DTW GED PREP

The Middle East underwent a dramatic transformation in the post-World War II era, driven largely by the massive global demand for oil. With its vast reserves, the region became the primary source of the world’s oil, catapulting it into a position of international prominence and economic prosperity. This newfound importance reshaped the political and economic landscape, as oil-producing nations gained unprecedented leverage over global markets. By the 1960s, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was established in 1960 by five Arab nations—Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Iran, and Venezuela. The cartel was created to regulate oil prices and control the supply of oil, which allowed its member countries to exert significant influence over the global economy. Today, OPEC has expanded to include 12 member nations, including countries in Africa and South America.

Most Middle Eastern nations are characterized by authoritarian governments, either military dictatorships or monarchies, with little political freedom or democratic representation. The press in these countries is heavily censored, and political dissent is often suppressed. The region is also marked by the influence of Islam, with religious leaders frequently pressuring governments to adhere to Islamic principles and implement policies based on Islamic values. This intersection of politics and religion has been a defining feature of many Middle Eastern societies, shaping both domestic policies and international relations.

The creation of the state of Israel in 1948 further complicated the region’s political dynamics. The establishment of Israel, seen as a historic achievement for Jews, was met with intense opposition from many Arab nations, leading to decades of conflict. This tension escalated dramatically in 1967, during the Six-Day War, when Israel occupied territories with significant Arab populations, including the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. The Israeli occupation of these territories has been a central point of contention in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, contributing to a cycle of violence, political instability, and diplomatic challenges.

In 2011, a wave of uprisings known as the Arab Spring swept across the region, fueled by widespread discontent with authoritarian rule, economic inequality, and lack of political freedoms. The uprisings raised hopes for democratic reforms and the establishment of more representative governments. However, the outcomes of the Arab Spring were mixed. While some countries, like Tunisia, experienced peaceful transitions toward democracy, others, such as Syria, plunged into civil war, leading to prolonged instability and suffering. The Arab Spring also led to a rise in sectarian tensions, with pro-Western liberal forces clashing with Islamist groups, further complicating the political landscape.

Today, the Middle East remains a region of both great promise and persistent challenges. The economic power derived from oil continues to be a driving force, but the region is also marked by political unrest, sectarian conflict, and the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights. The future of the Middle East will depend on how these issues are addressed, particularly the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the balance of power between authoritarian regimes and popular movements, and the role of Islam in shaping governance and society.

THE ARAB WORLD

Directions: Choose the best answer to the following question.

1. Which statement about the modern Middle East is supported by the text?
   A. In many Middle Eastern countries, politics and religion are often closely linked.
   B. The state of Israel was established after the “Six-Day War” in 1967.
   C. OPEC membership is exclusive to Middle Eastern countries.
   D. The “Arab Spring” led to the abolition of monarchies in the Middle East.

Correct Answer: A. In many Middle Eastern countries, politics and religion are often closely linked. ✅

Explanation:

• A. ✅ Correct. Many modern Middle Eastern governments are influenced by Islamic law (Sharia), and religion often plays a central role in political life.
• B. ❌ Incorrect. The state of Israel was established in 1948, not after the Six-Day War of 1967.
• C. ❌ Incorrect. OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) includes members from outside the Middle East, such as Venezuela and Nigeria.
• D. ❌ Incorrect. The Arab Spring led to major protests and changes in some governments, but not the widespread abolition of monarchies. For example, monarchies in Saudi Arabia and Jordan still exist.