James Vaughan

Dr James Vaughan is a Lecturer in International History at the Department of International Politics, Aberystwyth University. He joined the department in September 2002 after working as a researcher for the BBC's Middle East Correspondent and completing his studies at University College London. He served as the Director of Undergraduate Studies during the academic years 2009/10 and 2011/12.

• BA, University College London
• MA, University College London
• PhD, University of London

Dr Vaughan specializes in the history of British and American diplomatic and propaganda policies toward the Middle East, particularly during the Cold War. His research interests include the history of Anglo-American relations, the Arab-Israeli conflict, Zionism, Palestinian nationalism, the influence of British political parties on foreign policy, and British propaganda in the Arab world and Iran. His PhD thesis focused on Anglo-American propaganda strategies in the Middle East between 1953 and 1957, which he later expanded into broader studies of public diplomacy in the region.

His recent publications examine Labour Party politics in relation to Israel and Palestine, including media, antisemitism, and political warfare within Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party (2015–2019), as well as anti-Zionism in Harold Wilson’s Labour Party. His scholarly work contributes to understanding historical and contemporary dynamics in British foreign policy and Middle Eastern affairs.

Dr Vaughan has authored a significant body of research, including books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and book chapters, with publication activity spanning from 2002 to 2021. His works consistently engage with themes of propaganda, intelligence, cultural diplomacy, and political influence in the Middle East, demonstrating a sustained and focused scholarly trajectory. He is frequently cited in media and has contributed expert commentary on Labour’s internal divisions over Israel and Palestine, especially in relation to Keir Starmer’s leadership.

His work contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to peace, justice, and strong institutions. He has supervised multiple PhD students, reflecting his active role in academic mentoring and graduate education.