What Really Went Wrong

This insightful book examines the impact of American foreign policy on the modern Middle East, revealing critical historical missteps. What Really Went Wrong prompts a reevaluation of past decisions.

In What Really Went Wrong, Fawaz A. Gerges presents a thought-provoking exploration of American foreign policy's effects on the modern Middle East. By examining critical moments in the histories of Iran, Egypt, Syria, and Lebanon, the author reveals how postwar U.S. leaders formed alliances with various authoritarian regimes. These partnerships often prioritized American interests, particularly the pursuit of cheap oil, over the aspirations of nationalist movements in the region. This dynamic created a complicated web of dependency and resentment that continues to influence Middle Eastern politics today.

The book takes a unique counterfactual approach, prompting readers to consider how different choices by U.S. leaders could have altered the political landscape of the Middle East. Gerges suggests that had American policy been more supportive of the nationalist ambitions of local leaders, the region might have experienced a more favorable trajectory toward stability and democracy. He critiques the focus on interventionist strategies that prioritized short-term gains over long-term development.

Through a detailed analysis, What Really Went Wrong encourages a reevaluation of historical narratives surrounding U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Gerges argues for a more nuanced understanding of the interplay between foreign policy and local dynamics, ultimately advocating for a future where Middle Eastern nations have the autonomy to shape their own destinies. This book is essential for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of modern geopolitics in the region.