Virtual Panel Discussion: Toward a Sustainable U.S. Defense Strategy for the Middle East

On September 22, 2020, the CNAS Defense and Middle East Security Programs hosted a virtual panel discussion on developing a long-term sustainable U.S. military approach to the Middle East.

For 20 years, U.S. presidents have tried to get out of the Middle East only to be pulled back in. From the Iraq War, to counter-ISIS operations, to recent escalation with Iran, policymakers have failed to develop a coherent strategy for more cheaply and efficiently managing America’s limited interests in the region. Until such a strategy is delineated, the Middle East will always draw senior policymaker attention and U.S. assets back into the region, impeding America’s ability to focus on more important strategic challenges such as China. This event also featured a special presentation of the CNAS 1LT Andrew J. Bacevich Jr., USA Award to Kaleigh Thomas, a Research Associate with the CNAS Middle East Security Program.

Listen: