Jonathan Steele has often struck me as an insightful writer on foreign affairs. His most recent commentary is no exception. He explains that although Iran and Syria want to be seen as a stabilising force in Iraq, in contrast to the failure of the US, there is little they can do.

"As US influence wanes, neither Tehran nor Damascus can fill the void. Iraq has become a calamity that outsiders can only watch in horror. If cure there is, Iraqis will have to find it on their own."

Sudha Shenoy - 11/26/2006

Whoops! This comment belongs below, on the Londion Olympics!! Just noticed -- apologies.

Sudha Shenoy - 11/24/2006

The only way to stop the 2012 Olympics is to turn off the tax oil-gusher. And that, as we all know, is impossible.