That’s Why They Call It Diplomacy

The chances of peace in the Middle East over the next four to eight years have something to do with what Hillary Clinton is able to achieve there. We’re getting a first glimpse this week, as Clinton makes overtures to Syria, Iran and the Palestinians while trying not to threaten Israel’s BFF status.

The situation is complicated by the fact that the conservative Benjamin Netanyahu will probably emerge as Israel’s next prime minister, with debts to ultranationalist and religious fundamentalist parties.

That’s not a recipe for a two-state solution. During her trip, Clinton termed the movement toward such a solution “inescapable.”

AP via Google:

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton promised Tuesday to work with the incoming Israeli government, but delivered a clear message that could put her at odds with the country’s next leader: Movement toward the establishment of a Palestinian state is “inescapable.”

Clinton also said the U.S. would soon send two envoys to Syria. It was the most significant sign yet that the Obama administration is ready to mend relations with the Damascus regime. The U.S. withdrew its ambassador in 2005, accusing Syria of supporting terrorism.

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