Greater Middle East Reading List

Cutting the Fuse: The Explosion of Global Suicide Terrorism and How to Stop It (Robert A. Pape and James K. Feldman, The University of Chicago Press, 2010) After examining every suicide terrorist attack in the world between 1980 and 2009, these authors conclude that the majority of attacks are driven by foreign military occupation, not religious belief.

Through Veterans’ Eyes: The Iraq and Afghanistan Experience (Larry Minear, Potomac Books, Inc., 2010) Drawing on scores of interviews, the author weaves together veterans' stories about why they enlisted, the impact of their deployment, the global war on terror, the high costs of tackling terrorism, and the need to better reintegrate returning veterans.

The Iran Primer: Power, Politics and U.S. Policy (Robin Wright, editor, US Institute for Peace, 2010) Fifty of the world’s top Iran experts have contributed to this book, which offers an overview of Iran’s politics, economy, military, foreign policy, and nuclear program. The online version is updated weekly based on new developments.

“Israel, Iran and the United States,” Thomas Pickering, U.S./MEPolicy Brief, September 2010, U.S./Middle East Project. The use of force against Iran would make any settlement between Israel and the Arabs more difficult, argues this veteran diplomat.