the city in an attempt to crush the rebelian. that could have implications. he is the number one backer of the iranian regime. on this issue and many others. president obama is issuing a statement here and there and taking no action. the u.s. ambassador's visit to last month powerfully demonstrates america's ability to affect the region. ambassador was greeted with elation by anti-regime who threw roses and waved branches. >> is bashar al-assad lived on bordered time and does the u.s. have a strategy for dealing with his demise. we have the panel here. bret, to you first, with all of the economic turmoil in the world, why is syria important to us? >> it is important for a