For the Saudis, concern about Iran's nuclear ambitions, which Riyadh sees as a longer-term threat, has taken a back seat to its concern about the lack of perceived progress in solving the Israel-Palestinian struggle.

Since early 2009, it seems that Brazil, and President da Silva personally, have taken on an active diplomatic offensive in the Middle East, centered around Iran's international position.

Nine months ago President Barack Obama offered Muslims a "new beginning" with the United States in a speech in Cairo that was the centerpiece of his efforts to restore America's image around the world.

I recently returned from the Middle East where I was part of a three week Arab & American Business Fellowship.