Why do bitter feelings remain in the Middle East towards the US and Soviet Union
There are a variety of reasons why bitter feelings may remain in the Middle East towards the US and Soviet Union. Some of these reasons include:
1. Historical interventions and involvement: Both the US and Soviet Union have a long history of intervening in the affairs of Middle Eastern countries. This has often been seen as meddling in internal affairs and has led to resentment among the local populations.
2. Support for authoritarian regimes: Both superpowers have supported authoritarian regimes in the region, which has been seen as contributing to human rights abuses and political repression.
3. Wars and conflicts: The US and Soviet Union have been involved in various conflicts in the Middle East, including the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Iran-Iraq war, and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. These conflicts have led to widespread destruction and loss of life, contributing to negative sentiments towards the superpowers.
4. Economic exploitation: Both the US and Soviet Union have been accused of exploiting the resources of the region for their own benefit, often at the expense of the local populations.
5. Perceived double standards: Many in the Middle East feel that the US and Soviet Union have pursued policies in the region that are hypocritical or inconsistent with their stated values, leading to mistrust and resentment.
Overall, the combination of historical interventions, support for authoritarian regimes, conflicts, economic exploitation, and perceived double standards has contributed to the enduring bitterness towards the US and Soviet Union in the Middle East.