between russia, britain, and america the middle east is doomed as far as peace goes. as soon as america makes some headway russia will start her crap. as soon as russia makes some headway britain will stick her nose in it. can you spell political pawn?
In fairness: there are four pipeline routes out of the Caspian Sea hydrocarbon basin, rich and unexploited. Through Russia. Through Iran. Over the Himalayas. And through Afghanistan. It's not like it's worthless.
It is if it's not happening. It's not happening, because through Georgia to the Black Sea and Turkey is the more secure alternative for Western-aligned corporations hoping to outsmart Russia.
Or rather, that was why it wasn't happening, until Russia invaded Georgia to foreclose exactly that option.
