Syria, commonly seen as a client of Iran and sworn enemy of Israel, announced this week that it was ready to accept Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's proposal for renewed peace talks. The announcement was made by Syria's foreign minister immediately after he met with the visiting foreign minister of Iran. The Iranian stood by silently, listening politely.

It's foolish to overstate such signals and ignore the ongoing hostility and continuing threats these extremist forces pose. But it's equally foolish to paint extremist Muslims — or any Muslims — with a single brush. Smart diplomacy means avoiding fights, keeping the other side worrying and encouraging your enemies to pick on each other, not on you.