Publications

The past two years have seen much social and political unrest in the Middle East and North Africa region. This chapter analyzes the concept of the rise of the Islamists, moving beyond a simplistic and monolithic assessment of these groups and their interests. Against this background, the study analyzes both the Israeli discourse and interpretation of the Arab awakening and the rise of political Islam, as well as the concrete political, diplomatic, economic, and security changes that have occurred since these groups became more prominent within their own societies. Finally, the chapter offers a preliminary balance sheet, looking at the threats and opportunities resulting from the regional rise of political Islamist movements.