This program takes place the day after Israel's elections — timing that couldn't be more critical.
As votes are counted and a new government begins to take shape, the Middle East is changing at a remarkable pace. From Israel's security challenges to Iran's regional ambitions, shifting alliances, and evolving U.S. policy, developments unfold daily—and the headlines rarely tell the full story.
As part of the Critical Conversations Series Join former Jerusalem Post Editor-in-Chief Yaakov Katz for a live conversation with David Zalik. Drawing on decades of experience covering Israel's military, political leadership, and regional affairs, Katz will provide insight into the forces shaping today's events and explain what they could mean for Israel, the United States, and the broader Middle East.
Following the conversation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an audience Q&A.
Light refreshments will be served. Free on-site parking available.
As votes are counted and a new government begins to take shape, the Middle East is changing at a remarkable pace. From Israel's security challenges to Iran's regional ambitions, shifting alliances, and evolving U.S. policy, developments unfold daily—and the headlines rarely tell the full story.
As part of the Critical Conversations Series Join former Jerusalem Post Editor-in-Chief Yaakov Katz for a live conversation with David Zalik. Drawing on decades of experience covering Israel's military, political leadership, and regional affairs, Katz will provide insight into the forces shaping today's events and explain what they could mean for Israel, the United States, and the broader Middle East.
Following the conversation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an audience Q&A.
Light refreshments will be served. Free on-site parking available.
Middle East Update with Yaakov Katz
Wednesday | October 28, 2026
7:30–9:00 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM)
The Dupree Conference and Education Center
7:30–9:00 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM)
The Dupree Conference and Education Center
Yaakov Katz is an author, a senior fellow at the Jewish People Policy Institute, and co-founder of MEAD, the premier Middle East–America policy forum. Between 2016 and 2023 he served as editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, where he continues as a columnist. He also writes for the Jewish Chronicle, hosts the JPPI podcast, and appears regularly on CNN and BBC as an Israel analyst. His newest book, co-authored with Amir Bohbot, "While Israel Slept: How Hamas Surprised the Most Powerful Military in the Middle East," is a national bestseller; his previous books include "Shadow Strike," "Weapon Wizards," and "Israel vs. Iran: The Shadow War." Prior to his role at the Post, Katz served for two years as a senior policy adviser to Naftali Bennett during his tenure as Israel's Minister of Economy and Minister of Diaspora Affairs. Originally from Chicago, Katz holds a law degree from Bar Ilan University and was a fellow at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife Chaya and their four children.
