The Shifting Dynamics in the Middle East and the Formation of the United Arab Republic

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This chapter explores the changing relationships in the Middle East during the 1950s, focusing on the Syrian-Egyptian alliance formed under Nasser's leadership. It discusses the geopolitical shifts caused by the emergence of the Soviet Union as a new superpower, influencing countries like Syria to seek independence from Western powers and align with the Soviet bloc. The chapter delves into the challenges faced by Egypt in establishing unity with other Arab nations due to colonial legacies and political rivalries, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of power struggles and ideological shifts during this period.

Featuring Abdel Razzaq Takriti, this is the SEVENTH episode of Thawra (Revolution), our rolling mini-series on Arab radicalism in the 20th century. Today’s installment lays out the the US’s Eisenhower Doctrine, which in 1957 inaugurated a new era of imperialism in the Middle East; the Ba’ath Party driving Syria and Egypt into the United Arab Republic, a superstate under Nasser’s rule, in 1958; and, later that year, Eisenhower landing US Marines in Lebanon, the first American combat operation in the region. Support The Dig at Patreon.com/TheDig Check out our newsletter and vast archives at thedigradio.com Buy Burnout: The Emotional Experience of Political Defeat at versobooks.com Subscribe to Jacobin bit.ly/digjacobin