Sampling Shawarma on the Champs-Elysees in Za'atari Refugee Camp

Sampling Shawarma on the Champs-Elysees in Za'atari Refugee Camp

From American Diplomat by Ambassador (Retired) Pete Romero and Writer/Producer Laura Bennett

March 20, 2026 · 50 min

About this episode

Ambassador Stuart Jones shares his experiences and insights from his diplomatic career in the Middle East.

For many of us, the Middle East is a place of intractable conflict and endless complexity. Ambassador Stuart Jones lived those complications for much of his diplomatic career. Whether studying maps with Iran-backed militia leaders in Iraq, arguing troop withdrawals at the salad bar with John McCain, or sneaking food for hungry refugeess over the Syrian border, Stu Jones was there when it mattered. His insights may not end the current war — but will surely help you understand it better!

People in this episode

Hosts: Ambassador (Retired) Pete Romero, Writer/Producer Laura Bennett

Guest: Ambassador Stuart Jones

Topics covered

  • Middle East conflict
  • diplomatic insights
  • refugee issues
  • military strategy
  • personal experiences

Keywords

  • Middle East
  • diplomacy
  • refugees
  • Iraq
  • conflict
  • military
  • John McCain
  • Za'atari

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Middle East, Iraq, Za'atari Refugee Camp, Syrian

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