Since the mid-1970's, Islamist groups have been major opposition forces in the Arab world and have posed considerable challenges to its regime. However, their increased influence has not led to political power. Ibrahim A. Karawan argues that, although Islam as a faith and a cultural force will continue to influence Arab societies, Islamist political movements have reached an impasse. Their failure to take political power is the result of their inability to form an effective and united opposition, and of regimes' success in largely containing their challenge. More than 17 years after the fall of the Shah, the Iranian revolution remains an anomaly in the Middle East.

Adelphi Paper 314.

Introduction--Ch. 1 Islamist Challengers--Ch. 2 State Strategies--Ch. 3 The Regional Setting--Ch. 4Islamists and the West--Conclusion.