Hadar provides a sweeping re-examination of the conceptual bases of American policy and calls for strategy of 'constructive disengagement' from the region, a policy of benign neglect as a way of promoting the interests of the United States as well as those of the people of the Middle East. Continued American presence and involvement in the Middle East has tremendous political and economic costs that outweigh the benefits. There is a need for regional states to take increased responsibility for security, economic growth, and political stability. The European Union should also play a greater role due to its geographical proximity, economic ties and demographic links to the region. The time has come for a serious debate on the future involvement of the United States in the Middle East.

'Leon Hadar bravely predicted many of the consequences that would flow from U.S. involvement in the first Gulf War and was almost alone is doing so. Now he has written another bold book on Middle East issues. He should be read, in part because so few others are willing to explore the issues he tackles.' - Charles William Maynes, President of the Eurasia Foundation

'...the author displays keen insights into the political and economic imperatives that motivate people who 'don't think like us.' By melding analytic rigor with journalistic punch, Hadar has produced a significant work, accessible to both area specialists and lay readers.' - Publishers Weekly

September 11: The Collapse of Cost-Free Pax Americana in the Middle East
The Second Intifadah: The Perils of American Hyperactive Diplomacy
Post-September 11: An Alternative History
Post-9/11: Neoconservative Ascendancy and the Second Gulf War
Neoconservative Fantasies: A Democratic Empire in the Middle East
The American-European Conflict Over the Middle East
America, Europe and Russia: The Evolution of the Northern Alliance
The Road Toward U.S. Constructive Disengagement in the Middle East

LEON HADAR is Research Fellow in Foreign Policy Studies at the Cato Institute, USA.