This book includes the entire spectrum of contemporary politics and economics of the Middle East. The coverage is intended to deal with the Middle East political dynamics, economic policies and institutions. Topics discussed include background information on Hamas and issues for Congress; governance, human rights and reform in the United Arab Emirates; Afghanistan casualties; the United Arab Emirates nuclear program and proposed U.S. nuclear co-operation; bilateral issues affecting U.S.-Syria relations; the politics, elections and benchmarks of Iraq; U.S. concerns and policy responses towards Iran; the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan and Afghanistan's post-Taliban governance, politics, elections, security and U.S. policy.