Khalidi provides a compelling history of modern conflict in the Middle East . . . [he] has written an important book, essential for anyone concerned about the stability of the Middle East.—Publishers Weekly, starred review, Pick of the Week

"[G]ets the reader up to speed on many of the disputes that have made the Middle East a flashpoint in today's U.S. foreign policy. Khalidi places it all in context, and infuses it with sharp analysis. He writes engagingly and knowledgeably about U.S. and Soviet maneuvers that exacerbated the already severe tensions between Arab states and Israel."—Kirkus Reviews

"A stunningly clear analysis of the geopolitics of Middle East conflicts from 1945 to today. A book not to be missed."—Immanuel Wallerstein, author of European Universalism

"Khalidi is arguably the foremost U.S. historian of the modern Middle East."—Warren I. Cohen, Los Angeles Times Book Review

"[T]he president . . . should read [this book], not so much to chasten his sunny view of our recent past in the Middle East as to be reminded how very hard it is to make progress in a region where memories are long."—James Traub, New York Times Book Review