Panelists: Prof. Achin Vanaik, formerly Professor of International Relations and Global Politics, University of Delhi; Dr. Stanly Johny, International Affairs Editor, The Hindu; and Prof. Imankalyan Lahiri, Dept. of International Relations, Jadavpur University

Chair: Amb. K.P. Fabian

With West Asia, a virtual tinderbox, if the powers in the region cannot exercise restraint, there is a definite risk of a war with disastrous consequences, not only for the region, but also for the rest of the world. The discussion will examine what President Joe Biden can do to promote reconciliation between Israel and Iran, and between Iran and Saudi Arabia; and to bring about a cease-fire in Yemen. Will Biden re-enter the Iran nuclear deal as he had promised as a candidate? What are the implications of Benjamin Netanyahu’s exit and the arrival of the new president in Iran?