Here’s where things get interesting, on the bleeding edge of the clash between global progressives and their unthinking, suicidal embrace of radical Islamic causes: Islamic Nations Object to Annan Directive on Gay Marriage.

UNITED NATIONS - Islamic nations objected Monday to new directive that U.N. staffers from countries that recognize same-sex marriages or domestic partnerships can now receive benefits for their gay or lesbian partners.

Iran, speaking on behalf of the 57-nation Organization of the Islamic Conference, said the group was not only “concerned about extending the scope of the family” eligible for benefits but “opposes the presumption” that same sex partners should qualify.

The directive, which took effect on Feb. 1, says “family status for the purposes of entitlements” will be determined by the staffer’s nationality. A legally recognized marriage or domestic partnership will qualify that staff member “to receive the entitlements provided for eligible family members,” it says.

By providing U.N. benefits only to nationals whose countries provide similar benefits — less than a dozen of the 191 U.N. member states — diplomats said the directive by Secretary-General Kofi Annan had sought to avoid confrontation.

But Iranian diplomat Alireza Tootoonchian told the General Assembly’s administration and budget committee that the Islamic group questioned Annan’s right to issue such a directive without a decision of the General Assembly.

I can’t help wondering if this is early fallout from Spain’s capitulation, as the Islamic gestalt senses that its temporary alliances with Western useful idiots may not be necessary any more.