For M Phil in West Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, you need a simple historical knowledge of the conflict prone region. You can problematize everything, and JNU will promote it. But to be frank, you need to do from the basics. The major historical events, movements and leaders are always preferred questions in Written Exam and Viva Voce.
Recommendations: Sound knowledge of politics and history of middle east, expertise in israel palastine hitory from AD 70 to present. contemporary readings on Israel.
Most recommended websites for contemporary west asian and Israel Politics
1) http://www.haaretz.com/
2) http://www.jpost.com/
Recommended Readings
1- West Asia: Civil Society, Democracy & State
2- India-West Asia Relations: Understanding Cultural Interplays