Unlike any other presidency in my lifetime, the Bush administration has sought to manipulate the American people using methods popularized by the entertainment industry. But now Condoleeza Rice has actually crossed the line from subtle manipulation to out-and-out entertainment.

She gave a speech on Sunday that was filled with "coming attractions" of a speech later on Sunday. It's like a movie trailer, where bits and pieces are revealed with a promise to fulfill the teaser later. Of course, as moviegoers well know, it is not uncommon for the real thing to fail to live up to the hype.

Speaking to reporters en route from Saudi Arabia, Rice said she would use a speech later on Sunday to demonstrate that change was taking place rapidly in other parts of the Middle East and Israel and the Palestinians should follow suit.

"I will talk about the changed context in the Middle East," she said, referring to Libya's decision to abandon weapons of mass destruction, Syria's withdrawal from Lebanon, the ousting of Saddam Hussein in Iraq, and tentative reforms in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

More to come! Film at 11!

It was also odd the way Rice took the parental stance in relation to Israel. I think paternal (well, maternal) scolding is probably counterproductive in matters of international diplomacy. To wit, Rice said she would also make clear to the Israelis that they had to be aware of the consequences of their actions.

"The Israelis have very important road map obligations and we will talk about that, too," she said.

Gosh, I hope those misbahving Israelis will tune in to hear her helpful admonitions. I hope they heard the teaser. I would be a shame for them to miss it.