Karl Yambert received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis, and is a former editor of Middle East Studies at Westview Press.

• Preface to the Third Edition -- A Note on Editorial Matters -- Summary of Recent Events, 2011–2012 -- History and Perspectives -- The Peoples and Cultures of the Middle East -- The Roots of Arab Bitterness -- Islamist Perceptions of US Policy in the Middle East -- Global Energy and the Middle East -- New US Policies for a New Middle East? -- Cairo Speech -- Israel and the Palestinians -- Israel and the Arabs, and Beyond -- The United States and Israel -- The Palestinians -- Sharon’s Fence -- Whither the Palestinians? -- Ethnicity and Nation-Building in the State of Israel -- Syria's Threat to Israel -- The Iranian Nuclear Threat Against Israel -- Iraq and Iran -- Pashtunistan: Afghanistan, Pakistan—and Iraq -- The Land and People of Modern Iraq -- Impacts of the Iraq War -- America’s Troubled Moment in the Middle East -- Maliki Consolidates Power in Post-Saddam Iraq -- The Iranian Revolution and Its Consequences -- Islamic Republic of Iran: Political Dynamics and Foreign Policy -- Iran’s Regional Foreign Policy -- Iran, Israel, and the United States -- The Iranian Predicament -- The Islamists -- Islamists and Democracy: The Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood -- Talking to Terrorists: Hamas and Hezbollah -- The Arab Spring -- The Arab Spring, 2011 -- Egypt: Mubarak and After -- Bashar al-Asad, Syria, and the Arab Spring -- The Arab World at the Intersection of the National and Transnational -- Looking Forward -- The Contemporary Middle East: Some Questions, Some Answers -- Select Bibliography -- Notable Persons

"A very informative, readable, and thought-provoking edited volume that is valuable for students and the general public alike. Covering the major historical developments, the text presents an excellent description and explanation of the regional challenges ranging from economic growth to security and from political stability to energy consideration. This text is also empowered by useful supplements which add to its instructional significance." -Houman A. Sadri, University of Central Florida "This volume brings together a range of views by influential scholars on the most enduring and important issues in Middle East affairs. The book is an excellent choice for college classes from the introductory through advanced levels." -Weldon C. Matthews, Oakland University "Engages students with timely essays and sharpens critical thinking by presenting a variety of informed perspectives on key issues. Excellent for courses covering the recent history of the Middle East." -Brock Ruggles, Arizona State University