The war for Lebanon -- a conflict of domestic and external forces seeking to shape and control the Lebanese entity -- began long before 1970 and unfortunately did not end in 1983. But these years, the focus of this book, form a particularly significant phase in the history of both Lebanon and its immediate environment. The events of this period unfolded through 4 distinct stages: the collapse of the Lebanese political system between 1970 and 1975; the civil war of 1975-76; the lingering crisis of the years 1976-82; and the war of 1982. This book primarily explores the interplay between Lebanon's domestic politics and developments in the larger Middle East.

Revised edition of: The war for Lebanon, 1970-1983. 1984.

The Lebanese paradox --The second civil war, 1975-76 -- Political parties and factions -- The lingering crisis -- War, June-September 1982 -- An interim assessment -- The Lebanese crisis, 1983-85 -- Appendix : speech by President Asad of Syria, July 20, 1976.