The Region Today

Oil Production 8.25 million barrels a day Economies modernized by oil wealth Oil related manufacturing

Agriculture Mostly subsistence farming Barley, wheat are grown Arid climates and rugged landscape make farming difficult.

Agriculture Farmers do find fertile soils near the river valleys or high plateaus. Farmers may also raise sheep, goats, and a few cattle. Most food is imported.

Agriculture Commercial farming is found near the cities. Citrus fruits, dates, grapes, and olives are grown with the help of irrigation.

Nomadic Herding Some tend herds of camels, goats, and sheep. They are increasingly settling in towns due to lack of grazing areas for their herds.

Manufacturing Modern manufacturing in the area is limited. It focuses on building materials, food products, and household supplies.

Manufacturing The region imports most electronics and cars. The only large industries involve the oil industry.

Urban Environments Largest cities in the region are the nations’ capitals. Example: Tehran, Iran; Baghdad, Iraq; and Kabul, Afghanistan. Many of these cities are ancient, with little western development.

Government Issues and Challenges Saudi Arabia’s oil reserves makes it the world’s largest oil exporter. It is a key member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. (OPEC) This organization influences oil prices by controlling supply.

Government Issues and Challenges Iran has been one of the more unstable countries in the region. A government dominated by ayatollahs came to power in Tehran. These are religious leaders of the highest authority among Shia Muslims.

Government Issues and Challenges Today Iran is a theocracy, a country governed by religious law. Many religious leaders view Western ideas as a threat to public morality.

Government Issues and Challenges Iraq: Gulf War in 1991 US invasion March, 2003 Saddam Hussein

Government Issues and Challenges Afghanistan and the Taliban. The Taliban is driven by an extreme version of Sunni Islam. Afghanistan is no longer under Taliban control.

Government Issues and Challenges What is the role of women in these countries?

Government Issues and Challenges Oil, the influence of foreign cultures, and communications technology are changing the region. Remember: oil is the most important idea throughout this region.