The View from Damascus

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Over the past century, Syria has played a pivotal role in Middle Eastern affairs, serving as the birthplace of Arab nationalism and a focal point of colonial and regional ambitions. This paperback edition offers fresh insights into Syria's recent history and current political landscape. Author Itamar Rabinovich brings a unique perspective, having spent 35 years studying Syria through diplomatic archives and various sources. His experience as Yitzhak Rabin's chief negotiator with Syria and Israel's ambassador to Washington positions him as a key participant in the events discussed. This expanded edition features a new introduction and two additional chapters on the Israeli-Syrian-American peace negotiations and Israel's perspective on the Syrian uprising. The collection of 23 essays spans from the eve of World War I to the tensions between the Bush Administration and Bashar al-Asad. The essays explore three main themes: the evolution of the Syrian state, the conflict between differing political identities within Syria, and foreign policy issues, particularly regarding the Syrian-Israeli conflict and peace process. These themes are traced from their origins through the 20th century to contemporary times.