Severe was appropriate because it described their behavior. They were strict, cruel, ruthless, and severe to the slaves. If the slaves were tired or couldn't work or were perceived as problematic in any way, they would get flogged or severely beaten or even killed without any regard for them or for others in general.
Answer:
Western Bloc
Explanation:
Just as other theaters of global two-superpower rivalry, the Middle East was a scenario of the Cold War. The United States and West Europe competed over influence and interests with the Soviet Union and its bloc. In the Middle East, America´s closest ally has always been Israel. Among the Arabic states, Saudi Arabia - the world´s largest oil producer - was and still is a relevant American ally.
