In Search of a Peace Settlement Egypt and Israel between the Wars, 1967-1973

Between 1967 and 1973 there were intensive diplomatic efforts, focused mainly between Egypt and Israel, to settle the Arab-Israeli conflict. This research is the first which deals with events in the period mentioned, using materials from various archives in Washington, London and Jerusalem. Moshe Gat analyses the Israeli and Egyptian policies,with emphasis on the politicians who shaped the political process: Golda Meir, Dayan, Nasser, Sadat, Sisco, Rogers, Kissinger and Nixon. Moreover, this study examines the Israeli decision makers' conception that military power could be used as a tool to solve the conflict; no political initiative came from the Israeli side whatsoever. From the Egyptian side the study examines the changing policy after Nasser's death. The advent of Sadat to power brought a new atmosphere to the region and actually paved the way for a settlement between Egypt and Israel. This examination highlights the rise and fall of Soviet influence after the Six Day War and looks at the increasing importance of America's political leadership in the region.

Moshe Gat is Professor of Political Studies and European Modern History. He was formerly Head of General History and Head of Political Studies at Bar-Ilan University, Israel.