This panel discussion focuses on how politics, conflict and oil affect U.S. interests and policies in the greater Middle East region. Current developments in Iraq, Iran and in the Israel-Palestinian peace process will be examined by present and former policy-level officials who have studied and dealt with these issues in both the U.S. Government and in academia.

Panelists:

Colin Kahl, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, U.S. Department of Defense

Molly Williamson, Scholar, the Middle East Institute

Discussant:
Melvyn Levitsky, Professor of International Policy and Practice, University of Michigan

Moderator:
Stephanie Swierczek, MPP/MENAS MA Candidate, University of Michigan