ABSTRACT
The Western practice of opening up national archives to the public does not exist in the Arab countries. There are only scant Arab primary sources at the disposal of researchers of the contemporary Middle East. They largely consist of memoirs, diaries or personal archives and official publications. Therefore, the publication of the personal memoirs of senior Arab politicians is an important occasion for scholars. Such is the case regarding most sources on the policy and involvement of Egypt in the Suez-Sinai crisis. Although Muhammad Hassanein Heikal’s books are important primary sources they are stamped by the seal of a confidant and adviser to Nasser.
