Contemporary Security in the Persian Gulf: Continuity or Change?

The Persian Gulf is a region in which great powers continue to vie for control and influence over territory and crucial, yet diminishing, resources. Progress continues to fail as decision makers seem to ignore the realities that confront them. At our August Event, Dr Ben Rich will explore some of the factors that currently affect security in the Gulf, with focus on the hegemonic rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the US, the drive to modernise the Saudi economy, the conflict between Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the ongoing war in Yemen. Dr Rich will investigate the factors underlying these phenomena and question whether they represent continuity with, or departure from, historical trends.  

About the Speaker: 

Dr. Ben Rich Lectures in International Relations at Curtin University.  His research is focused on Middle Eastern affairs, political violence, insurgency and international relations.  His research interests include terrorism, CVE, insurgency, COIN and politics in the Middle East.  To find out more about Dr Ben Rich click here