While I agree that Obama seems to be taking a multi-pronged approach to the Muslim world, which may help his efforts in Palestine-Israel, he still needs to tackle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict full force from the start. All problems stem from this long lasting conflict that seems to have no end. But is Obama willing to challenge Israel on its unfair policies towards the Palestinians? Like many Presidents before him, probably not.

Israel has had many hard-lined right wing governments in the past, but this fact alone did not stop Tel Aviv from making peace with some of its Arab and Muslim neighbors.

The wait continues and unfortunately, this will mean more bloodshed on both sides, more confiscated lands, demolished homes and dashed dreams.

I interviewed the Syrian ambassador to the US a couple years ago for an article. He expressed his country’s great desire to have talks with the U.S. and make peace with Israel. So I think that the desire is there and has always been there. Official public statements also indicate this. But of course, the Syrian posiiton has always been clear on the Golan Heights, Damascus wants it all back. The two countries were close to making a deal not too long ago. But the environment was ripe. Today, the Israeli leadership has changed so dramatically that I wonder ifIsrael is ready for peace?

Great article, that gives a hint that this triangle-USA-Israel-Syria might work. Although as you say the new regime in Israel is an unknown quantity.  But Israeli Establishment always thought it is easier to talk to other Arab countries than with the Palestinians. Because land is easier to deal with than rights, especially Jerusalem and refugee issues.

Will Syria look at the fate of the Palestinians and refuse to make an agreement with a right- wing Israeli regime? Do you feel as a Syrian American that Palestine is the issue that Syria should not avoid when talking to Israel?