Center, sheds light on Hezbollah's role in the Captagon smuggling trade in Lebanon. He discusses how this situation threatens Lebanese sovereignty but also offers a chance for political reform. Mona Yacoubian, director at CSIS, elaborates on the drug trade's impact on stability and the pressing challenges law enforcement faces amidst clan-based networks. Their insightful conversation reveals a complex interplay of crime, politics, and potential pathways to stronger governance in Lebanon.

President Trump abruptly halted U.S. bombing of Houthi targets, linking it to their agreement to stop attacks on vessels. The podcast examines the fragile dynamics of this deal amid U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations. It delves into the unique diplomatic approach behind the agreement, highlighting its potential impacts on regional stability. Experts discuss whether this move is a genuine gesture of goodwill or merely a strategic maneuver, raising questions about the sustainability of peace in the Middle East.

This week on Babel, Jon Alterman speaks with Dina Esfandiary, the Middle East Geoeconomics Lead at Bloomberg. Previously, Dr. Esfandiary served as a senior adviser for the Middle East and North Africa at the International Crisis Group and was a fellow at The Century Foundation. Her research focuses on security in the Persian Gulf and Iran’s foreign relations. Together, they discuss why the United States and Iran are negotiating again, how Tehran’s position has changed since 2015, and the different strategies both countries are likely to pursue at the negotiating table. Then, Jon continues the conversation with Ninar Fawal and Will Todman to discuss how regional and international actors are responding to the ongoing nuclear talks. Transcript: "⁠Dina Esfandiary: Will Iran Make a Deal with Trump?⁠," CSIS, May 1, 2025. Dr. Esfandiary's latest work: available via Bloomberg Terminal.

The podcast delves into the unorthodox diplomatic strategies of the current U.S. administration, highlighting their impact on negotiations in the Middle East and beyond. With a focus on commercial negotiators, it discusses both the potential benefits and risks of this approach. Reactions from U.S. allies in the region reveal a shift in mindset, comparing it to past diplomatic methods. The conversation raises crucial questions about the efficacy of such tactics and their implications for regional stability.

This week on Babel, Jon Alterman speaks with Dr. Craig Larkin, director of the Center for the Study of Divided Societies at King’s College London. Dr. Larkin is also a research lead on Memory and Conflict for XCEPT, a research consortium studying cross-border conflict. There, he focuses on the relationship between communal memory and violence. Together, Jon and Dr. Larkin unpack different approaches taken to reconstruction and reconciliation after violence in the Middle East. Then, in his farewell Babel appearance, Martin Pimentel takes Jon's spot by continuing the conversation with Ninar Fawal and Will Todman to discuss pitfalls the international community should avoid when supporting post-conflict recovery. Transcript: "Craig Larkin: The Politics of Memory, From Mosul to Beirut to Gaza," CSIS, April 17, 2025. Dr. Larkin's latest work: "Lebanon’s October Revolution (al-thawra 17 tishrīn) and the Civil War: Memory, Protests and Mobilisation," Brill, December 3, 2024.

Tensions rise as the U.S. prepares to engage with Iran over its nuclear program. The Iranian regime, facing economic turmoil, struggles with reform urgency versus hasty decisions. Experts discuss the complexities of negotiations, highlighting Iran's historical negotiation proficiency against a novice U.S. team. The potential for manipulation looms large, making the stakes even higher as the Trump administration seeks a delicate balance in these critical talks.

Dahlia Scheindlin, a prominent Tel Aviv-based political analyst and Haaretz columnist, breaks down the complexities of Israel's political turmoil. She discusses Prime Minister Netanyahu's surprising resilience and his attempts to reshape state institutions amid widespread public discontent. The conversation also touches upon the shifting political dynamics following the October 7th attacks and the implications for U.S.-Israel relations. Scheindlin highlights the precarious state of democracy in Israel and the challenges posed by right-wing coalitions and potential electoral delays.

Tensions are rising as the U.S. ramps up military actions against the Houthis in Yemen. The strategic motivations behind these strikes are explored, along with the Houthis' portrayal as regional resistance fighters. U.S. policymakers face significant challenges in protecting vital shipping routes in the Red Sea. The discussion points to the complexities of engagement and the looming threat of escalation with Iran. Insights from experts shed light on the evolving dynamics in this critical region.

This week on Babel, Jon Alterman speaks with Nicolas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist. Nicolas has worked in the Middle East and North Africa for more than 30 years and has reported from every state in the region. Together, they discuss his latest article, “The Great Pretender: How Ahmed al-Sharaa Won Syria,” an in-depth profile of the Syrian leader based in part on a mid-February interview. Then, Jon continues the conversation with Ninar Fawal and Natasha Hall to discuss al-Sharaa's opportunities and challenges, and what they mean for Syria’s future. Transcript: "Nicolas Pelham: Ahmed al-Sharaa and Syria’s Future," CSIS, March 20, 2025. Nicolas' article: "The Great Pretender: How Ahmed al-Sharaa Won Syria," The Economist, March 5, 2025.