In 2007, the Middle East Will Again Dominate Headlines

One year from now we will pause to look back at 2007, the year that was. Historians and journalists will shuffle through their files and ponder what transpired. They will look at events and personalities and try to jump ahead of future historians, deciding what about the waning year will be remembered by posterity. The best minds will emphasize happenings that looked like isolated events, but in fact were turning points or signs of important new trends -- thresholds into a new era.

Trust no one claiming to have specific knowledge of what the future will bring. And yet, who could deny that the Middle East and its ominous kaleidoscope of conflicts will dominate the coming year's headlines?

In the coming year, much of the world's attention will remain focused sharply on Iraq, where 2007 starts with Saddam's body just removed from the gallows. The year will reveal if Iraq is doomed to chaos or if those seeking reconciliation can save their country. In the end, that will matter much more than any decision from Washington.