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Syria set the day's headlines--even though none of the networks reported from Damascus. In Lebanon, Minister Pierre Gemayel was assassinated. ABC's David Wright (subscription required) characterized the US as "all-but accusing Syria" and NBC's Richard Engel predicted a likely "destabilizing effect throughout the Middle East." Meanwhile Syria restored diplomatic relations with Iraq setting the scene for regional diplomacy.

From Baghdad, CBS' Elizabeth Palmer said that diplomatic overtures are being "eagerly embraced." NBC's Andrea Mitchell outlined what the US would have to offer in regional talks over peace in Iraq. Iran wants nuclear weapons, regional dominance and security for the regime. Syria wants influence over Lebanon, the return of the Golan Heights and immunity from prosecution for Lebanese assassinations. Mused Mitchell: diplomacy would be "very hard for this administration to accept." ABC's Jonathan Karl (no link) predicted it would never happen: there was "little appetite" for talks with Syria in the administration before today's assassination, "even less now."

Andrew Tyndall 11/22/06 3:55:48 pm

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