Dr. Fadi Hilani is Senior Academic and Research Fellow-in-Residence and Director of the Levant and Middle East Area Studies Program at the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations. He holds a Ph.D. in Linguistics from University of Essex in the United Kingdom and a Master’s degree in Near Eastern Studies from New York University. His academic formation across leading British and American institutions has shaped a multidisciplinary approach to international affairs, with particular expertise in U.S. foreign policy, Middle East politics, diplomacy, and regional security.
Dr. Hilani’s scholarship examines the strategic and political dynamics shaping relations between the United States and the Middle East, with a focus on regional geopolitics, international diplomacy, and evolving security architectures in the region. Over the course of his academic career, he has held teaching and research appointments at several distinguished institutions, including University of Aleppo in Syria, Isra University in Jordan, Montclair State University, and City University of New York in the U.S. In his current capacity at the National Council, he contributes to the advancement of rigorous policy analysis and scholarly dialogue on U.S.-Arab relations and broader Middle Eastern affairs.
A respected analyst and commentator on international affairs, Dr. Hilani is frequently featured by leading global and regional media outlets, including Al Arabiya, Al Hadath, Sky News Arabia, France 24 Arabic, BBC Arabic, Al Ghad, Al Mashhad, Al Qahera News and other prominent platforms. Through these appearances, he provides in-depth analysis of U.S. foreign policy, regional conflicts, and the broader strategic transformations reshaping the Middle East. A selection of his television interviews and policy discussions can be viewed on his YouTube channel.
Dr. Hilani’s policy and research work emphasizes the critical role of diplomacy and strategic engagement in fostering stability and cooperation across the Middle East. His analyses of Syria and the Levant, the Gulf Arab states, regional security, and the Israel-Iran confrontation advocate balanced and forward-looking approaches to American engagement in the region, underscoring the importance of dialogue, de-escalation, and long-term strategic partnerships. Through his academic research, media contributions, and policy analysis, he continues to contribute to a deeper understanding of the political and strategic challenges shaping U.S.-Arab relations in an increasingly complex international environment.
Selected Published English articles and policy analyses:
Selected Published Arabic articles and policy analyses:
