Ortadoğunun Gölge Güçleri:Şiddet İçeren Devlet Dışı Aktörler

Understanding Non-State Actors in the Middle East

This course addresses a critical gap in Middle East and International Relations scholarship. Upon completion, you will gain a solid understanding and analytical skills regarding violent non-state actors operating within the Middle East.

The course focuses on key players directly involved in escalating tensions, particularly in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We delve into the activities of:

• Hezbollah (Lebanon): Explore the origins, ideological foundations, and organizational structure of Hezbollah, a significant force in Lebanese politics.
• Fatah (West Bank, Palestine): Examine the history of Fatah, its key political figures, and ideological and structural characteristics.
• Hamas (Gaza Strip, Palestine): Investigate the historical roots and operational practices of Hamas, a prominent movement in the Palestinian territories.
• Popular Mobilization Forces (Hashd al-Shaabi, Iraq): Analyze the formation and political influence of Hashd al-Shaabi in Iraqi politics, especially since 2014.
• Houthis (Yemen): Understand the context of the Yemen conflict, the factors contributing to the rise of the Houthi movement, and their role in the ongoing civil war.

This course provides a detailed examination of each actor, with two lessons dedicated to each. Each section includes academic readings to reinforce learning and encourage further exploration. You'll gain insights into the motivations, strategies, and impact of these powerful non-state actors in shaping the Middle East.

We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these actors and their role in regional dynamics. This course is designed for anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge of contemporary Middle Eastern security challenges.

We hope you find this course beneficial.