Abstract

Going "MAD" in the Middle East

The article reports on some political developments. Against the backdrop of the latest flurry of promises about Middle East peace talks, a quiet process of military escalation is under way in the Middle East, one which will dramatically alter the dimensions of the Arab-Israeli conflict. In an effort to counter Israel's military superiority, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and even Egypt have begun to acquire advanced offensive weapons with the intent of destroying what American and Israeli officials fondly refer to as the "status quo" in the region. The invasion of Lebanon, in particular, in which Israel humiliated Syria militarily, embarrassed Egypt diplomatically and attempted to impose on Lebanon a puppet regime that would sign a peace treaty with Israel, was a turning point. It led several "moderate" Arab governments to the conclusion that if they are ever to have meaningful negotiations with Israel, they must first nullify its military option.