There are signs of a change of atmosphere in the Middle East which could signal a general reduction in the high level of tension. Europe is talking to Syria which has previously been cold-shouldered by most member of the EU; Syria itself has had talks with Israel; Lebanon has formed a new government bringing together the warring factions in Israel's northern neighbour; Israel has agreed a ceasefire with Hammas and has negotiated a prisoner exchange with Hezbollah. The results of this thawing may not be wholly welcomed by allies of the United States in the region (Saudi Arabia and Egypt).
