1. Economic activities: Section 3 The Region Today
oil and gas production—key activity
agriculture—mainly subsistence, some commercial
nomadic herding
traditional crafts
limited manufacturing in most
strong industrial base in Israel—high-tech, diamond-cutting, chemicals (most advanced)
carpets—key Turkish industry

2. Urban environments: Section 3 The Region Today ancient cities
Rapid growth
old sections—twisting streets, bazaars, souks, mosques
newer sections—modern buildings, wide avenues, traffic
war damages in some cities— Beirut (war ridden)

3. Important issues: Section 3 The Region Today oil wealth—how used
Islamic Fundamentalism
power and authority—democracy versus control by a few
role of Islam—maintenance of Islamic traditions and laws
Israel issues in Gaza and West Bank