Dilip Hiro Boeken

An accessible and comprehensive examination of the contemporary situation in Iraq, and the historical background that led to it

For four decades Saudi Arabia and Iran have vied for influence in the Muslim world. At the heart of this ongoing Cold War between Riyadh and Tehran lie the Sunni–Shia divide, and the two countries' intertwined histories. Saudis see this as a conflict between Sunni and Shia; Iran’s ruling clerics view it as one between their own Islamic Republic and an illegitimate monarchy. This foundational schism has played out in a geopolitical competition for dominance in the Iran has expanded its influence in Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, while Saudi Arabia’s hyperactive crown prince, Muhammad bin Salman, has intervened in Yemen, isolated Qatar and destabilised Lebanon. Dilip Hiro examines the toxic rivalry between the two countries, tracing its roots and asking whether this Islamic Cold War is likely to end any time soon.

The renowned historian and journalist serves up a brief but insightful guide to the real Iraq, piercing through the myths surrounding Saddam Hussein to paint a realistic picture of the beleagured nation. Original.

Changing the geopolitics of oil, China and India are expanding their navies as they become dependent on lines of oil tankers from the Middle East, posing the beginning of a challenge to American hegemony in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. The shortage of oil sets the stage for the coming oil wars of the 21st century.