Crisis In The GCC: The Gulf Cooperation Council In Its Regional & Global Environment   A workshop jointly organized by the Gulf Studies Program at the Qatar University and the Middle East Institute at the National University of SingaporeThe countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) today face unusual security and political challenges emanating from the Arab uprisings of 2011 and Iran’s nuclear and regional ambitions.  Its members perceive a weakening of American influence and interest in their region.  Inaugurating the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between MEI and the QU Gulf Studies Program, a delegation of analysts from Doha will join scholars from MEI to explore these issues.  The first panel considered regional and domestic trends, including the polarity between the Iran and Saudi Arabian backed coalitions, the Turkish and Iranian role, and the role of outside powers, especially the United States.  The second panel focused on developments in the Arab region, including sectarianism, national identity and economic issues.  Will the ongoing negotiations between Iran and the P5+1 nations yield a positive or negative result?  What may be the role of Israel?  Are US government assurances of continued protection credible?  How significant are the recent divisions within the GCC countries?  What are the implications for Asia?