This authoritative book examines British policy in the Middle East, focusing on how Britain's response to 9/11 - particularly the decision to join the US invasion of Iraq - has affected its role and relations in the region. * Establishes what was 'new' about the New Labour approach and policies towards the Middle East and what changed as a result of 9/11 and the 'war on terror' * Analyses in detail how the Blair government handled the Iraq crisis, invasion and fallout, including developments in relations with Iran * Documents Britain's 'niche' role in the Middle East peace process. * Argues that arms sales, trade and finance bind Britain to the Arab Gulf states * Traces Britain 's involvement in US-regional security arrangements