Syria, Egypt democratic success depends on Arab states, world powers.

Text of report in English by Dubai newspaper Gulf News website on 12 December

[Commentary by George S. Hishmeh: "Stage set for big political changes in Egypt, Syria"]

It is appalling to watch the political turmoil in Egypt and the bloody conflict in Syria (which has reportedly cost the lives of some 40,000 people) - two leading pillars in the Arab world where seemingly hesitant steps are being taken towards much-needed democracy to eliminate one-party rule or autocratic regimes. Whether they succeed in the near future may depend on neighbouring Arab governments and some influential world leaders, possibly at a price.

Several Arab states, particularly Egypt …