Publication

This paper explores how the Middle East has been affected by changes in the international balance of power and intraregional security threats. Among other issues, it examines 1) the US’ shrinking military budget and what it means for its overseas presence; 2) Washington's evolving partnership with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members; 3) US energy interests in the Middle East; 4) Iran's military capabilities and the balance of military power in the Gulf; and 5) the threat posed by terrorism, violent religious extremism and civil war in the region.