Middle East Crises

In Middle East Crises, veteran American diplomat James Jeffrey offers a compelling, first-hand account of U.S. foreign policy and crisis management in the Middle East from 2004 to 2020. Drawing on his decades-long career as a Foreign Service Officer, Jeffrey takes readers behind the scenes of some of the most consequential moments in recent Middle Eastern history.

The book chronicles his service under three American presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump detailing his roles in key hotspots like Iraq, Turkey, and Syria. Jeffrey provides vivid recollections of war-zone diplomacy and the balancing act of military and political leadership in the region. From the early challenges of the Iraq War to the emergence of ISIS, and the complexities of dealing with leaders like Erdogan and Putin, his narrative captures the volatile and ever-changing landscape of Middle Eastern affairs.

Beyond recounting events, Jeffrey reflects on the broader principles guiding American foreign policy, the challenges of maintaining alliances, and the personal risks and sacrifices of those on the ground. His insights highlight the high stakes of Middle Eastern diplomacy and the continued necessity of American leadership in a turbulent region.

Both memoir and analysis, Middle East Crises is an essential read for anyone interested in the realities of diplomacy, war, and American power in one of the world’s most complex regions.