Decolonization and the Evolution of the Middle East

African Decolonization and Independence

The territory changed its name to Zaire in 1971. Special cases included the independence of the Republic of South Africa (1961) and Rhodesia (1965). In Rhodesia, the white minority, which already held control, unilaterally declared independence and continued practicing apartheid against the black population.

The last colonies of consequence to achieve independence were the Portuguese territories of Angola and Mozambique (1975). They gained sovereignty after the dictatorship fell in the metropolis, following the "Carnation Revolution."

The Middle East: Mandates and Sovereignty

Most Middle Eastern countries belonged to the Turkish Empire. After World War I, following its dismemberment, these regions became British and French mandates and protectorates. Over the years, they gradually gained their independence.

In the case of Palestine, it came under British control in 1920. The Zionist movement encouraged the migration of Jews into the territory, which was inhabited mostly by Muslims. Consequently, the coexistence between both groups deteriorated.

After the Second World War, the impact of the Nazi genocide shifted public opinion in favor of creating a Jewish state. Britain, unable to manage the situation, transferred the problem to the UN.

In 1947, the UN—with the agreement of the U.S. and the USSR—divided the Palestinian territory into two zones. The following year, the British granted independence to Palestine, and the Jews proclaimed the state of Israel (1948).

The Israel-Palestine Conflict

Since 1948, the region has been the focus of serious clashes between Israel and the Palestinians, who are supported by various Arab countries. These conflicts persist today, including:

• The armed conflicts of 1948 and 1956
• The "Six-Day War" (1967)
• The "Yom Kippur War" (1973)
• The conflict in Lebanon (from 1975)
• The Intifadas of 1987 and 2000

The Islamic World

The Islamic world consists of approximately thirty countries where Islam is the majority religion, representing over 1,000 million people. These nations span from Senegal and Morocco to Indonesia.

This region represents a highly heterogeneous reality. While some countries are wealthy due to vast oil reserves, others lack significant natural resources. Notably, none can be considered fully developed with a stable democratic system, often due to:

• Deep social inequalities
• The persistence of traditions incompatible with democracy

The Rise of Radical Islamic Movements

In recent decades, radical Islamic movements have developed, often hindering the progress of their societies. Radicalism is frequently presented as an enemy of the West and serves as a reaction against the corruption of ruling state elites. Its origins are twofold:

• Shiite: Considered "revolutionary," it triumphed in Iran under the leadership of Ayatollah Khomeini, establishing the first Islamic republic in 1979.
• Sunni: A conservative movement, with its primary influence radiating from Saudi Arabia.