The Region: US policy: Better late than never versus too little, too late
By BARRY RUBIN

There are more signs that the Obama administration is switching gears on its Middle East policy. The recent visit of several US officials to Israel did not bring any major friction over the construction on settlements issue, which is probably far deader than people think. There are two factors involved in bringing about this new phase in US strategy. First, it is dawning on the administration that its Middle East policy isn't working so well. The phrase "no success in six months" is being heard. That obviously isn't enough time to solve the world's problems, but to fail to have a single positive development anywhere in the globe - given the high expectations generated by this administration and its over-optimism - is humiliating. And as it looks ahead, it doesn't see any successes on the horizon.

Second, the administration has to gear up for its sanctions-building plan on Iran. The leaks say that the basic timetable is clear. In August and September, the US will try to mobilize international support for increasing sanctions on Iran. If the Islamic republic hasn't changed course by the end of September - and it won't - these sanctions will be put into effect. WHAT'S ON the list? Cutting exports of gasoline and other ready-to-use petroleum products - something Congress is already passing - and no insurance for companies trading with Iran are highest on the list. There might also be boycotts of companies trading or investing with Iran.

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