Informed Speculation

The storied Israeli Prime Minister is in an induced coma and will remain in that state for other 24 hours or so. His departure from power is a huge blow:

Sharon was hospitalized at a time when his standing at home and abroad was at a peak, following the successful implementation of the disengagement plan. World leaders, who had kept their distance in the past, were convinced that he was the only one who could move ahead with the diplomatic process or another withdrawal in the territories. A change in leadership will turn Israeli politics into a giant riddle, and undoubtedly spark concern and consideration around the world.

Elsewhere in the Middle East, Iraq has had two very bloody days that have left well over a hundred dead in suicide blasts. 2006 is off to a discouraging start…