Secretary of State Madeleine Albright attended King Hafez al Assad’s funeral as officially representing the American people. This can only be a calculated insult to the King’s family and to all worshiping Muslims in the Middle East. One can only guess at the hidden motives of the decision-makers who sent the black-cloaked gnome of Foggy Bottom to a state funeral for a respected Arab.

The impact and result of this cute war making chess move is incalculable, but for those millions who pray for peace in the Middle East it can only increase hostility and Muslim distrust of Americans.

Are there hidden messages contained in these official state visits? We are inclined to believe these decision are casual, made along the lines of: “Hey guys, somebody died…who is not doing anything on Tuesday and wants a ride on Air Force One?” If you think that is how it is done you are hopelessly na