Introduction

Historically, the United States has enjoyed close relations with most countries in the Middle East. US economic and military assistance has played a major role in supporting the growth and security of regional states such as Egypt and Jordan. Traditionally, the oil-rich kingdoms in the Persian Gulf region have maintained close economic and security relationships with the US—supplying that country with essential energy supplies while being a major market for US military equipment. Over the years, these ties have created an elaborate network of organizational relationships, official and personal contacts, bilateral economic and military commissions, and joint commercial endeavors between the US and key countries throughout the region.