Hmmm I don't see it as very likely any of the Middle Eastern carriers getting too involved with this deal; they're extremely focussed on their own bases out in the homelands and would be reluctant to explore 'new' territories.
I'd expect VS to be holding talks with an American carrier something along the lines of Delta / United / American (maybe?) as well as some European big players such as Lufthansa or bmi... I remember something coming out a little while ago about VS wanting to explore the short haul sector, so I wouldn't be suprised to see a potential interest with the likes of Thomson / First Choice / TAP.