Discuss the influence of the Soviet Union on the establishment of authoritarian regimes in the Middle East.

The Soviet Union significantly influenced the establishment of authoritarian regimes in the Middle East through political, military, and economic support.

The Soviet Union, during the Cold War era, played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the Middle East. This influence was primarily driven by the ideological battle between capitalism and communism, with the Soviet Union seeking to expand its sphere of influence and counterbalance the United States' influence in the region. The Soviets provided support to various nationalist and socialist movements, which often led to the establishment of authoritarian regimes.

One of the most notable examples of this influence is the Soviet Union's relationship with Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser. Nasser's nationalisation of the Suez Canal in 1956 led to a crisis with Britain, France, and Israel. The Soviet Union, seeking to expand its influence in the region, provided political and military support to Nasser. This support helped solidify Nasser's authoritarian rule and set a precedent for Soviet support of similar regimes in the region.

Similarly, the Soviet Union provided substantial military and economic aid to Syria, particularly after the Ba'ath Party took power in 1963. This support helped the Ba'ath Party, and later Hafez al-Assad, establish and maintain an authoritarian regime. The Soviet Union also had significant influence in Iraq, especially during the rule of the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party and Saddam Hussein.

The Soviets' support was not limited to military and political aid. They also provided economic assistance, helping these regimes consolidate power by improving their economies. For instance, the Soviet Union helped build infrastructure, such as the Aswan High Dam in Egypt, which was a significant boost to the Egyptian economy.

However, it's important to note that while the Soviet Union did play a significant role in the establishment of these regimes, it was not the sole factor. Internal dynamics, including nationalist movements, socio-economic factors, and regional conflicts, also played crucial roles in the establishment of authoritarian regimes in the Middle East.

In conclusion, the Soviet Union's influence on the establishment of authoritarian regimes in the Middle East was significant. Through political, military, and economic support, the Soviets were able to expand their sphere of influence and counterbalance the United States' influence in the region. However, the establishment of these regimes was also influenced by a variety of internal and regional factors.