THE IRAN WAR, KHAMENEI’S DEATH, AND THE FUTURE OF THE MIDDLE EAST - Join the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative for an online discussion examining the regional and geopolitical implications of the war with Iran.

Joint US-Israeli strikes beginning February 28 killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and numerous senior military and intelligence officials. Iran has retaliated by launching missiles and drones across the Middle East. The conflict has killed six American soldiers, inflicted unexpected pain on Gulf states, disrupted global energy markets, and raised urgent questions about US strategic objectives and the future of the regional security architecture. With Iran’s leadership in crisis and no clear path to de-escalation, the Middle East faces its most dangerous moment in decades.

The event will explore US strategy in the region, how the conflict is reshaping alliances and security dynamics, the implications for Gulf state decision-making, and whether the campaign will produce a more stable Middle East or risk a protracted and widening war.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 03/05/2026