This book explores the global impact of the Syrian conflict, and the roles of Russia, Iran and the US in its wake. It looks closely at origins of political turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by analysing the growing influence of Russia and Iran - militarily, economically and diplomatically - juxtaposed against US defense and national interests.The book:challenges the conventional scholarship to show how non-democratic states such as Russia, Iran and China exhibit a consistent strategic intent in their foreign-policy-making;underlines the convergence of Syrian foreign policy with Russia\'s (the USSR before 1989) and Iran\'s regional outlook post-1979;takes stock of the shifts in the US foreign policy in MENA in light of new realities.Drawing on detailed fieldwork and archival material, including National Security Archival documents, this book is a tour de force in understanding global politics and contemporary history. It will be indispensable to scholars and researchers of politics and international relations, political theory, foreign policy, Middle East studies, and peace and conflict studies. 4 Line drawings, black and white; 4 Illustrations, black and white