Is the US backing down on Iranian uranium enrichment?

Behind the smiles and the bowing and the rhetoric, the various regional players are currently assessing their room for maneuver in the climate being created by the Obama administration. The Iranians will note the softening of the US stance on uranium enrichment, the offer of direct talks, and the declarations of friendship and respect for Iran's ancient culture.

They are likely to conclude that all this adds up to increased space and increased time in which to pursue their ambitions.

With 'Annapolis', a warning to Israel

Watchers of Middle East politics were quick to take note of a line in President Obama’s address before the Turkish Parliament on Monday in Ankara, in which he mentioned “Annapolis.”