Since the tragic events of September 11, Central Asia has been drawn into the intense struggle of the international community against the forces of religious extremism and transnational crime. The great powers were able to put aside their geopolitical differences in order to crush al-Qaeda and the Taliban. With the marginalization of the Taliban and the eviction of al-Qaeda from Afghanistan, however, the tension between the great powers is notably increasing, as is the discomfort of Central Asian states who find themselves, their political development, and their oil reserves in the middle of a renewed Great Game. Islam, Oil, and Geopolitics is a truly international volume, including chapters written by senior scholars, upcoming students in the field, prominent diplomats, and renowned academics from Russia, China, the United States, and the Central Asian republics. They collaborate to focus on three important issues that are usually--and unfortunately--analyzed separately: Islamic political issues, energy security, and geopolitical maneuvering. Once an obscure and little-known region, Central Asia has become an important test of America's ability to consistently promote global liberal change, of Russia's true foreign policy agenda, and of China's readiness to translate economic power into political influence. Terrorism, economics, and politics all converge in this strategic region, with important implications for Asia and the world. This significant and timely volume helps readers understand current events in Central Asia and how those events affect the rest of the world. Contributions by: Kamoludin Abdullaev, Rouben Azizian, Gaye Christoffersen, Elizabeth Van Wie Davis, Feng Shaolei, Pan Guang, Shireen Hunter, Alisher Khamidov, Mikhail A. Konarovsky, Najibullah Lafraie, Murat Laumulin, Sergey I. Lounev, Aleksei V. Malashenko, Orhon Myadar, Manabu Shimizu, Thomas W. Simons Jr., Robert Smith, Sergei Troush, Kang Wu, and Shi Yinhong.

"The clash of civilizations" has become a common phrase in discussions of U.S.-Middle East relations. This book explores the nature of the friction between the Muslim world and Western states, looking at legitimate perceptions and grievances on both sides involving historical, political, economic, cultural, psychological, and strategic elements. Arguing that "Islam versus the West" does not represent the arena of the next global ideological struggle, the authors examine specific issues of a bilateral nature that require careful handling to prevent the consolidation of states into opposing blocs. They discuss Islam's efforts to politically enhance the real power of Muslim states and to equalize relations with the West in the strategic arena; the enlarged role of Islam in the internal politics of Muslim countries; and the urgency of political, economic, and social change to break away from traditional authoritarian orders. A central theme of the book is that political Islam threatens the established order in most Muslim countries far more than it threatens the West and that violent confrontation can best be circumvented by integrating Islamist forces into the political process.

The author looks at the policies of the Central Asian governments, that includes their attitudes to democratic reform, human rights, energy and economic development and how these are related to civil violence.

"Oil, Sand, and Blood: Understanding Geopolitics in the Middle East" is a compelling and insightful book that delves deep into the intricate web of political, economic, and historical factors shaping the Middle East. Written by a seasoned expert in international relations, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's complexities, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of its geopolitical dynamics. The book's title, "Oil, Sand, and Blood," encapsulates the core themes it explores. It delves into the pivotal role of oil in the Middle East's global significance, shedding light on how this valuable resource has shaped international relations and the region's political landscape. The "sand" symbolizes the vast deserts and challenging physical geography that influence the region's governance and development. Lastly, "blood" alludes to the historical conflicts, social divisions, and human struggles that have left an indelible mark on the Middle East. Readers will find a rich narrative that traces the historical roots of the region's conflicts, from ancient civilizations to modern-day tensions. The author skillfully dissects the intricate relationships between nations, ethnic groups, and religious sects, offering insightful analyses of the ongoing conflicts and rivalries that define the Middle East. What sets this book apart is its ability to make complex geopolitical concepts accessible to a wide audience. It provides clarity on the roles played by regional and global actors, external interventions, and the enduring impact of historical events. Through engaging storytelling and well-researched insights, "Oil, Sand, and Blood" paints a vivid portrait of the Middle East's geopolitical landscape. Whether you are a student of international relations, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of the Middle East, this book is an essential read. It equips readers with the knowledge and context needed to navigate the region's intricate geopolitics and gain valuable insights into the forces shaping one of the world's most critical and dynamic regions. "Oil, Sand, and Blood" is an enlightening journey through the heart of the Middle East's geopolitical complexities, making it a must-have addition to your bookshelf.

This book provides a data-based approach to present and future developments in the Muslim world. It focuses on the economics of the Muslim world, including hot topics such as terrorism and oil-prices and also suggests an approach that deals with the high illiteracy rates and inadequate education facilities in many Muslim countries.

Topics such as the compatibility of Islam and democracy, and the question of whether democracy can be encouraged in the Middle East are looked at carefully. Contributors evaluate the circumstances under which democracy can be imposed by outside force, and ask what forces are driving the confrontation between the West and Islam, before looking at how this confrontation is likely to develop. --

The turmoil and strife of the Middle East raises serious questions about the security of the world's oil supply. Oil, Turmoil, and Islam in the Middle East is a hard-hitting indictment of OPEC and OAPEC, arguing that these organizations can no longer afford to impose indiscriminate price increases on the marketplace because they hurt not only themselves but oil poor Third World nations, as well. The author analyzes the importance of Middle Eastern oil in world politics. He emphasizes that any consideration of the forces influencing development in the Middle East should take Islamic tradition into account. Each chapter is organized around a current Middle Eastern problem: oil politics in relation to international energy needs; the ramifications of the new oil wealth and power of the Middle East; the Iran-Iraq War; Muslim insurgency in Afghanistan; the Arab-Israeli conflict; turmoil in Lebanon; Palestinian nationalism; and the Middle East as a superpower.