HOSTAGES RELASE MAY PROVIDE REAL MOMENTUM

Americans have cause to celebrate today. One of six American hostages held in the Middle East has been freed.

Our jubilation is tempered by the fact that 11 American, German, British and Italian men remain in captivity some imprisoned since 1985.

But there is definitely reason for renewed hope. Edward Tracy, who had been held since October of 1986, was the second hostage released in just four days. British journalist John McCarthy was released lastThursday after five years in captivity. In addition, a French aid worker taken hostage only three days earlier was freed the same day as Tracy.

Perhaps this trio of freed hostages will provide just the momentum needed to spur the release of more Western prisoners. Then again, it may herald little more than a bizarre coincidence.

When the last American hostage was freed 15 months ago, there was a dash of speculation and anticipation. Those hopes soon faded when nothing more happened.

This hostage release may reflect the winds of change in Mideast diplomacy. Syria and Lebanon have proved unlikely allies in the hostage negotiations, and even Iran has earned a word of praise from President Bush.

But the president is wise not to rush into normalized relations with these countries. We must keep things in perspective. This flurry of hostage releases could signal a changing attitude in the Middle East. Then again, it could just as easily forebode a new stalemate.