The broader geopolitical and geo-economic implications of the conflict in the Middle East and West Asia

The guests:

Daniela-Maria Marouda, Associate Professor of International Law / Humanitarian Law, Panteion University: She focused on international humanitarian law, the legality of military operations, and the erosion of norms that once governed international relations. She highlighted the crisis of multilateralism and the weakening of institutions meant to protect civilians and human rights.

Evangelos Venetis, International Relations Scholar and Historian, Ph.D. in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Edinburgh: He provided historical depth to the U.S.–Iran and Israel–Iran tensions, explaining their political, religious and regional roots. His analysis was sharp and clear, offering one of the most comprehensive perspectives in the discussion.

Yannis Bassias, Energy analyst – former President of the Hellenic Hydrocarbon Resources Management Company: He examined the energy consequences of the escalation in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, explaining how instability affects maritime routes, LNG flows, energy prices and global supply chains. He emphasized the geoeconomic risks of prolonged volatility.

Spyros Konidaris, Vice Admiral (ret.) and Honorary Deputy Fleet Commander: He addressed the military dimensions of the crisis, analyzing naval balances in the Persian Gulf and the role of U.S. and Israeli forces. He underlined the vulnerability of key maritime choke points.

Ioannis Baltsois, Lieutenant General (ret.) and President of the Hellenic Institute for Strategic Studies (EL.I.S.ME.): He offered a strategic assessment of the conflict and possible escalation scenarios, outlining the limits and objectives of the actors involved. He discussed implications for the Eastern Mediterranean, Greece and Cyprus.

Alexis Lekakis - from Corfu, Ph.D. candidate in Iranian Foreign Policy in the Department of International, European, and Regional Studies at Panteion University: He analyzed Iran’s strategic culture and foreign policy logic, explaining how Tehran perceives encirclement and pressure from the U.S. and Israel. He described internal dynamics and the constraints shaping Iran’s response.

ANTITHESEIS - NEA KRITI - Friday, March 13, 2026

Οι ευρύτερες γεωπολιτικές- γεωοικονομικές επιπτώσεις ανάφλεξης  σε Μέση και Δυτική Ανατολή

Yannis Bassias interview starts at 1:58:00.