Sorry, m2, I think there are PLENTY of other Mid East failures besides Arafat -- in fact, EVERY Arab country/ leader is a failure.

That's the terrible, secret, problem in the ME. And why Iraq reconstruction is the best current hope.

But, you're right about Y.A. not wanting to give up power, though he joins almost all leaders in that regard. He's just behind, meaning far away worse, on leading in any good direction for the people.