Beirut: The Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs (IFI) at the American University of Beirut (AUB), in collaboration with the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Regional Peace and Security Project, recently held the third edition of the Beirut Security Debates (BSD) at IFI. The event, titled "A New Era? Scenarios for the Middle East," brought together local, regional, and international scholars, experts, and policymakers to engage in an in-depth analysis and discussion on security-related and geopolitical issues impacting the region.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, IFI Director Joseph Bahout emphasized the significance of this year's BSD, focusing on the uncertainty faced by the region and the world. He described the current state as a "world and a region in flux," with the international system still undefined. Bahout referred to the region's transition as a chance for improvement, reinforcing the Institute's mission to understand and influence both national and international environments positively.
FES Regional Peace and Security Project Director Marcus Schneider questioned whether the region is nearing the end of its turbulent period, highlighting ongoing issues in Gaza, Lebanon, and other areas. Schneider pointed out a disconnect between German political discourse and the Middle Eastern reality, particularly in light of recent conflicts. He asserted that the "rules-based international order" has ceased to exist, regardless of any new order that may emerge.
AUB President Fadlo Khuri remarked on the timing of this year's BSD, noting the persistent threat of violence despite the quieting of arms. He described the current period as one of contradictions, with ceasefires lacking peace, negotiations short on trust, and diplomacy unclear. Khuri emphasized the importance of BSD's thematic question as a sincere inquiry into whether the region is undergoing transformation or merely experiencing familiar cycles. He affirmed AUB's commitment to rigorous inquiry grounded in evidence and experience.
The conference included panel discussions on future scenarios for the Middle East, addressing topics such as U.S. policy under President Trump, the Palestinian question, Iran's strategic choices, Syria's state-building efforts, and Lebanon's uncertain prospects. BSD also featured a book reflection with Minister of Culture Ghassan Salame on his latest work concerning war and peace in the 21st century. This discussion broadened into a debate on global fractures and trends, particularly in the Middle East, where conflict has long influenced the region amid talks of normalization and power redistribution.
The recording of the conference and the complete conference report will soon be available on IFI's website.