In an era where diplomacy shapes the future of nations, the Riyadh 2025 Conference emerged as a groundbreaking initiative, simulating high-stakes geopolitical negotiations that could define the Middle East’s trajectory. Among the esteemed participants was Heartland Initiative’s Director, Gedaliah Blum, whose presence highlighted Israel’s proactive engagement in regional diplomacy.

A Seat at the Table

Initially attending as an observer, Gedaliah was unexpectedly asked to step in as the representative of the United Arab Emirates due to the absence of the designated delegates. With only 20 minutes to prepare, he embraced the challenge, relying on his background in international public diplomacy to engage effectively. The experience underscored the importance of understanding regional dynamics and the ability to adapt quickly in diplomatic settings.

Reflecting on the simulation, Gedaliah noted, “Stepping into this role reinforced just how important it is to see issues from different perspectives. Diplomacy isn’t just about policies—it’s about relationships, adaptability, and a deep comprehension of the interests at play.”

Strategic Themes and Insights

The conference focused on two central themes: political-security and economic-infrastructure. Discussions covered:

• Regional Cooperation: Strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing normalization efforts in the Middle East.

• Security & Counter-Terrorism: Developing collaborative strategies to address regional threats.

• Crisis Management: Establishing frameworks to promote stability in times of regional uncertainty.

• Economic Partnerships: Facilitating cross-border infrastructure projects and economic development.

• National Sovereignty: Exploring mechanisms to safeguard the independence and stability of participating states.

• Regional Institutions: Building cooperative platforms for sustained diplomatic engagement.

The exercise provided an invaluable opportunity to simulate diplomatic negotiations and explore the challenges of representing another nation’s interests. It reinforced the importance of ongoing engagement with regional developments and the need for policymakers to continually expand their understanding of evolving geopolitical realities.

Heartland Initiative’s Senior Advisors Representing Israel

Heartland Initiative’s Senior Advisors, Dr. Mordechai Kedar and Brigadier General (Res.) Amir Avivi, officially represented Israel at the simulation. Dr. Kedar, a leading expert on Middle Eastern affairs, brought deep insights into the Arab world, while Brigadier General Avivi, founder of the Habithonistim organization, provided strategic security expertise. Their participation ensured that Israel’s perspectives were well-represented in shaping discussions on the region’s future.

Another prominent participant in the simulation was Dr. Dan Diker, a longtime friend of the Heartland Initiative and President of the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA). Dr. Diker represented the United States in the role of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, bringing his deep expertise in security affairs and U.S.-Israel relations to the discussions. His participation underscored the importance of strong U.S.-Israel ties in shaping the future of regional diplomacy and strategic cooperation.

Looking Ahead

The Riyadh 2025 simulation was more than just an academic exercise—it was a forward-looking initiative that provided a glimpse into the future of regional diplomacy. It offered a platform for key figures across the Middle East to engage in proactive discussions and develop strategic solutions for long-term stability and cooperation.

Heartland Initiative remains dedicated to fostering meaningful diplomatic engagement, ensuring Israel’s voice is heard in critical discussions that shape the region. The insights gained from Riyadh 2025 will inform future collaborations, reinforcing the power of strategic partnerships in securing a stronger and more resilient Middle East.