Middle East Forum

12:30, 19 Feb 2008
RUSI, Whitehall, London, SW1A 2ET

Link to map: multimap

About the event:

The Iranian Impact on Global Security - An Israeli Perspective

The Iranian nuclear programme remains a source of international and regional concern. Although the release of the US National Intelligence Estimate report in December 2007 raised doubts about the weaponisation of the country’s nuclear programme, international concern remains unabated.

Recently, the UN Security Council passed a new resolution imposing a third round of sanctions on Iran. But, in defiance of these measures, Tehran continues to enrich uranium. Tensions caused by the nuclear issue are now having an effect on Iran’s domestic politics: the impending March parliamentary elections promise further domestic uncertainty.

In this RUSI Middle East Forum, Dr Ephraim Sneh and Mr Silvan Shalom, two leading members of Israeli parliament (Knesset) will present the Israeli assessment of the current situation with Iran's nuclear programme. Although the speakers are members of two different political parties which hold distinct views on political and security issues, they will argue that in relation to Iran, there is a consensual recognition that Tehran’s nuclear programme poses not only a serious threat to Israel and the region, but to global security.

About the speakers

Mr Silvan Shalom MK

Mr Shalom is a member of the Likud Party and was first elected to the Knesset in 1992. He currently serves on the Foreign Affairs & Defence Committee, and previously held senior governmental positions, including Deputy Prime Minister (2001-2006), Foreign Minister (2003-2006), and Finance Minister (2001-2003). Before entering politics, Mr Shalom was Director-General of the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (1989-1990), and he later chaired the Board of Directors of the Israel Electric Company

Dr Ephraim Sneh MK

Dr Sneh is a veteran Israeli soldier and was first elected to the Knesset in 1992 for the Labour Party. He currently serves on the Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee and as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Defence Human Resources. His previous governmental positions include Deputy Defence Minister (2006-2007, 1999-2001), Minister of Transportation (2001-2002), and Minister of Health (1994-1996). During his military career he commanded the Security Zone in South Lebanon and the Civil Administration of the West Bank, reaching the rank of Brigadier General.

This event is open to RUSI Members only and spaces are limited.

To become a member, please click here.

Mr Shalom and Dr Sneh will speak from 13:00 – 14:00. A sandwich lunch will be served from 12:30 – 13:00. To register for this event, please contact Jennifer Walker at jenniferw@rusi.org

Event manager: Jennifer Walker, +44 (0)20 7747 2643