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Map of the Middle East
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Map of the Middle East

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Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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The Middle East is a culturally, politically, and economically diverse region that extends some 2,300 miles (3,700 km) from west to east and some 2,000 miles (3,200 km) from north to south. Located at the junction of three continents—Europe, Asia, and Africa—the region has historically been a crossroads for conquerors, peoples, trade, and ideas. Today the Middle East’s strategic location, its vast petroleum reserves, its importance to Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike, and its many political disputes give it global significance out of proportion to its size.

Most definitions of the Middle East include:

Iran, Turkey (Türkiye), and Egypt are typically, but not always, included. Cyprus, which has a strong historical connection with the coastal areas of the eastern Mediterranean Sea, is sometimes considered part of the Middle East.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Michael Ray.