The Struggle for Supremacy in the Middle East
Saudi Arabia and Iran

Outlines the impact of the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran across the Middle East, challenging assumptions about 'proxy wars' and sectarianism.

Simon Mabon (Author)

9781108461443, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 16 March 2023

310 pages
22.6 x 15.2 x 1.8 cm, 0.46 kg

'[A] valuable contribution to the literature about Saudi-Iranian rivalry and sectarian politics in several Arab states.' Gregory Aftandilian, Middle East Journal

Since 1979, few rivalries have affected Middle Eastern politics as much as the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran. However, too often the rivalry has been framed purely in terms of 'proxy wars', sectarian difference or the associated conflicts that have broken out in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Bahrain, and Yemen. In this book, Simon Mabon presents a more nuanced assessment of the rivalry, outlining its history and demonstrating its impact across the Middle East. Highlighting the significance of local groups, Mabon shows how regional politics have shaped and been shaped by the rivalry. The book draws from social theory and the work of Pierre Bourdieu to challenge problematic assumptions about 'proxy wars', the role of religion, and sectarianism. Exploring the changing political landscape of the Middle East as a whole and the implications for regional and international security, Mabon paints a complex picture of this frequently discussed but oft-misunderstood rivalry.

Introduction
1. States, sects and order
2. The story of a kingdom and a republic
3. Iraq
4. Bahrain
5. Lebanon
6. Syria
7. Yemen
Conclusions.

Subject Areas: Theory of warfare & military science [JWA], International relations [JPS], Religion & politics [HRAM2]