Research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world

In-Person
Seminar

Middle Powers and the Iran War: Mediation, Confrontation, and Energy Risks Ahead

RSVP Required Harvard Faculty, Fellows, Staff, and Students

Join us to unpack how regional and non-regional middle powers are being tested during the Iran conflict. As they take on various roles, do middle powers still fit the role scholars and policymakers envisioned before the conflict?  

RSVP
Date: Time: - Location: Belfer Center Library

Panelist
Moeed W. Yusuf

Panelist
Nargis Kassenova

Headshot of Nargis Kassenova

Panelist
Ebtesam Al Ketbi

Headshot of Ebtesam Al Ketbi

Panelist
Oliver Stuenkel

Oliver Stuenkel Headshot
Illustration of a world map zone and of Iran country

As the conflict with Iran continues to reshape the Middle East, the role of “middle powers” is being tested. States now operate simultaneously as mediators, energy hubs, and, at times, active participants in confrontation. Are middle powers still relevant in the same way scholars and policymakers assumed before the recent war and escalations? Or has their role fundamentally changed?

Join us on April 13 with a group of Middle Power experts to unpack various perspectives from regional and nearby countries as the war continues. This event will examine how these countries are navigating a conflict-centered landscape, whether middle power diplomacy can still contribute to de-escalation and conflict resolution and if middle power competition is undermining prospects for peace.