The sources of the Middle East's crises and American grand strategy

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis article argues that there are four major crises convulsing the Middle East. They are the Shia-Sunni conflict, rise of extremist militant fundamentalists, ethno-national demands, and pro-democracy movements. These have given rise to four clusters of actors. The article analyzes the ideological sources of Sunni and Shia fundamentalism, as well as Iran's grand strategy and American strategies and policies since 1979, trying to respond to these crises and challenges. It discusses the reasons for successes and failures of American policies and identifies lessons for future American policies toward the Middle East.