A panel discussion focused on the issues arising out of the Syrian civil war, in particular the recent apparent use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime and the likelihood of a military response by the United States. The situation highlights a number of perplexing issues regarding how the conflict affects other countries in the Middle East, the outcomes of the Arab uprisings, the substance and binding character of international law, along with a number of domestic U.S. constitutional and political issues.

Panelists included: Neil Diamant, professor of Asian law and society; Joseph Sestak, General Omar N. Bradley Chair of Strategic Leadership; Edward Webb, assistant professor of political science and international studies; and
Russell Bova, (moderator), professor of political science and international studies.