The MENA Mix: Regional Recap is a monthly video podcast, produced by the Institute for Middle East Options (IMEO). Each episode features rotating experts who unpack and analyze key news stories shaping the Middle East and North Africa.

Our February episode brought together Hana Elshehaby (Middle East Council on Global Affairs Research Assistant) and Dr. Farzan Sabet (The Geneva Graduate Institute Managing Researcher). They unpack mounting unrest in Iran and its international repercussions, energy market reactions and Red Sea security concerns, renewed debates over Gaza’s post-ceasefire governance, and Saudi–UAE competition in the Horn of Africa.

Hana Elshehaby

Hana Elshehaby is a research assistant with the Foreign Policy Program at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs. Her work focuses on regional security dynamics and domestic capability development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service with a specialization in International Politics from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service in Qatar. Her analysis and commentary have appeared in various outlets including Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and The New Arab. Beyond research, she is active in youth advocacy initiatives, contributing to global policy forums.

Dr. Farzan Sabet

Dr. Farzan Sabet is a senior subject matter expert, researcher, and project manager focusing on Middle East security and politics, sanctions, and nuclear non-proliferation with 15+ years professional experience gained at the United Nations, research centers, the private sector, government and academia. He is a managing researcher with the Sanctions and Sustainable Peace Hub at the Geneva Graduate Institute and works as a senior consultant for governments, international organizations, and multinational corporations. His analysis and commentary has appeared in leading media outlets including, among others, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and CNN.