"I'll take Bush and Blair as leaders over anyone from the other party. Baker's group is off base on many counts. Imagine believing that talking to enemies like Iran and Syria will help us in Iraq."
I think I agree with what you stated above, but I want to make sure we are on the same page.
Generally, I am against talking directly with Syria and Iran.
I could consider it, if the purpose was only to meet with them and say "Shape up or else"
I would not oppose direct talk if the talk is truly direct. I completly oppose talk with either, much less both if the talk is to appease.