Like a mega-earthquake, the end of the Cold War sent lasting shockwavesthroughout the international system. Outside the former communist bloc, the epicenter of thisearthquake, nowhere else were those tremors more dramatic in their impact than in the MiddleEast—a region of long-standing geo-strategic standing and a legacy of incessant foreignconquest and intervention. The end of the Cold War exposed clearly the structural weaknesses ofthe region and drastically reduced its system immunities. As at previous turning points, the MiddleEast faced formidable constraints as well as luring opportunities. Middle East at theCrossroads is a collection of articles addressing the contours of this new environment andits challenges for both Middle Eastern states and the major powers. It is a welcome addition andan important contribution to Middle Eastern studies.