In this edition, we examine Israel’s fleeting chance to strike Iran’s nuclear program amid weakening regional defenses, a moment sharpened by Tehran’s battered allies and exposed vulnerabilities. We dissect the irredeemable idea of a Palestinian state in light of recent atrocities, where the brutal murder of hostages underscores a legacy of violence over progress. We also expose the tribal underpinnings of Islam driving conflict and division, a lens that explains everything from jihadist fervor to the refusal to assimilate to Western cultures.

ICYMI: MEF Podcasts 2/17 to 2/21

Is Israel Preparing to Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites?

With Iran's regional influence waning and air defenses compromised, Israel may soon act against Tehran's nuclear threat.

Strategic advantages: Israel's tactical edge is enhanced by Iran's current vulnerabilities, including the crippling of Hezbollah's capabilities and Iran’s badly damaged air defenses.

Why it matters: Iran's potential to develop nuclear weapons poses an existential threat to regional and global security.

Israeli action immanent? While the U.S. administration weighs diplomatic routes, Israeli action may hinge on American support for military intervention.

To read the full article, click here.

Middle East Forum 2025 Policy Conference – additional speakers announced, discounted tickets!

Join us at the Middle East Forum’s 2025 Policy Conference, taking place May 19–21 in Washington, D.C. Statecraft Reimagined will gather leading experts, diplomats, and policymakers to discuss the most urgent and complex issues shaping the future of the Middle East.

This extraordinary event is poised to be the premier Middle East policy gathering in D.C. this year, offering unparalleled insights, networking, and strategic guidance.

We are also pleased to announce that, thanks to a generous contribution from an anonymous donor, we are able to offer a select few general admission tickets at a discounted rate of $550. These tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to get yours now.

To register, click here.

Why There Should Not Be a Palestine

Recent events underscore the urgent need to reconsider the viability of a Palestinian state.

Why it matters: The macabre scenes from this week’s return of – what was supposed to be – the bodies of four Israeli hostages and the later revelations about their deaths should spell the end for any prospects for a Palestinian state.

Crumbling legitimacy: Efforts to establish a Palestinian nation have repeatedly failed, bogged down by factionalism, ineffective leadership, and the proliferation of terrorism.

Path to peace: Integrating Palestinians into established nation-states could offer a chance at stability and prosperity.

To read the full article, click here.

Job Announcement: Director, Iran Freedom Project & Editor, Iran Freedom Monitor

MEF is seeking a full-time Director for the Iran Freedom Project & Editor for the Iran Freedom Monitor. This unique dual role is ideal for a driven professional passionate about democratic reform, skilled in program leadership, and adept at shaping editorial content. The position provides an opportunity to spearhead a high-impact initiative focused on empowering Iranian civil society while overseeing a dedicated news platform that amplifies calls for democratic change in Iran.

For more information about the Iran Freedom Project or to apply, click here.

Is There a Jewish Exception to the Red Cross?

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) shows a blatant disregard for Jewish welfare, highlighting its compromised mission.

Why it matters: The ICRC's neglect of Jewish hostages and its historical bias against Israel erodes its moral authority.

Double standards: The ICRC's history of discrimination includes refusing recognition to Israel's Magen David Adom while embracing the Islamic Red Crescent.

Call for accountability: It's time to hold the ICRC and similar bodies accountable for their biases.

To read the full article, click here.

Egypt and UNRWA Were for Trump’s Gaza Plan Before They Were Against It

Trump's Gaza relocation proposal revives a 1953 plan backed by Egypt and UNRWA.

Why it matters: Intra-Arab politics and failed leadership have trapped Palestinians in poverty while blaming and challenging the West.

Expose the hypocrisy: The same factions that once backed the Sinai resettlement now reject similar proposals for self-serving political gains.

Demand action: If the world pools some $10 billion, it can spend $2 billion to build a city in the Sinai with a modern infrastructure that includes solar-powered desalination plants and an airport under Egyptian sovereignty.

To read the full article, click here.

Islam Can Be Defined and Understood by One Non-Religious Word: Tribalism

Islam is rooted in tribalism – a stark reality that fuels division, conflict, and widespread violence.

Why it matters: By aligning with tribal customs, Islam creates a "Super-Tribe" that stands in firmly opposed to non-believers.

Legacy of division: Jihad's origins in tribal warfare manifest as religious duty, perpetuating violence and anti-Western ideology.

Call for clarity: Whereas many world civilizations have been able to break away from, or at least temper their historic tribalism, this has not been, and cannot be, so easy for Islam.

To read the full article, click here.

Further Reading:

That’s it for this edition of the MEF Dispatch. We’ve sized up Israel’s rare chance to hit Iran’s nuclear plans, digging into how their window continues to shrink as Tehran scrambles to rebuild its defenses. We’ve also dug into the Red Cross’s blatant display of antisemitism, showing how their track record keeps continues to raise questions about fairness. Plus, we looked back at a Gaza resettlement idea Egypt once liked—a practical fix that’s worth a second look amid today’s chaos.

Sincerely,
Ahnaf Kalam
Digital Media Specialist
Middle East Forum