Experts
Pantelis Ikonomou
Research Associate; Former Inspector, International Atomic Energy Agency
On Thursday, 27 May 2026, ELIAMEP hosted a closed roundtable discussion with Ambassador Stephan Klement, EU Special Envoy for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation. Held under Chatham House rules, the discussion focused on nuclear non-proliferation in the Middle East, with particular emphasis on Iran’s nuclear programme and its regional and international implications. The geopolitical dimensions of nuclear diplomacy in the region, the positions of key international actors, and the challenges posed by Iran’s evolving nuclear capabilities were examined. The discussion also addressed Europe’s diplomatic engagement and the prospects for renewed efforts to contain nuclear risks in a volatile regional context.