Why is Trump sending mixed messages about moving the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem? Probably because Israel is asking him to take a different approach to regional peace. If so, it is likely Netanyahu is asking Trump to wait. There are bigger issues at stake.

Israel is preparing to build 2,500 homes in its communites in Judea and Samaria. It also plans a new Palestinian industrial park near Hebron, the ancient capital of King David and burial site of Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekkah, Jacob and Leah. The PLO, under the leadership of President Mahmoud Abbas, is apoplectic, calling the collective move a "war crime."

According to Israel's Minister of Defense, a regional settlement is the only way to for Israel to achieve peace with the Palestinians. His suggestion was that the Trump administration take point to establish a broader plan for Middle East peace.

Although unacknowedged by Jersualem, everyone knows that Israel has recently engaged in an air raid campaign against targets in Syria. So far, it includes two bombing runs last week, and one yesterday morning. Why is Israel doing this, and why now? On Wednesday, without confirming the Israeli sorties, the nation's Defense Minister explained why they are taking place.

In the 21st century, when threats develop over a period of years, the challenge is to keep the world from yawning. Speaking at the Saban Forum over the weekend, Israel's Prime Minister and Defense Minister emphasized ongoing threats to peace from Iran and the Palestinian Authority.