ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the historical context within which the conflicts in the Middle East have developed over time. It discusses the country-specific conflicts and the impact of the conflict on the citizenry. The chapter examines the efforts to bring peace and stability to the region, despite years of failure. In the twenty-first century, the United States has become entangled in various conflicts throughout the Middle East and North Africa. The countries of the Middle East have in modern times all suffered with low economic growth rates and stagnating economies. The United States has not assumed a large role in the Syrian conflict, aside from arming moderate rebel groups in their fight against the Bashar al Assad regime. The Syrian Civil War has been described as the "greatest humanitarian crisis in a lifetime" because of the massive loss of life and the significant political repercussions from the displaced Syrian population.
