Understanding Our New World | Jan Eliasson

This comprehensive interview between Institute Director John Shaw and Jan Eliasson, a seasoned Swedish diplomat and former UN Deputy Secretary-General, offers an insightful exploration of decades of diplomatic efforts concerning the Middle East, with a focus on Iran, Iraq, and broader international statecraft. It reflects on historical mediation attempts, the dynamics of the Iran-Iraq War, the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal, and the contemporary complexities surrounding the recent war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Eliasson’s reflections emphasize the enduring challenges of war, diplomacy, international law, and the geopolitical shifts shaping global security and diplomacy today. Eliasson provides a deeply experienced, nuanced perspective on Middle East diplomacy and global statecraft. The interview underscores the critical importance of diplomacy, respect for international law, and cultural understanding in managing conflicts and pursuing peace. It highlights the complexity of the Iran conflict, shaped by history, internal politics, and international dynamics. Eliasson’s call for collective responsibility and hope through togetherness offers a guiding principle amid a world fraught with division and violence. The conversation serves as a reminder that despite setbacks, the pursuit of a better world remains a shared endeavor.