Thanks oldguy. I am used to people without the MENA experience getting frustrated and understand their lack of understanding. Understanding the potential reasons for problems doesn't mean I am any less frustrated.

It is important to understand that there are multiple hierarchies and none of us will understand what they all are. Our (optimistic) anticipation of a direct linear command structure is optimistic. We have let the management work with them and (with difficulty) maintain our patience.

The end results will be the judge of whether my confidence is well placed or misplaced. I am prepared to wait and see.