| Abstract: | The coming to power of a revolutionary regime in Libya was universally regarded as a disaster for the West and a corresponding advance for the Soviet Union in Middle East affairs. Upon closer examination, however, it is evident that the coup, far from having fortified the radical Arab camp, may have set in motion centrifugal forces, destined ultimately to split the radical camp (i.a. Egypt and Algeria) wide apart. The first sign of such division was revealed in the difference of opinion surrounding the war plan submitted to the conference by the Egyptian War Minister. This new phenomenon in inter-Arab relations can be best understood as a result of the coup in Libya. This coup, by giving rise to fresh Nasserite visions of Pan-Arabism, sparked off the parting of the ways between Boumedienne and Nasser. A confirmation of Nasser's mastery in the Arab world could not but threaten Algeria's dominant position in North Africa. A new chapter in political and military rivalry has opened in this region. |
AfricaBib 
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Leiden University catalogue
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