The Middle East, the land that gave the world the very concept of the Messiah, is about to receive a new one. So, why don't we hear any Hossanas in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Rammallah over Tony Blair's imminent anointing as the new Middle East envoy by the International Quartet for Middle East Peace? By now, after a decades-long parade of envoys, special representatives, shuttle diplomats, mediators, negotiators, intermediaries, and every variety of peace-making performers and reconciliation evangelists, the one creed that is spreading in the region, beyond the three major monotheistic religions, is the gospel of cynicism. That's the good news for Blair. The decision by the Quartet of the United States, the European Union, the United Nations and Russia should come as soon as Moscow decides to jump on board. But all indications point to Blair getting a new job immediately as he leaves his old one. His new function is that of Deus Ex Downing Street. The mysterious force with the great powers, meant to find a solution to the problem that has left everyone at a loss for answers.
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