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[jebbypal]

The Smart Surge: Diplomacy -- Wesley Clark

Well before the 2003 invasion, the Bush administration was sendingsignals that its intentions weren't limited to Iraq; "regime change" inSyria and Iran was often discussed in Washington. Small wonder thenthat both countries have worked continuously to feed the fighting inIraq.

Dealing with meddling neighbors is an essential element ofresolving the conflict in Iraq. But this requires more than borderposts and threatening statements. The administration needs a newstrategy for the region, before Iran gains nuclear capabilities. Whilethe military option must remain on the table, America should take thelead with direct diplomacy to resolve the interrelated problems ofIran's push for regional hegemony and nuclear power, the struggle forcontrol of Lebanon, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Isolating ouradversaries hasn't worked.