BE, Before Egypt. AE, After Egypt.

With enduring protests in Egypt and beyond, global and regional powers realize new polices are required for the Middle East. Israel is alarmed that a major ally is under siege by its own people. President Hosni Mubarak delayed reforms, advising the international community that Egypt’s governance had but two directions: his style of harsh authoritarian rule or that of Islamic extremists. But anti-government protesters in Cairo defy his characterization, focusing on democracy and human rights. “Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu of Israel is in danger of becoming the Mubarak of the peace process,” writes Thomas Friedman in his New York Times column, noting that Palestine has made numerous concessions in confidential peace talks. “Israel has never had more leverage vis-à-vis the Palestinians and never had more responsible Palestinian partners.” All sides should settle on a peace plan, and let governments in transition focus on severe domestic concerns. – YaleGlobal