Middle East Focus

In this episode, MEI Distinguished Diplomatic Fellow Ambassador David Hale joins host Alistair Taylor to unpack the Trump administration's new National Security Strategy (NSS). Released on December 4, the document outlines the administration's foreign policy vision, priorities, and approach to global challenges. Ambassador Hale analyzes the new NSS and how it compares to previous US strategy documents. The conversation focuses on what the NSS means for the future of US policy in the Middle East, and how it is likely to be received by regional actors. Recorded on December 9, 2025.

Fadi Nicholas Nassar, a Lebanon expert and Senior Fellow at MEI, shares his insights on Pope Leo XIV's pivotal visit to Lebanon. He vividly recounts the atmosphere during the papal mass and highlights the Pope's outreach to marginalized groups. Nassar explores whether spiritual leadership can fill the void left by political failures and discusses the importance of the Pope's messages on peace and youth engagement. The conversation also touches on the delicate situation post-visit, as tensions rise and the need for political accountability looms large.

F. Gregory Gause, III, a distinguished Professor emeritus of international affairs, dives into the implications of Crown Prince MBS's historic visit to the U.S. Gause outlines how MBS has shifted Saudi policy since 2018 and the challenges of long-term investment commitments. He discusses the balancing act of U.S. and Saudi interests, particularly regarding defense deals and tech partnerships. Gause also highlights crucial factors like nuclear enrichment and Gaza reconstruction, emphasizing the complex and evolving U.S.-Saudi relationship in a turbulent regional landscape.

In this discussion, Charles Lister, a seasoned expert on Syria and terrorism, shares insights from his recent trip to Damascus. He highlights the transitional government's shift towards technocratic leadership and ongoing infrastructure projects. Lister also delves into the complex relationship between Syria and the U.S., emphasizing the crucial need to repeal the Caesar Act for recovery. The talk sheds light on security challenges from ISIS and ongoing negotiations for regional stability, showing that Syria's journey towards reconstruction is far from straightforward.

In this episode of Middle East Focus, hosts Alistair Taylor and Matthew Czekaj are joined by MEI Senior Fellow Gönül Tol to discuss democratic backsliding in Turkey under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The conversation explores how Erdoğan's crackdown against Turkey's opposition has reached new heights, with Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and other opposition party officials facing politically motivated charges. At the same time, Erdoğan is attacking opposition media, deepening talks with Kurdish leaders, and strengthening ties with the West — all with, at least in part, an eye to extending his rule beyond 2028. Tol unpacks the government's strategy, the risks to Turkish democracy, and what Erdoğan's growing international prominence means for the country's political future. Recorded on November 4, 2025. Read Gönül Tol's analysis of how Erdoğan uses Turkey's role on the global stage to tighten his grip on power here. Listen to Rethinking Democracy here.

In this episode of Middle East Focus, hosts Alistair Taylor and Matthew Czekaj are joined by MEI Senior Fellow Intissar Fakir to discuss Morocco's recent "GenZ 212" protest movement, which gripped multiple cities around the country for weeks. What prompted young Moroccans to take to the streets? Fakir breaks down the underlying drivers, protesters' demands, and the government's response. The conversation then delves more deeply into Morocco's rising generation and how it perceives its future prospects. Finally, the discussion explores the possible longer-term political impact of the demonstrations, especially with an eye to next year's elections. Recorded on October 29, 2025. Read Intissar Fakir's analysis of the protests in Morocco here.

In this episode of Middle East Focus, hosts Alistair Taylor and Matthew Czekaj speak with MEI Senior Fellow Brian Katulis about US policy in the Middle East under Donald Trump's second administration. Nine months into Trump 2.0, how much has really changed? Katulis breaks down the administration's approach to ​major issues, including the cease-fire in Gaza and broader prospects for peace, the aftermath of the 12-Day War with Iran, and how Washington is managing ties with regional partners. He also previews his upcoming quarterly report card, which grades the administration on key policy areas. Recorded on October 22, 2025. Listen to Brian Katulis's podcast: Taking the Edge off the Middle East

In this discussion, Paul Salem, a Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute and expert on regional geopolitics, analyzes the recently established Gaza cease-fire and its implications. He highlights how the conflict has altered military dynamics, reduced Iran's deterrence, and reshaped perceptions of Israel. Salem delves into U.S. engagement in the region, the possibility of Palestinian integration without Israeli involvement, and the complexities of Saudi normalization with Israel. He warns about potential radicalization and emphasizes the need for proactive diplomacy.

Lucy Kurtzer-Ellenbogen, a Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute and expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, dives into the nuances of Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza. She explores its acceptance by both Israel and Hamas and the factors influencing its reception. Lucy discusses the plan's vagueness on Palestinian statehood and its implications for U.S. policy. The conversation highlights the complexities of disarmament, the legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority, and the essential role of sustained international engagement for success.

In this discussion, Mirette F. Mabrouk, a Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute specializing in Egypt and Nile issues, delves into the tensions surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Topics include the historical failures in negotiations and the dam's significance for Ethiopia’s economic aspirations. Mirette highlights Egypt's concerns about water security, the evolving regional power dynamics in the Horn of Africa, and the limited options remaining for Egypt and Sudan post-dam completion. She also suggests the need for external mediation and potential incentives to reach a viable agreement.