The Abu Dhabi based Future for Advanced Research and Studies (FARAS) held a workshop on July 13, 2017 titled “the Last Scenario: Prospects of Escalation in the Qatar Crisis.” With the attendance of the heads of research units and researchers, the workshop focused on the potential escalation scenarios in the crisis. 

During the workshop, FARAS Academic Director Dr. Mohamed Abdel-Salam explained that most writings on this matter, among media outlets or by think tanks have failed to address the crisis from a theoretical perspective. Thus, Abdel-Salam presented a research paper on theoretical frameworks that can contribute to analysis of the crisis, and found “Game theory” the most suitable. He further gave an overview of the general complex features of the crisis, which can forecast there is no single path to end the crisis.

Using elements of game theory, Abdel-Salam explained the different scenarios for the crisis, their determinants. He further presented the various alternatives for parties, and emphasized that the upcoming phase will witness “escalation alternatives,” as the Arab Quartet countries are insisting on fulfilling their demands.