Middle East & Regional Security

Morgan Ortagus has spent much of her career working at the intersection of diplomacy, national security, and Middle East policy. As a former U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Special Representative for Lebanon, and State Department spokesperson, she has been directly involved in some of the region’s most consequential challenges.

Her commentary focuses on the strategic competition shaping the Middle East today, including Iran’s destabilizing activities, regional security partnerships, counterterrorism efforts, and the evolving role of the United States in promoting stability and deterrence. Drawing on firsthand experience in government and diplomacy, she examines how American leadership, military strength, and strong alliances contribute to regional security and protect U.S. interests abroad.

Through articles, media appearances, and public speaking engagements, Morgan provides analysis on the Iranian regime, nuclear negotiations, regional conflicts, and the broader geopolitical shifts reshaping the Middle East.

Featured Areas of Focus

• Iran and regional security
• Nuclear negotiations and nonproliferation
• U.S.-Israel relations
• Lebanon and Eastern Mediterranean affairs
• Counterterrorism and deterrence
• American leadership in the Middle East