IMHO, Keep on fighting and be patient BUT your chance is very slim. I suggest you stand a better chance getting work or PR in OZ or NZ
Look for other options at other countries. It is discrimination in some form where you are NOT the guilty party but the fact as you already realized if you are from M.E. you will be scrutinize with all intent and purpose though you are not part of any organization.
It is not fair but it is a fact . Moreover with the economic climate which is so uncertain it does not stack well for you.
Sorry to tell you this and good luck !!!

The positive thinker sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible.Yahoo !!!