This guide to the mysterious history and politics of the Middle East will help Americans decipher the latest diplomatic delusions of their President, Congress and the U.S. State Department, untangle the rationale for Palestinian terrorists bombs in the West Bank and Israeli jets strafing civilians in Lebanon, and explains why your sons and daughters may have to return to the region so you can have enough oil. The Western colonial powers created the boundaries in the Middle East, without regard to the religion, culture or ethnic background of the people, for selfish reasons after World War Ipower and oil. America has failed to wield its influence in the region because of its political leaders myopic support of Israel and failure to understand and/or refusal to admit to the complex regional issues. As a result, America is now part of the problem rather than offering an equitable solution and is in danger of losing its superpower leverage. Saddam Hussein scoffs at Americas impotent threats, Iran sneers at the Great Satans sanctions and Saudi Arabia has no faith in our promises. A recent Israeli newspaper reported that Binyamin Netanyahu owns the U.S. Congress. Will tiny Palestine and oil be Americas downfall? Machiavellian perceptive, irreverently witty and an enjoyable read, this book provides invaluable insights into the volatile Mid East and world oil for the serious student as well as the host or hostess at their next cocktail party.