Saban Forum 2011—Strategic Challenges in the New Middle East

On Friday, December 2, U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta addressed the opening session of the 2011 Saban Forum, an annual gathering of U.S. and Israeli officials and policymakers organized by the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings.

This year’s Forum, entitled “Strategic Challenges in the New Middle East,” focused on the historic shifts taking place across the Arab world and their implications for U.S.-Israeli security and interests in the Middle East region. In his speech, Secretary Panetta discussed the U.S.-Israel security relationship, including international efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear program.

• Read the transcript of the speech »

Read the forum’s proceedings »

President Bill Clinton addresses the 2011 Saban Forum Gala Dinner.

New York Times Columnist Thomas Friedman moderates a discussion with Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh.Photos by Ralph Alswang