Yes in Syria there is a region where the language is Aramaic.

Now to Slag's attempt to pass the buck.

Look here old chap, nobody can deny Abraham was an Iragi and nobody is asserting that the tribe of Abraham's father ceased to exist.

Fact is, there are millions of people in that area who are NOT descended from Ishmael, so they do NOT belong in your cockamaymie scheme of things.

Now as to Ishmael, there is NO proof that Arabs are descended from this fellow, and what is offered is yet more religico-wishfulness.

My 10 cents.

Olmert is an a*****hole and shouldv'e had the wit to hold his fire while we in the west are led by one whose claim to common-sense can justifiably be questioned.

May G_d save us from idiots and maniacs.