Early Reports Of Progress In The Middle East Process Appear Premature

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (L) shakes hands with U.S. Middle East envoy George Mitchell during their meeting in London August 26, 2009, in this picture released by the Israeli Government Press Office (GPO). Netanyahu said on Wednesday his government was making progress towards reopening talks with the Palestinians and hoped to be able to do so shortly. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

Skepticism Over 'Breakthrough' Middle East Peace Plan -- Christian Science Monitor

London report of Israeli-Palestinian plan linked to Iran sanctions disputed by European experts.

Paris - A report by the Guardian newspaper that Israel is close to a White House Middle East peace deal – linking a partial freeze on Israeli settlements to sweeping sanctions on Iran – has captured diplomatic attention in Europe, though some details are being met with skepticism.

Most experts doubt the Obama team is ready to fuse the two crucial policies, particularly in the aftermath of Iranian elections.

Read more ....

My Comment: Past Middle East talks always got bogged down in the details. But in this case it is Europe and Israel that are sending out mixed and confusing messages.

This is not a good omen for any claims of progress in the Middle East Peace process.