7 Essential Books to Understand the Modern Middle East
For those looking to deepen their understanding of the Middle East's complex history, politics, and culture, the YouTube channel Ancient to Recent has curated a list of highly recommended reads. Here is a breakdown of the seven books featured in their "Middle East Book Recommendations" video, covering topics from the rise of ISIS to the history of Lebanon.
1. ISIS: Inside the Army of Terror by Michael Weiss and Hassan Hassan
This book provides a detailed account of the rise of ISIS and how the group fundamentally altered the Middle East. It explores critical factors such as the mistakes made by the U.S. in Iraq, the group's relationship with Al-Qaeda, and its involvement in the Syrian Civil War.
2. The Shadow Commander by Arash Azizi
Focused on Qasem Soleimani, the former leader of the Quds Force (part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps), this biography offers insight into how Iran projects power across the region. It serves as an excellent starting point for understanding Iran's strategic influence in the Middle East.
3. The Palestine-Israeli Conflict: A Beginner's Guide by Dan Cohn-Sherbok and Dawoud El-Alami
This book offers a unique overview of the ongoing conflict by presenting perspectives from two authors—one Jewish and one Palestinian. Beyond just explaining the history, it critiques various proposed solutions and ideas for bringing the conflict to an end.
4. The Shah by Abbas Milani
A comprehensive biography of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran. Milani’s work chronicles the Shah’s rise to power, his rule, and his eventual decline, providing a window into pre-revolutionary Iran.
5. On Saudi Arabia by Karen Elliott House
Written by a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who spent years living in the Kingdom, this book takes readers deep into Saudi society. It explores the interplay of religion, oil, and power, while also looking at how the nation is navigating its future.
6. Egypt on the Brink by Tarek Osman
This modern history of Egypt covers the rise of Gamal Abdel Nasser, the long era of military rule, and the challenges that system faces today. It also delves into the crisis of Egyptian identity, making it crucial for understanding the country's current political landscape.
7. A House of Many Mansions by Kamal Salibi
Described as a retelling of Lebanon's story, this book examines one of the Middle East’s most diverse and complex societies. Salibi explores the deep tensions over identity and religion that lie at the heart of the nation.