Venezuela, Iran, and the Middle East: US Interests and Policy

Join us for an armchair conversation on the evolving intersections among Venezuela, Iran and the broader Middle East, and what these relationships mean for U.S. interests and foreign policy. As Washington confronts mounting instability across multiple regions, questions surrounding sanctions, energy security, regional conflict and strategic alliances have grown more urgent.

The discussion comes at a consequential moment. The United States and Iran have entered a fragile two-week ceasefire tied to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, easing immediate concerns about a broader regional war while leaving key issues unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear program, proxy groups and the future of U.S. engagement in the Middle East. At the same time, tensions persist across the region, including ongoing conflict in Lebanon and uncertainty surrounding Iran-backed militias and their role in attacks on U.S. interests.

The conversation will feature Elliott Abrams, senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. special representative for both Venezuela and Iran, in conversation with Baker Institute Director David M. Satterfield. Together, they will examine the latest developments involving Venezuela, Iran and key actors across the Middle East, and explore how these relationships shape U.S. diplomacy, security and economic priorities.

Follow @BakerInstitute on X to join the conversation online with #BakerLive.

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