Ezra Hess

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Ezra Hess is a research associate for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). Before joining CFR, he was a program associate at the National Coalition Supporting Eurasian Jewry. He holds a bachelor's degree in liberal studies from Indiana University – Bloomington, where he also triple-minored in history, international studies, and political science.

RealEcon

Protecting U.S. Allies and Partners from Chinese Economic Coercion

China’s growing willingness to defy the international order, and its increasingly aggressive leadership, have led it to increasingly utilize economic coercion against countries it believes have defied China’s interests. This coercion can be powerful, and the United States and its partners have not been well-prepared for Beijing’s actions. The U.S. and others need to develop a response immediately.

by Elliott Abrams, Ezra Hess and Joshua Kurlantzick December 2, 2024 RealEcon
Israel

What Israel’s Political Landscape Says About the Course of the War in Gaza

Amid the many uncertainties surrounding Israel’s endgame in Gaza, views among the public and leading officials indicate that Israel is preparing for a protracted war despite growing calls to accept a cease-fire.

by Ezra Hess May 15, 2024
Ezra Hess

Middle East Program

Netanyahu’s ‘permanent conflict’ strategy risks igniting a wider West Asian war

Featuring Ezra Hess via The Hindu Frontline September 27, 2024

Sudan

What Is the Extent of Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis?

More than two years into the civil war in Sudan, at least twelve million people have been forcibly displaced, but experts say the country’s devastating humanitarian crisis is still not getting the international attention it deserves.

by Mariel Ferragamo and Diana Roy June 26, 2025

NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

What Is NATO?

The alliance continues to bolster its military deterrent in Europe amid Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and has expanded its membership in recent years.

by Jonathan Masters June 24, 2025

Iran

The Islamic Republic’s Power Centers

Who calls the shots in Iran on economic policy, security, and domestic calls for reform? A look at the government’s organization chart indicates how complicated the answer is.

by CFR.org Editors June 16, 2025