The New Gulf Reality: Iran, America & What Comes Next | Prof. Bernard Haykel 177

The New Gulf Reality: Iran, America & What Comes Next | Prof. Bernard Haykel 177

Author: Mo Islam March 18, 2026 Duration: 29:37

In our first-ever virtual episode, Professor Bernard Haykel, Director of Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University, breaks down the powerful forces reshaping the Middle East today. From Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation to the decline of ideological movements across the region, Prof. Haykel offers sharp insight into where things are headed—and why it matters.We dive into rising tensions involving Iran and the United States, the future of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) security, and the ongoing crisis in Palestine.Finally, we explore what could define the region’s future, from greater regional unity to why human capital may be the Gulf’s most important long-term advantage.

 

0:00 What’s Really Happening in the Middle East?

1:27 The Biggest Shifts Reshaping the Middle East Right Now

3:20 The Deep Divides Defining the Region

5:10 What Sparked the Rising Tensions with Iran?

7:18 How the Gulf Cooperation Council Is Being Impacted

8:46 Saudi Arabia’s Balancing Act: Stability vs Transformation

11:28 Inside Saudi Arabia’s Massive Economic & Social Overhaul

12:51 The Surprising Rise of Women and Social Change

14:02 A New Book That Explains Saudi Arabia’s Transformation

17:42 Inside the Vision of Mohammed bin Salman

21:09 Will a Palestinian State Ever Become Reality?

23:10 Why the Gulf Must Unite on Defense Now

26:13 Are United States Bases Still Protecting the Gulf?

27:40 What Gives Real Hope for the Middle East’s Future?

29:03 Final Thoughts, Book Release Update

 

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Hosted by Mo Islam, The Mo Show is a conversation held in English, rooted in the daily rhythms and broader narratives of life in Saudi Arabia. This podcast moves beyond headlines to explore the textures of local society and the diverse cultural currents shaping the region. Each episode feels like pulling up a chair for a candid discussion, where personal stories and thoughtful observations reveal the complexities and warmth of a community in flux. You’ll hear from a variety of voices-locals and long-term residents, artists and entrepreneurs, everyday people with compelling perspectives-all contributing to a richer, more nuanced picture. The conversations are unscripted and meandering in the best way, often uncovering unexpected connections between tradition and modernity, or between individual dreams and collective identity. Tuning into this podcast offers a genuine sense of place, a listening experience that feels both intimate and expansive. It’s for anyone curious about the human stories behind the social and cultural evolution within the Kingdom, presented not as a lecture but as an ongoing, engaging dialogue.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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