The new American administration appears determined to open a diplomatic channel with Damascus. Senior Mideast envoy George Mitchell has made a formal request to permit him and his aides to visit Damascus. Syrian Ambassador Imad Mustafa reports that the American officials have sent their required passport information to obtain visas for such a visit.
 
US Department of State spokesman Robert Wood did not deny the accuracy of the report, but added Mitchell and his team have not made a final decision regarding such a visit at this time. He explained that Mitchell and his team are constantly requesting visas or Mideast destinations to permit visitation if and when needed, without delay.

He went on to explain that the Obama administration is working to develop a diplomatic channel with Syria, changing America’s policy dramatically regarding Syria. Two American emissaries visited Damascus in recent weeks but a visit by Mitchell would be a significant event due to his senior post.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)