procheoriental

The term "proche-oriental" refers to a geographical and cultural region encompassing the eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, and parts of North Africa. This area is often associated with ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant, which laid the foundations for many of the world's religions, philosophies, and legal systems. The region includes countries like Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and parts of North Africa including Egypt and Libya.

Historically, the term "Near East" was used to distinguish this region from the "Far East," which includes East Asia. However, the use of "proche-oriental" or "Near Eastern" has been criticized for its colonial connotations, as it was historically employed by European powers to describe the region in a way that emphasized its perceived distance and otherness from Western cultures. Today, the term is sometimes avoided in favor of more neutral or inclusive language, such as the "Middle East" or "Levant."

The region is rich in cultural, historical, and archaeological heritage, with numerous ancient sites, including the pyramids of Egypt, the ruins of Babylon, and the ancient cities of the Levant. It is also a hub for modern geopolitics, with significant economic, political, and strategic importance. The term "proche-oriental" can also encompass aspects of the region's diverse ethnic, religious, and linguistic communities, reflecting its complex and multifaceted identity.