The war initiated by Hamas on October 7 set in motion a fast-moving and complex dynamic that continues to reshape the Middle East. A critical factor in this process is Western public opinion, which is no longer a passive observer but an active force influencing realities on the ground.

Western discourse on the region has grown increasingly charged and polarizing, largely because the Middle East is interpreted through Western lenses rather than anchored in regional context and internal dynamics.

In this briefing, Avi Melamed reframes the conversation by offering an apolitical, intelligence-based, and authentic reading of regional discourse from within the Middle East. Drawing on decades of professional experience and deep engagement with the Arab world, he explains the forces shaping the region, forces often absent from Western conversations yet decisive on the ground.

He traces how the region arrived at this moment, the domino effect triggered since October 7, where the Middle East stands today, and the dynamics likely shaping what comes next.

This authentic perspective enables a deeper understanding of the Middle East and empowers Western audiences
to engage more constructively with the region’s future.

What Does Avi Speak About?

Avi Melamed’s speaking tours offer apolitical, interactive, intelligence-based briefings grounded in ITME’s philosophy…

To understand Israel, we must understand the Middle East.

Avi’s briefings provide the regional context essential for navigating today’s most complex and polarized conversations.

Rather than telling people what to think, Avi’s briefings teach people how to think.

Participants leave with a clearer, more contextualized understanding of the Middle East and Israel, greater confidence in engaging complex conversations, and the ability to approach difficult topics with nuance rather than slogans.

The goal of our briefings is to educate broadly – while laying the foundation for deeper learning, critical thinking, and constructive engagement across differences.

Why Communities Invite Avi

Across North America and beyond, communities are struggling to navigate conversations about the Middle East that feel increasingly polarized, confusing, and emotionally charged.

Many existing programs fall into one of two categories: advocacy, which promotes a position, or education that reflects a narrow, Western lens.

Communities invite Avi Melamed when they are seeking clarity rather than persuasion.

His briefings offer a shared educational foundation rooted in regional context, internal dynamics, and perspectives and voices from within the Middle East itself, which help people understand Israel in the context of the region.

This distinct approach allows people of different backgrounds, beliefs, and knowledge levels to learn together, remain engaged, and move beyond talking points toward understanding.

Who These Speaking Tours Are For

ITME speaking tours are designed for diverse, mixed audiences – from students to leaders – and are effective across a wide range of settings.

Including:

• Community-wide programs
• Organizational Staff and Leadership, Donors, and Boards
• Students and Educators
• Emerging Professionals and Lay Leaders
• Civic and Interfaith Groups and Leaders

The briefings work equally well for:

• Small leadership or donor forums
• Medium-sized community or campus programs
• Large public events, conferences, and plenary sessions

This flexibility makes ITME Briefings a powerful entry point for communities seeking broad engagement as well as targeted learning.

What Makes These Briefings Different

ITME Briefings are not advocacy programs.

They are built on apolitical, intelligence-based education that prioritizes context, analysis, and regional perspective.

Avi does not argue for a position or tell audiences what conclusions to reach. Instead, he equips participants with the frameworks needed to think critically and independently.

By elevating discourse, perspectives, and voices from within the Middle East that are often absent from Western conversations, the briefings lower defensiveness, reduce polarization, and make complexity accessible.

This allows people with different viewpoints to stay in the room together and engage constructively. 

In short, Avi is the bridge you have been looking for!

Outcomes for Participants and Communities

Communities that host ITME speaking tours report that participants:

• Gain clarity where there was previously confusion
• Feel more confident engaging in complex or sensitive conversations
• Develop a deeper, more contextualized understanding of regional dynamics
• Are better equipped to listen, question, and respond thoughtfully
• Move from reactive discussion to informed, constructive engagement

For many, an ITME Briefing becomes the starting point for continued learning through courses, fellowships, and deeper educational engagement.

Program Formats and Customization

Speaking tours can be customized to meet the needs of each host community and may include:

• In-person or virtual briefings
• One-time events or multi-session visits
• Programs for general audiences or targeted groups

ITME works closely with host organizations to ensure that each briefing aligns with the goals, audience, and context of the community.

Invite Avi to Your Community

If your community is seeking clarity, context, and constructive engagement rather than ideology or advocacy, we invite you to explore hosting an ITME speaking tour.

To begin a conversation about inviting Avi Melamed to your community, please **@*********an.com“>contact us to discuss your goals and needs.