PROMOTION FOR PETRAEUS.

Two weeks ago when he testified in front of Congress, Gen. David Petraeus claimed he couldn't answer questions about the Iraq war's draining effect on the United States' efforts in Afghanistan because other parts of the Middle East were "outside of my command." Well, if Petraeus really knows nothing about these interrelated topics, he'll have to study up quickly: He's been nominated to lead the United States Central Command for the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Quick takeaways: The Bush administration has no intention of shifting Iraq from its place as the hallmark of American foreign policy, or significantly changing our mission there (duh). And Petraeus' loyalty to President Bush's escalation of the war and bellicose talk on Iran has been rewarded. Is he moving toward a career in politics?

--Dana Goldstein