This is the beginning of the nightmare.

Neither spin nor propaganda will do. And what the studies show is what's needed is a radical transformation of American foreign policy.

The administration is so invested in Iraq, it really doesn't have any other ... political capital to spend on other theaters, like the Palestinian-Israeli theater.

A debate is raging within the administration. They are taking a second look at the entire process of exerting pressure on authoritarian rulers in the Middle East.

Middle East rulers are delighted at the prospect of a less demanding stance from the American government.

There are many clouds on the horizon. The situation is very foggy and difficult to read.