—Voices from the Sensible Center—

Interpreting the Middle East for North Americans—
Interpreting North America for the Middle East

Current Affairs

3 Lebanon's Legacy—We tried to be as patient as possible in explaining to Humphrey that in Lebanon, as in so many other places, the conventional wisdom is not always very wise. We're not sure how much of a dent we made, but we're determined to keep on trying as long as he's willing to keep on listening.

4 The Gulf "Oil Slick"—Remember the oil slick that was spreading rapidly and dangerously in the Gulf last spring, as damaged Iranian wells continued to spew out oil? We thought you might remember it—but we also thought you might believe it had been brought under control, since it has virtually dropped out of the news. No way. See inside for an update.

5 Lobby Activities—The American-Arab Anti -Discrimination Committee ... base of its activities, by helping form a national coalition of U.S. groups concerned with "jobs, peace and freedom." Within the Jewish American community, a new chairman has been elected for the National Republican Jewish Coalition, a pro-Reagan group which tries to help the Administration understand the needs of Jewish voters, and vice-versa.

Regular Features

2 Editorial—Do the Israelis really want the Arabs to act moderately towards Israel? It sounds like a dumb question until you both look at the record and listen to some of the statements now being made by Israeli officials.

6 Facts For Your Files—A Chronology of U.S.-Middle East Relations

7 Book Review—As the title implies, neither the Lebanese nor the Israelis are given very flattering treatment in Jonathan Randal's book Going All the Way: Christian Warlords, Israeli Adventurers, and the War in Lebanon. But for American readers the most depressing part is Mr. Randal's discussion of those he describes as "the offhand Americans."

8 Personality—When you get on the cutting edge of issues too often, you can get cut down. Especially if the issue is the one that readers of this publication are familiar with. Former Congressman Paul Findley, who ought to know, gives you details.