http://fas.org/sgp/crs/mideast/R43612.pdf
Describes the offensive of the group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, the threat posed to U.S. interests by the offensive, and the policy options available. From the Congressional Research Service, posted by the Federation of American Scientists
Explores the challenges and obstacles to alternative methods of dispute resolution in Yemen since the Arab Spring protests and the weakening of tribal authority. From the United States Institute of Peace
Explores how transition processes in Yemen affect the country’s rule of law, justice, and security. From the United States Institute of Peace
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/mideast/RL33487.pdf
Provides an overview of the expanding crisis in Syria, the opposing forces and their internal conflicts, the efforts to remove chemical weapons from the conflict, and the bleak prospects for significant U.S. engagement to promote regional security or humanitarian assistance. From the Congressional Research Service, posted by the Federation of American Scientists
http://www.usip.org/sites/default/files/PB159.pdf
Describes how and why the conflict in Syria is intensifying Sunni-Shia tensions in Lebanon. From the United States Institute of Peace
http://www.usip.org/sites/default/files/PB160.pdf
Examines the rise of sectarianism in the Middle East since 2003 and how the social, political, and technological changes which are fueling this trend are affecting Sunni and Shia communities. From the United States Institute of Peace
http://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1977-80v08
Official documents detailing the efforts of Carter Administration officials to bring together Egypt and Israel for bilateral negotiations on a peace settlement which would cover the case of Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank. From the State Department
http://www.parliament.uk/briefing-papers/sn02729.pdf
Discusses the main changes to British arms export control policy and practice since 1997. Includes changes in practice involving arms exports to Middle Eastern and North African countries involved in the Arab Spring with regard to goods that might be used for internal repression. From the House of Commons Library