Russia reinserted itself into the Israeli-Palestinian "peace" process in a major way this week with a highly publicized visit by President Vladimir Putin.

While meeting with Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas on Tuesday, Putin said that Russia had no problem recognizing an independnet Palestinian state, noting that Moscow had already done so during the days of the Soviet Union. "We [recognized Palestine] 25 years ago, and our position has not changed."

Earlier in the week, Putin met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Shimon Peres, at which time Putin warned Israel against a preemptive strike against Iran's nuclear facilities, insisting that such an endeavor would "backfire." He also urged the West, presumably including Israel, to keep its nose out of Syria's affairs.

It would appear the sleeping bear is no longer asleep.

"No king is saved by the multitude of an army; A mighty man is not delivered by great strength. A horse is a vain hope for safety; Neither shall it deliver any by its great strength. Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, On those who hope in His mercy...." Psalm 33:16-18