First published in 1981, this edited collection analyses many of the crucial issues that have had international repercussions during the second half of the twentieth century. Internationally renowned authors consider such areas as the relationship between Israel and the Middle East, the influence of oil on global decision-making, Afghanistan and its neighbours, and the economic issues that the region has faced. A timely and relevant reissue, dealing with problems of continued importance, this volume will be of particular interest to students researching the history of the Middle Eastern conflict and the region's variety of relationships with the West.

Foreword R. L. Harry; Preface Mohammed Ayoob 1. The Middle East in World Affairs: An Australian Perspective Andrew S. Peacock 2. A View from Cairo Mohamed Riad 3. Israel and the Middle East Rony Gabbay Comments Martin Indyk 4. The PLO and the Prospects for Peace in the Middle East Andrew Mack Comments Martin Indyk 5. Oil, Arabism and Islam: The Persian Gulf in World Politics Mohammed Ayoob Comments Kim C. Beazley 6. Afghanistan and its Neighbours Mohammed Ahsen Chaudhri Comments Beverley M. Male 7. The Middle East Role in World Energy L. T. Froggatt 8. Economic Issues in the Middle East Stuart Harris 9. A Region of Constant Surprise J. D. B. Miller; Notes on Contributors; Index