Baylor Line is supported by our sponsors! Become one today.

Iran, Israel, and the Politics of Perception: An Interview with Joanne Cummings

Joanne Cummings discusses the narratives of intersecting faith, politics, and conflict in the Middle East.


Welcome to ‘Episode 10’ of the Baylor Line’s flagship podcast, The Green Room.

In this episode, host Jonathon Platt is met with Joanne Cummings, Director of Middle East Studies and Professor of Political Science, to discuss the politics and misunderstood narratives of the Middle East. 

With decades of work in crisis management, intelligence, diplomacy, and civil society across the Middle East, Joanne Cummings brings deep insight and rare clarity to one of the most complex regions on Earth. Joanne dives into the question everyone is asking “Why now?” In this moment of escalation and what political incentives are driving it. 

Along the way, Joanne and Jonathon invite listeners to ask questions and think about recent conflicts. It’s a timely, challenging, and deeply insightful episode from someone who’s lived these questions on the ground – and now brings them into the classrooms. 

We’ll have more new episodes of The Green Room for you every Monday and Thursday – stay tuned for the incredible list of guests we’ve already lined up, namely: 

  • Douglas Silliman, President, Arab Gulf States Institute
  • Kristin Diwan, Senior Resident Scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute
  • Lisa Hanna, Head of Public Affairs and Policy Communications for Delta Air Lines
  • And so, so many more. 

Oh, and to make sure you get each episode, make sure to subscribe to The Latest, The Weekly, or The Monthly newsletter from The Baylor Line. You can also follow our feed wherever you listen to podcasts — such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Credits: 

Our theme music is “Short Circuit” by Ryan James Carr, with special guest appearance by – yes – Abner McCall.

Our episodes are made possible by a grant from the Eula Mae & John Baugh Foundation. 

And special thanks to our managing producer, Hope Daughtry, and digital editor Kassidy Tsikitas.

Latest from Baylor Line

The Baylor Brief – July 4, 2025

Off Broadway The Baylor New Play Initiative – a program that presents young playwrights with the opportunity to showcase their

Hiding in Plain Sight

Great colleges have great art. In addition to the treasures at the Martin Museum of Art and in the Armstrong

Recommended

A Marriage of True Minds

Theirs was a love story for the ages with all the passion and intrigue of a Victorian-era romance — a

Bears on Skis

Joe Gage III grew up on the water, his summer days occupied by buoys and the never-ending pursuit of the

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Baylor Line MAgazine

With over 75 years of storytelling under its belt, the award-winning Baylor Line Magazine is now available digitally. Support this vital, independent voice of Baylor alumni by becoming a member today!