bibi can do whatever he wants; he always looks out for his best interests. and u.s. politicians once threatened with loss of funds from the israel lobby will behave as bibi wants. presidents both republican and democratic have tried to get israel to compromise in order to resolve the palestinian conflict, but israel especially under bibi's leadership has acted in defiance of their suggestions and can continue to do so because of the money the lobby has and because the christian right blindly supports israel, seemingly ignorant of human rights issues. thus israel has had a lock on both politicians and a big bloc of "christians" and can act with impunity. criticism just rolls off its back.
11
I have no problem with foreign leaders trying to influence our foreign-policy. It's been going on for decades. Remember Winston Churchill trying to get through to FDR, the bozo of a president who ignored Hitler's rise for eight years because his foreign-policy was isolation. The US joined the war in 1941 only because Hitler declared war on us. Imagine if FDR had listened to Churchel years earlier. He didn't and the result was that millions of people were needlessly killed. Here's an idea, let's support Obama and repeat history.
2
President Obama should state clearly that he has no intention of meeting with those who oppose Netanyahu in Israel's coming election. To do so would be unwise because Israelis need to see America as a friend of their nation, not of only select political parties.
1
With his sordid international record of the past 6 years, it seems Obama should be eager to listen to Netanyahu and others supportive of the West.
6
It astonishes me that anyone old enough to have witnessed the lies and carnage of the Bush years would have the audacity to find Obama's record "sordid".
31
Mt Netanyahu does not get it.
He is consistently alienating folks like me who grew up with unconditional support for Israel.
That support wanes-and undermines Israel's basic security.
He is consistently alienating folks like me who grew up with unconditional support for Israel.
That support wanes-and undermines Israel's basic security.
18
Since Republicans and Netanyahu have gone to such unprecedented lengths to disrespect president Obama and undermine our government, then Democrats need to do something unprecedented and walk out on Netanyahu when he begins his speech before Congress.
The consistently successful way to stand up to bullies is to fight back. I wish I could trust Democrats to have such backbone. They have none.
The consistently successful way to stand up to bullies is to fight back. I wish I could trust Democrats to have such backbone. They have none.
25
I do not agree. One should not be equally disrespectful. I am sure that Democrats as well as other thoughtful Americans have and will express their displeasure. One way is to write the Israeli Embassy to let them know that their Prime Minister is acting quite inappropriately.
4
If the Democrats don't toe the line and respect Netanyahu then AIPAC very well may be funding their opponents in the next election.
2
I disagree with both David and Ford above.
Fear of political repercussions have always been the Achilles heel of Democrats. This fear is what makes Democrats look weak. As foolish as Boehner's actions have been, a Democrat would never show such guts. It explains Democrat electoral losses despite great success, and Republican successes despite atrocities.
Fear of political repercussions have always been the Achilles heel of Democrats. This fear is what makes Democrats look weak. As foolish as Boehner's actions have been, a Democrat would never show such guts. It explains Democrat electoral losses despite great success, and Republican successes despite atrocities.
11
Does the quote "Never Again" reverberate with readers??
The evidence from the past six years clearly indicate Obama could use as much help as possible with his foreign policies. He should welcome the opinions (an intel) from Netanyahu - we have lost so many countries in the ME to our enemies we should ensure we do not also lose Israel.
The evidence from the past six years clearly indicate Obama could use as much help as possible with his foreign policies. He should welcome the opinions (an intel) from Netanyahu - we have lost so many countries in the ME to our enemies we should ensure we do not also lose Israel.
3
And you think further angering Arab countries is the path to gaining countries in the Middle East??
Boehner's invitation to Bibi only fires the flames.
Boehner's invitation to Bibi only fires the flames.
3
We are not 'losing' Israel but more like they are 'leaving' us with this act. Why would we even consider aligning with a country that blatantly disrespects POTUS and interferes in our political system.
19
Do you believe Saudi Arabia will be angered by Netanyahu? Jordan?
What other ME country isn't already "angered" against the USA and Obama?
What other ME country isn't already "angered" against the USA and Obama?
2
The plans to address the House speak to the smallness of the men making these plans. Let them shrink into the deep crevasses of history, and let's all move on to more important issues.
14
A very foolish political move by Netanyahu, he has managed to diss the Democrats in the Senate who might have sided with the Republicans on the Iran sanctions bill, ensuring failure of that bill to pass, exactly the outcome he and his hawkish friends do not want. Politically this has provided more ammunition to the other candidates to confront him on national security. What did he gain from this? Egg on his face, figuratively speaking!!
12
Wrong. He's getting permission by default to launch the pre-emptive strike on Iran. The train is leaving the station, with IDF's F-15s flying aircap.
If the controversy of Netanyahu's visit wakes the world up to the dangers of a nuclear armed Iran, more power to him. It seems the nations' leaders are asleep at the wheel. I would rather shake things up in Washington with this visit then wait for a city to be woken up by the shaking of a suitcase nuke. And why? Because we were afraid to insult the sensibilities of the one that poses the threat to our cities. The world had better wake up. And fast.
6
By Kiumars Lalezarzadeh, Ph.D.
This is an Irony. The former Government of Iran had been alleged to have contributed to the oil to Germany to promote the Holocaust. There was even talk at one point that the former Government of Iran had burned over 20 million people (may be 28 million) in mobile ovens at their doors, large number of Siamese twins at Iran included; Talk was that people were brought out of their homes, burned and their homes were taken by the fake dynasty. The 1890,s San Gabriel Valley, Ca. - American who became the King at Iran (c.1899) for some time (may be 9 months), named Pashevale / Pasheville (also known as Elephant man)- his identity was stolen by the "Elgian" family- who left Pakistan between 1901-1909, or sometime after.
This is an Irony. The former Government of Iran had been alleged to have contributed to the oil to Germany to promote the Holocaust. There was even talk at one point that the former Government of Iran had burned over 20 million people (may be 28 million) in mobile ovens at their doors, large number of Siamese twins at Iran included; Talk was that people were brought out of their homes, burned and their homes were taken by the fake dynasty. The 1890,s San Gabriel Valley, Ca. - American who became the King at Iran (c.1899) for some time (may be 9 months), named Pashevale / Pasheville (also known as Elephant man)- his identity was stolen by the "Elgian" family- who left Pakistan between 1901-1909, or sometime after.
1
There's been talk? That's your evidence for your accusations. Well, that's not enough, pal. Especially for the madness you apparently want to propagate, to no one's edification, but only to fan flames of hatred. Mighty low. Mighty low.
10
When the adjective "political" is used to characterize the behavior of political leaders, there is ground for confusion. It is easier to understand the actions of both Mr. Netanyahu and those of Mr. Boehner as a product of ideology. Despite the differences between cabinet and presidential government in democratic nation-states, the Liberal (utilitarian) spectrum of 'left-middle-right' (on the 'issues') may dominate both. Netanyahu is the Israeli equivalent of a right-wing (extremist) Republican in the U. S. Hence the increase in the disparities of income and living standards. In both countries. But the 'hawkishness' of both seems to be a staple of political power independently of party.
3
Shame on Netenyahu for trying to subvert President Obama's negotiations with Iran!!
16
Congress (an equal section of power as Obama) is having a meeting with a prime minister of an U.S. ally, why is Obama not also having a meeting?
2
1. Congress is not "an equal section of power as Obama". Thank God.
2. Congress is not "having a meeting with" …Yahu. It's giving him a forum in which to bloviate.
3. The President does not meet with leaders so close to their elections so as to avoid seeming to favor them politically. At least that's the White House's explanation. I see no reason for Mr. Obama to dignify Mr. Boehner's offensive gesture by meeting with the Prime Minister.
2. Congress is not "having a meeting with" …Yahu. It's giving him a forum in which to bloviate.
3. The President does not meet with leaders so close to their elections so as to avoid seeming to favor them politically. At least that's the White House's explanation. I see no reason for Mr. Obama to dignify Mr. Boehner's offensive gesture by meeting with the Prime Minister.
24
Because, as Obama has cited, it will prejudice the upcoming elections in Israel. It is part of policy for our government not to do that -- unfortunately, Boehner didn't get the memo on this.
13
our planet would be so much better if we had no christians, catholics, jews, or muslims on it
14
Then Dear Leader could reign everywhere!
1
Imagine if the Knesset pulled the same on Netanyahu... he would go biblical!
18
For a long time now, I have been offended by Mr. N.'s arrogant and insulting behavior towards the U.S. and its elected leaders. He can afford to do that because AIPAC pays off "the shameless ones" (congress). It is not appropriate for a man and a nation who owe so much to the U.S. to demonstrate such high-handed contempt. Don't bite the hand that feeds you.
24
Ms. Livni told the members of her Hatnua party that Mr. Netanyahu “is hysterical, scared and is lying,” according to the Israeli news website Ynet. “The time has come to replace him,” she said.
14
Boehner overstepped himself again. It is the POTUS who makes our foreign policy, not the Speaker of the House. Only Obama should issue this invitation.
The idea of the arrogant bully Netanyahu addressing Congress and insulting our president repels me. (I am a moderate and am a registered Independent.)
The idea of the arrogant bully Netanyahu addressing Congress and insulting our president repels me. (I am a moderate and am a registered Independent.)
22
Mr. Netanyahu's extreme egocentricity insists on us attacking Iran (after all that we lost attacking Iraq), when nobody else in governments around the world--other than Mr. Netanyahu's circle--think of it as necessary. Not even Israel, as this article proofs it.
Speaker Boehner and his party inviting Mr. Netanyahu to address the US Congress nevertheless, have left clear the disregard that the GOP has of America.
Speaker Boehner and his party inviting Mr. Netanyahu to address the US Congress nevertheless, have left clear the disregard that the GOP has of America.
18
Not all Netanyahu's fault. The far right echo chamber media in the US has been hard at work since before Obama's election to make support of Israel a wedge issue that they can use for their own benefit. That's hypocrisy. They're more than willing to throw bipartisan support of Israel under the bus so long as they can energize their base. According to the mantra on Faux News, et al., only the "real" conservatives support Israel. Netanyahu has bought into.
12
President Obama and his advisors have been out-triangulated. They took the bait and swallowed it. They resisted the valid suggestion of automatic sanctions if the negotiations continue to flounder, are extended (again), and if they fail. Sanctions are what brought Iran to the table in the first place. Now if/when the negotiations fail and Iran goes nuclear, Obama and the Democrats will have no one to blame but themselves. And Boehner will be able to loudly say "I told you so".
5
It may be stupid for Netanyahu to inject himself into US politics but it is positively moronic for John Boehner to invite him in the first place; but have we ever expected Boehner to be anything but moronic except in hand-to-hand congressional politics?
24
Ironically and tragically, Bibi has made Israel into a nouveasu ghetto, and instead of preventing Holocaust II, made it more likely by threatening Iran. Attacking Iran will only unite and strengthen israel's enemies and is a fatal mistaske. Bibi, time to reboot.
11
The invitation to Netanyahu is an insult to the office of POTUS.
His bullying and bluster have won him no friends as he leads Israel towards isolation. Like Gaza, thus past summer, Bibi has scored another own goal and both he and Boehner are guilty of manipulating and degrading not only the Obama administration but the American electorate.
His speech before the House will be used as an electioneering platform parroting on about Iran and Israel's security issues. Netanyahu is determined to derail these talks, however, the only existential threat to Israel is an Israel led by Netanyahu leading the U.S. Into another proxy war.
His bullying and bluster have won him no friends as he leads Israel towards isolation. Like Gaza, thus past summer, Bibi has scored another own goal and both he and Boehner are guilty of manipulating and degrading not only the Obama administration but the American electorate.
His speech before the House will be used as an electioneering platform parroting on about Iran and Israel's security issues. Netanyahu is determined to derail these talks, however, the only existential threat to Israel is an Israel led by Netanyahu leading the U.S. Into another proxy war.
49
Yes, I realize the horse is more than out of the barn, it has been put down, its ashes scattered round the globe, but still: EVERYTHING that has happened since the founding of Israel, its harmful, corrosive effect on America and American Jews, was predicted by REAL statesmen and diplomats, not like we have now, by Dean Acheson, by George Marshall, who VEHEMENTLY warned President Truman against recognizing a Zionist entity in Palestine.
Truman buckled. It has been the most disastrous presidential decision/caving in in our history.
Truman buckled. It has been the most disastrous presidential decision/caving in in our history.
10
If Israel is to show an open aggression against the Arab world, it will cause a new wave of activism on the part of the Arabs, which in turn is not very profitable for Israel against the background of weakened the relationship with the United States in recent times.
12
If Netanyahu comes and speaks, everyone will wonder why America's foreign policy is being dictated by Israel.
12
Like when David Cameron was dictating our foreign policy, with his speech to Congress? Sometimes a speech is just a speech, some Freudian said.
5
@Charles
Cameron vs Netanyahu speaking to Congress?
Big difference. When two allies want to communicate their cooperation on some joint effort it is customary and appropriate for one head of state to invite the other to address Congress or Parliament (or Knesset) -- appropriate, since the head of state bears the responsibility for conducting diplomacy.
When a legislative functionary, e.g., Speaker of the House, invites a foreign head of state to criticize elements of U.S. foreign policy, it not only is inappropriate, it is unprecedented and disrupts the executive branch's efforts in negotiations.
Cameron vs Netanyahu speaking to Congress?
Big difference. When two allies want to communicate their cooperation on some joint effort it is customary and appropriate for one head of state to invite the other to address Congress or Parliament (or Knesset) -- appropriate, since the head of state bears the responsibility for conducting diplomacy.
When a legislative functionary, e.g., Speaker of the House, invites a foreign head of state to criticize elements of U.S. foreign policy, it not only is inappropriate, it is unprecedented and disrupts the executive branch's efforts in negotiations.
12
I think Netanyahu - and Boehner - should know that it isn't playing well here either. Not even with Boehner's republican party. But when have republicans made decisions that are in the best interest of anything (party OR country). Boehner's decision to invite Boehner - like so many other decisions made - was done solely as an attempt to make the POTUS look weak. And, true to form, what usually happens is that the republicans look irresponsible and petty instead.
12
But when have republicans made decisions that are in the best interest of anything (party OR country).
-------------------------
As I posted an hour or two ago: GOP ended JFK-LBJ's Vietnam War, and opened up Red China to US trade, 2 decades before Clinton signed NAFTA. How prescient of them.
-------------------------
As I posted an hour or two ago: GOP ended JFK-LBJ's Vietnam War, and opened up Red China to US trade, 2 decades before Clinton signed NAFTA. How prescient of them.
We are not the United States of Israel, nor are we all Republicans, or Democrats so there is half the country, if not more, that think Boehner actually made a very bad decision. Even in Israel Bebe is being told to stand down, even the Mossard as told him it was a bad idea. By not heeding others he will be standing alone, and make it hard on Israel as it will become more and more unpopular. He has connived with an American politician to insult it's President and not listen to reason from anywhere. This is also a big mistake for Boehner as well, as he too makes himself look bad….
19
What does Senator Chuck Schumer say?
3
Mr. Schumer, boycott the speech and tell him you are looking forward to hearing him speak when the President invites him.
9
The real damage to Israel of the Boehner/Netanyahu mistake is this. Increasingly, and especially since the Gaza slaughter, the strictures against Americans criticizing Israel are being dismantled. Now for the Israeli PM to so openly disrespect the American president in an attempt to bring the US into war with Iran is a license, a valid license I would think, to declare that Israel is no ally of the US.
18
Since the Likud and the Kremlin are both devotees of stealing other people's land, wouldn't the more natural alliance be Netanyahu and Putin?
11
In his farewell address to the nation, George Washington seems very prescient in his warnings about what partisan politics could eventually do to this country. He was right on.
The old fashioned language in the address is not easy to read, but I hope many people will take the time to examine it. The following excerpts about the danger of foreign alliances is from a summary in Wikipedia. It's easier to read and very relevant to this discussion.
"Washington advocates a policy of good faith and justice towards all nations, and urges the American people to avoid long-term friendly relations or rivalries with any nation. He argues these attachments and animosity toward nations will only cloud the government's judgment in its foreign policy."
"...alliances are likely to draw the United States into wars which have no justification and no benefit to the country beyond simply defending the favored nation. Washington continues his warning on alliances by claiming that they often lead to poor relations with nations who feel that they are not being treated as well as America's allies, and threaten to influence the American government into making decisions based upon the will of their allies instead of the will of the American people."
George said it well.
The old fashioned language in the address is not easy to read, but I hope many people will take the time to examine it. The following excerpts about the danger of foreign alliances is from a summary in Wikipedia. It's easier to read and very relevant to this discussion.
"Washington advocates a policy of good faith and justice towards all nations, and urges the American people to avoid long-term friendly relations or rivalries with any nation. He argues these attachments and animosity toward nations will only cloud the government's judgment in its foreign policy."
"...alliances are likely to draw the United States into wars which have no justification and no benefit to the country beyond simply defending the favored nation. Washington continues his warning on alliances by claiming that they often lead to poor relations with nations who feel that they are not being treated as well as America's allies, and threaten to influence the American government into making decisions based upon the will of their allies instead of the will of the American people."
George said it well.
11
Obama campaign team is in Israel to defeat Netanyahu in march elections
The anti-Netanyahu, left wing Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports a group called “One Voice,” reportedly funded by American donors, is paying for the Obama campaign team. That group is reportedly being led by Obama’s 2012 field director Jeremy Bird.
The anti-Netanyahu, left wing Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports a group called “One Voice,” reportedly funded by American donors, is paying for the Obama campaign team. That group is reportedly being led by Obama’s 2012 field director Jeremy Bird.
5
Earth to pink star, earth to pinkstar.
Your fantasy world meets your needs by being a fantasy world.
Your fantasy world meets your needs by being a fantasy world.
12
@Pinkstar
"Obama campaign team is in Israel to defeat Netanyahu in march elections."
You are making up your own facts.
(1) According to the Haaretz story, the name of the Israeli political organization is "V15", not "OneVoice" (although those two groups often work together).
(2) The so-called "Obama campaign team" -- YOUR description, NOT Haaretz's -- consists of one person, Jeremy Bird who WAS the EX-national field director for Obama's 2012 campaign. As further described in Haaretz:
"After [Obama's 2012] election, Bird parlayed his success into '270 Strategies', a political consulting firm that helps election campaigns all over the world to build grassroots strategies."
(3) V15 hired Bird as a private businessman (with a convincing resume) to assist with V15's organizational strategy.
* Bird was not sent by the Obama administration.
* Bird had prior links to Israel, previously having studied in Haifa.
* The "American money" refers to donations, not US Government funding.
Jumping to conclusions is not an effective exercise regimen.
"Obama campaign team is in Israel to defeat Netanyahu in march elections."
You are making up your own facts.
(1) According to the Haaretz story, the name of the Israeli political organization is "V15", not "OneVoice" (although those two groups often work together).
(2) The so-called "Obama campaign team" -- YOUR description, NOT Haaretz's -- consists of one person, Jeremy Bird who WAS the EX-national field director for Obama's 2012 campaign. As further described in Haaretz:
"After [Obama's 2012] election, Bird parlayed his success into '270 Strategies', a political consulting firm that helps election campaigns all over the world to build grassroots strategies."
(3) V15 hired Bird as a private businessman (with a convincing resume) to assist with V15's organizational strategy.
* Bird was not sent by the Obama administration.
* Bird had prior links to Israel, previously having studied in Haifa.
* The "American money" refers to donations, not US Government funding.
Jumping to conclusions is not an effective exercise regimen.
11
I appeal to Netanyahu's critics to invite Obama to speak in Rabin Square, or better yet, to the Knesset, simultaneous to Netanyahu's address to Congress. Turnabout is fair play. Netanyahu has campaigned for Obama's opponents, on US soil, in each of his Presidential runs, as well as in off-year elections. This is a severe breach of diplomatic protocol, quite aside from its poor taste. Given such an invitation, I would hope that Obama would return Netanyahu's favor.
27
Are you also upset that Obama campaign team is in Israel to help defeat Netanyahu in March elections? The anti-Netanyahu, left wing Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports a group called “One Voice,” reportedly funded by American donors, is paying for the Obama campaign team. That group is reportedly being led by Obama’s 2012 field director Jeremy Bird.
Should the US be involved in that?
Should the US be involved in that?
3
Obama right or wrong. Always.
1
It's one thing for PM Netanyahu to indicate his preference for a political succession in the US when a candidate is abroad: Romney in 2012. It is entirely another to blatantly inject himself into a domestic US political civil war. Making it a matter of US domestic politics threatens to undermine what has been a close, durable alliance of several decades. It also justifies the future intervention of US political interests in domestic Isreali political affairs.
There is no justifiable excuse for Mr. Netanyahu's timing other than political intervention in US affairs. If Iran is going to develop nuclear weaponry, then any diplomatic agreement will not prevent it despite economic sanctions. The only other option is a military one with uncertain consequences in an unstable part of the world. To broadcast this publicly and link it to partisan politics will only guarantee its controversyy rather than an self-evident choice of last defense.
Speaker Boehner deserves massive opprobrium for this unprecedented invite and it demonstrates an unsound judgment unworthy of governance. It's right up there with the Bush II-era attempts by GOP operatives to make the US a one-party political state via K-Street and electoral rigging.
There is no justifiable excuse for Mr. Netanyahu's timing other than political intervention in US affairs. If Iran is going to develop nuclear weaponry, then any diplomatic agreement will not prevent it despite economic sanctions. The only other option is a military one with uncertain consequences in an unstable part of the world. To broadcast this publicly and link it to partisan politics will only guarantee its controversyy rather than an self-evident choice of last defense.
Speaker Boehner deserves massive opprobrium for this unprecedented invite and it demonstrates an unsound judgment unworthy of governance. It's right up there with the Bush II-era attempts by GOP operatives to make the US a one-party political state via K-Street and electoral rigging.
41
In fact, considering the amount of support Israel has received from America (material, military, financial and geo-political), it is justifiable for the US to dictate political succession in Israel. Hegemony of this nature is common throughout history, ancient and modern.
America has paid a very steep price for this support, and increasingly it appears Israel is unappreciative. There's no other way to explain away Netanyahu's actions.
America has paid a very steep price for this support, and increasingly it appears Israel is unappreciative. There's no other way to explain away Netanyahu's actions.
7
i hope this will prompt americans to reassess this "friendship" where we give so much and get so little in return. let's recognize palestine, join our european friends at the un, and step aside to allow all inquiiries into their war crimes and criminal behavior.
17
Sometimes I wonder with so many Americans involved with Israeli Politics where we send our young ones to be drafted and serve in/with IDF why don't we annex it as a 51st State. We provide more funds and perks to the Israeli government to sustain itself than we provide to the States of AL, DE, HI, MT, NE, and NV for Medicaid.
Defense assistance is over and above these other moneys and benefits that are provided to Israel.
Is there any other State in the Union that has such a bipartisan support in the US Congress?
Is there any other issue that has this kind of bipartisan support in the US Congress? Is there any other issue which is so divisive in the whole country?
Why is it that we love this foreign country so blindly that we are willing and always ignore the atrocities committed by Israel bordering on war crimes? Has there been any other country in our history that our elected leaders loved so much? Even when our people helped get it established (Liberia)
It may not be a bad idea to make it the 51st State as it has all the benefits of a State and more and none of the costs.
Just some questions that keep popping up in my mind.
Defense assistance is over and above these other moneys and benefits that are provided to Israel.
Is there any other State in the Union that has such a bipartisan support in the US Congress?
Is there any other issue that has this kind of bipartisan support in the US Congress? Is there any other issue which is so divisive in the whole country?
Why is it that we love this foreign country so blindly that we are willing and always ignore the atrocities committed by Israel bordering on war crimes? Has there been any other country in our history that our elected leaders loved so much? Even when our people helped get it established (Liberia)
It may not be a bad idea to make it the 51st State as it has all the benefits of a State and more and none of the costs.
Just some questions that keep popping up in my mind.
13
"Our greatest ally". This one-sided relationship can hardly be defined as an alliance. We get nothing but grief for our support of Israel. We get grief and disrespect from the Israelis themselves, and we get grief from the rest of the world.
If this was a marriage it would be considered disfunctional and abusive. Everything we give is not enough and we are constantly told we are an insufficient lover. We are berated for trying to make peace with the neighbor next door, and we are told that we cannot leave our dissatisfied lover or they will surely die. Every morning we awake to a misery, putting someone else's happiness above our own.
Will Netanyahu ever show this President and country a little love or is it always to be a stick in the eye and what have you done for me lately.
If this was a marriage it would be considered disfunctional and abusive. Everything we give is not enough and we are constantly told we are an insufficient lover. We are berated for trying to make peace with the neighbor next door, and we are told that we cannot leave our dissatisfied lover or they will surely die. Every morning we awake to a misery, putting someone else's happiness above our own.
Will Netanyahu ever show this President and country a little love or is it always to be a stick in the eye and what have you done for me lately.
12
I am an American Jew and a previous supporter of Israel, but no more. The Israel I fell in love with in my youth sadly no longer exists. This Israel has given up on its democratic ideals, intends to oppress its Arab minority forever, occupy conquered lands forever and arrogantly thinks it can and should meddle in U.S. politics. Unless it radically changes direction, I am quite done with it.
19
Does America now occupy any conquered lands?
3
Jim
That is what friends are for. After they kick you for not being their puppet, they insult you For being as bad as them with specious arguments.
Classy. Shows character. Great sign of a relationship that needs ending.
That is what friends are for. After they kick you for not being their puppet, they insult you For being as bad as them with specious arguments.
Classy. Shows character. Great sign of a relationship that needs ending.
8
Jim, Sure. The US conquered Texas but we allow them to be citizens and vote. If Israel were to grant full citizenship and equal rights to all occupants of the Occupied Territories, it would be equivalent.
Unfortunately, I cannot make argument for Puerto Rico.
Unfortunately, I cannot make argument for Puerto Rico.
The Speaker of the House and the Prime Minister only do damage to themselves and their office. The Speaker is seen, again, disrespecting the President of the United States of America. He diminishes himself and the House of Representatives in the eyes of Americans by his arrogant behavior. The Prime Minister, once again, disrespects this President by not following diplomatic protocol. I am not sure how this helps the people of Israel or gets America to rally behind his position.
14
U.S. citizens don't want ANY country interfering with American politics. Not even our good friend Israel. We don't care if you support Republicans or Democrats - just don't do it here.
It's amazing that Netanyahu didn't learn that in the last election when he supported Romney. I guess he's getting to much money from Republican king-maker Sheldon Adelson (or at least that's what many Israelis believe).
Israel needs ALL Americans to support Israel, not just Republicans.
It's amazing that Netanyahu didn't learn that in the last election when he supported Romney. I guess he's getting to much money from Republican king-maker Sheldon Adelson (or at least that's what many Israelis believe).
Israel needs ALL Americans to support Israel, not just Republicans.
8
How do you feel about the British PM recently lobbying our Congress regarding Iran?
3
In my opinion this is a vivid example of the double standard policy of the White House. Obama will continue to push for cooperation with Iran in order to realize their intentions in the Middle East.
3
The only issue should be Iran's nuclear program and how to prevent it from developing bombs and the missiles to deliver them.Netanyahu and Boehner-- who thinks the last election put him in charge of our country or at least the tea party's vision of America--plan to push the US military to do what Israel can't or won't do to Iran.And coincidentally, just before the Israeli elections: so Netanyahu is once again interfering in US politics and Boehner again interfering in Israeli politics, directly.What a way to stimulate even more anger in the Middle East against both Israel (whose military is basically funded by US aid) and the US, stir up more war talk by old men who send over young people to risk their lives, and discourage Iran's role in combating ISIS while our biggest "allies" in the region do little more than write checks.
6
Some people here saying that If Iran gets nuclear weapons, Israel will be living under the threat of Nuclear warfare.
hello, welcome the real world.
US lived and experienced deeply that one during the Cold war and threat never zeroed even the cold war finished.
For Israel living under Nuclear threat is unbearable but for US is OK.
We all know very well cold war rules.
1- You cannot use Nuclear weapons in post WWII world. That is the premise we were believed during Cold war.
What is different now ? Iran can really use Nuclear weapon against Israel. really .
I can belligerently emphasize the word , Dare. I dare Iran would attempt to use nuclear weapon . Just I dare it.
hello, welcome the real world.
US lived and experienced deeply that one during the Cold war and threat never zeroed even the cold war finished.
For Israel living under Nuclear threat is unbearable but for US is OK.
We all know very well cold war rules.
1- You cannot use Nuclear weapons in post WWII world. That is the premise we were believed during Cold war.
What is different now ? Iran can really use Nuclear weapon against Israel. really .
I can belligerently emphasize the word , Dare. I dare Iran would attempt to use nuclear weapon . Just I dare it.
5
Nukes are a threat so Netanyahu can be an ass and repeatedly insult the American president.
That is the pro side.
That is the pro side.
4
Why is it so important that the US has to perpetually prove its friendship, i.e. subservience, to the Likud? The moment we don't go along with their expansionist aims or war plans for Iran, Likud supporters treat the US with contempt claiming that Obama is an enemy of Israel who seeks its destruction. The tragic part is that for American supporters of the Likud, with their likening of any accommodating gesture to a compromise-based peace as "selling out" Israel, its either Likud or nothing; but even Americans have a limit to how much insult they can tolerate, so things are fast moving to "nothing".
12
I do not care to Mr. Netanyahu's motives, He is anyway a Middle eastern country leader.
But Jewish Community in USA has responsibilities to keep All Jewish issues always backed up with bipartisan support.
These moments in a very summarized way will be called undermining to outright disrespect to US presidency and States department in our history.
It is impossible to say , Netanyahu is doing right thing while meddling with American internal politics.
Jewish Community and their all institutions work hard to recover their bipartisan stance and dedication to US priority in their dealings.
Israel will always need US support in that region, US doesn't need Israel to be on the top of the world politics.
Netanyahu is doing a very big disservice for the future of Israel.
But Jewish Community in USA has responsibilities to keep All Jewish issues always backed up with bipartisan support.
These moments in a very summarized way will be called undermining to outright disrespect to US presidency and States department in our history.
It is impossible to say , Netanyahu is doing right thing while meddling with American internal politics.
Jewish Community and their all institutions work hard to recover their bipartisan stance and dedication to US priority in their dealings.
Israel will always need US support in that region, US doesn't need Israel to be on the top of the world politics.
Netanyahu is doing a very big disservice for the future of Israel.
6
During Obama's first term Netanyahu displayed a kind of condescension and lack of respect that smacked of racism. His very open and clear meddling in the 2012 election suggested something about Obama that irritated Netanyahu so severely that he would act in a way that threatened Israel's relationship with its most important defender on the international stage. Whatever his doubts about the ongoing negotiations with Iran - and, surely, the Iran question is as close to an existential one for Israel as exists today - accepting Boehner's invitation to challenge Obama on behalf of the Republican Party likely does more damage to the Israel's interests as anything he could have done.
And let's not even get started on what Boehner and his crew of pirates was thinking in undermining the conduct of US foreign policy in this way . . .
And let's not even get started on what Boehner and his crew of pirates was thinking in undermining the conduct of US foreign policy in this way . . .
17
Good for Netanyahu and Boehner.
Stopping Iran's march toward nuclear weapons is an existential threat not only to Israel but also to the world.
With the bomb - which Obama, no matter what he says, is actually unwilling to prevent - Iran will attack Israel, which will retaliate - if it does not attack Iran first.
This could be the start of WWIII.
Stopping Iran's march toward nuclear weapons is an existential threat not only to Israel but also to the world.
With the bomb - which Obama, no matter what he says, is actually unwilling to prevent - Iran will attack Israel, which will retaliate - if it does not attack Iran first.
This could be the start of WWIII.
4
Netanyahu is no friend or ally of the United States. He is on the side of the neocons who under George W. Bush advocated the Iraqi invasion. They did so for Israeli interests not America's interests. Now the neocons and Netanyahu favor an American attack against Iran for Israeli interests. The GOP has been bought and paid for by the Israeli PAC group. American politicians are for sale to the highest bidder.
15
This is just another typical New York Times protect Obama colum. His administration's actions concerning Israel have been abominable. Obama should feel embarrassed about Bibi's appearance before Congress because Obama deserves to be embarrassed by his inept handling of the Middle East situation and his paving the road for Iran to produce a nuclear weapon.
6
Since all Obama does regarding Israel is look for ways to throw it under the bus, I don't think the fallout over protocol outweighs the need for Prime Minister Netanyahu to make his case. Given the Obama administration's incompetence in executing foreign policy that aligns with US and western security interests, the risk of losing support of the Democratic Party is reduced. Perhaps the biggest risk for Israel is that if they must step in and attack Iranian nuclear facilities, they may need supplies they can only purchase from US contractors. Here's hoping they have an ample stockpile already on hand.
5
The whole notion of Zionism is at stake with the stupid Boehner-Bibi end run around the White House and our President, Commander-In-Chief Barack Obama and the Democrats on Capitol Hill. Bibi may be saying that he only wants to defend Israel against Iranian Nuclear weapon development, but everyome on the Planet knows that this particular mission is pure finger in the eye against our President Obama. It's no secret that the conservatives, aka republican-tea party types are always enraged over anything "Obama". Not the least is his 2nd overwhelming election victory over Mitt Romney. Oh yes and Bibi stuck his foot once before into it by actively aiding in the campaign against Mr. Obama in that election.
Did Bibi not get the message after that blunder, on the dumb side of the ledger? Once again his attempt to cloak all speech and partisanship in defense of all things Israel is demonstrating the worst judgement any politician in recent times could possibly commit.
Please do not fall for the backhanded treason-lite behavior of the American Republican Party in denouncing our President Obama on the world stage. Save your decent and honest moments to rail against Iranian nuclear development for the appropriate, protocol observing time.
Did Bibi not get the message after that blunder, on the dumb side of the ledger? Once again his attempt to cloak all speech and partisanship in defense of all things Israel is demonstrating the worst judgement any politician in recent times could possibly commit.
Please do not fall for the backhanded treason-lite behavior of the American Republican Party in denouncing our President Obama on the world stage. Save your decent and honest moments to rail against Iranian nuclear development for the appropriate, protocol observing time.
9
Clearly our duty as Democrats is to support our President. We must stand together and do so, even if he is wrong, even if Netanyahu has better intelligence on this matter than our President, even if Iran develops a viable nuclear weapon and uses it on Israel. Even if Iran uses it on NYC, we must not fall into the blame game and we must instead support President Obama 110%.
4
Jim
Your sarcasm is so right.
Since Netanyahu is right and he and Boehner have a secret plan that 110% secures america's interests, hitherto unknown to the human race, time for a coup.
See, I was sarcastic but I have described your root, insane, demonstrably false, premise.
Conservative.
Your sarcasm is so right.
Since Netanyahu is right and he and Boehner have a secret plan that 110% secures america's interests, hitherto unknown to the human race, time for a coup.
See, I was sarcastic but I have described your root, insane, demonstrably false, premise.
Conservative.
8
There's no such thing as 110%.
4
Did Iran started development of nuclear under Obama? What did Bush and other Conservative presidents do to stop them from building nuclear? Bibi is just as arrogant like the conservatives. Even if he feels he is right, he has no right meddling in the US politics, unless he would want to run for President of the United States of America.
1
Israel has no friends. Aside from the republican party
6
Have I got this right? Iran which has no nuclear weapons as yet, permits international inspection and suffers economic sanctions but Israel, which has nuclear weapons has never admitted this, has not permitted any international inspectors to have a look and suffers no sanctions.
15
Iran has delayed and stalled on every inspection the IAEA has made, and still have not allowed it to inspect certain sites. At one site Iran bulldozed away several inches of soil and trucked it elsewhere, after dismantling key buildings. A prosecutor would call that "consciousness of guilt."
2
The arrogance of Mr. Boehner and Mr. Netanyahu - and their money masters - is stunning. How sweet it would be if their faces and money never darkened the halls of their respective country's political bodies again after the next election. l
12
If I was an Israeli worried a nuclear-armed Iran, I'd prefer Mr. Netanyahu's dogged insistence that Iran never be allowed to obtain such weapons, over President Obama's vague assurances that any agreement reached with Iran will include sufficient safeguards to prevent this from happening.
6
If I was an Israeli worried about ...
That's why we don't listen to you, Stanton.
The Israelis deserve their leader, but why do we need to put up with him? If it wasn't for the lock that AIPAC has on Congress, this type of misbehavior would be the basis for regime-change is Israel, and impeachment charges against Boehner. As it is, Congress is under control of a foreign lobby.
Excessive US support is driving Israel to drink; it seems intoxicated with power it doesn't intrinsically have. The best thing a "pro Israel" person can do today is to support suspension of all aid to Israel and to support BDS, to knock it back to its senses. It is also time for the US to draw borders for Palestine, and to stop covering for Israel.
Excessive US support is driving Israel to drink; it seems intoxicated with power it doesn't intrinsically have. The best thing a "pro Israel" person can do today is to support suspension of all aid to Israel and to support BDS, to knock it back to its senses. It is also time for the US to draw borders for Palestine, and to stop covering for Israel.
13
If Bibi follows through on this, the Democrats should walk out en-mass at the start of his speech. That would send a message.
15
And if Iran subsequently develops nuclear weapons and threatens the West with them, how will this walkout by the Democrats be remembered ?
3
Jim.
Nome of this is about Iran's nuclear weapons efforts. This is about a divide and conquer strategy devised by really dumb republicans to embarrass our President. You know what the response would be had this tactic been tried by Nancy Pelosi. It would ring out as "treason" to our foreign policy by the democrats. The fact that there used to be a standard that "All Politics Stopped At The Water's Edge" has been ignored beyond a reasonable doubt by the republican party in regards to Commander-in-Chief Obama. This in all things foreign policy has no equal in the history of our country. Bibi is just a tool in this regard to divide both the US Jewish and Democratic party. No one of reasonable thought thinks that Iran, and by proxy, should start a nuclear arms race in the middle east. Even the Saudis and Jordanians would support Israel in this issue.
Nome of this is about Iran's nuclear weapons efforts. This is about a divide and conquer strategy devised by really dumb republicans to embarrass our President. You know what the response would be had this tactic been tried by Nancy Pelosi. It would ring out as "treason" to our foreign policy by the democrats. The fact that there used to be a standard that "All Politics Stopped At The Water's Edge" has been ignored beyond a reasonable doubt by the republican party in regards to Commander-in-Chief Obama. This in all things foreign policy has no equal in the history of our country. Bibi is just a tool in this regard to divide both the US Jewish and Democratic party. No one of reasonable thought thinks that Iran, and by proxy, should start a nuclear arms race in the middle east. Even the Saudis and Jordanians would support Israel in this issue.
7
The people of Israel should know that the support of the United States is very strong. But the support for Israel to ignore the rights of Palestinians isn't part of that support. Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit, staged by Speaker Boehner as a ploy to discredit President Obama is a naked example of exploitation. Boehner knows that the Israeli election is very near and just wants to make Obama look as though he doesn't support Israel.
The last time I checked, we're still sending Israel more foreign aid than any other country. I'm tired of APAC and the settlement expansions. It's time for Israel to listen to somebody who isn't a right wing reactionary. There are plenty of them available and willing to work on a long term solution.
The last time I checked, we're still sending Israel more foreign aid than any other country. I'm tired of APAC and the settlement expansions. It's time for Israel to listen to somebody who isn't a right wing reactionary. There are plenty of them available and willing to work on a long term solution.
13
Now that Netenyahu has accepted Boehner's invitation to address the US Congress, the best way for our citizenry to show its outrage is to demonstrate with a march in Washington when he is speaking. It will send a signal to Israel and its citizenry that Its spoiled child antics have seriously hurt its standing here and our support is not unconditional.
9
Since when should any country have a say in our internal processes? Huh? The gop demonstrates their real goal, MONEY! MONEY from pro-Israel groups and right wing evangelical Americans.
In their place these groups are ok, but when they become tantamount to the behavior of OUR congress, then we have a real problem. The problem: who's side are these money grubbing punks in congress on?
Why not, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Leader invite Pukin, or the Chinese president to speak? How about the president of Iran? That ought to impress somebody, but certainly not Americans. Americans who watch with wonder as you, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Leader, pander to a behavior that benefits not one American. Wellllll, let me rethink that; it benefits those who fill campaign coffers....
In their place these groups are ok, but when they become tantamount to the behavior of OUR congress, then we have a real problem. The problem: who's side are these money grubbing punks in congress on?
Why not, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Leader invite Pukin, or the Chinese president to speak? How about the president of Iran? That ought to impress somebody, but certainly not Americans. Americans who watch with wonder as you, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Leader, pander to a behavior that benefits not one American. Wellllll, let me rethink that; it benefits those who fill campaign coffers....
9
I fully agree, except the part about, "In their place these groups are ok,"
They're never ok. They buy influence. That is their purpose, and in a true democracy, political influence should not be allowed to be purchased.
They're never ok. They buy influence. That is their purpose, and in a true democracy, political influence should not be allowed to be purchased.
4
If the Democrats are sincere in their disgust with Boehner (and they should be), they should boycott the Netanyahu address to show the appropriate support for the President. Unfortunately, I believe that they will rant on the side but their own desire to curry favor with those that are pro-Israel will prevent them taking this action.
5
Bibi has done Israel and self, a big harm. Whether he annuls his speech to the congress or not, the paste is out and you can't put into the tube. The republican congress as usual was thoughtless with a tempting offer and Bibi played into their hands. Life will always present you with all kinds of “lure” and you don't avail it all! I admire my President for standing tall and humble in the face of ferocious republican congress that dislikes him fervently more than any other Presidents, dead or alive!
11
Netanyahu helped Obama's re-election when many Jewish voters
believed Obama was no friend of Israel. In repayment of this huge
favor, Obama is sending his advisers to Israel to try to defeat
Netanyahu. Netanyahu might just be defeated. Iran will then
get it's nuclear missiles with which they will dominate the region
and Israel will be under constant threat of destruction. Thank
you, President Obama!
believed Obama was no friend of Israel. In repayment of this huge
favor, Obama is sending his advisers to Israel to try to defeat
Netanyahu. Netanyahu might just be defeated. Iran will then
get it's nuclear missiles with which they will dominate the region
and Israel will be under constant threat of destruction. Thank
you, President Obama!
6
"Netanyahu helped Obama's re-election..."? When? How? With Sheldon Adelson's billions? I cannot believe it! Netanyahu supported Romney and did everything he could to defeat Obama, still the President of the United States who should have been consulted before the invitation was extended.
10
That is a fantasy.
Meanwhile are you realizing that US is living constant Nuclear threat and annihilation since 1945.
what is this exaggeration and since when Nuclear threat wasn't exist.
Meanwhile are you realizing that US is living constant Nuclear threat and annihilation since 1945.
what is this exaggeration and since when Nuclear threat wasn't exist.
6
It's time the west finally cut ties with Israel. The country is turning fast into a theocratic authoritarian apartheid regime that has very little in common with a democracy.
21
Both in Israel and in the US the discussion about Iran has always been more about politicians showing how tough they are than about real dangers and real solutions to deal with them. In that context Netanjahu's stunt is less extreme than it might seem.
1
Eventually Iran will have a nuclear presence in the Middle East. So will Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Solve the Palistanians plight and the region may avoid self destruction. Natanyahu wants a 100% guarantee of national security for his country but no nation on earth can have that. Eventually the status quo in Israeli foreign policy will become untenable. America, like most of the world is fed up with the knowledge that Netanyahus' foreign policy is to keep grabbing land until there is really nothing left of Palistine. Every year that Israell does nothing to resolve the Palestinian issue, Israel gains land and the Palistanians loose land. We're hip to this game. Americans are fed up. Israelis are fed up. Jews are fed up. Everybody is fed up. I repeat, no nation on earth is guaranteed 100% security for the next thousand years. That includes Israel. I hope if Netanyahu comes, the Democrats throw shoes at him.
15
The repercussions of this invitation and a speech by a foreign leader in the internal political debates of the United States will be far-reaching, damaging, and insidious. The day will come to rue this lack of judgment exhibited by Boehner, those Republicans who support him, and Netanyahu.
21
It's hardly Netanyahu's “deepest moral obligation” and “most sacred duty” to speak before the Congress. He does it out of base motivations: political gains at home. Has he a little bit of tact, he would not have accepted John Boehner's invitation. That it happened without the White House's blessing can be seen as sticking a knife into Obama's back.
Bibi "has made the Iranian nuclear program a mainstay of his career". Now he is facing tough competition from opposition parties. His re-election as prime minister is no foregone conclusion.
Bibi "has made the Iranian nuclear program a mainstay of his career". Now he is facing tough competition from opposition parties. His re-election as prime minister is no foregone conclusion.
20
Birds of a feather... doing damage together. I sincerely hope Netanyahu loses the elections. As for Boehner, the US is out of luck for the time being, as not even his own party mates could get rid of him.
21
Israel is a friend of the U.S. If (and it is not a big if) Saudi Arabia collapses, who else do we have in the region we can call friends? We seem to be accepting the notion that Iran will be the regional power (at least Obama has indicated that this outcome is in the range of possibilities for the U.S.). Fine. But what will happen to Israel then? Iran uses Israel and antisemitism as a glue to unite Muslims and end the sectarian strife. Israel might be the casualty of this development. The conundrum is horrible, at least as far as Israel is concerned. How do we protect Israel? That's the main problem. We can safely leave the region. We have enough fuel to be comfortable without it. Unlike us, Israel cannot leave the region. What should it do? It will pay a terrible price for its association . . . with us. Yes, we may say a lot of nice words but when the political push comes to the political shove we are not unknown for abandoning our allies and leaving them alone to pay for our political mistakes. Remember Vietnam? At least in that case we took some of the refugees and gave them home in America. Will we do the same for several million Israelis? Will we extend our nuclear shield over them and draw the line? How are we going to help Israel to survive in this hostile environment? Or will we simply abandon Israelis to their fate? These are all interesting questions with no answers except some verbal assurances that may mean nothing on a good day.
7
"How are we going to help Israel to survive in this hostile environment?" One way to insure this is for the Israelis themselves to stop approaching the U.S. with one hand out constantly stretched out for more billions of dollars whereas the other hand now greets us with an upraised finger. If there is a problem with this "special relationship" it is one of Israel's making.
14
And so Grennady, what you are saying is that with friends like this, who needs enemies. The speech is meant to be a political slap at Obama and you know it. Any agreement with Iran is yet to be and may not be at all, and as you say "with no answers". So hold your horses.
4
Even if Israel is a friend, friendship does not mean we give priority to our friend at a level higher then our own President. Sorry!!!
Our priority should always be, first us and then our friends. We have a President and his name is not Nethanyahu. Our Republicans should not be catering favors to foreign leaders by disrespecting our own government institutions.
Our priority should always be, first us and then our friends. We have a President and his name is not Nethanyahu. Our Republicans should not be catering favors to foreign leaders by disrespecting our own government institutions.
3
The senate recognizes the Senator Netanyahu from the new state of Israel.
23
We shall vote out any senator or congressman that shows up to hear a foreign leader denigrate our president. They will be labeled as traitors.
25
I would like to see the Democrats boycott this "staged event." That would send clear messages to Boehner, Netanyahu, Israel, and the American people who are paying for this stupid little party.
22
The United States does not need Israel. Israel depends on our support for their survival. Now the government of Israel is interfering directly in sabotaging American foreign policy. Mr. Netanyahu makes it perfectly clear that it is time to rethink our relationship with the State of Israel.
30
Its way past time America rejects Israeli political interference in our country.
9
Bibi is openly meddling in our national politics, with a colossal disregard and lack of respect for the American people and our institutions. He is apparently motivated both by hubris and hatred of President Obama. His unprecedented actions are shortsighted, mean spirited and will backfire for they harm Israel's relationship with its strongest ally. This will not be forgotten.
39
Speaker Boehner's invitation is totally inappropriate. The President conducts foreign affairs under the Constitution not the Speaker. The Senate must ratify treaties and only the Congress can resolve to declare war. Bibi does himself and Israel a disservice by accepting this invitation and he should now politely decline rather than engage in this activity. Above all, both parties involved in this mess should rethink their positions and cancel immediately.
75
Just like congress has the sole authority of law making, the executive branch is Constitutionally bound to faithfully uphold the law. Obama uses executive orders....which are nowhere in the Constitution to go around congress.
1
“He is ready to do everything to prevent it from being signed, what he thinks is a bad agreement, to risk many things,” Mr. Amidror said of Mr. Netanyahu.
Why not wait until there is an agreement to criticize it? And what is the alternative proposal for a long term solution?
Netanyahu's provocative action is a test. Let's hope it fails him. The Israeli people will be held responsible for keeping him in power. It's their choice. And we'll have some choices to make too.
Why not wait until there is an agreement to criticize it? And what is the alternative proposal for a long term solution?
Netanyahu's provocative action is a test. Let's hope it fails him. The Israeli people will be held responsible for keeping him in power. It's their choice. And we'll have some choices to make too.
19
Let's take a longer view. Netanyahu like the Republicans gets very full of himself and Obama does his usual restrained disdain waiting to see how it plays out. If Netanyahu wins election Obama has room to back off opposing anti Israeli sanctions in the international arena. If he loses his reelection Obama may have a partner to invest in a real breakthrough.
I would hope for the latter path but if Netanyahu is reelected I sincerely hope Obama takes a historic stand against settlements as Israel may need to be forcefully pushed to give up West Bank territory.
I would hope for the latter path but if Netanyahu is reelected I sincerely hope Obama takes a historic stand against settlements as Israel may need to be forcefully pushed to give up West Bank territory.
23
Netanyahu is a Republican grandstander - he will use fear and fear only to make his case. Remember his child's drawing of the black "bomb"? The fear of so-called "terror" is all the Republicans and Netanyahu have. Everything else is going Obama's way - thank God. Iran is going to be Iran. You can't bomb a country of 80 million people. Better learn to get along with each other. There's a reason Obama doesn't like Netanyahu, I don't like him either. I really hope the Israeli left wins this election.
22
Aside from Netanyahu's tactless actions, Israel is a vibrant democracy and will decide what it feels is best for their country and not for the USA. What many people still don't understand is that what may be a political convenience for the US could be life or death for Israel.
I personally feel sanctions have never stopped a nation from going nuclear. If Iran wants a bomb it will get one....but as with Israel, it may not admit having it. It may hope the mere threat of nukes may assist with its imperial ambition to be kings of the Islamic world.
I personally feel sanctions have never stopped a nation from going nuclear. If Iran wants a bomb it will get one....but as with Israel, it may not admit having it. It may hope the mere threat of nukes may assist with its imperial ambition to be kings of the Islamic world.
2
Speaker Boehner could have asked for a Sense of the House on the Iranian nuclear issue. He could have tied funding for something else to support for the pro-settlement policies in Israel. Foreign policy arguments used to stop at the border. Mr. Boehner apparently does not have the votes to push his preferred Mid-East policies in his own branch of the government. So he openly insults the President, our President, our institutions for carrying out foreign policy. His stunt is intended to sabotage our negotiations with Iran. This is not the way to show support for Israel's right to exist in peace.
5
Israel, under any leader, continues to face existential threats. The USA, under Obama, with the Cold War behind it, no longer thinks that it does. These antithetical perceptions/realities have fundamentally decoupled Israel and the USA. How bizarre. How bizarre.
7
The fact is that Israel has overstepped its limit s carried away by a euphoric feeling that it is primus inter pares in all that concerns ISRAEL in USA policies and brought out to the open what many suspected and as many resented.....to every body'chagrin in a move that is now far beyond withdrawal.
Swallow the blade is as difficult as retaining it where it is a now.
No matter how it will end it may well go down in history as when Israel challenged the USA on its own turf
That may be the long awaited point of conflagration in a semi dormant conflict over who rules America by disentangling a maze of relations,alliances, friendships an d ententes that emboldened Israel beyond reason with a wary USA too indecisive to clear once and all .
Swallow the blade is as difficult as retaining it where it is a now.
No matter how it will end it may well go down in history as when Israel challenged the USA on its own turf
That may be the long awaited point of conflagration in a semi dormant conflict over who rules America by disentangling a maze of relations,alliances, friendships an d ententes that emboldened Israel beyond reason with a wary USA too indecisive to clear once and all .
4
As a pro Israel, American Jew, I find the effort of Netanyhu to interfere with America's internal political and insult our President to be totally irresponsible. I would urge every American Jewish leader to condemn this affront. My Grandmother used to greet every world event with the phrase, "Yes, but is it good for the Jews?" She will be turning over in her grave on this one.
14
I expect all Democrats (and patriotic Republicans) to leave the chamber during Netanyahu's speech.
16
And thereby throwing the 2016 candidacy to Elizabeth Warren. I rather like your idea. "Anyone But Hillary."
I don't think Net has any worries about the democrats as they are pro Palestinian. It would be pointless to try and change their minds. They believe Israel is the oppressor time after time after time. I remember all 3 branches being equal in government, so Obama shouldn't act like he is above it all. I also remember Obama made Net wait for at least an hour and made him leave by the back door for their WH meeting - a disgrace. Also, we're finding out Obama's campaign guy is in Israel working for the opposition. So much for the admin staying away during election cycles. Sorry, Obama can't tell the truth if his life depended on it and he's the most thin skinned president I can remember. When you treat Net like Obama has treated him, I'd bypass him as well. I guess the admin is already acting on the threats they stated earlier this week. Sorry, one disaster after another in foreign policy. Nothing new here.
2
Not that it would happen, but would be great if the Democrats in Congress would follow the current vogue and just turn their backs on him.
If anything, there is justification for that act of disrespect in that Netanyahu has shown contempt and disrespect for our President and our country in all but endorsing Romney and accepting the unfortunate invitation of the self-absorbed Speaker Boehner.
If anything, there is justification for that act of disrespect in that Netanyahu has shown contempt and disrespect for our President and our country in all but endorsing Romney and accepting the unfortunate invitation of the self-absorbed Speaker Boehner.
15
This is truly wonderful! Give center stage to Netanyahu and have him attempt to incite America into a war over alleged Muslim WMD. By all means hopefully George W. Bush's past speechwriters can aid Netanyahu in adding a few solemn intonations about "mushroom clouds." Netanyahu if anything will confirm how extremism whether in the GOP's America or Israel's Likud Party solely seeks to add more titanic disasters in the Middle East to their past ones.
14
Well there is a election and his own people can get rid of him. They have to do it!
6
Mr. Netanyahu acts like a bull in a china shop.
5
Oh please people, snubs are part of the diplomatic toolbox and Obama, who I voted for twice, is a past master at it. Read http://www.timesofisrael.com/actually-a-us-president-did-host-an-israeli... for that and other tiddbits concerning the hosting, by video conferencing or in person, of a foreign leader just before an election.
2
If Netanyahu speaks it should be
To Republicans exclusively,
A blunder ill met
Boehner will regret,
Diplomatic discourtesy!
To Republicans exclusively,
A blunder ill met
Boehner will regret,
Diplomatic discourtesy!
8
I don't see how Mr. Netanyahu could do anything other than what he is doing. He obviously believes, as many other people do, that President Obama is heading in a direction that may well spell disaster for Israel and the Jewish people. So when an offer to speak is made to him, he accepts it. What else would anyone expect a Prime Minister of Israel to do? Remain silent? Would President Obama do that if he were in Mr. Netanyahu's shoes?
20
Netanyahu is from Israel. He is not an American politician. He is the leader of a foreign country that wants to provoke a war against Iran. What foreign head of state would be so disrespectful to the President of the United States? What politician would invite him?
Israel likes our aid, and their "special status". Israel should stop this arrogant violation of our friendship, our good will, our loyalty. Most Americans have tolerated the inhumane treatment of Palestinians, occupation of Palestinian territory, "war" with Gaza. What patriotic American can stand to have the President of the United States disrespected publically by an official invitation from the Speaker of the House? Sedition, Boehner should be charged with sedition. Netanyahu is an arrogant shill.
Israel likes our aid, and their "special status". Israel should stop this arrogant violation of our friendship, our good will, our loyalty. Most Americans have tolerated the inhumane treatment of Palestinians, occupation of Palestinian territory, "war" with Gaza. What patriotic American can stand to have the President of the United States disrespected publically by an official invitation from the Speaker of the House? Sedition, Boehner should be charged with sedition. Netanyahu is an arrogant shill.
24
Netanyahu has never remained silent.
'What would anyone expect an Israel Prime Minister to do?' How about act responsible? Beating the War drum has never, NEVER, helped anyone except those who profit from war. Republicans.
'What would anyone expect an Israel Prime Minister to do?' How about act responsible? Beating the War drum has never, NEVER, helped anyone except those who profit from war. Republicans.
9
Israel HAS nuclear weapons. Israel, at 127th in land area and 87th in population, is the world's 10th largest arms exporter. Fit those facts into the black-and-white world view of your comment.
What would Obama do? Surely NOT undermine and second-guess the leader of his major ally.
What would Obama do? Surely NOT undermine and second-guess the leader of his major ally.
7
I hope the Senate Democrats withdrawal of support for the ill-timed Iran resolution marks the beginning of national sanity with respect to Iran. The draft played into the strategy of Iran's hardliners, who want no nuclear deal but need to be able to blame the U.S.for the failure, so that European powers drift away from us, rendering sanctions ineffective and allowing Iran to resume, without inspection, a nuclear program.
The terrible thing -- and why we must be smart = is that Iran's hardliners have become, perhaps intentionally, allies of Israels 'Prime Minister Netanyahu, pushing the U.S. toward war with Iran. I don't care about Protocol - the Speaker may invite whomever he wish. I do care that he invited Netanyahu to interfere in our internal affairs on a life or death issue, the sovereign decision to go to war, to put American men and women in another conflict with unknowable consequences.
I also care that the Speaker is intervening in the internal affairs of Israel by investing the constitutional majesty of the Congress behind the reelection of Netanyahu. Israelis should be equally offended and worried, as your article suggests, that Netanyahu’s irrational behavior towards the President has done real damage to Israeli-US ties.
The terrible thing -- and why we must be smart = is that Iran's hardliners have become, perhaps intentionally, allies of Israels 'Prime Minister Netanyahu, pushing the U.S. toward war with Iran. I don't care about Protocol - the Speaker may invite whomever he wish. I do care that he invited Netanyahu to interfere in our internal affairs on a life or death issue, the sovereign decision to go to war, to put American men and women in another conflict with unknowable consequences.
I also care that the Speaker is intervening in the internal affairs of Israel by investing the constitutional majesty of the Congress behind the reelection of Netanyahu. Israelis should be equally offended and worried, as your article suggests, that Netanyahu’s irrational behavior towards the President has done real damage to Israeli-US ties.
10
I'm glad that President Obama confronted what was clearly a deliberate insult on the part of Mr. Netanyahu and Speaker Boehner. They think Obama is weakened but clearly he is not as Democrats have had to back off new sanctions on Iran. Many of those Democratic senators will want to run for reelection in states where they rely on a high, solid turn-out of black voters who are far more tuned in to the petty contempt for Obama that some Republicans seem to enjoy.
10
It's time to cut off all American funds to Israel, period. America has no business supporting a demonstrably religious nation that endlessly wants us to take sides in religious wars in the problematic Middle East. The AIPAC lobby needs to be given the boot out of the US, and good riddance. If they could take the current sorry crop of Republicans in Congress with them it could only be a good thing for America.
29
Here's what just hit me like lightning.
Stop for a second and try, really try, to imagine the leader of any other country pulling this stunt.
Bet you can't.
Because it's so abnormal and probably unprecedented.
Stop for a second and try, really try, to imagine the leader of any other country pulling this stunt.
Bet you can't.
Because it's so abnormal and probably unprecedented.
126
According to the article, it was the Israeli ambassador and Boehner who dreamed up the speech. Like other ambassadors Israel's works hard to promote national interests. And like other ambassadors he knows that he often does not get what he wants. The job is to persuade not to "pull stunts" Boehner is #3 in line for the Presidency. He's an extremely powerful man. And, with respect to the House, what he says generally goes. To blame Netanyahu for the decision to have him speak rests on a fundamental misunderstanding of the process. Blame Boehner.
2
Part of the problem here is that Ron Dermer, the israeli ambassador, had a prior career as a right wing Republican hack whose sole goal has always been to denigrate the president and elevate talentless jerks like Boehner. He is continuing that career quite successfully.
14
Try David Cameron he is the leader of a different country last time I checked an he was in DC, to lobby Congress, for Obama's position, but that's okay because he was doing something Obama wanted so it must be good.
1
This is a selfish and tacky move by Bibi . No matter how legitimate his message may be , you do not undercut the President of another country on his own turf . Would our President do the same if another country's Congressional leader invited him to do so ? Never . 'Nuf said .
27
Bibi was invited by the leader of our congress and has every right to attend and speak his mind. The problem with Iran and its obvious and horrible intentions of becoming a nuclear power clearly supersedes any protocol niceties that are surfacing. Whatever Obama thinks he can accomplish on his own, we all must know by this time is, as usual, incompetent and fatuous.
6
So you think war with Iran is the answer and a war led by a Republican congress at that. Well we all know how well that went the last time you tried and we are dealing with the fall out now with a highly unstable middle east created by hubristic neo-cons and the likes of Mr. Netanyahu. Does Iran need to be contained absolutely but I think that the typical Republican of shoot to kill is not going to do the trick, it will only legitimise the current Iranian regime. Negotiating is hard, slow and takes the application of know-how and intelligence, nowhere near as "cool & sexy" as just emptying your gun into a guy wearing a "black-hat".
9
There is no no foreign leader has a right to address the US Congress.
What a bizarre claim.
What a bizarre claim.
8
I am trying to decide how John Boehner's reprehensible misstep is not considered treasonous. But if this causes the US to back away from its equally reprehensible policy of supporting Israel at all costs, then it will be worth it.
34
Netanyahu and the GOP have a commonness: hatred, particularly of our President. But like a tale of 3 robbers, they will turn on each other because in the end, they're just looking out for themselves. Each one sees the other as merely a tool for their agenda, and that will end badly.
33
It's great that this highly inappropriate action may backfire on Netanyahu. Now if it would backfire on that lowlife Boehner who goes out of his way to find an almost treasonous way to humiliate the American Head of State, now that would make a nice headline.
38
I think the US Congress should do as follows: Turn your backs!! (I did not approve of the NYC police turning their backs in disagreement, recently...it sent the wrong message to the city and its inhabitants.) But here's my best suggestion under the circumstances of Mr. Netanyahu's proposed visit : let any sane, wise, respectful members of Congress turn their backs to Mr. Netanyahu, should he be disrespectful enough of our government to show up for this proposed visit. And if he passes any of the public on his way in: let them do the same. And if Mr. Boehner stands to introduce him: well, members of Congress who have any spine: there is one position you might consider!
33
Raise your hand if you heard of the Logan Act before last week.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
2
Yes, I did. Do not play the victim.
Why doesn't Netanyahu busy himself with fighting ISIS in Syria since he is so concerned about Israel's safety? And I don't mean a general - I am talking about using all that military equipment that we have been funding for decades and putting it to good use. Israel, help wipe out the ISIS that is next door to you in Syria.
Boehner and his ilk are just itching for us to get involved in a war. Any war will do. It doesn't matter as long as the war profiteers have plenty of money for campaign contributions.
Boehner and his ilk are just itching for us to get involved in a war. Any war will do. It doesn't matter as long as the war profiteers have plenty of money for campaign contributions.
35
Mr. Netanyahu had no business accepting the offer. A statesman would have found a gracious way to decline. The arrogance is stunning. Support for Israel has been and and should be bipartisan. Netanyahu is risking that. I am dismayed.
33
It is becoming clearer by the month that Putin's and Netanyahu's behaviors are knee jerk ones. Be bold and resolute, suffer later. There will be an Obama reaction if the prime minister appears. It will be a well calculated one. Perhaps it might develop that the prime minister will fail utterly to quell rising resentment at home over his bravado. I hope so. The world is tired of this McCain, too.
22
My hope is that all Democrats in Congress will either absent themselves from this Republican "green eggs and ham" stunt, or better yet, get up when he starts his speech and walk out;
42
It seems pretty clear that Netanyahu made a serious misjudgment which would not have influenced Congress anyway. It appears it was for domestic politics. He should man up and call it off. The President is well aware that a sell out by him will not fly. It may be humiliating for Netanyahu to back down but this is a conflict with a U.S. Administration that was unnecessary.
24
There are many good reasons to revisit our relationship with Israel especially in the context of our Middle East policy. It's been a very long time and it is clear that our Israel-centric policy has been a major failure. The US should ensure aid to and cooperation with all Middle-East nations that meet certain conditions. Perpetual conflict is not the answer and Israel has long set itself on a road that keeps it in perpetual conflict. On the other hand, the fact that diplomacy and sanctions work is evident in the progress made in dealing with Iran and the pressure brought down on Russia. We can also not afford to keep footing the bill for Israels military machine that is the tool of the hardline right in Israel and has been directly responsible for far too many Palestinian civilian deaths. This is a moral issue for us now and we need to make a change.
On the subject of the renegade speaker, other than breaking the diplomatic code, is he stepping too far out of line?
"The Logan Act, passed in 1799 and amended in 1904, states that no citizen of the United States can act on behalf of the United States government without its explicit approval. Boehner, as a Member of Congress, is not authorized to conduct foreign policy dealings that are explicitly the purview of the executive branch."
http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/did-john-boehner-violate-law-i...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logan_Act
On the subject of the renegade speaker, other than breaking the diplomatic code, is he stepping too far out of line?
"The Logan Act, passed in 1799 and amended in 1904, states that no citizen of the United States can act on behalf of the United States government without its explicit approval. Boehner, as a Member of Congress, is not authorized to conduct foreign policy dealings that are explicitly the purview of the executive branch."
http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/did-john-boehner-violate-law-i...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logan_Act
40
Iran is not the first global mistake of Obama who leaves as his legacy a significantly weakened US, Increases rdical Islam terror which rapidly leakes from the Mid East to Europe and next will land, again on US soil, an unstable Mid East for which he has to blamed, divided Ukraine, a very agressive Russia, a stalement in the Israeli Pakestinian talks after his amateur conduct and now, his unrational desire to achieve with any cost an arranegnent with Iran which enable her fanatic regime to get very quickly nuclear capabilities. It is certain that after Irab , Saudi Arabia, Egypy, Turkey and Syria will do the same and the road to using nuclear bomb by some extremist terror group will be very short.
This is what Obama is shortsightingly doing, this is what the Congress must prevent.
Pity that the NYT repeately protects global villains on pseudo- liberal argumentations, back from the days of the Holocaust, supporting the failed agreement with North Korea, and now -the danger agreement with "moderate and democratic" Iran
This is what Obama is shortsightingly doing, this is what the Congress must prevent.
Pity that the NYT repeately protects global villains on pseudo- liberal argumentations, back from the days of the Holocaust, supporting the failed agreement with North Korea, and now -the danger agreement with "moderate and democratic" Iran
4
And what would YOU do? Attack Iran? Considering sending YOUR son or daughter to slaughter? It's easy to criticize. You offer no solution but prattle ng on about Obama.
The siren call of the Chickenhawk.
The siren call of the Chickenhawk.
37
Thank you, Fox News and John McCain.
13
Netanyahu can be an irritatiting person, but that doesnt mean he is wrong about Iran. The iranians fund and supply terrorist groups that attack Israel, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel is not the only nation urging the US to not compromise with Iran; the Arab nations also want a non-nuclear Iran (Syria may be an exception, if they can still be concidered a nation).
6
Look back in history and count how many terror groups the US has supported in a) Central America, b) South America, c) Asia.
10
He is wrong about how to deal with Iran. Diplomatic efforts combined with sanctions got Iran back to the talks table. Why should we go backwards and emphasize talk of war as Netanyahu would love to have us do?
13
I understand the Obama Administration has sent a representative for the U.S. State Department to lobby against Netanyahu in the upcoming election. How does this square with his stated reason for not visiting with him when he speaks to Cingress?
4
Perhaps it has to do with how much Israel depends on us for aid - money and weapons. Because of that, we have a right to demand action from them. The reverse is not true.
7
Where did you get your "understanding"?
12
Israel and the United States have shared values of democracy and freedom. Foreign aid is less than 1% of the budget. Of the top ten recipients of foreign aid all of which are in the Mideast and Africa only one votes along side the USA in the UN general assembly more than 90% of the time, Israel. The other 9 vote along side the USA less than 30% of the time. Tanzania votes along side America 31.6% of the time on important issues. In the Camp David agreements the US agreed to give aid to both Egypt and Israel. Only 25 percent of what Israel receives in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) can be spent in Israel for military procurement. The other 75 percent is spent in the United States to generate profits and jobs. Over 1,000 companies in 47 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have contracts worth billions of dollars through this program that help their economies. Reagan wrote before becoming president, The bond between the United States and Israel is as strong as ever. America and Israel both buy advanced weapons systems from each other, we work together with Israeli companies on missile defense, and share intelligence. Most importantly, Israel remains America’s only reliable democratic ally in the region. Why do we give so much money to people that hate us?
2
"It's a huge miscalculation",says Eytan Gilboa at Bar-Ilan University.
He is correct. Mr. Netanyahu, for better or worse, depending on perspective, will probably lose the election over this.
He is correct. Mr. Netanyahu, for better or worse, depending on perspective, will probably lose the election over this.
19
Now if only Boehner would lose his speakership over this.
17
Of course if war breaks out in the north as per events so far today, then Hezbollah will have handed Mr. Netanyahu the election and it will make no difference to whom Mr. speaks or does not speak in Washington.
1
What is the best way to defeat an enemy? Make them your friend!
3
This is totally inappropriate of the Israeli Prime Minister. He is not American.
25
It's treason. And it's against the law. Mr. Boehner should be impeached.
33
Not very well thought out, Mr. Boehner. Are you sure you're up to the role of Speaker? If your judgement on other things is like this, no wonder Obama cannot work effectively with you.
45
And Boehner is third in line in succession to the Presidency. Scary.
17
What leader, in their right mind, would circumvent another leader of a nation that hands over billions of dollars to that leader's country? And then to circumvent President Obama at the behest of a man seemingly bent on humiliating the presidency of the United States.
42
Just a thought. Perhaps the Prime Minister lives in the alternate reality of Fox News by sayellite, or takes advice and bases his reality on that advice from those who watch Fox News. Rupert Murdock has little to lose if war breaks out.
17
The Prime Minister appears to be out of touch with both, the current geopolitical realties of the world, as well as 20th century history. In an economy shaped by the eroding finances of the 1st world middle class, in a world that feels perpetually less geopolitically stable and more fanatical than ever, and a time were many 1st world countries are turning their backs on the Jews, Netanyahu may want to take a refresher course in early 20th century history.
Now is not the time to antagonize your only friend. HANDS OFF THE OFFICE OF THE US PRESIDENT!
Now is not the time to antagonize your only friend. HANDS OFF THE OFFICE OF THE US PRESIDENT!
30
As Israel knows better than anyone, "Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer." And avoid fair-weather friends -- unless they invite you to lecture them on realpolitik.
1
The 1st world countries are not turning their backs on the Jews, They are turning their backs on Netanyahu's brand of neo Zionism. Jews who see themselves first and foremost as human beings have no problem; they are as equally horrified with Israel's actions as the rest of us. It is the conflation of the two strands and branding it as anti Semitism that is so toxic.
1
On reviewing these comments, 453 as I type, with most seeing the obvious, don't forget what is not being stated. This is a great opportunity.
Obama and the democrats have the power to call out this behavior and give the U.S. credibility it has not had for decades, where it needs it the most.
Commenters have suggested that Obama could send Netanyahu back from whence he came and let Palestine be recognized. The democrats in congress could publicly refuse to participate and move to consider funding aid to Israel on the condition Israel stay out of American politcs.
Here is the essential problem and it is not Boehner's fault. Everyone knows Obama and the congressional democrats are gonna rollover again because Israel gets to do whatever it wants and the rest are too cowardly to stand up and stop it. Obama knows it, congressional democrats know it, congressional republicans know it, Iranians know it, from the revolutionary guard oligarch fascists to the reformers, Iraqis from Sunni to Shia to Turkmen,Christians, Kurds, whatevers, Palestinians know it,Egyptians know it, Syrians know it, Lebanese know it, Bahrainis know it, Yemenis know it. And so on.
Boehner is a jerk because he is enabled. Netanyahu is a jerk because he is enabled. Someday the U.S. will have credibility again, hopefully before a radioactive Holy Land. Obama and the demicrats could give America credibility tomorrow just by showing a backbone. Aint gonna happen. Boehner, a jerk, but he has a spine.
Obama and the democrats have the power to call out this behavior and give the U.S. credibility it has not had for decades, where it needs it the most.
Commenters have suggested that Obama could send Netanyahu back from whence he came and let Palestine be recognized. The democrats in congress could publicly refuse to participate and move to consider funding aid to Israel on the condition Israel stay out of American politcs.
Here is the essential problem and it is not Boehner's fault. Everyone knows Obama and the congressional democrats are gonna rollover again because Israel gets to do whatever it wants and the rest are too cowardly to stand up and stop it. Obama knows it, congressional democrats know it, congressional republicans know it, Iranians know it, from the revolutionary guard oligarch fascists to the reformers, Iraqis from Sunni to Shia to Turkmen,Christians, Kurds, whatevers, Palestinians know it,Egyptians know it, Syrians know it, Lebanese know it, Bahrainis know it, Yemenis know it. And so on.
Boehner is a jerk because he is enabled. Netanyahu is a jerk because he is enabled. Someday the U.S. will have credibility again, hopefully before a radioactive Holy Land. Obama and the demicrats could give America credibility tomorrow just by showing a backbone. Aint gonna happen. Boehner, a jerk, but he has a spine.
19
The US intelligence community has repeatedly concluded that Iran has NO nuclear weapons program, period. Everyone should relax and let the negotiations continue. Iran is surrounded, in any event, with dozens of US military bases. Israel has scored of nuke weapons. Obama is currently gifting India with the offer of building them more nuke power plants, even though India is a "rogue" nuclear power. Just who is threatening whom here?
11
We must support Obama no matter what. Even if Iran goes nuclear we will support our fine President. After all, we have nukes, why can't Iran also have them. Surely this would bring peace. The Republicans are living in the past.
10
Mr Boehner's unpatriotic, callous, and irresponsible action should have consequences. This is not a partisan issue. It is an American issue.
Can he be recalled? If yes, the petition should start now.
If not, impeachment procedures should be started ASAP.
If Mr Boehner does not suffer consequences, frequency and intensity of such behavior will increase from both parties enabling further regression of Congress that US cannot afford.
Can he be recalled? If yes, the petition should start now.
If not, impeachment procedures should be started ASAP.
If Mr Boehner does not suffer consequences, frequency and intensity of such behavior will increase from both parties enabling further regression of Congress that US cannot afford.
27
Good luck.
I've never liked Bibi's belligerence. Now that he's topped that with an insult to the American President, it's time to cut Israel loose until its people can elect a more reasonable leader who appreciates what this country has done for them.
43
I've never liked Obama's timidity. Maureen Dowd and I have lots in common.
5
Yes, it seems Maureen Dowd and you *do* have lots in common, most glaringly, a seeming taste for meaningless bully-boy bluster rather than thoughtful, steady strategies which produce results.
13
Lyndon Johnson had no timidity in Vietnam, George Bush none in Iraq and then in Afghanistan. All three showed how strong America is. If you want to show it again, and since there's no draft, gather up your brothers and sisters, your children and grandchildren, and of course you yourself, and head right to the recruiting office to sign them all up. That will show your lack of timidity.
7
We shouldn't be surprised that Netanyahu thinks he owns Congress, which in his previous appearances fell over itself in obsequious applause, and whose leadership now shamefully invited him. Let us hope that this time his offensive arrogance has led him astray, that he will have to back down in humiliation, or if he doesn't that Congress will be too embarrassed to play its role in wag the dog. But maybe that's too much to hope for. The Times article starts with Michael Oren calling Netanyahu to cancel his prospective speech. It is the right thing to say, of course, but in the past Mr. Oren, who was plucked out of political obscurity by Netanyahu to become Israel's ambassador in Washington, had many opportunities to say the right thing and instead instead had no difficulty in following his master's poisonous script. His current switch in loyalties is a self-serving as he found better opportunities in running as a candidate for an opposition party. Oren is no stranger to switching loyalty as he grew up and got his education in America but decided not only to switch citizenship but also used his intimate knowledge of America to America's disadvantage. The same is true of Israel's current ambassador, Ron Dermer. Even worse, he met with Secretary of State Kerry a few days before the announcement of Netanyahu's speech and kept silent about it. Such silence amounts to a lie. Surely, the man has, in his slavish service to Netanyahu, totally destroyed his own credibility.
34
Oren obscure? You're kidding right? And Oren and Dermer are not Americans. They changed their citizenship. People do it all the time.
2
Critics should first look at Speaker Boehner. Boehner and his party learned nothing from thr Iraq disaster. They are ready to subvert delicate diplomatic efforts and risk another Middle East war. The last one went so well.
Netanyahu is a partner in this subversion of US policy. He must cancel his appearance before the Congress and not interfere with a shot at bringing the only nation in the Middle East with one leg into the 21 st Century
(Israelhasboth)into the family of nations .The efffort may not succeed but is certainly worth a real unobstructed effort.
Netanyahu is a partner in this subversion of US policy. He must cancel his appearance before the Congress and not interfere with a shot at bringing the only nation in the Middle East with one leg into the 21 st Century
(Israelhasboth)into the family of nations .The efffort may not succeed but is certainly worth a real unobstructed effort.
20
While I don't agree that Netanyahu is correct in accepting an invitation by Boener I understand his concerns about grasping at straws to save Israel from a Nuclear Iran bent on the 2nd Holocaust in the destruction of Israel.
A weak and unfriendly Obama is also to blame. Because if Netanyahu felt he had a friend in the White House he would not have accepted the offer.
It is quite sad to read all the comments against Israel and Netanyahu.
It shows how little the readers understand the panic and fear Israel's leadership and its people feel about a Nuclear Iran.
Israel will survive, but at a great cost in blood and treasure. The Jewish people have and will continue to survive much to the dismay of many in the West who are content to mouth support for the Jewish people on Holocaust Remembrance Day while supporting those who want to annihilate it.
The 1.2 Billion Muslims spearheaded by Hamas/PLO, Hezbollah and Iran.
A weak and unfriendly Obama is also to blame. Because if Netanyahu felt he had a friend in the White House he would not have accepted the offer.
It is quite sad to read all the comments against Israel and Netanyahu.
It shows how little the readers understand the panic and fear Israel's leadership and its people feel about a Nuclear Iran.
Israel will survive, but at a great cost in blood and treasure. The Jewish people have and will continue to survive much to the dismay of many in the West who are content to mouth support for the Jewish people on Holocaust Remembrance Day while supporting those who want to annihilate it.
The 1.2 Billion Muslims spearheaded by Hamas/PLO, Hezbollah and Iran.
8
It is also quite sad that you don't understand what a grave insult this is to the president, and what towering chutzpah it evidences, no matter what the "reasons". This is an unprecedented diplomatic insult, for a foreign leader, uninvited by the U.S. president, to come to his legislature and lobby to overturn the president's foreign policy. Are you blind to how you would feel were Obama to go, uninvited by Netanyahu, to lobby the Israeli Knesset against him? If you are so concerned about Israel's survival, how can you defend, in any way, thus threatening the relationship with Israel's -- not most important, but absolutely essential -- ally? Are you eliding Western anti-Semites with Americans infuriated by this insult? And as to Iran, why should the U.S. abandon efforts to resolving the nuclear issue peacefully? The Joint Chiefs have said, Israeli defense authorities have said, that the Iranian nuclear program cannot be destroyed by bombing. And it is for that reason that many Americans suspect that Bibi wants to war against Iran with American blood and treasure. Complain about Obama and his policy all you like. But this kind of stunt is arrogant, bush league, and counterproductive.
7
How convenient it is for Netanyahu and the Israel Lobby. He was already scheduled to speak in March before AIPAC, the most powerful Lobby in the United States, the only lobby that can command the appearance of at least 2/3 of the members of Congress.
Now he can talk to them twice using just one trip to the US. He can continue crying "wolf" as he did way back in 1992 when, as a member of the Knesset, he said that Iran was no more than 3 - 5 years away from having "the bomb."
It is almost 23 years later and he is still peddling the same old line.
If the Congress had any courage whatsoever to defy AIPAC they would not attend what will be Netanyahu's fear mongering speech. Those who do attend should not jump up like lemmings and give him 29 standing ovations as they did last time he came before Congress.
Now he can talk to them twice using just one trip to the US. He can continue crying "wolf" as he did way back in 1992 when, as a member of the Knesset, he said that Iran was no more than 3 - 5 years away from having "the bomb."
It is almost 23 years later and he is still peddling the same old line.
If the Congress had any courage whatsoever to defy AIPAC they would not attend what will be Netanyahu's fear mongering speech. Those who do attend should not jump up like lemmings and give him 29 standing ovations as they did last time he came before Congress.
47
Netanyahu is the true patriot and world leader. No one else is close.
He correctly accepted a legitimate invitation to address Congress and argue against handing the world's foremost terrorist state, Iran, nuclear capability - an existential danger to Israel and to world peace.
Of course the competing candidates in Israeli elections are going to attack his decision. Of course the Administration - inexplicably bringing terrorist Iran into the family of nations - is going to bash him.
Yada yada yada.
The only thing that really counts is stopping Iran from getting the bomb. And Netanyahu is stepping up to the plate.
He correctly accepted a legitimate invitation to address Congress and argue against handing the world's foremost terrorist state, Iran, nuclear capability - an existential danger to Israel and to world peace.
Of course the competing candidates in Israeli elections are going to attack his decision. Of course the Administration - inexplicably bringing terrorist Iran into the family of nations - is going to bash him.
Yada yada yada.
The only thing that really counts is stopping Iran from getting the bomb. And Netanyahu is stepping up to the plate.
6
You are a "concerned citizen"?
Of which country -- the United States or Israel? I see you live in the United States, but your comment "The only thing that really counts is stopping Iran from getting the bomb" but I think your main concern is with Israel, no?
A concerned American citizen should see the thing that "really counts" is making sure his or her country -- the United States of America -- acts in its own best interest.
Of which country -- the United States or Israel? I see you live in the United States, but your comment "The only thing that really counts is stopping Iran from getting the bomb" but I think your main concern is with Israel, no?
A concerned American citizen should see the thing that "really counts" is making sure his or her country -- the United States of America -- acts in its own best interest.
46
Iran has never attacked Israel. No Israeli attack ever started from the Golan Heights. Iran has stated publicly they do not threaten force, they want a one state solution which is not called Israel. I would call on Israel to declare their nuclear program. Tell the world about your nukes, their number, their security, their launch vehicles, and your plans. And while you are at it, who taught you how to build them? You have destroyed in illegal sovereign attacks of war two supposed nuclear facilities which were not proven, you assassinate people with no consequences. Bibi is forcing long time loyal supporters to reevaluate Israel.
18
Citizen, you seem to forget that Iran is already in the family of nations. By not dealing with Iran, we would follow the steps George Bush had taken .... and how phenomenally well that worked out!
Nothing else but good , solid meaningful negotiations will stop Iran from getting the bomb, and Barack Obama , "our" President ( not silly Netanyahu ) is doing the negotiations! So have some faith in "our" President, idolizing the belligerent current leader of Israel.
Alternatively, you can move there, pay your taxes to Israel, support its military, and support its leader.
However, if you consider yourself an American, than support our President, and not a foreign leader!
Nothing else but good , solid meaningful negotiations will stop Iran from getting the bomb, and Barack Obama , "our" President ( not silly Netanyahu ) is doing the negotiations! So have some faith in "our" President, idolizing the belligerent current leader of Israel.
Alternatively, you can move there, pay your taxes to Israel, support its military, and support its leader.
However, if you consider yourself an American, than support our President, and not a foreign leader!
19
Prime Minister Netanyahu's views on Iran are not only inaccurate and alarmist, they are also at odds with his own party members, the Israeli security establishment and Israeli military leaders.
Iran poses zero threat to Iran. Anyone with the slightest bit of reason knows this. Not only is there no evidence anywhere that Iran has a nuclear military program, the most Iran could eke out of its current technology in the next two or three years would be one bomb even if it wanted to--which it doesn't
Prime Minister Netanyahu has used Iran as an all-purpose bogeyman in his political machinations. Finally, finally some people in Israel are waking up to this sham issue.
Then agreeing to come to the United States to purposely and egregiously insult the President and lecture to the American people is outrageous.
John Boehner is as much at fault as Netanyahu. They both should get the dressing down of a lifetime for this debacle. May the Prime Minister pay the price for his overreach and folly at the polls!
Iran poses zero threat to Iran. Anyone with the slightest bit of reason knows this. Not only is there no evidence anywhere that Iran has a nuclear military program, the most Iran could eke out of its current technology in the next two or three years would be one bomb even if it wanted to--which it doesn't
Prime Minister Netanyahu has used Iran as an all-purpose bogeyman in his political machinations. Finally, finally some people in Israel are waking up to this sham issue.
Then agreeing to come to the United States to purposely and egregiously insult the President and lecture to the American people is outrageous.
John Boehner is as much at fault as Netanyahu. They both should get the dressing down of a lifetime for this debacle. May the Prime Minister pay the price for his overreach and folly at the polls!
53
I applaud the courage of Netanyahu and Boehner in making this important event happen. This is not the time to question, to doubt or to withdraw from the world, as many on the left (in both Israel and the US) would have us do.
The time to stop Iran is now.
The time to stop Iran is now.
5
Are you of military age? If so I suggest you immediately sign up for basic training and volunteer for infantry or artillery. All Iran has to do is fire off a nuclear weapon at Israel an their entire nation will be fused into molten glass. They aren't stupid. They know Israel has nukes. And they know the US would more than double the risk of Iran being annihilated. It worked in the Cold War. MAD. Mutual Assured Destruction.
9
Bibi in a bind.
How unfortunate.
Not.
Now he has to either give the speech and look like an undiplomatic dope (he's good at that) OR back down and not live up to his "I'll talk about Iran anywhere, anytime" bravado.
This guy has been a stain on Israeli politics for two decades ever since he whipped up right wing fanatics against the Oslo accords in 1993-95. Which many believe set the hysteria that led to a deranged follower assassinating Rabin, the Prime Minister at the time.
Think I'm making this up?
Rabin's widow wouldn't acknowledge Bibi at the state funeral for her husband, such was her revulsion and enmity for this man.
How unfortunate.
Not.
Now he has to either give the speech and look like an undiplomatic dope (he's good at that) OR back down and not live up to his "I'll talk about Iran anywhere, anytime" bravado.
This guy has been a stain on Israeli politics for two decades ever since he whipped up right wing fanatics against the Oslo accords in 1993-95. Which many believe set the hysteria that led to a deranged follower assassinating Rabin, the Prime Minister at the time.
Think I'm making this up?
Rabin's widow wouldn't acknowledge Bibi at the state funeral for her husband, such was her revulsion and enmity for this man.
54
It's pretty embarrassing that Israelis are more upset about Bibi's planned speaking engagement and its potential effects on U.S.-Israeli relations than his Congressional hosts happen to be. If Bibi doesn't show maybe they can get Abe Foxman to take his place.
24
There's practically nothing else Netanyahu could do to show just how much he takes the United States for granted.
54
American and Israeli politics are so inseparably interwoven, that Mr. Natenyahu's speech to the Senate should really not come as a surprise to anyone.
4
This guy is biting the hand that feeds him. Is he arrogant or stupid or both? I assume he takes our support for granted. He needs to be taken down a notch. I would immediately reduce the amount of aid we give them and indicate a willingness to keep tightening the purse strings. They need to learn a lesson....
72
Surely Obama, Kerry and the Dems in the Senate and House have this all totally under control.
However if the talks go bad and Iran goes nuclear, all these Dems are never going to be forgiven for refusing to support this more hard-line from the Republicans.
However if the talks go bad and Iran goes nuclear, all these Dems are never going to be forgiven for refusing to support this more hard-line from the Republicans.
2
CORRECTED: What strikes me is how boorish this is, what bad manners, never mind the diplomatic niceties. Both men are indeed cut out of the same cloth, never having grown up emotionally, thinking only of what's in it for them, never other peoples' needs or hurts, seeing the world as a zero-sum-game. I'm all right, Jack, I have mine; screw you.
27
What strikes me is how this is, what bad manners, never mind the diplomatic niceties. Both men are indeed cut out of the same cloth, never having grown up emotionally, thinking only of what's in it for them, seeing the world as a zero-sum-game. I'm all right, Jack, I have mine; screw you.
11
Rather Clintonesque, in that.
Obama, in this situation, did nothing wrong. It's Netanyahu who is diminishing the reputation and support from Americans who are strong supporters of Israel. By trying to smear the blame to include Obama you are just insulting America more.
41
"Israeli and American commentators have described a toxic mix of political considerations in both countries — a touch of pre-election panic by Mr. Netanyahu meeting up with Mr. Boehner’s opportunism. Many have called it self-promotion with a high cost, clumsy at best, if not cynical."
Boehner is the other man I referred to, not Obama (whom I admire.) I should have thought it was obvious from the context.
Boehner is the other man I referred to, not Obama (whom I admire.) I should have thought it was obvious from the context.
5
If you want to know how AQAP and ISIS got so strong, and why Hezbollah's 25,000-man (women not allowed!) Gestapo took over Lebanon, and how Hamas has enslaved Gazans into becoming human shields, there are about 385 Comments here that will tell you all you need to know about Pacifism, and Isolationism, and Risk-aversion.
As some old Russian once said, "The West will end not with a bang, but with a whimper."
As some old Russian once said, "The West will end not with a bang, but with a whimper."
4
Don't worry. With the perfect, and perfectly innocent Israelis and the perfect, and perfectly innocent republicans, surely some good outcome is in store. If only those other, wicked people were all, um, gone somehow, it would all work out. Well, keep on thinking as you do and maybe you and Bibi can make a plan.
6
It was the US's ill-advised incursion to Iraq that 'created AQAP and ISIS ... Hezbollah's founding also was for similar reasons. We CANNOT eliminate the status quo, and expect a favorable outcome in societies that are still tribal. Netanyahu is setting the stage for another NEW hizbollah-like group to emerge.
13
Slightly off. It was the Soviet Union that went out without a whimper. I'm no pacifist. Two in a row.
9
Thank you Mr. Netanyahu for:
-- giving Hamas a giant kick in the pants for attacking Israel with rockets and terror tunnels
-- promoting the interests of freedom and democracy in the Middle East
-- working to maintain Israel as a place where women's rights and gay rights and freedom of the press and freedom of religion and speech are valued and flourish
-- helping to combat anti-Semitism in the world wherever it exists
-- providing a safe haven for Jews fleeing from Europe and other places in the world
-- helping to make Israel a place where Muslims, Christians and persons of other faiths can live
a safe and decent life
-- standing with the United States wherever its interests and values are threatened
-- helping to make Israel a world leader in medical and scientific research and computer technology that provides new drugs and new medical treatments for people everywhere
-- freely sharing the important military and political intelligence Israel gathers with the U.S.
-- combatting the spread of terrorism in the Middle East and elsewhere
-- working tirelessly to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities that would threaten Israel with nuclear annihilation and result in a massive nuclear arms race in the Middle East
-- and for always remaining open to the prospect of a negotiated settlement with the Palestinians that would provide an independent demilitarized state for them alongside a Jewish State of Israel with secure and permanent borders.
-- giving Hamas a giant kick in the pants for attacking Israel with rockets and terror tunnels
-- promoting the interests of freedom and democracy in the Middle East
-- working to maintain Israel as a place where women's rights and gay rights and freedom of the press and freedom of religion and speech are valued and flourish
-- helping to combat anti-Semitism in the world wherever it exists
-- providing a safe haven for Jews fleeing from Europe and other places in the world
-- helping to make Israel a place where Muslims, Christians and persons of other faiths can live
a safe and decent life
-- standing with the United States wherever its interests and values are threatened
-- helping to make Israel a world leader in medical and scientific research and computer technology that provides new drugs and new medical treatments for people everywhere
-- freely sharing the important military and political intelligence Israel gathers with the U.S.
-- combatting the spread of terrorism in the Middle East and elsewhere
-- working tirelessly to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities that would threaten Israel with nuclear annihilation and result in a massive nuclear arms race in the Middle East
-- and for always remaining open to the prospect of a negotiated settlement with the Palestinians that would provide an independent demilitarized state for them alongside a Jewish State of Israel with secure and permanent borders.
6
Wow, you really live in a vacuum of dogmatic nonsense huh? Perfect mix of things that are true with nonsensical axioms, as if Netanyahu is responsible for the values of Israeli society. Please. That's like thanking Bush for invading Iraq to protect our freedoms. Remember: "We're fighting them over there so we don't have to fight them over here" ? I do.
55
No, you will not distract us, including us strong supporters of Israel, from what the PM has done in insulting our country.
37
The administration holds the power of The State Department.
Simply don't allow Prime Minister Netanyahu to enter the country. This would not exactly be unprecedented. During the Carter administration the Soviet Ambassador was expelled and disallowed to speak on CNN.
respectfully,
George Klingbeil
Wellington, New Zealand
Simply don't allow Prime Minister Netanyahu to enter the country. This would not exactly be unprecedented. During the Carter administration the Soviet Ambassador was expelled and disallowed to speak on CNN.
respectfully,
George Klingbeil
Wellington, New Zealand
42
Is he going to explain Israel's universal healthcare, strong public pension system and investments in green energy and concerns about sea level rise? Its good to know Boehner and Netanyahu's Israel have so many interests in common.
17
Again, the attempt to distract. Insulting will not be forgotten -- including by us Americans who support Israel, but not one that insults us.
16
The PM of Israel hasn't Israel hasn't said a word yet he is being condemned.
I ask why.
Is it because foreign heads of states never speak to our congress alter getting a invitation.
No this is nothing new.
Is it because Obama would never do something like this.
No as he has done things like this.
I suggest people who probably never backed Israel give it a rest and let the man speak. before you crucify him.
Iran has stated its intentions that they want to bomb Israel.
Netanyahu has the moral right to make that impossible and if he could do it by speaking before our congress then he should do it .
To those who disagree with this should know that Israel would have stopped Iran on their own but didn't because Obama gave Netanyahu his word that Iran will never get the bomb.
Now is seems he is going back on his word.
Netanyahu should take matters in his own hand and stop Iran by force and stop taking the advice from Presidents who know nothing about how the world is run.
The article states "Congressional Democratic who have been pushing a new sanction bill against Iran -which Mr. Netanyahu supports"
This tells me that most likely he will speak up for that legislation.
How is holding off that vote a win for Obama.
What it tells me is that Obama used his power as the head of the Democratic party to get his way and that members people of his own party
know the President is wrong.
.
I ask why.
Is it because foreign heads of states never speak to our congress alter getting a invitation.
No this is nothing new.
Is it because Obama would never do something like this.
No as he has done things like this.
I suggest people who probably never backed Israel give it a rest and let the man speak. before you crucify him.
Iran has stated its intentions that they want to bomb Israel.
Netanyahu has the moral right to make that impossible and if he could do it by speaking before our congress then he should do it .
To those who disagree with this should know that Israel would have stopped Iran on their own but didn't because Obama gave Netanyahu his word that Iran will never get the bomb.
Now is seems he is going back on his word.
Netanyahu should take matters in his own hand and stop Iran by force and stop taking the advice from Presidents who know nothing about how the world is run.
The article states "Congressional Democratic who have been pushing a new sanction bill against Iran -which Mr. Netanyahu supports"
This tells me that most likely he will speak up for that legislation.
How is holding off that vote a win for Obama.
What it tells me is that Obama used his power as the head of the Democratic party to get his way and that members people of his own party
know the President is wrong.
.
4
I doubt there has ever been a case where the foreign head of state say anti-US and anti US President stuff ... this is a 'special' case. The US Govt can easily call it off .. on security grounds.
8
Please give the exact quote and the date and name of the person in Iran who said that they want to bomb Israel.
Did it ever occur to you that perhaps Iran wants a bomb, if indeed they do want one, because they know that the US does not attack any country that has a nuclear weapon. All they have to do is look at what happened to Libya after they gave up their nuclear weapons. It didn't take long for the US to attack them and pretty much turn Libya into a chaotic morass.
Iranians, unlike many Americans, probably don't have short memories and they will remember that in 1953 the US and the UK overthrew Iran's democratic government and installed the brutal and corrupt Shah whose secret police, the SAVAK, were trained by the CIA and MOSSAD. Maybe Iran doesn't want that to happen to them again.
I hold no brief for the Iranian government but it is not up to the US or Israel to attack them and to try to change the regime. .The conseqences may be not be too palatable and well may regretted by the attackers and the rest of the world.
Did it ever occur to you that perhaps Iran wants a bomb, if indeed they do want one, because they know that the US does not attack any country that has a nuclear weapon. All they have to do is look at what happened to Libya after they gave up their nuclear weapons. It didn't take long for the US to attack them and pretty much turn Libya into a chaotic morass.
Iranians, unlike many Americans, probably don't have short memories and they will remember that in 1953 the US and the UK overthrew Iran's democratic government and installed the brutal and corrupt Shah whose secret police, the SAVAK, were trained by the CIA and MOSSAD. Maybe Iran doesn't want that to happen to them again.
I hold no brief for the Iranian government but it is not up to the US or Israel to attack them and to try to change the regime. .The conseqences may be not be too palatable and well may regretted by the attackers and the rest of the world.
6
Last weekend, “our only ally in the Mideast, Israel,” deliberately provoked the government of Iran and Hezbollah with high-level assassinations. The NYTimes reported on January 20:
“An Iranian general was among the dead in an Israeli airstrike that also killed several Hezbollah fighters in southern Syria over the weekend, the official Iranian news media announced on Monday. . . . Also killed in Sunday’s strike was Jihad Mughniyeh, the son of Imad Mughniyeh, a top Hezbollah military commander who was assassinated in Damascus in 2008 in an attack that Hezbollah attributes to Israel. A senior Hezbollah commander was also said to have been killed.”
The NYTimes reported a few days later:
“In a breach of sense and diplomacy, House Speaker John Boehner and Ron Dermer, Israel’s ambassador to Washington, have taken it upon themselves to invite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to Congress to challenge President Obama’s approach to achieving a nuclear agreement with Iran.”
All of this is the work of Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu does not want a diplomatic solution to achieving a nuclear agreement with Iran. Netanyahu wants a military solution with the United States and Israel joining forces to destroy militarily any and all capability that Iran may have to build a nuclear weapon. That will be the next step in Netanyahu's grand plan for the Mideast . . . if he is reelected Prime Minister of Israel on March 17.
“An Iranian general was among the dead in an Israeli airstrike that also killed several Hezbollah fighters in southern Syria over the weekend, the official Iranian news media announced on Monday. . . . Also killed in Sunday’s strike was Jihad Mughniyeh, the son of Imad Mughniyeh, a top Hezbollah military commander who was assassinated in Damascus in 2008 in an attack that Hezbollah attributes to Israel. A senior Hezbollah commander was also said to have been killed.”
The NYTimes reported a few days later:
“In a breach of sense and diplomacy, House Speaker John Boehner and Ron Dermer, Israel’s ambassador to Washington, have taken it upon themselves to invite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to Congress to challenge President Obama’s approach to achieving a nuclear agreement with Iran.”
All of this is the work of Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu does not want a diplomatic solution to achieving a nuclear agreement with Iran. Netanyahu wants a military solution with the United States and Israel joining forces to destroy militarily any and all capability that Iran may have to build a nuclear weapon. That will be the next step in Netanyahu's grand plan for the Mideast . . . if he is reelected Prime Minister of Israel on March 17.
45
Only Republicans can fully appreciate it's always politics first! A foreign politician using our Congress to seek reelection weeks before the vote. Shameless!
Surely some rendition of 'boots on the ground' will be sung among them.
Netanyahu appears as just another politician running for his political life!
Surely some rendition of 'boots on the ground' will be sung among them.
Netanyahu appears as just another politician running for his political life!
24
This is a terrible miscalculation on Netanyahu's part. He is endangering Israel's support amongst the American people, because we will back our President all the time. He is the one who has the US best interests as his priority.
Israel is the partner who needs our support. Netanyahu better consider this fact. We can, really, kiss Israel goodbye.
Israel is the partner who needs our support. Netanyahu better consider this fact. We can, really, kiss Israel goodbye.
39
@Maria, not so long as Congress is in his pocket.
7
Actually Congress has been too servile where Israel is concerned ... the US must look at its OWN interests first. Israel is REALLY harmful for the US.
28
Congress isn't in his pocket. Even with a Republican majority, Netenyahu isn't going to be able to just snap his fingers for what he wants. And the President got a lot of public support for snubbing him after he tried to interfere in the 2012 elections.
2
I have been waiting for an article in the Times where I can communicate to the Israeli people that their largest danger is Netanyahu. As a Democrat I can safely say we have been repulsed by him ever since he tried to interfere with our presidential election in 2012 to get Romney elected. Israel should know Netanyahu not only failed, but has harmed US relations ever since.
His unorthodox pushy rude upcoming idea to address our Congress is just the latest action he has done to quickly make the whole world turn on Israel. His timing to build more settlements in the West Bank RIGHT AFTER the bloody war in Gaza was a PR disaster. It makes the world think Israel intends to perpetually stall talks on a Palestinian State until it has stole all the land that was to comprise that state.
Diplomatically, telling the US, which gives Israel $3.1 billion a year never to second guess him again, has made many Americans wish to discontinue all aid to Israel. As long as Israel accepts so much money that we need ourselves, we will second guess him as much as we want.
Europe hates him, and Israel as a result. He crashed the party in Paris when he showed up uninvited, then went to a synagogue and told French Jews, a vital part of France, to leave France. Now, he has insulted the Democratic White House and in 2016, the Senate and the Presidency will likely be Democrat.
Netanyahu is so pushy and rude, that he may just end up losing the US as an ally. Then, Israel will TRULY stand alone.
His unorthodox pushy rude upcoming idea to address our Congress is just the latest action he has done to quickly make the whole world turn on Israel. His timing to build more settlements in the West Bank RIGHT AFTER the bloody war in Gaza was a PR disaster. It makes the world think Israel intends to perpetually stall talks on a Palestinian State until it has stole all the land that was to comprise that state.
Diplomatically, telling the US, which gives Israel $3.1 billion a year never to second guess him again, has made many Americans wish to discontinue all aid to Israel. As long as Israel accepts so much money that we need ourselves, we will second guess him as much as we want.
Europe hates him, and Israel as a result. He crashed the party in Paris when he showed up uninvited, then went to a synagogue and told French Jews, a vital part of France, to leave France. Now, he has insulted the Democratic White House and in 2016, the Senate and the Presidency will likely be Democrat.
Netanyahu is so pushy and rude, that he may just end up losing the US as an ally. Then, Israel will TRULY stand alone.
57
Gee!..........I wish I could address Congress as an American. Nice to know a foreigner can.
27
Let Netanyahu, Boehner and McConnell have their moment in the sun. What statement would be sent and received, however, if only Republican members of Congress attended, without any Democrats in attendance. That would surely place the last nail in the coffin of this sham spectacle. Do Democrats have the spine to make this statement? I fear not.
31
Actually some Democrats think that easing restrictions on Iran is a bad idea and will listen to what Netanyhu has to say. As noted in this NYT article, these Democrats have only agreed to keep their powder dry unless agreement is reached between The US and its allies and Iran by the latest (not first) deadline. http://www.thetower.org/1554-democratic-senators-set-deadline-for-iran-n... Then of course there is the little wrench that could tank the whole deal, the wrench being the Iranian parliament's proposed law to allow for further uranium enrichment. http://news.yahoo.com/iran-lawmakers-drafting-law-nuclear-enrichment-hik... Wouldn't surprise me if more Democrats sign on to the proposed new sanctions if the deadline is passed without a finalized agreement and if the Iranians pass the proposed bill.
1
PM Netanyahu, I believe, is anxious to tether larger, saner American geopolitical interests in keeping Iran free of nuclear weapons with parochial Likud & Settler interests in not having a nuclear armed Iran there to check an eventual attempt to incorporate the whole of the West Bank into a Jewish State thereby fulfilling the fantasy of messianic GOPers & Israelis. But the visions are not compatible.despite Mr. Netanyahu's & Mr. Boehner's ham-handed attempt to make a case
9
U.S. and Israeli interests are not identical.
13
Beady Eye, you are wrong. They should not be identical, but they are.
2
@nydoc: If Israeli and US interests are identical, then Obama, Kerry, the State Department, and the White House sources, both anonymous, shouldn't be complaining about Netanyhu coming to speak before Congress. Right? Or are they all just miffed because they didn't think to ask Netanyhu first?
1
Let's be clear, the the other real culprit in this is John Boehner. And we as Americans have to suffer his buffoonery. Netanyahu is constant in his, overt, aggressive, rude, arrogant, bullying, and inflexible ways. As is Boehner. And I am glad to see that some Israelis see through this dangerous leader in a region filled with dangerous leaders.
34
This is sadly embarrassing for both John Boehner and Bibi Netanyahu, playing to their red meat constituencies.
18
Despite all the glib social media assertions from people who are suddenly lawyers, this is not - repeat NOT - treason. Not by a long-shot. Treason is strictly and clearly delineated in a little document called... The Constitution of the United States of America.
Look at Article 3, section III:
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court."
As deplorable as it is, what Mr. Boehner is doing is not treason. What I find more deplorable is how few Americans know what is in their own Constitution.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
Look at Article 3, section III:
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court."
As deplorable as it is, what Mr. Boehner is doing is not treason. What I find more deplorable is how few Americans know what is in their own Constitution.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
2
Treason, no.
Insufficiently loyal to U.S. interests - another discussion.
Insufficiently loyal to U.S. interests - another discussion.
21
Agreed!
5
Disagreed!
1
In my view, Netanyahu is a war criminal and should be shunned by congress
33
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a bold, highly-intelligent, impeccably-principled leader. The urgency of his anti-nuclear-Iran message to Congress outweighs Whitehouse protocol. Israel is immensely fortunate to benefit from his leadership.
2
Sadly, the way this Boehner-Netanyahu relationship was set up was simply poor judgment on the part of both. I'm no fan of Obama's actions, either, but a graceful way needs to be found for Netanyahu or Boehner to cancel this event.
The burning question: does Iran need more sanctions? Has not Iran been progressively finding more and more ways to evade sanctions? Has Iran not already over-extended the time period given for sanctions easement? What has Iran to gain by withdrawing from negotiations? Iran leaving the negotiations is in fact not the reason that more sanctions now is a bad idea.
Rather, I think that if more sanctions are added, the coalition negotiating w Iran will collapse for lack of courage to be sufficiently tough on Iran. What should be abundantly clear is that Iran is doing its best to expand its influence. Iran needs the sanctions to end so that it can earn enough not for its internal budget but also for its external hegemony. Ironically, Shia-Iran's arch Sunni competitor, the Saudis, are making the sanctions on Iran more harsh with dropping oil prices. In fact, then, sanctions have been increased on Iran...a better way than having Congress or Netanyahu do it.
Bibi, please find a way to put off your trip for now.
The burning question: does Iran need more sanctions? Has not Iran been progressively finding more and more ways to evade sanctions? Has Iran not already over-extended the time period given for sanctions easement? What has Iran to gain by withdrawing from negotiations? Iran leaving the negotiations is in fact not the reason that more sanctions now is a bad idea.
Rather, I think that if more sanctions are added, the coalition negotiating w Iran will collapse for lack of courage to be sufficiently tough on Iran. What should be abundantly clear is that Iran is doing its best to expand its influence. Iran needs the sanctions to end so that it can earn enough not for its internal budget but also for its external hegemony. Ironically, Shia-Iran's arch Sunni competitor, the Saudis, are making the sanctions on Iran more harsh with dropping oil prices. In fact, then, sanctions have been increased on Iran...a better way than having Congress or Netanyahu do it.
Bibi, please find a way to put off your trip for now.
3
What does this really mean? In my view, Netanyahu is pandering to the Christian right which has been duped by the often repeated mantra "The Holy Land" by the Israelis. I personally believe it was the Holy Land many centuries or millenia ago but no longer is as it is the epicenter of hatred and the catalyst of warfare in the world.
The Religious instinct is as strong as hunger for food and love and is being exploited by Israel for political reasons, a very unholy act.
Netanyahu and Boehner are cut from the same cloth. They both know the way to people's hearts is through their religious instinct.
The Religious instinct is as strong as hunger for food and love and is being exploited by Israel for political reasons, a very unholy act.
Netanyahu and Boehner are cut from the same cloth. They both know the way to people's hearts is through their religious instinct.
10
It sounds as if the Israeli Prime Minister has given up on his relationship with President Obama and has decided to try to pressure him through a direct appeal to the Congress. This step could have bad consequences for Israel if some crisis were to strike the country in the remaining time of the Obama presidency. I don;t see good things happening by snubbing and insulting the American president. There could also be long term negative consequences if President Obama is succeeded by a democratic president. It struck me that perhaps the Israeli Prime Minister is betting that wont happen and that a republican candidate will win in 2016. fI guess we have to leave it to the Prime Minister to judge whether his gamble is good electoral politics in Israel itself.
4
It is often a personal character flaw - most often hubris - that pushes a political leader towards actions harmful to his own country. Netanyahu's vulgar demeanor is a milder version of that of Erdogan and Poutine. In this case, he mainly damaged his own electoral chances.
He still could postpone his speech to some time after the Israeli elections. This would somewhat improve his chances, making him appear as a man able to recognize his mistakes. My bet is that he will actually do that, because he is also known as rather cautious. He just miscalculated. How could he not have predicted that the Democrats in the bipartisan group favorable to sanctions would rally around the presidency in such a situation?
He still could postpone his speech to some time after the Israeli elections. This would somewhat improve his chances, making him appear as a man able to recognize his mistakes. My bet is that he will actually do that, because he is also known as rather cautious. He just miscalculated. How could he not have predicted that the Democrats in the bipartisan group favorable to sanctions would rally around the presidency in such a situation?
11
I hope the Israelis are smarter and better informed than the American voters on the rights, that they are not to be fooled by the hawkishness, selfishness and foolishness of their politicians. This action of House Speaker Bohner and Prime Minister Netanyahu diminished both the Presidency of the United States and the Prime Minstership of Israel. As such they weakened the international standing of both countries. May be the Isaraeli Knesset and its Speaker would more sensibly counsel their Prime Minister to stop this damaging charade.
21
Free speech, free country this is not a dictatorship. Netanyahu may increase his poll numbers in Israel but he will severely damage US Israel relations in the process. US support both financial and diplomatic is crucial to the state of Israel. President Obama has not been intimidated by Boehner or Netanyahu and a price will be exacted for their disrespect to his Office.
26
Just Bibi in action - hopefully the Israeli voters will hand him his walking papers and be finished!
17
It is time for the moderate Jewish community in the US to speak out strongly against the extremists in the current Israeli government and their policies .....for the sake of the State of Israel.
29
It is time for the media to inform the public that there are moderate communities in Israel, too, who advocate for much saner solutions than right-wingers like Netenyahu. Everyone thinks he represents all of Israel.
9
Boehner is a Judas. Republicans talk about Obama's imperial presidency, yet they invite a foreign head of state, Obama's counterpart, to address our Congress, to constrain our president, without so much as letting Obama know. This is treason, if not in fact, then definitely in spirit. For his part, Netanyahu may very well wish the best for Israel, but he is playing with fire and endangering US support, certainly a lifeline for Israel. As for Boehner and his supporters, they claim to love our country. They have proven once again that they value humiliating Obama more than revitalizing the US and doing what is best for our people.
32
I find it outrageous that the media (NYT included) continue to refer to Israel as our "ally." Allies share common goals and values. Allies take their partner's situation into account before making a move.The UK and Australia are allies.
Israel. . .? Certainly during the Cold War they stood with us against the Soviets, but then they were paid handsomely for their services. I prefer to think of Israel as an admirable and (sometimes) friendly democracy whose interests only sometimes coincide with ours.
Israel. . .? Certainly during the Cold War they stood with us against the Soviets, but then they were paid handsomely for their services. I prefer to think of Israel as an admirable and (sometimes) friendly democracy whose interests only sometimes coincide with ours.
21
I don't know if Mr Netanyahu will advance his cause by addressing congress under these circumstances but he's spot on vis-a-vis Iran; which is more than one can say for our current leadership.
1
So the leader of a foreign country that maintains one of the longest occupations of a defenseless indigenous people in modern history is coming to lecture us about the hazards of a nation that has never invaded anyone, who allegedly has a nuclear program similar to one he has but we''re afraid to even ask about; are victims of having their democratically elected president removed for our political expediency and has suffered assination of at least 5 scientists and a cyber war to stop a program we're not sure about? ... And the axis of evil lies where?
28
What exactly is so terrible about the leader of another country coming to address a Congress to which he has been invited to speak? No wars will result, nobody will be killed, the President's executive powers are not threatened. I cannot see how this is a big issue. It seems to me that what is really behind the brouhaha is intense dislike of Netanyahu, with this incident just a convenient excuse for expression.
4
@Caleb: some would call it another good reason for dislike.
10
Inviting a foreign leader to speak without even notifying the President is a deliberate attempt, once more, to humiliate President Obama. It's just the latest in a long line of stunts. However, it will go down as a negative for Israel and the Republicans.
10
This will be held against Republicans in the next election. They do not want diplomacy. They want war. And they let a foreign leader dictate our policy. And we should elect a Republican President? So we can waste more money and support the bully in Israel?
30
Perhaps it is time for the US to come to terms and accept the Palestinian's application to the UN for recognition as an independant state.
33
Has anyone considered whether Speaker Boehner's inappropriately inviting Mr. Netanyahu to appear before the U. S. Congress is merely an out and out payoff by Speaker Boehner for the approximately $100 million previously contributed to Republican candidates by gambling tycoon Sheldon Adelson, who just happens to be a major supporter of Netanyahu and his far right faction in Israel? Whether the invitation was a quid pro quo for Adelson's past contributions, or an inducement to have Adelson contribute $100 million or more to influence future U.S. elections, it seems outrageous and unworthy of any elected official. Shame.
36
THIS is a losing proposition, any way you look at it.
Whether you're Bibi, Boehner, Likud, The Republicans, or AIPAC.
I've got it that they are blind to how bad a misjudgement, but no surprise.
Whether you're Bibi, Boehner, Likud, The Republicans, or AIPAC.
I've got it that they are blind to how bad a misjudgement, but no surprise.
24
Do American taxpayers understand that annually $3.1 billion of their hard-earned tax dollars goes to support a foreign state which has conducted obvious human rights abuse and possible war crimes? And now the leader of that very same state is insulting your president?
Do American fathers and mothers understand that Netanyahu could serve up another war to which they may be sending their sons and daughters?
Do American fathers and mothers understand that Netanyahu could serve up another war to which they may be sending their sons and daughters?
37
An utter disgrace to our President, an elected official serving all Americans, including Speaker Boehner.
For Mr. Boehner to smear the President like this for personal gain is really too much for me
If I was the POTUS, our speaking to the House Speaker has come to an end, suffer the country for it, all for campaign contributions....
What a mess
For Mr. Boehner to smear the President like this for personal gain is really too much for me
If I was the POTUS, our speaking to the House Speaker has come to an end, suffer the country for it, all for campaign contributions....
What a mess
17
as a marine corps veteran of the korean war I resent the Israeli government sticking its nose in American affairs. I resent Netanyahu coming to my country to advance his career and tell us what we should do--Israel has its own problems, as the world knows--he is disgusting. he gives me a bad feeling in my gut.
r baskerville
r baskerville
41
There's one way to stop this interjection of poltiics once and for all. Sometimes to put out an oil well fire you need to explode it. Obama should just throw a political bomb and state that if Likud and its allies win the Israeli election, he will do all sorts of things like suspend foreign and diplomatic aid to Israel. Let Netanyahu know if he wants to play with fire, he'd better be prepared to be burned. Let him see how interfering in another country's domestic politics is really done by the big boys.
16
This is what happens when you listen to the Republicans in Congress. That was Netanyahu's first mistake. Accepting the invitation was his second. The Prime Minister of Israel should never jeopardize the bi-partisan support within Congress. It is remarkable that a Prime Miniter would be so strategically incompetent as to endanger Israel's greatest security asset.
I for one no longer support anything Netanyahu. He interjected himself in the 2012 campaign by jumping in with Romney. He has repeatedly insulted the US President. Now he is endangering the security of hs own nation with unprecedetned politicization of an issue that waas heretofore bi-partisan, something very rare in Washington.
Netanyahu is an arrogant egomaniac. TGhe people of Israel deserves much better.
I for one no longer support anything Netanyahu. He interjected himself in the 2012 campaign by jumping in with Romney. He has repeatedly insulted the US President. Now he is endangering the security of hs own nation with unprecedetned politicization of an issue that waas heretofore bi-partisan, something very rare in Washington.
Netanyahu is an arrogant egomaniac. TGhe people of Israel deserves much better.
44
Might I remind you that the people of Israel voted this arrogant, ignorant egomaniac into office not once, but twice .... and I'm willing to bet the farm they will vote for him a third time. No, they don't deserve better, they deserve what they settle for, and they've settled for that appalling, arrogant man.
20
Thats hilarious coming from a country that put not one Bush but two and is now considering a third. America is a country of hypocrites.
5
Our congress is bought and paid for by AIPAC (&Adelson and the rest). It's a well organized and well funded "lobby" and it has a stangle hold on our national interests. All the more reason to limit campaign money from interest groups and get the Congress to do what the Constitution reqires of it.
The disrespect of our President is shameful and further illustrates how far off the mark congress is. Shameful!
The disrespect of our President is shameful and further illustrates how far off the mark congress is. Shameful!
41
I have tried to support Israel during good times and bad.
I have made excuses for the nation in areas of human rights given the unique threats it faces in a volatile region of the world surrounded by professed enemies, even when I question the wisdom and ethics of such human rights violations.
But when I see Prime Minister Netanyahu continually treat our President with disdain and disrespect despite all he has personally done to protect Israel's security, I see that many in Israel's political power structure feel respect and support is a one way street.
I better empathize with those that say Israel is concerned only with itself, not its allies or the rest of the globe.
I have decided to stop making excuses for Israel.
I absolutely do not support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or the Likud party or the policies they try to ram down America's throat with disdain.
I have made excuses for the nation in areas of human rights given the unique threats it faces in a volatile region of the world surrounded by professed enemies, even when I question the wisdom and ethics of such human rights violations.
But when I see Prime Minister Netanyahu continually treat our President with disdain and disrespect despite all he has personally done to protect Israel's security, I see that many in Israel's political power structure feel respect and support is a one way street.
I better empathize with those that say Israel is concerned only with itself, not its allies or the rest of the globe.
I have decided to stop making excuses for Israel.
I absolutely do not support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or the Likud party or the policies they try to ram down America's throat with disdain.
38
Do as I did-- contact your senators and your congressperson and demand-- NO MORE AID FOR ISRAEL!!!
9
Ah, Netanyahu, the George W. Bush of Israeli politics.
Israel has ZERO chance of peace as long as he's around.
Israel has ZERO chance of peace as long as he's around.
43
Good combination: warmongers Netanyahu and the republican congress. What more could a warmonger want?
23
On the 50th Anniversary of Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr. Strangelove” some of the key roles in the film have come back to haunt us. In some ways, House speaker, John Boehner, eerily mirrors General Jack D. Ripper. Certainly his invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak before the US Congress is grandstanding to influence diplomacy concerning Iran, which could lead to a deadly nuclear war. General Buck Turgidson, I mean Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell, is well aware of the first strike capability of Israel.
Together, they have unfairly depicted President Barack Obama in the film role of President Merkin Muffrey, an endlessly patient, but totally overwhelmed character whose only comeback to the Russian Ambassador is that their Doomsday Machine to annihilate the entire world to protect the USSR is not a deterrent if it is kept secret. Both Boehner and McConnell are working tirelessly to back President Obama into a position where diplomacy doesn’t have a chance.
Some American hawks are ratcheting up Prime Minister Netanyahu’s nuclear deterrence policy, ignoring the tragic ending of Dr. Strangelove. Fortunately, real diplomacy during the Cold War, as much as it was satirized, avoided a nuclear holocaust. The US Congress must allow the President to have all possible diplomatic tools today.
Together, they have unfairly depicted President Barack Obama in the film role of President Merkin Muffrey, an endlessly patient, but totally overwhelmed character whose only comeback to the Russian Ambassador is that their Doomsday Machine to annihilate the entire world to protect the USSR is not a deterrent if it is kept secret. Both Boehner and McConnell are working tirelessly to back President Obama into a position where diplomacy doesn’t have a chance.
Some American hawks are ratcheting up Prime Minister Netanyahu’s nuclear deterrence policy, ignoring the tragic ending of Dr. Strangelove. Fortunately, real diplomacy during the Cold War, as much as it was satirized, avoided a nuclear holocaust. The US Congress must allow the President to have all possible diplomatic tools today.
12
Given Netanyahu's friendship with Mitt Romney, Bibi appears to be intervening in US politics.
20
All the comments condemning Netanyahu & Boehner's actions strike me as extreme understatements. No words can adequately describe such despicable behavior.
44
Have a go at it anyway. We're all adults here, at least chronologically. I've been in tighter spots.
2
When will President Obama be addressing Israel's legislature to vent his disagreements with Bibi? Or when can we expect President Putin to address ours? The intrusiveness of Netanyahu, allowed thanks to the continual disrespect and chutzpah of the republicans in congress, is obnoxious in the extreme, as are they. This man should leave us, and our country, alone.
36
If Netanyahu wants to undermine negotiations between the State Department, and the Iranians by this ill advised invitation to speak before Congress, then so be it.
But if he starts a war with Iran, don't expect Americans to rush to Israel's aid. Americans have lost too many sons and daughters fighting wars for Israel in the Mideast.
But if he starts a war with Iran, don't expect Americans to rush to Israel's aid. Americans have lost too many sons and daughters fighting wars for Israel in the Mideast.
27
As if he'd start a war with Iran and be stupid enough to count on the Obama White House, and its "bright red lines" soon turned pinkish. Think 1938, and FDR. History repeats.
3
Iran Must Be Stopped. Shame on Obama and the Democrats for failing to support the Jewish state. Obamas plan for Israel is nothing short of a suicide solution. Israel CAN NOT exist with only an 8 mile wide country. If Obamas plan comes to fruition we will lose Jerusalem (the Holiest spot to us religious Jews) and also lose the entire land (arab missiles can strike Tel Aviv).
I am ashamed of Americas behavior and especially of Obamas viceral hatred of the Jewish state. Before he was elected I warned all my Jewish friends (who voted for the fool) that he would spell the end of Israel as we know it.
I am ashamed of Americas behavior and especially of Obamas viceral hatred of the Jewish state. Before he was elected I warned all my Jewish friends (who voted for the fool) that he would spell the end of Israel as we know it.
4
Ha ha, that's very funny. 8 miles is too narrow, so let's annex more of the west bank, eh? All this distraction serves Israel well in its land grab. Fight in Gaza so no one notices the land grab. Iran is useful to that end also, no?
12
Take a deep breath, please. If Israel is ever threatened with nuclear war, whomever threatens will be a glass covered parking lot soon there after courtesy of the US. Israel is an ally but they are far from perfect. Bibi needs to take a vacation and so do you.
6
You go and stop Iran, bro. You have supported the Jewish state and we only get disrespect in return.
9
American presidents have traditionally not met officially with foreign leaders facing elections in order to avoid the appearance of favoring one candidate over another. The House Republicans, in their continuous efforts to undermine Obama, have done considerable damage not only to to the U.S. - Israel relationship but have made the U.S. even more suspect in the eyes of other Middle East players. For the first time, there seems to be a possibility that the Iranians are truly interested in a deal concerning their nuclear program (the falling price of oil has certainly helped). Boehner and friends seem to be very content to scuttle these talks, fed by Netanyahu and his "take no prisoners" attitude, funded largely by the U.S..
25
"Netanyahu to American Jews: Get Lost"
"By accepting Speaker Boehner's invitation to address Congress, the Israeli leader has chosen to side with political forces opposed by many US Jews."
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/01/netanyahu-boehner-congress-a...
"By accepting Speaker Boehner's invitation to address Congress, the Israeli leader has chosen to side with political forces opposed by many US Jews."
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/01/netanyahu-boehner-congress-a...
14
Percent of American Jews who voted for Obama in 2008: 76%
"Fool me once..." Not a chance.
Percent of American Jews who voted for Obama in 2010: 73%
With friends like that, esp. in NYC, and Dade and Broward counties, Israel does not need enemies.
BTW: I'm a Catholic.
"Fool me once..." Not a chance.
Percent of American Jews who voted for Obama in 2010: 73%
With friends like that, esp. in NYC, and Dade and Broward counties, Israel does not need enemies.
BTW: I'm a Catholic.
2
Come on, aren’t we overreacting? This is nothing more than a political move on the part of Boehner and Netanyahu. Mr. Netanyahu needs the footage of the US Congress whooping and hollering at his every word to help him with his election campaign in Israel. Also, he is trying to inject himself into the Iranian nuclear weapons negotiations, as he wasn’t invited to participate. That’s totally understandable.
Mr. Boehner is looking to increase his party’s favorability with American Jews. After the dismissal of Eric Cantor by the Republican Party, the Party has only one Jewish person in Congress, Lee Zeldin and he has been seated for about two weeks. Meanwhile there are thirty Jewish Congressmen/women who are Democrats with considerable lawmaking experience. So, we have the “party of (almost) no” Jewish lawmakers trying to make amends.
President Obama and the Democrats have Israel’s back. Just look at the last war. Israel crushed Hamas with the support of the best American weapons but, more importantly, with no Arab nation coming to Hamas’ aid. Contrast that with the 6 day war in 1967, when Israel was confronted by Egypt, Jordan and Syria.
Mr. Boehner is looking to increase his party’s favorability with American Jews. After the dismissal of Eric Cantor by the Republican Party, the Party has only one Jewish person in Congress, Lee Zeldin and he has been seated for about two weeks. Meanwhile there are thirty Jewish Congressmen/women who are Democrats with considerable lawmaking experience. So, we have the “party of (almost) no” Jewish lawmakers trying to make amends.
President Obama and the Democrats have Israel’s back. Just look at the last war. Israel crushed Hamas with the support of the best American weapons but, more importantly, with no Arab nation coming to Hamas’ aid. Contrast that with the 6 day war in 1967, when Israel was confronted by Egypt, Jordan and Syria.
Is it possible that the comment by Jagneel (of oceanside, ca) is likely shared by millions of U.S. taxpayers?
1
Why are the Republican so upset if Iran may acquire a nuclear weapon that the Speaker of the House undercuts the President by inviting a war-mongering rabble-rouser to address Congress, while a war-mongering rabble-rouser from North Korea already has several?
9
I'm sure his buddy Mitt has egged Bibi on every step of the way on this speech.
7
If true, Mitt will be a three time loser.
The Democrats should turn their backs and walk out of the chamber the moment Mr. Netanyahu steps up to the podium. His decision to accept Boehner's invitation without first checking with Obama is a clear snub to the president of the United States. It is a gesture of disregard to our government, however dysfunctional it currently may be. Unfortunately, Democratic representatives to our government count on the Jewish vote even more than Republicans and while it would otherwise be an easy decision to show Netanyahu the door, they will have to think twice because of their constituency. Our country should come first, and Mr. Netanyahu is a crazyman who does not deserve a platform in this country.
47
What is the Left afraid of hearing from Netanyahu? Why is it okay for the British PM to lobby Congress to support Obama's approach to Iran? The fear of hearing the truth will likely lead to a grave confrontation with Iran.
4
Did the British PM speak directly to Congress in the People's House? Get your facts straight.
2
Yes, that is correct. There is also a difference between private meetings with members of Congress and public speeches in the United States, not just before Congress.
Nothing is constant. Even the undivided support the Jewish state receives from the American public will one day drop to single digits as it is in most European countries. I would not be surprised to see presidential candidates running on anti-Israel agenda in the not far distance. We will then look back and mark this petulant behavior by Netanyahu as the starting point.
32
Let's hope this maneuver backfires for both Netanyahu and Boehner. The prime minister could well lose the election; this will reflect poorly on both of them. Boehner needs to realize he's not running the country, and he cannot prevent the President from doing so.
48
Thank you NYTimes for printing many of the Israeli voices appalled at Netanyahu's acceptance to speak before Congress, unusual but important to hear.
The worst is Boehner, thinking he's marking turf by inviting him which seems to me borders on treasonous. Boehner wants to undercut hard diplomatic work on Iran in progress, incredible disrespect to the president.
If he comes to speak, those in Congress with any sense of decorum should not go. Leave Bibi to the far-right and AIPAC for an audience, he'll get standing ovations for every utterance.
But don't think we'll forget this arrogant snub of our president. Far more of us voted for Obama, twice, than there are extreme right-wingers in USA.
The worst is Boehner, thinking he's marking turf by inviting him which seems to me borders on treasonous. Boehner wants to undercut hard diplomatic work on Iran in progress, incredible disrespect to the president.
If he comes to speak, those in Congress with any sense of decorum should not go. Leave Bibi to the far-right and AIPAC for an audience, he'll get standing ovations for every utterance.
But don't think we'll forget this arrogant snub of our president. Far more of us voted for Obama, twice, than there are extreme right-wingers in USA.
63
Netanyahu has truly damaged the opinion of most of American Jews about Israel's government, himself and the GOP. Nothing but right-wing, big business shills in both countries. Jewish Democrats, are still the vast majority of American Jews. This slap at Obama and the Democrats to further Netanyahu's and GOP interests won't be forgotten. Obviously the GOP puts Netanyahu's ahead of US opinion..
47
Boehner and the rest of the GOP is doing this just to poke the President in the eye which may play to their constituents but is disrespectful to the Office of the President. If for no other reason that it makes them looks bad they should figure out a way to roll up the carpet. The action does not diminish the President it diminishes the Congress.
39
For a country that's utterly frightened of having to put boots on the ground in any conflict, anywhere, ever again (sorry, Nigeria!), America needs Israel far more than Israel needs us. The enemy of our enemy -- who are Legion -- is our friend, Democrats. Congress knows this.
3
Are there people who are addicted to war?
3
This is wishful thinking. Clearly, Israel has become and will continue to be a liability to US interests in tbe region.
11
We are not afraid to put boots on the ground when necessary and when not foolish (as in Iraq in 2003). We have many friends in the middle east, Oman, UAE, Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar and even Israel. None of them are perfect but they are still our allies.
2
It is about time for President Obama pull the rug out from under Mr. Netanyahu.
37
Benjamin Netanuahu politicking again in the United States. Another speech to the Congress over the head of the president, who is supposed to be in charge of foreign policy in the United States. Israel dictates policy to American Jews who dictate policy to Congress. Stay out of our politics Israel. No more American money for Republican Netanyahu and Republican Israel!
47
VOTE accordingly!!!
4
Mr. Netanyahu should consider carefully that when he snubs Obama, he is snubbing the President of the United States, and a man who was elected twice by a majority of the American people.
Whether they like Obama or not, Americans don't like to see their President treated disrespectfully. Israel has been losing support for a long time, and this will seal the matter in the minds of many Americans.
Whether they like Obama or not, Americans don't like to see their President treated disrespectfully. Israel has been losing support for a long time, and this will seal the matter in the minds of many Americans.
65
Americans don't but Boehner does
If I was Israel I'd want Netanyahu representing me in negotiations with the Palestinians and speaking out for me. Why? Because he's well-spoken and pushy when he has to be. We need to understand that everything he and his adversaries say at this point are extreme bargaining positions and that, as peace talks progress provided that they ever get re-started, the parties will quickly come off their opening positions. Look at what Begin, a man who was viewed as totally intransigent, did in settling up with Sadat and establishing relations with Egypt that have been in place for almost 40 years.
BTW, do you know that Bibi and Republican Mitt know each other from way back in the 1970's and even worked together in Boston?
BTW, do you know that Bibi and Republican Mitt know each other from way back in the 1970's and even worked together in Boston?
1
so what.
12
Israel, by and through Bibi, have offended almost all Democrats, an epic political mistake although beneficial to the Palestinians and other U.S. interests in the middle east.
Iran is still fighting ISIS. What does Israel do?
Iran is still fighting ISIS. What does Israel do?
35
Bibi's got everyone over a barrel! It's a perfect stance for this time of Holocaust remembrances. The peaceniks who are carping about Israel today are the intellectual heirs to Roosevelt, and Chamberlain, in 1938. They're a Fifth Column for Iran, as they were for Ethel and Julius and Uncle Joe Stalin (and Alger Hiss) in the 1950s. We know what Steven Spielberg thinks of abandoning Israel. Who will get thrown under Iran and Hezbollah's bus next?
The only thing worse than not learning the lessons of history is learning the WRONG lessons.
I hope the Democrats in Congress will boycott this speech.
33
As if they have a choice.
No deal with Iran is acceptable without provisions which permit unfettered access to suspected Iranian nuke-activity sites, any time, any place of the inspectors' choosing, in their sole discretion.
I expect, as usual, people to suggest that we hold Israel to the same standard.
The difference is that the posturing by oil-rich Iran's unelected, illegitimate, Twelver religious-fanatic rulers is aggressive, while Israel's rhetoric is purely defensive.
"Iran will help anyone willing to 'cut out the cancer' of Israel, its Supreme Leader dictator Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said today."
One UN member threatening a fellow UN member with annihilation is unprecedented.
You take this quote plus all the other talk that's come out of Iran for years about how Iran's illegitimate, unelected religious-fanatic rulers would prefer that Israel, (which is two countries to the west and with which they have no border, territorial dispute or any natural enmity), cease to exist, and couple that with oil-rich Iran's needless nuclear ambitions, like centrifuges (which have nothing to do with nuclear energy) in particular, and you cannot blame Israel and Netanyahu for being a little nervous and pushing their case in every way possible.
One Holocaust was enough.
Boehner on the other hand was classless for extending an invitation to a foreign country's leader without White House endorsement.
I expect, as usual, people to suggest that we hold Israel to the same standard.
The difference is that the posturing by oil-rich Iran's unelected, illegitimate, Twelver religious-fanatic rulers is aggressive, while Israel's rhetoric is purely defensive.
"Iran will help anyone willing to 'cut out the cancer' of Israel, its Supreme Leader dictator Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said today."
One UN member threatening a fellow UN member with annihilation is unprecedented.
You take this quote plus all the other talk that's come out of Iran for years about how Iran's illegitimate, unelected religious-fanatic rulers would prefer that Israel, (which is two countries to the west and with which they have no border, territorial dispute or any natural enmity), cease to exist, and couple that with oil-rich Iran's needless nuclear ambitions, like centrifuges (which have nothing to do with nuclear energy) in particular, and you cannot blame Israel and Netanyahu for being a little nervous and pushing their case in every way possible.
One Holocaust was enough.
Boehner on the other hand was classless for extending an invitation to a foreign country's leader without White House endorsement.
4
Maybe you should investigate what's been going on in the West Bank and Gaza for the past several decades before you decide that Israel is a bastion human rights. If it was anyone else but Israel doing that, I wonder what it'd be called. Oh, wait, I seem to recall that the entire world thinks it's a human rights disaster, except Israel and the U.S. Hmmm... I guess it depends on your perspective, huh?
3
Apparently Netanyahu's arrogance that the US will always give Israel a carte blanche knows no bounds. Mock the US, spit in our face, and still laugh all the way to the bank...
To all Americans with an ounce of self-respect, let's stop being Israel's freier. They can pursue whatever policies they choose with their own coin and lives.
To all Americans with an ounce of self-respect, let's stop being Israel's freier. They can pursue whatever policies they choose with their own coin and lives.
40
I don't think USA should be kowtowing to Israel.
33
Not to worry, the Administration is doing its best to throw them under the bus, since Jan. 21, 2008. It shows.
1
One important point about Netanyahu and his lack of diplomatic skills is that apparently President Francois Hollande asked him not to come to Paris for the march against terror and not only did he go, but he apparently cut in front of other world leaders to be in the front row. I am not sure if this was in the Times, but this received extensive coverage elsewhere.
30
He's running for re-election and Bibi has very sharp elbows.
America is being taken for a ride by Bibi and the right-wingers both here and in Israel. America never acknowledges the myriad flaws of Israel and their policies. This special relationship is dysfunctional and this incidence merely reveals the depths of the dysfunction. Netanyahu thinks he can dictate to the U.S, but we are the ones holding all the cards. If not for us, Israel would've been overrun decades ago.
34
This is a deliberate slap at the President and his constitutional primacy in foreign affairs -- aided and abetted by PM Netanyahu.
Since Nentanyahu has repeatedly decided to inject himself in US partisan politics, let him see the price for that.
Every Democratic member of the House and Senate should boycott the speech. And President Obama should nominate Chuck Hagel to be our next ambassador to Israel.
Since Nentanyahu has repeatedly decided to inject himself in US partisan politics, let him see the price for that.
Every Democratic member of the House and Senate should boycott the speech. And President Obama should nominate Chuck Hagel to be our next ambassador to Israel.
35
Is this suprising? Israelis are people!!! and some people are decent folk who do not want to be represented by war criminals such as Bibi. Myself included.
14
I'm 99% certain this is a bluff concocted by the President and Netanyahu. Iran will never accept any deal that Israel is in favor of, and a deal is the only way of stopping a nuclear bomb being built.
Mr. Netanyahu please stay in your own country until after the elections. If you win, I'm sure Mr. Boehner will invite you back so the House can fawn over you even more. It's kind of embarrassing when they go all weak over you like that, but they need some kind of break after all those symbolic votes they take all the time.
12
The Head of State of one country elects to speak to the legislature of allied country against the wishes of the other country's Head of State. Interesting way to deal with your allies.
24
Will our politicians ever forego the corrosive grip of AIPAC? Perhaps this snubbing of Obama is the last straw. Buying politicians to serve Israel's needs should be prosecuted under the Espionage Act; indeed prosecute the bought politicians as well.
45
I propose to you the corrosive grip that you speak of is Saudi Arabia... where the President as we speak is fawning over their backward and fanatic leaders....how ironic that on the day when the concentration camps liberation is being marked....Mr. Obama is coddling the Saudis....as far as AIPAC goes..........a legal and effective lobby that fights for the survival of Israel by influencing lawmakers.........protected by our constitution.......and made easier by the recognition by most Americans that Israel is a true friend in the region and shares our core values..........
1
During the past six years Netanyahu has shattered Israel's image in the international community. His bullying and bluster have won him no friends as he leads his country towards isolation. Like Gaza this past summer, Bibi has scored another own goal and both he and Boehner are guilty of manipulating and degrading not only the Obama administration but the American electorate.
His speech before the House will be used as an electioneering platform parroting on about Iran and Israel's security issues. Netanyahu is determined to derail these talks, however, the only threat I see is Israel using the U.S. in another proxy war.
His speech before the House will be used as an electioneering platform parroting on about Iran and Israel's security issues. Netanyahu is determined to derail these talks, however, the only threat I see is Israel using the U.S. in another proxy war.
28
Mr. Netanyahu will be greeted by a prolonged standing ovation from the Republicans in the Chamber. Mr. Boehner will be grinning like the cat that swallowed the canary. All in an effort to put the U.S. closer to a nuclear confrontation with Iran. Beware of the ambitions of such petty politicians.
39
They do it to please their evangelical base, who mostly believe that when Israel has succeeded in owning Jerusalem and has rebuilt the temple there, Jesus will return in glory and snatch the evangelicals to heaven. Then he will destroy all the non-believers, including unconverted Jews. That this is the goal of their "supporters" in the US does not seem to bother the Israelis much, despite the anti-Semitic and otherwise murderous nature of the plan. On such delusions is the politics of the right wing now founded. It bodes ill for all, if the truth is told.
7
I think it should be made clear that it wasn't originally Boehner's idea to invite the Israeli prime minister to speak before Congress.
After President Obama's SOTU speech, in which he mentioned the Iran sanctions, the PM Netanyahu sought, through Israeli Ambassador, Ron Dermer, the invitation to speak before Congress. Speaker Boehner was, of course, only too happy to oblige.
After President Obama's SOTU speech, in which he mentioned the Iran sanctions, the PM Netanyahu sought, through Israeli Ambassador, Ron Dermer, the invitation to speak before Congress. Speaker Boehner was, of course, only too happy to oblige.
8
Far be it from Boehner to think through the consequences of his acts.
2
Boehner has to be held accountable for his own part in this. We all know he should have said sorry, not on.
7
It was not Boehner's place to do so. He is not the President.
5
Mr. Boehner and Mr. Netanyahu's actions to circumvent and undermine authority of the President of the United States probably has made it a certainty Americans will not sign off to war with Iran to stop their nukes.
Up until now, this whole notion has been some abstract tough talk amongst would be and past presidents. This vow to prevent another country from developing a capability to create nuclear weaponry is by itself breathtakingly arrogant.
And how is that possible in this day and age of technological achievements in leaps and bounds? To succeed in that attempt would require Iran to be located in a parallel universe from our own; thus the macho promises, threats, vows from Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama were hoaxes from the moments they were declared.
The USA has been the target of Russia and China's nuclear arsenals for decades. but we are now to go to war to stop a second or third rate nuclear power (at most) from acquiring nuclear capabilities? Let them join the same club nuke club with Pakistan, India and North Korea?.
Has anyone really considered the implications of attacking Iran for this purpose. and the certain blow back of physical and cyber terrorism which would be visited on lives of Americans and our economy?
No, the best way to deter Iran from acquiring nuclear capability would be our willingness to encourage similar craziness amongst their neighboring enemies to arm.
Nations who have crazy intent believe what others like them will do.
Up until now, this whole notion has been some abstract tough talk amongst would be and past presidents. This vow to prevent another country from developing a capability to create nuclear weaponry is by itself breathtakingly arrogant.
And how is that possible in this day and age of technological achievements in leaps and bounds? To succeed in that attempt would require Iran to be located in a parallel universe from our own; thus the macho promises, threats, vows from Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama were hoaxes from the moments they were declared.
The USA has been the target of Russia and China's nuclear arsenals for decades. but we are now to go to war to stop a second or third rate nuclear power (at most) from acquiring nuclear capabilities? Let them join the same club nuke club with Pakistan, India and North Korea?.
Has anyone really considered the implications of attacking Iran for this purpose. and the certain blow back of physical and cyber terrorism which would be visited on lives of Americans and our economy?
No, the best way to deter Iran from acquiring nuclear capability would be our willingness to encourage similar craziness amongst their neighboring enemies to arm.
Nations who have crazy intent believe what others like them will do.
11
Mr. Netanyahu doesn't want to be a friend of America - or anyone else for that matter. I suspect this is all about the fact that President Obama has made it clear that Bibi doesn't own the Presidency (I guess that hurt, otherwise, why would he have engineered this embarassing fiasco). He will soon learn that he doesn't really control Congress, he is simply a convenience for Boehner at this particular moment in time. I don't think he's thought this thing through...
22
I agree with you that Obama has made it clear to Netanyahu that he doesn't own the Presidency. I do think Netanyahu and AIPAC own Congress.
6
I have always been a very strong supporter of Israel, unequivocally and in all matters, nearly without exception. Sadly, over the past 10 years or so I have found myself wondering how I could continue such support in the face of the face of repeated and unabashed instances of nose thumbing the world. The cynical and tone deaf political involvement of Israel during the last US presidential election left me much less inclined to blindly back Israeli positions. This historical political breach of protocol, snub of the President and blatant alignment (with all pretense dropped) of w/ cynical Republican political shenanigans has now opened my eyes fully. I regret having spent my life thus far being duped and giving my blind trust to such an undeserving entity.
40
you can be upset about a politician without bashing the country......short sighted
In my view Conservative right wing politicians are supporting this because AIPAC makes political contributions. AIPAC is just another lobbyist group paying those to do their bidding. And nine politicians in SCOTUS ruled it's legal!
Just another case of elected officials getting what they need to get reelected and the voters getting the crumbs.
The way we fund political campaigns in America MUST change.
Just another case of elected officials getting what they need to get reelected and the voters getting the crumbs.
The way we fund political campaigns in America MUST change.
42
Well, yes, but don't overlook the fact that conservative right wing politicians will overlook no opportunity to poke President Obama in the eye in any way possible, as often as possible. This guiding GOP principle trumps issues like our national image and potentially even our security.
8
What this shows is that there is not really an Israeli lobby in this country, but a Netanyahu lobby. What are we doing intervening in the Israeli election trying to strengthen the least pro-Western candidate?
23
Bibi Netanyahu has repeatedly disgraced himself and Israel.
Netanyahu's leadership has created great danger to Israel's security and reputation, whereas President Obama is doing a much better job looking out for Israel's security, precisely because of American negotiations with Iran.
Netanyahu is incapable of fairly negotiating and only knows how to bully, to the point of losing support of his closest allies while gaining nothing beneficial for Israel.
Israeli will greatly benefit if Netanyahu loses the upcoming election. Hopefully, Israel's voters will realize this and kick Bibi out of office. Replacing Bibi Netanyahu with a leader of integrity and decency would be the best thing to have occurred in Israel in decades.
Netanyahu's leadership has created great danger to Israel's security and reputation, whereas President Obama is doing a much better job looking out for Israel's security, precisely because of American negotiations with Iran.
Netanyahu is incapable of fairly negotiating and only knows how to bully, to the point of losing support of his closest allies while gaining nothing beneficial for Israel.
Israeli will greatly benefit if Netanyahu loses the upcoming election. Hopefully, Israel's voters will realize this and kick Bibi out of office. Replacing Bibi Netanyahu with a leader of integrity and decency would be the best thing to have occurred in Israel in decades.
67
The far right Christian Conservatives want the Israelis in power in the ME according to their beliefs, then they will either convert them or kill them.
4
Boehner injects US politics into Israeli elections; Netanyahu injected Israel into domestic US politics.
Disgusting.
Slowly the American people are beginning to realize that the interests of Israel and of the US do not coincide; there is no such thing as "dual allegiance", even if even Christian fundamentalists imagine so.
This "sordid invitation" in the words of one prominent commentator may at last be a bridge too far.
Disgusting.
Slowly the American people are beginning to realize that the interests of Israel and of the US do not coincide; there is no such thing as "dual allegiance", even if even Christian fundamentalists imagine so.
This "sordid invitation" in the words of one prominent commentator may at last be a bridge too far.
71
Netanyahu proves what Walt and Mearsheimer wrote in there book about the Isreal lobby. It's just too easy for Isreali leaders and there mouthpieces to influence the political scene here in America, that's not anti-semetic thinking. it seems like everytime Netanyahu comes here he is speaking to congress or some large gathering of lawmakers in Washington, they cheer him and then rush to undermine the sitting president of the United States.
42
As an historian, I have studied the ME. Semitic is a term of ethnicity to the whole of the "Middle East," from the Med (not inclding Anatolia[Turkey]) to the Iranian border. (That is Lebanon (before the "Sea Peoples in 1177 BCE) Syria, Palestine, Jordan, the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq). They are ALL Semites. People should realize that.
3
Helpful to give people a link, Alex:
http://mearsheimer.uchicago.edu/pdfs/A0040.pdf
"The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy."
John J. Mearsheimer
Department of Political Science
University of Chicago
Stephen M. Walt
John F. Kennedy School of Government
Harvard University
Readers can follow the thread of the follow up criticism of Mearsheimer's and Walt's work, and Mearsheimer's and Walt's responses to those criticisms. I'll assume people know how Google works.
http://mearsheimer.uchicago.edu/pdfs/A0040.pdf
"The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy."
John J. Mearsheimer
Department of Political Science
University of Chicago
Stephen M. Walt
John F. Kennedy School of Government
Harvard University
Readers can follow the thread of the follow up criticism of Mearsheimer's and Walt's work, and Mearsheimer's and Walt's responses to those criticisms. I'll assume people know how Google works.
Both Boehner and Netanyahu come out of this looking profoundly stupid, so warped by their stubborn vision that they can't see the forest through the trees. As the GOP makes an effort to move more to the center, with some governors backing the ACA and changing their stance on traditional hard-right issues like raising taxes, this undermining of Obama could be the straw that breaks the camel's back, creates a fissure in the GOP, and leads to a new moderate among the rank and file right. And, it looks like the same is happening in Israel. These two ideologues--Boehner and Netanyahu--need to go, for the betterment of our world.
45
I hope Speaker Boehner will have the wisdom to rescind his invitation to Prime Minister Netanyahu for the simple reason that it breaches protocol.
Speaker Boehner is surely aware that he is setting a bad precedent. Future Speakers of the House of Representatives, of either party, will use this precedent as justification to break with time-honoured Congressional traditions; they will solicit speeches from whoever they think will help domestic political goals, regardless of whether the invitations - a foray into U.S. foreign policy decision making - are made in tandem with the White House or not. It's worth reminding present and future Speakers of the House that they are obliged to place established protocols ahead of partisanship.
If Netanyahu were to address Congress, will Speaker Boehner have the integrity to invite the Iranian President to offer his rebuttal? Based on the precedent he has set, he will not even have to coordinate the invitation with the White House! But I suspect Boehner would not agree to offer the opportunity of a rebuttal because his commitment to Congressional protocols is as low as his integrity.
Speaker Boehner is surely aware that he is setting a bad precedent. Future Speakers of the House of Representatives, of either party, will use this precedent as justification to break with time-honoured Congressional traditions; they will solicit speeches from whoever they think will help domestic political goals, regardless of whether the invitations - a foray into U.S. foreign policy decision making - are made in tandem with the White House or not. It's worth reminding present and future Speakers of the House that they are obliged to place established protocols ahead of partisanship.
If Netanyahu were to address Congress, will Speaker Boehner have the integrity to invite the Iranian President to offer his rebuttal? Based on the precedent he has set, he will not even have to coordinate the invitation with the White House! But I suspect Boehner would not agree to offer the opportunity of a rebuttal because his commitment to Congressional protocols is as low as his integrity.
48
Speakers ever since Gingrich have been pure partisans, not speakers for the bipartisan majority of Congress.
The US and Israel have a special relationship and all that. Still. the notion that Israelis would vote against Netanyahu because he's not popular enough in the US is extraordinary. I have to confess, when I voted for Obama I didn't consider his popularity in Botswana. I guess I need to broaden my perspective.
3
You're right, your counterexample was more than a stretch.
3
The US is the only country left supporting Israel after last summer's horrific attack on the captive civilians of Gaza. How long that unconditional support will hold depends on the growing awareness among younger generations of the reality of Israel's occupation of Palestine versus the myths sold by the majority of the media. Bibi's an absolute fool to risk any support in the US, but he seems to have entirely lost track of reality, so hardly a surprise.
58
I would like to see London being bombarded by rockets and the UK not responding. Oh, that happened in WWII and boy did they bomb Dresden. Of course, when Israel responds to constant rocket bombarding from Gaza, all the anti-Semites creep out of their holes and demand that Israel not defend itself.
2
STOP calling anyone who does not agree with you an anti-Semite!!! It is unfair, untrue and unseemly.
2
To offer the Congress of the United States as a forum for a foreign country's Prime Minister so that he may refute the twice-elected President of the United States is demeaning to our stature as a nation and a democracy.
75
There are ways to approach the U.S. political body that respects our country. This is not it. No matter what the content of Netanyahu's speech, doing an end run around the president contributes to the rancorous state in Washington.
Netanyahu will be well remembered for his combative and disrespectful style. Perhaps he just enjoys conflict and thrives on the attention he gets from creating it.
Netanyahu will be well remembered for his combative and disrespectful style. Perhaps he just enjoys conflict and thrives on the attention he gets from creating it.
31
I suspect Mr. Netanyahu doesn't fully understand American politics. Perhaps he thinks Mr. Boehner is simply a Republican in a country where there are Democrats and Republicans, and even though they squabble, they are essentially pals. Perhaps he doesn't get it that the Republican party scoffs at science, doesn't believe in equal pay for men and women, and believes cutting taxes for the rich generates jobs and constitutes justice. Perhaps he doesn't get it that for many of us, John Boehner and the whole Republican party are anathema.
if all of these things are not "perhaps," but are true, Mr. Netanyahu's failure to understand the situation in the United States should be enough to persuade those israelis on the fence to vote him out of office.
if all of these things are not "perhaps," but are true, Mr. Netanyahu's failure to understand the situation in the United States should be enough to persuade those israelis on the fence to vote him out of office.
25
He ain't the only one.
A majority of the House now Republican.
Are you saying the majority of Americans scoff at science and those other things.
Kindly speak for yourself.
You don't speak for me or most people.
It's the failure of liberals like you to understand the situation in the USA that will convince people to vote Republican.
A majority of the House now Republican.
Are you saying the majority of Americans scoff at science and those other things.
Kindly speak for yourself.
You don't speak for me or most people.
It's the failure of liberals like you to understand the situation in the USA that will convince people to vote Republican.
It's good to know that some Israelis see the danger in this address. It would be better if American Jews would create an uproar over a head of this foreign state coming here specifically to undermine our President. Perhaps even the Republicans would get the message that this despicable tactic is unAmerican to the core.
45
Netanyahu and his GOP ambassador have already caused considerable damage to U.S.-Israeli relationship. The damage goes far beyond alienating Israel from a sitting president of the United States; by projecting a false Israeli confidence, they are forcing people to ponder, even conclude that the two nations can go on independent of each other. They are cutting a very bad deal for Israel.
33
Neither Mr Boehner nor Mr Netanyahu are very bright. They deserve each other. But, we don't deserve them.
62
The Israeli ambassador to the US needs to be expelled. This man meet with the SOS for two hours the day before this announcement was made and didn't give him a heads up. I bet he was asking Kerry to help him with a UN problem. The US is the only country that's protecting Israel in the UN. The other member nations are ready to grant the Palestinian people statehood. And many are ready to take Israel to the International Criminal Court.
7
The arrogance of the speaker of the house in arranging the speech by Netanyahu before Congress is typical of the attitude taken by the far right of the republican party. The speaker fails to recognize that he is doing damage not to the credibility of President Obama, but to the Presidency itself. Section 2.2 of the Constitution clearly states that the President is the conductor of American foreign policy, not the speaker of the house. However, the undistinguished representative from Ohio is obviously too poorly educated to know that as he is too self absorbed to hold the position for which he was chosen. His only goal seems to be to hold on to the speakership.
If Netanyahu had any class he would have refused the offer. But he is also willing to do anything to hold on to his position including fighting to the death of the last American soldier. They make a nice pair.
If Netanyahu had any class he would have refused the offer. But he is also willing to do anything to hold on to his position including fighting to the death of the last American soldier. They make a nice pair.
331
tell me Mr. Bradley.............when did American soldiers die in defense of Israel ? Maybe in defense of Arab countries..you may have them confused..........
3
Just more unconditional support of DEMS and unconditional trashing of Republicans
2
That's exactly what Netanyahu wants, to have us take the laboring oar in a war with Iran, because as the White House says, he's too "chickenshit" to have Israel fight its own battle. Israel is NOT the 51st state, and we should never side with Israel in a war. We are already hated enough internationally just for giving them the aid that allows them to maintain their strong war machine. Moreover, Israel in my eyes has gone from a country fighting for its survival to an apartheid state where it keeps millions of stateless Palestinians in West Bank and Gaxa, subjecting them to cruel rule as Israel continues to steal their land. As for the Palestinians in Israel, they are undeniably and thoroughly discrminated against on a daily basis.
None of this makes me a supporter of Islam. That religion's stance on women, the LGBT community, and its adherants failure to report Islamic terrorists before they commit their terrorist acts leads me to believe the religion jas nothing to offer. Then again, I am against ALL organized religion.
None of this makes me a supporter of Islam. That religion's stance on women, the LGBT community, and its adherants failure to report Islamic terrorists before they commit their terrorist acts leads me to believe the religion jas nothing to offer. Then again, I am against ALL organized religion.
3
It's time for him to look in the mirror. He's not Sharon, not by a long shot.Change is in the air.
6
Did you support Sharon.
Remember the old 1930s union song "Which Side Are You On?" I am a Jewish American who -- like the overwhelming majority of Jewish Americans -- is a Democrat. This insult to our President and to diplomatic protocol should be answered in kind. I suggest everyone opposed to this speech taking place should write / email their two Senators and their one Representative and tell them not to show up for Netanyahu's speech to show which side they are on. Let Netanyahu talk to a chamber full of Republicans, since he only values their input anyway.
75
Scrim1 -- great idea! I'm going to write as you suggest. Thanks
4
As another Jew, who supports the State of Israel but detests the current Israeli right-wing government, I support your idea.
5
I did this days ago! Not only did I ask them not to attend, I asked them to suspend ALL AID to Israel. I do not pay my taxes to support Israel and be insulted in return. Let Netanyahu figure out how to replace $3 billion/year. Even Sheldon Adelson can't come up with that kind of dosh.
1
I would be so delighted if the Democrats just boycotted the speech. Oh I would dance.
35
I am compelled to write a long diatribe on the subject but when I am angry, I hold my tongue, and my writing.
When another nation endangers ours for it's own self interests, it's time to reevaluate our relationship.
The Israelis do indeed call themselves, "The State of Israel".
When another nation endangers ours for it's own self interests, it's time to reevaluate our relationship.
The Israelis do indeed call themselves, "The State of Israel".
34
Exactly Patrick, Netanyahu is endangering our nation for his own selfish interests! He did it with Iraq and thousands of American soldiers lost their lives and let's not forget the hundreds of thousands Iraqi civilians who died in that war. All because Netanyahu accused Iraq of having WMD just like he's doing now with Iran. He's a warmonger! He's been at three wars against Palestine and just this past summer killed over 2000 civilians!!! The Palestinians have suffered greatly at the hands of Netanyahu. Addressing congress is not your business Netanyahu.
6
It is perfectly appropriate for Mr. Netanyahu to express his disagreements with the President through diplomatic channels or from a venue outside the United States, but the invitation to him to address Congress on issues that divide Congress and divide its leadership from the President is simply outrageous from any standard diplomatic norm. It bears no similarity, for example, to a foreign leader like Winston Churchill addressing Congress at the height of World War II. If Mr Netanyahu has any sense or any concern for Israel he will decline the invitation. That said, President Obama himself has a penchant for grandstanding in foreign countries and delivering speeches that appeal to opponents of their democratically elected governments without observing normal diplomatic courtesies, for example, of showing and clearing his speech with the democratically elected government. Australia is the latest example of this.
15
When did President Obama do this 2 weeks before one of his elections?
2
It doesn't really matter what the timetables of American or Israeli politics happen to be. I say that as a foreigner from the standpoint of diplomatic norms. It is simply inappropriate for a foreign leader to support the opposition to a democratically elected government in a public speech in a democratic country.
Israel does not want it's neighbors to develop nuclear power because? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYW_lPlekiQ
2
They want to be the only power in that area that is "nuclear." It's obvious that Bibi is going "nuclear."
1
May it be his last speech as Prime Minister. Israel deserves a leader that will guarantee its future and security,mand Netanyahu has failed miserably at both.
24
The prime minister of Israel will not gain anything by speaking before Congress. The American people will see it as disrespectful of the President and Israel needs the good will of America, all America.
206
But it might play well to his base in Israel, just as it does for Boehner in Ohio.
1
Gotta love how the congress of this country is more loyal to the PM of Israel then it is to the President of this country!
67
So Netanyahu comes to the US to deliver what some Republicans have called "Their response to the State of the Union". We have a congress who will cheer attacks by a foreign leader on a sitting president. I cant imagine a more disrespectful thing to do not only to Obama but to the US itself. Whats more, I can't think of a better way to give fuel to the worst calumnies by Anti-Semites who claim that the US is controlled by Israel.
37
American voters showing outrage doesn't bring the story out of the editorial pages, but the need to do damage control does? Too late, the arrogance of Israeli government is out there for everyone to see.
When will you get around to telling us Israel is bombing Syria again?
When will you get around to telling us Israel is bombing Syria again?
15
I have always wondered why the Cuban lobby( representing 1.7+ Cuban-Americans) and the "Jewish lobby" (representing 6.5+ million Jewish-Americans") have such an inordinate political influence in our country of 300+ million American citizens! Can anyone please explain this to me? And, I anxiously await the Anti-Cuban and Anti-Semitic accusations of my query. Just asking.
2
I would like to know who died and left America and Israel in charge of the world.
Why do Democrats want to levy sanctions against Iran now? Haven't they been helpful dealing with ISIS? I thought sanctions did not work- didn't we just lift them against Cuba for that very reason?
Israel has nuclear weapons, they have state of the art weapons and a top notch military. Iran is not interested in nuclear weapons for an offensive. Iran is located in between Iraq and Afghanistan. We invaded Iraq when our leaders knew well the evidence for WMDs was not there. We supposedly went into Afghanistan to capture Bin Laden. If I were an Iranian I might want a nuclear weapon as a deterrent. When countries on each side of you have been blown to bits I would worry too.
Every future text book will see the true intentions of the U.S. and Israel. It is getting embarrassing. Netanyahu will speak before Congress and all our lawmakers will jump. Let's face it, the military-industrial complex we were warned about will not rest. There is too much money to be made. The American and Israeli governments are not interested in brokering peace anywhere in the world.
Sanctions are about forcing another country into a corner. They hope they can force them to respond militarily. These sanctions are because Iran has decided to trade with China and Russia and bypass the dollar.
Newsflash Congress- we are tired of your sanctions and wars. Try and focus on America. Israel is not one of the 50 states.
Why do Democrats want to levy sanctions against Iran now? Haven't they been helpful dealing with ISIS? I thought sanctions did not work- didn't we just lift them against Cuba for that very reason?
Israel has nuclear weapons, they have state of the art weapons and a top notch military. Iran is not interested in nuclear weapons for an offensive. Iran is located in between Iraq and Afghanistan. We invaded Iraq when our leaders knew well the evidence for WMDs was not there. We supposedly went into Afghanistan to capture Bin Laden. If I were an Iranian I might want a nuclear weapon as a deterrent. When countries on each side of you have been blown to bits I would worry too.
Every future text book will see the true intentions of the U.S. and Israel. It is getting embarrassing. Netanyahu will speak before Congress and all our lawmakers will jump. Let's face it, the military-industrial complex we were warned about will not rest. There is too much money to be made. The American and Israeli governments are not interested in brokering peace anywhere in the world.
Sanctions are about forcing another country into a corner. They hope they can force them to respond militarily. These sanctions are because Iran has decided to trade with China and Russia and bypass the dollar.
Newsflash Congress- we are tired of your sanctions and wars. Try and focus on America. Israel is not one of the 50 states.
43
"Israel is not one of the 50 states" - -says who?
4
You ask "who died and left Israel and the United States in charge of the world".
God did.
At least that's what a lot of GOP lawmakers puppet to believe.
God did.
At least that's what a lot of GOP lawmakers puppet to believe.
2
@jeffries
"Why do Democrats want to levy sanctions against Iran now? "
On the whole, Democrats (with a few notable exceptions) at this point in the midst of US-Iran (and others) negotiations, do NOT want to lay on -- or to pass legislation threatening to lay on -- sanctions in addition to the already effective sanctions now in place.
If and when negotiations end without satisfactory Iranian agreements, THEN there will be plenty of time to ratchet up the sanctions.
"All (Republicans) are saying, is (DON'T) give peace a chance."
"Why do Democrats want to levy sanctions against Iran now? "
On the whole, Democrats (with a few notable exceptions) at this point in the midst of US-Iran (and others) negotiations, do NOT want to lay on -- or to pass legislation threatening to lay on -- sanctions in addition to the already effective sanctions now in place.
If and when negotiations end without satisfactory Iranian agreements, THEN there will be plenty of time to ratchet up the sanctions.
"All (Republicans) are saying, is (DON'T) give peace a chance."
Although it certainly represents a breach in protocol for Boehner not to have consulted the State Dept. before inviting Netanyahu, it's certainly within the rights and purview of the legislative branch of government to invite whomever it wishes without the consent — or, technically, even the knowledge — of the executive branch.
3
HKGuy
It is not within the "purview" of the House of Representatives to attempt to conduct the foreign policy of the United States. Republicans are not conservatives, they do whatever they want with no regard for america's history and institutions. They have the ethics of bushwhackers.
There are reasons for "protocol", there are reasons specious hacks are despised and there are reasons trash is trash.
It is not within the "purview" of the House of Representatives to attempt to conduct the foreign policy of the United States. Republicans are not conservatives, they do whatever they want with no regard for america's history and institutions. They have the ethics of bushwhackers.
There are reasons for "protocol", there are reasons specious hacks are despised and there are reasons trash is trash.
19
HKGuy, let's hear of much that shoe pinches when it is on the other foot.
1
Over a half century ago, Harry Truman once said, "An expert is a little squirt under pressure." In this case, Netanyahu is an "expert."
13
One wonders why FDR didn't get Truman briefed on the Manhattan Project when he had to know he could die at any moment.
Israel spies on the United States, demands more in foreign aid than we give to the rest of the world combined, jeopardizes US security by refusing to negotiate in good faith, bullying its neighbors, building ever more inflammatory illegal settlements and then running to hide behind our military and economic skirts, meddling in our domestic affairs through AIPAC and other well-heeled "lobbying" groups, and then Netanyahu decides to play partisan politics to try to force his will on our foreign policy.
I realize that Israel is an outpost of democracy in the Middle East and is our only dependent local partner. But when will we ever have a rational discussion of whether the price we pay is worth that partnership?
I realize that Israel is an outpost of democracy in the Middle East and is our only dependent local partner. But when will we ever have a rational discussion of whether the price we pay is worth that partnership?
55
If Likud wants to become a branch of the Republican Party, it will suffer the fate of the Republican Party. This is a terrible move for Netanyahu who has chosen to take a Bi-partisan Israel and turn it into a politicized one
58
So you mean that Likud is going to win both houses of Congress by wide majorities like the Republicans did? Is that your point? An unusual one to be sure. Likud may want tips from the G.O.P. on how to defeat the left in its own nation, but my guess is Likud will stay focused on Israel.
1
Sorry, Wesley, turnout in Israel won't be the 36% that the GOP needs to win here. It will be more like 85%. You know what happens here when turnout is high? The GOP gets turned out.
16
Where do you think the neo-cons got their theories of pre-emptive war if not from Likudniks?
3
Netanyahu being a best buddy of the GOP Congressional leadership does not exactly win Israel a strong sense of alliance with many Americans. Was he packing?
57
Oh, I don't know. Israel still seems to find more supporters in the US than anywhere else, but Israel feels increasingly disconnected to the US. Leon Panetta's assurance to Israel; "We've got your back covered" seems get shallower every time the Obama Administration caves in to another Iranian nuclear demand and heightens Israel's perceived threat to its existence from that country.
Was America as liberal as it is now immediately after WW2? I don't think so. Liberalism only flourishes during prolonged periods of security and a lack of internal or external enemies.
It's easy to be a liberal when you have a secure income, a modern tastefully renovated apartment, social acceptance, a Prius in the garage and your existence isn't under threat from some really nasty neighbours.
Didn't America take a sharp turn to the right after 9/11? No liberals in the foxhole?
Was America as liberal as it is now immediately after WW2? I don't think so. Liberalism only flourishes during prolonged periods of security and a lack of internal or external enemies.
It's easy to be a liberal when you have a secure income, a modern tastefully renovated apartment, social acceptance, a Prius in the garage and your existence isn't under threat from some really nasty neighbours.
Didn't America take a sharp turn to the right after 9/11? No liberals in the foxhole?
The problem facing Netanyahu and Israel as well as Americans vis a vis Iran and the possible forthcoming agreement, if it works, is that many people on the right of the political spectrum do not trust Obama and his foreign policy. And for good reason. Has his famous red line in Syria been forgotten and his enthusiastic support of Morsi in Egypt when the closest US allies in the Middle East were highly suspicious of the Moslem Brotherhood? Obama was also enthusiastic about Erdogan in Turkey until he showed his true colours. Why would anyone have faith that Obama who lives in dread of committing the US to any active foreign policy (his time has difficulty using the term Al Qaida) stand firm on a nuclear Iran. I don't believe he would do anything if Iran got the bomb. For Israelis and others in the Middle East Iran is the major threat and few anymore believe Obama is a strong ally. That I believe is Bibi's motivation for addressing Congress to warn those who want to listen that a bad deal with Iran is a potential disaster.
3
Bibi's motivation is for Bibi to be re-elected and to spit in the ye of our President and Commander in Chief. Like all right-wingers, Bibi wants a war rather than an agreement. That's why he "mows the grass" every few years and never tries to negotiate with the Palestinians or anyone else. Right-wing Israelis want the US to spend billions on supporting Israel and then we are supposed to take orders from Bibi. There are 774 million Iranians and 8 million Israelis. The American people don't want a war with Iran and many of us are tired of supporting a right-wing government in Israel that is an embarrassment.
15
Why don't you ask BiBi to throw Israeli A-Bombs into the mix? Not by his usual method of threats, but by offering to give them up in exchange for Iran (a nation that has never attacked another nation in modern times) not building any.
For my part, I will try to have our government put a little pressure on BIBI by telling him he has a choice: Continued massive Military Aid and Protection under our Nuclear Umbrella - Or keeping Israeli's A-Bombs (built in secret and against International Law BTW); but not both.
Let's see what we can do together.
For my part, I will try to have our government put a little pressure on BIBI by telling him he has a choice: Continued massive Military Aid and Protection under our Nuclear Umbrella - Or keeping Israeli's A-Bombs (built in secret and against International Law BTW); but not both.
Let's see what we can do together.
6
Peretz,
The biggest problem here is that you are Israeli and have a different point of view than Americans. There are many American who support Israel, but don't want a politician who has made snide, disrespectful comments toward American and disrespectful actions the cornerstones of his American policy.
If you take a look at which posts are receiving heavy recommendations, you will see that perhaps Americans don't want a lot of Israeli interference in our politics.
The biggest problem here is that you are Israeli and have a different point of view than Americans. There are many American who support Israel, but don't want a politician who has made snide, disrespectful comments toward American and disrespectful actions the cornerstones of his American policy.
If you take a look at which posts are receiving heavy recommendations, you will see that perhaps Americans don't want a lot of Israeli interference in our politics.
5
Fascinating that on the day marking the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the ultimate symbol of the Nazi (and a large chunk of humanity's) desire to hound Jews off the face of the earth we have the politically-correct chorus bleating against Netanyahu for coming to address Congress about the risk of another Holocaust, this one carried out by a nuclear armed Iran that has been crystal clear about its intention to annihilate every last Jew in Israel. Whatever the breach of decorum, Netanyahu is braving the slings and arrows because it is the right thing to do. He is a desperate man in desperate straits. The only country he thought he could count on is now headed by a man who puts his Islamic credentials on display repeatedly (kissing the ring of the new Islamic lunatic ruling Saudi Arabia while ignoring the Paris demonstration) and making a point of showing contempt for Israel and hatred for its Prime Minister. Netanyahu may have a tin ear for certain aspects of American political culture, but so does a president who regularly violates the separation of powers and believes that elections have no consequences. Netanyahu feels he must deliver his Jeremiad because the survival of his people depend on it. It is evident that many comment writers hope he is right. I suspect there would be few tears shed on the left if Israel is nuked.
10
Doctor
I share with you.
Obama is the twice elected president of the United States of America. Read the constitution if the United States of America on who has authority on foreign policy and treaties. Taint Boehner. Taint some foreigner.
Netanyahu is some Israeli politician. Israel is not one of those United States. Really.
And, was George W kissed the Saudi monarch. And, republicans who are insanely addicted to America's addiction to that sweet sweet sweet crude.
I share with you.
Obama is the twice elected president of the United States of America. Read the constitution if the United States of America on who has authority on foreign policy and treaties. Taint Boehner. Taint some foreigner.
Netanyahu is some Israeli politician. Israel is not one of those United States. Really.
And, was George W kissed the Saudi monarch. And, republicans who are insanely addicted to America's addiction to that sweet sweet sweet crude.
49
"Mutually assured destruction" has been a fact of life of everyone on this planet since I was born.
12
@Doctor - while we are invoking the Constitution, please tell me where it says the speaker of the house can not invite guests to address the congress?
2
Before getting your noses out of joint. The White House response to Presidents not sitting beside Leaders who are in elections in the for see able future was weak. What was Obama doing beside the British Prime Minister recently? England is in election mode.
Back to the main point of this article. Mr. Netanyahu comes across to me as Richard Nixon and John Diefenbaker. Three men in Office to long and became really paranoid.
No one is questioning Mr. Netanyahu's commitment to Israel. Maybe it is time to let another group lead.
Israel is going no where Sir.
Back to the main point of this article. Mr. Netanyahu comes across to me as Richard Nixon and John Diefenbaker. Three men in Office to long and became really paranoid.
No one is questioning Mr. Netanyahu's commitment to Israel. Maybe it is time to let another group lead.
Israel is going no where Sir.
18
Not everything that Israel wants is in America's interests. For Netanyahu to use a joint address of congress to push his opposition to the administration cutting a nuclear deal with Iran, is disgraceful. And for Boehner to have extended the invitation without talking first to the administration is contemptible.
If the talks with Iran fail, the US should tell the Israelis that if they want to start a new war with Iran to stop their nuclear program that's up to them, but they'll be on their own.
If the talks with Iran fail, the US should tell the Israelis that if they want to start a new war with Iran to stop their nuclear program that's up to them, but they'll be on their own.
135
I agree. This is the kind of action that leads me to believe we should cut them off, in the UN and in terms of aid.
11
Unfortunately, Israel is not militarily capable of a sustained war with Iran. And the reason why Bibi wants the US to do it for him.
No more American young men and women are to die in wars for Israel. Not a single Israeli soldier has ever died in a war for the United States. None that I am aware of anyway.
No more American young men and women are to die in wars for Israel. Not a single Israeli soldier has ever died in a war for the United States. None that I am aware of anyway.
2
The office of President of the United States of America used to be respected and revered. That no longer is the case.
Today, the GOP invites a foreign leader of a client state -- Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel -- to come to Washington DC and berate President Obama's foreign policy at a special session in Congress.
According to the King James Bible " if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand." Has the future arrived in America? Is political-social cohesion being lost along with a prosperous economy for all?
Today, the GOP invites a foreign leader of a client state -- Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel -- to come to Washington DC and berate President Obama's foreign policy at a special session in Congress.
According to the King James Bible " if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand." Has the future arrived in America? Is political-social cohesion being lost along with a prosperous economy for all?
273
The Republicans and their financial sponsors have no interest in stewardship over this nation, but rather with staying permanently in office and enriching themselves and their sponsors. The Constitution and laws of the United States are only so much Kleenex or Cottonelle to be used accordingly. They have done our nation--and are (with the collaboration of Mr. Netanyahu) doing Israel--more harm than our enemies could have dreamed!
5
I thought liberals wanted religion out of government and here you are quoting the bible. Our government is divided by design.
The office of President of the United States of America is still respected and revered, regardless of the GOP's contempt and their diplomatic recklessness. They sully themselves this way.
1
When the U.S. President has squandered his credibility with the American people with his addiction to political spin, why should international leaders believe what he says?
5
And what exactly did Obama say that you think they do not believe? This comment makes no sense.
7
You are obviously confused it s the GOP that has squandered its credibility, and speaking of political spin ,turn off Fox for a little bit, if they spin any faster they will spiral off into space, that's better, carry on.
10
It's nice that the republicans have the ability to forget the malfeasances and falsity of their last president, that "leader" before the current one, so they can pretend to righteous indignation now. Wish the rest of us could.
4
About time the US cut the apron strings to Israel and the billions in aid.
This politicking using the congress is crass and plain rude.
This politicking using the congress is crass and plain rude.
213
I agree, the US interferes in Israel's best interest all the time. Israel was blocked from selling helicopters to Nigeria recently, why? Because Nigeria hadn't done enough to protect its citizens! As if not having helicopters will better protect them? Who is the Obama Administration helping here? Nigeria or Boko Haram?
Will the US also cut its apron strings to Egypt to whom it also gives billions - to say nothing of Iraq and Afghanistan. How about the Palestinians? Should the US continue to give to them if they stop giving money to Israel?
The only country that gives more benefit to the US than what it receives is Israel. When you need a country in the Middle East you can rely on, who else can you trust? Qatar? Saudi Arabia? Who is technologically advanced enough to be a military asset in the region? There's only one country in the region, mate.
Will the US also cut its apron strings to Egypt to whom it also gives billions - to say nothing of Iraq and Afghanistan. How about the Palestinians? Should the US continue to give to them if they stop giving money to Israel?
The only country that gives more benefit to the US than what it receives is Israel. When you need a country in the Middle East you can rely on, who else can you trust? Qatar? Saudi Arabia? Who is technologically advanced enough to be a military asset in the region? There's only one country in the region, mate.
1
It's just as bad on the part of Boehner and the GOP Congress as it is on Netanyahu.
1
The US should never forget this insolence. The US should finally look at our policies, which have whole heartedly supported the Israelis, regardless of their actions. Mr. Netanyahu is well versed in diplomacy following his long years at the UN, he clearly cares nothing about protocol, just pushing his right wing agenda. Any politician who is swayed by his antics and votes for further sanctions on Iran, is harming the US in the region. Bush/Cheney started the policy of agitation in the middle east and Boehner carries it forward. They just don't get it.
119
I've surprisingly not seen it mentioned that Boehner and the republicans with this undertaking might also be pandering to one of their major supporters, Sheldon Adelson. Just a thought!
132
Well, we know they are professional panderers. They just don't pander to anyone who hasn't paid them to do it.
9
You are upset because Sheldon Adelson supports Republicans? Why not? The Republican Party is much more concerned about the security of Israel from hostile Muslim countries than any Democratic Party politician.
1
Thank you, I was looking for the same idea somewhere. I think Sheldon Adelson is a big part of the equation. Get money and big donors out of politics.
At this point it does no good to uninvite Prime Minister Netanyahu. But I hope the Prime Minister has a more nuanced presentation than the diagram of a bomb.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/28/world/middleeast/netanyahu-warns-that-...
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/28/world/middleeast/netanyahu-warns-that-...
8
PM Netanyahu lived and went to school in the United States and he knows how black people are treated by whites in the US. The Republican Congress has taken advantage of the underlying white racism toward blacks and PM Netanyahu is joining that racism by disrespecting the President of the United States because he is black!
One would think that PM Netanyahu would be sensitive to racism since he claims to be Jewish. After all of the talk he did about anti-Semitism -- antoher word for racism -- in France and Europe and he stoops to one of the mosgt racist acts he could perform.
One would think that PM Netanyahu would be sensitive to racism since he claims to be Jewish. After all of the talk he did about anti-Semitism -- antoher word for racism -- in France and Europe and he stoops to one of the mosgt racist acts he could perform.
51
I don't think Netanyahu should be addressing Congress to undermine the President's efforts to broker a diplomatic resolution to the Iran nuclear issue. It looks like thousands of Americans agree: http://www.SkipTheSpeech.org
82
I'm thankful that Mr. Netanyahu is willing to lay electoral politics aside and respond to this invitation to speak to the U.S. Congress on such a vital issue that affects both Israeli and U.S. national security. It would have probably have been more politically expedient for him to decline the invitation, but he recognizes that a poorly negotiated nuclear deal with Iran is a recipe for disaster for both our nations. My only regret is that both the U.S. and Israeli political left have been unable to lay politics aside and focus on the broader national security implications of Iran's nuclear ambitions. As the recent Senate hearing on the Obama team's Iran negotiations showed, we've moved much further in Iran's direction in these negotiations than Iran has moved in ours.
6
If negotiations aren't going to work, do you prefer War or Nuclear Iran?
Since an Iran War would make the Iraq War look like a summer trip to the beach, I'm guessing your for Nuclear Iran.
Since an Iran War would make the Iraq War look like a summer trip to the beach, I'm guessing your for Nuclear Iran.
16
It seems to be a question of the sanity of allowing nuclear technology to people who ostensibly believe that they will become immortal by killing someone else and themselves at the same time, on our side.
7
So much for Brokaw's "Greatest Generation." We would never have defeated Germany with that attitude... but what's important is real negotiations that hold to the bottom line that the U.S. has oft-stated, a non-nuclear Iran. But the Obama team has consistently weakened that stand to the point that they're now just pursuing a deal that gives us a year to react when Iran turns their over abundance of centrifuges towards nuclear weapons (if we happen to catch them in time.) It's inept and sophomoric negotiating frankly.
I would rather deal with the real world than the one we fearfully wish were real. Let's play hard ball with Iran, and stick to the president's original "red line" language that we will not accept a nuclear Iran... that doesn't mean just making Iran slow down, and get US dollars flowing, while they're a short sprint from the nuclear weapon finish line.
I would rather deal with the real world than the one we fearfully wish were real. Let's play hard ball with Iran, and stick to the president's original "red line" language that we will not accept a nuclear Iran... that doesn't mean just making Iran slow down, and get US dollars flowing, while they're a short sprint from the nuclear weapon finish line.
1
Bibi is by no means a great leader, but I don't recall so many people getting their knickers in a twist when Tony Blair, as British P.M. addressed a joint session of congress. Is this such an uncommon event?
3
Try reading the article for an answer to your question
10
Then President GWB invited Mr. Blair via the Speaker of the House and Senate. That is exactly the point here.
29
People are upset, as I am , that AIPAC contributes so much money to Congressional campaigns. And the recent New Yorker article points out that AIPAC has "bought out" a lot of Congress members, who are afraid of crossing it. Netanyahu making a speech is another attempt to influence Congress. It is improper. We already spend millions or billions of dollars on jets for Israel.
We should use diplomacy with Iran, not use sanctions.
We should use diplomacy with Iran, not use sanctions.
60
This is merely stupid, counter-productive payback by the Republicans for Netanyahu effectively endorsing Romney in the last Presidential election. There will probably be job openings real soon for new political advisers for both Boehner and Netanyahu. Politically -- forget the ethics for the moment -- this is as dumb as the Administration not sending at least the Vice-President to the post-massacre demonstration in Paris.
Josh Lyman, Toby Ziegler, there are openings for you, if you want to come out of retirement !
Josh Lyman, Toby Ziegler, there are openings for you, if you want to come out of retirement !
10
Netanyahu threatens the bipartisan consensus on support for Israel. Playing into Boehner's hands in a futile attempt to embarrass the President or force his hand will make enemies of non-Republican voters who are not invested in Israel (and by the way, not get Republicans a single Jewish vote they did not have before). It is an unnecessary provocation, it will accomplish nothing good for Israel, and sadly, it is entirely typical of the recklessness of Netanyahu's (and his eager, and totally Republican, ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer's) courtship of only one, shrinking, portion of the American polity.
P.S.— As George H.W. Bush's administration proved, Republicans can have their fill of Likud politics, and penalize Israel for them too.
P.S.— As George H.W. Bush's administration proved, Republicans can have their fill of Likud politics, and penalize Israel for them too.
39
One might argue that President Obama who has taken U.S. relations with Israel to new lows has done much more to "threaten the bipartisan consensus on support for Israel." There's a reason that Obama is the least liked US president in recent memory for most Israelis... It's not only the continual disrespect President Obama shows for Israel's leaders, but also the muddle he's made across the Middle East... from the vacuum allowing Isis rise in Iraq, to a failed Libya policy, to losing his recently touted Yemen, to backing the wrong "Muslim" horse in Egypt, to his botched Syria policies and more. The president's Middle East policy team's ineptitude has made Israel's neighborhood a much more dangerous place.
6
"One might argue that President Obama who has taken U.S. relations with Israel"....I believe that it is Netanyahu who has excepted the invitation to address Congress and poke his finger in Obama's eye.
9
A much more dangerous place for who? Israel? No country in the middle east poses an existential threat to the US. As for ISIS and Syria, if Netanyahu's buddy George. W. Bush hadn't invaded Iraq, these problems would not exist.
7
Both Mr. Boehner and Mr. Netanyahu ought to realize that this move only strengthens the argument of those in the United States who support the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement against Israel. The argument is that ordinary people ought to put pressure on Israel to stop building new settlements and to become more serious about making peace with the Palestinians because our elected officials do not have the courage to stand up against Israel when she is wrong. The talks with Iran need time to work, and Israel will not get all that it wants. Still the US ought to be seen as an honest broker in the region. This invitation does nothing to get us to that goal.
396
It will do no such thing because the boycott movement is transparently hypocritical. It singles out Israel, a country bordered by two countries and two terrorist organization either dedicated to its destruction or doing nothing to stop those residing in their borders form trying to do so. When the boycotters act with equal verve against Chinese repression of Tebetans and Uighers, Pakistan's persecution of Christians and other religious minorities, Cuban repression of dissidents, and the like, serious persons might take those who would boycott Israel seriously. Until then, they all see it for what it is.
6
The civilized world already has its own "BDS" campaign against Palestinian terrorists, particularly Hamas, which per Article 13 of its Covenant, rejects any negotiated resolution of the conflict, in favor of perpetual war against Israel. In three unsuccessful "wars of aggression" against Israel (2008, 2012 and 2014), Hamas has consistently lost. Read the Hamas Covenant at: http://avalon.law.yale.edu/20th_century/hamas.asp
The negotiations with Iran are likely to fail, as Iran's Parliament is equally as opposed to an agreement, as revealed in a recent Times article. Additionally, Iran's "Supreme Leader" has veto authority over Parliamentary decisions, even if Iran's Parliament should reach a negotiated agreement. Of course, the President's enmity toward Israel and her Prime Minister contributes nothing toward a successful conclusion of the negotiations with Iran.
The negotiations with Iran are likely to fail, as Iran's Parliament is equally as opposed to an agreement, as revealed in a recent Times article. Additionally, Iran's "Supreme Leader" has veto authority over Parliamentary decisions, even if Iran's Parliament should reach a negotiated agreement. Of course, the President's enmity toward Israel and her Prime Minister contributes nothing toward a successful conclusion of the negotiations with Iran.
1
In reply to Valerie Elverton Dixon, Ph.D."
She wrote: "Still the US ought to be seen as an honest broker in the region."
Illegal settlement after illegal settlement have been built in the West Bank and East Jerusalem by the Israeli's for decades now. The most that any U. S. government administration ever says is that such Israeli settlement building is not "helpful" to negotiations for a two-state solution.
And, you now say that "the US ought to be seen as an honest broker in the region."
I say that the credibility of the U. S. government as an "honest broker" for peace in the Mideast is virtually nil. And, this statement is "proved" by the last statement made in your post: "This invitation does nothing to get us to that goal." It is far worse than doing nothing; it demonstrates that the new Republican Congress is in the back pocket of Benjamin Netanyahu (or, Mr. Chutzpah).
She wrote: "Still the US ought to be seen as an honest broker in the region."
Illegal settlement after illegal settlement have been built in the West Bank and East Jerusalem by the Israeli's for decades now. The most that any U. S. government administration ever says is that such Israeli settlement building is not "helpful" to negotiations for a two-state solution.
And, you now say that "the US ought to be seen as an honest broker in the region."
I say that the credibility of the U. S. government as an "honest broker" for peace in the Mideast is virtually nil. And, this statement is "proved" by the last statement made in your post: "This invitation does nothing to get us to that goal." It is far worse than doing nothing; it demonstrates that the new Republican Congress is in the back pocket of Benjamin Netanyahu (or, Mr. Chutzpah).
2
I do not blame the State of Israel or its citizens for the actions of Prime Minister Netanyahu. However, I do have the right to judge his actions as they relate to a foreign leader's inappropriate involvement in our government - even at the invitation of a misguided speaker of the house. Both men are wrong on this action and I hope they both politically suffer the fallout - and not the citizens of their respective countries.
38
Was Obama wrong to recently have the British Prime Minister directly lobby congressmen over whether or not to impose new sanctions if the Iranians miss, what is it-- the third?--deadline for an agreement?
2
The British PM was here in support of our elected President's policy. No foreign leader has the right to enter this country to criticize the POTUS or his policies. I hope that's not too patriotic for you.
3
Prime Minister Netanyahu appears to have established a strategic alliance with America's most destructive politicians. He has thrown in his lot with those who wish to deprive their fellow Americans of healthcare; who wish to tilt the tax system to protect the wealthy and make life even more difficult for the poor; who wish to deny equal rights and fair treatment to women, gays, and minorities; who want to deny the right to vote to as many people as possible, and corrupt all of our elections through unlimited cash payments delivered secretly; who want to deport millions of people who could be wonderful contributors to our society.
Mr. Netanyahu is accountable to his fellow citizens for how he rules his country. Who can hold him accountable for the way he is attempting to damage mine?
Mr. Netanyahu is accountable to his fellow citizens for how he rules his country. Who can hold him accountable for the way he is attempting to damage mine?
79
Just as Israeli's would very much dislike and resent any attack on their sovereignty, many Americans feel the same way about Mr. Netanyahu's and his retinue finagling to get him to address US Congress and simultaneously show contempt for our President.
Those who have conived against President Obama in these arrangements have done themselves and our country a great disservice. Mr. Boehner should know better. I am saddened that he doesn't. He is tremendous example of need for term limits in Washington.
Those who have conived against President Obama in these arrangements have done themselves and our country a great disservice. Mr. Boehner should know better. I am saddened that he doesn't. He is tremendous example of need for term limits in Washington.
49
I am an American Jew and I am beyond appalled. This cynical (yes!) and maladroit move plays directly into the hands of those who would pillory all Jews for the actions of some. Is it not a bit like when an abused child grows up and becomes in turn an abuser?
I have a strong hope (and have written to my Congressman about it) that, if he has the chutzpah to follow through on this, those representatives and senators who still respect the Constitutional boundaries around foreign policy will walk out, or at least stand and turn their backs. If the NYPD can do this to a mayor for the flimsiest of reasons, can our Congress not do it to someone who insulted the President, by extension the tens of millions of Americans who support him, indeed, the Untied States itself?
I have a strong hope (and have written to my Congressman about it) that, if he has the chutzpah to follow through on this, those representatives and senators who still respect the Constitutional boundaries around foreign policy will walk out, or at least stand and turn their backs. If the NYPD can do this to a mayor for the flimsiest of reasons, can our Congress not do it to someone who insulted the President, by extension the tens of millions of Americans who support him, indeed, the Untied States itself?
76
Netanyahu lowered his own position by accepting the House Speaker's invitation. The House Speaker, with all his good intentions, is not the head of the US. He and Mr. Boehner are both divisive figures to their respective home countries. Is this visit a payback for Netanyahu's endorsement of a Republican presidential candidate in 2012? Regardless, this is a poor, ugly statecraft at best, whether you're the inviter or the invitee.
36
Boehner has no good intentions when it comes to respecting our President, or representing the best interests of our country. He reserves those for the big money guys.
1
Despite the damage to his relations with President Barack Obama, and Israel slowly but surey loosing European support, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coming congressional address is expected to strengthen his status within his Israeli right-wing electoral base.
For Netanyahu, the opportunity to address the two houses of Congress during the annual AIPAC conference, two weeks before the elections,
is superb grist for the mill of his campaign. What a reasonably minded observer might view as a reckless blow to Israel-US relations for the sake of political survival is for Republicans and Netanyahu, as in war, the end justifies the means.
For Netanyahu, the opportunity to address the two houses of Congress during the annual AIPAC conference, two weeks before the elections,
is superb grist for the mill of his campaign. What a reasonably minded observer might view as a reckless blow to Israel-US relations for the sake of political survival is for Republicans and Netanyahu, as in war, the end justifies the means.
12
It is amazing to me how we can continue to allow this foreign leader to come into our nation and directly address our congress. Why? Why do we allow a war mongering sociopath direct access to our lawmakers? A perfect example of how bad our govt. is in the hip pocket of the Israeli lobby; the best govt. money can buy.
218
"We"? Where did you get "we" from. It was the Republican Speaker of the House who invited him. As was noted, Boehner's decision not to consult the Administration on this is unprecedented in our nation's history.
22
@JerryV
Yes, by all means let's put the entire blame on Boehner for this Obama's back-stabbing maneuver, since Netanyahu of course had nothing to do with it, and he had no choice but to accept the invitation. Right.
Yes, by all means let's put the entire blame on Boehner for this Obama's back-stabbing maneuver, since Netanyahu of course had nothing to do with it, and he had no choice but to accept the invitation. Right.
2
This hasn't been the first time Bibi has addressed our congress, not just on the repub invite either.
1
Mr. Netanyahu's behavior is disgraceful and not befitting the leader of the Jewish state. By snubbing President Obama, he's showing himself to be petty and petulant, not strong and reasonable. If I were a citizen of Israel, I would be deeply and profoundly ashamed of my prime minister.
As for Mr. Boehner, it's obvious there's no love lost in his relationship with President Obama. Nonetheless, the Speaker of the House of Representatives has no business establishing his own diplomatic relationship with a foreign leader. He's stepping into the purview and domain of the executive branch and, frankly, sticking his nose where it doesn't belong.
As for Mr. Boehner, it's obvious there's no love lost in his relationship with President Obama. Nonetheless, the Speaker of the House of Representatives has no business establishing his own diplomatic relationship with a foreign leader. He's stepping into the purview and domain of the executive branch and, frankly, sticking his nose where it doesn't belong.
183
Only in America do we allow a foreign country to openly lobby our elected representatives to oppose the elected executive branch of our government.
Can anyone imagine a member of the Knesset inviting President Obama to speak to that body to oppose Mr. Netanyahu's policy of further settlements in the occupied West Bank?
Add to that our double standard with respect to Israel’s sizable, undeclared nuclear arsenal and its unwillingness to join the IAEA or sign the NPT, & one can understand why, I & so many others find Mr. Boehner's invitation to Mr. Netanyahu to speak to our Congress so distasteful.
Can anyone imagine a member of the Knesset inviting President Obama to speak to that body to oppose Mr. Netanyahu's policy of further settlements in the occupied West Bank?
Add to that our double standard with respect to Israel’s sizable, undeclared nuclear arsenal and its unwillingness to join the IAEA or sign the NPT, & one can understand why, I & so many others find Mr. Boehner's invitation to Mr. Netanyahu to speak to our Congress so distasteful.
249
"Only in America do we allow a foreign country to openly lobby our elected representatives to oppose the elected executive branch of our government."
They why did Obama have Cameron come here a lobby Congress to support his position?
They why did Obama have Cameron come here a lobby Congress to support his position?
4
To add to your points, only when the president is a Democrat do we allow a foreign government to lobby our legislative branch in opposition of the Executive Branch while active and sensitive negotiations are ongoing.
As the Iraq war unraveled and the rationalizations given proved shaky, then flat out false, even the most deserved criticism by Democratic representatives was met with cries of cut and run, let us not forget that refrain. An action of this nature by Democrats during the Bush/Chaney years would have resulted in a complete upheaval in the nation, a crisis and, for once, the critics would have been right.
it is painfully obvious that Israeli Ambassador Dermer remains unofficially the GOP operative he once was with this disgraceful breech of diplomacy and as for John Boehner, he is just flat out a disgrace and a complete failure as Speakerr of the House of Representatives even before this stunt.
As the Iraq war unraveled and the rationalizations given proved shaky, then flat out false, even the most deserved criticism by Democratic representatives was met with cries of cut and run, let us not forget that refrain. An action of this nature by Democrats during the Bush/Chaney years would have resulted in a complete upheaval in the nation, a crisis and, for once, the critics would have been right.
it is painfully obvious that Israeli Ambassador Dermer remains unofficially the GOP operative he once was with this disgraceful breech of diplomacy and as for John Boehner, he is just flat out a disgrace and a complete failure as Speakerr of the House of Representatives even before this stunt.
3
Bibi mistakenly thinks that the only Americans and Jews that matter are right wing.
Sorry, Bibi, but I'm a kosher, Sabbath observant Jew with family in Israel that finds your behavior exasperating, predictable, disgusting and embarrassing. Chronicling how you have dissed and disrespected Obama over the years dovetails very nicely with how the Republicans have disrespected Obama in State of the Union addresses and other forums.
I get you all too well, Bibi. You were an amazing TV presence during the Gulf War. You should have quit while you were ahead.
Sorry, Bibi, but I'm a kosher, Sabbath observant Jew with family in Israel that finds your behavior exasperating, predictable, disgusting and embarrassing. Chronicling how you have dissed and disrespected Obama over the years dovetails very nicely with how the Republicans have disrespected Obama in State of the Union addresses and other forums.
I get you all too well, Bibi. You were an amazing TV presence during the Gulf War. You should have quit while you were ahead.
194
Has FOX news reported that Boehner and Netanyahu had to do this because of Obama's irantransigence and (another) abuse of executive power yet?
6
The biggest threat to Israel is it's Christian "friends" in the US like Boehner who back Netanyahu's suicidal policies for their mutual political benefit which is contrary to the long term interests of Israel and the US.
83
I am a Jew born in the Middle East and am pro-Israel. But above all I am an American Citizen. As such I believe Mr. Netanyahu is way out of line giving a speech before Congress in order to lecture us and the President about the dangers of Iran. We are all well aware the dangers posed by Iran. Our leader is the President of the United States...not the Prime Minister of Israel. Our allegiance is to the United States of America...not to Israel. To say that Mr. Netanyahu's conduct is undiplomatic is certainly an understatement. Our tradition in America is that with respect to foreign policy, we speak with one voice....and that voice is the President of the United States.
350
Well, when you have clowns like Sen. Lindsay Graham stating their readiness to "follow [Netanyahu's] lead" on the Iran sanctions topic, you can almost understand how easily the hapless Bibi got where he is.
Thanks, Sen. Graham, you helped tip the balance.
Thanks, Sen. Graham, you helped tip the balance.
38
I, too, am an American Jew. We, and anyone else, can easily be pro Israel and anti Netanyahu.
3
This my friend, is an excellent summary of everything that is important in this issue and everything that all of us are trying to say. You have hit the nail on the head and that's what should occur to the Prime Minister and to the Speaker of the House, before it is too late to retract and soft pedal and spin and,.........you know what! Thank you!
As usual the readers of the New York Times are jumping on the anti-Israel bandwagon. They show their contempt by referring to the leader of a foreign country by a nickname; Bibi. Do these same people refer to our president as Barry? Would they think it is all right for others to do so.
Israel and the US should be on the same side of the Iran issue. Our president does not have that much experience with foreign policy. Israel is a lot closer to the problem not only politically but physically. Our president would like to believe that Iran is a law abiding nuclear power which it is not. It is possible that the Islamic extremists would have no problem exploding a nuclear bomb, which would be far from the US. We don't trust North Korea either.
For those who say that Israel is a nuclear power; that may be true. Israel would never endanger the world by unleashing that power. Israel is surrounded by enemies who want to do nothing less than obliterate it. Israel has a right to defend itself.
If it wasn't for oil, no Arabs would fall under the title of friends. You may not agree with all of Israel's policies but it not because of their actions we live in fear of terrorist attacks in the US, in the air or elsewhere in the world. It is only the Muslim extremists causing all the trouble. Israel is their excuse but not their reason.
Mr. Netanyahu will not say anything that most of us will not agree with. Our president is wrong on this issue.
Israel and the US should be on the same side of the Iran issue. Our president does not have that much experience with foreign policy. Israel is a lot closer to the problem not only politically but physically. Our president would like to believe that Iran is a law abiding nuclear power which it is not. It is possible that the Islamic extremists would have no problem exploding a nuclear bomb, which would be far from the US. We don't trust North Korea either.
For those who say that Israel is a nuclear power; that may be true. Israel would never endanger the world by unleashing that power. Israel is surrounded by enemies who want to do nothing less than obliterate it. Israel has a right to defend itself.
If it wasn't for oil, no Arabs would fall under the title of friends. You may not agree with all of Israel's policies but it not because of their actions we live in fear of terrorist attacks in the US, in the air or elsewhere in the world. It is only the Muslim extremists causing all the trouble. Israel is their excuse but not their reason.
Mr. Netanyahu will not say anything that most of us will not agree with. Our president is wrong on this issue.
10
In short, no, you are wrong.
24
Actually you are wrong, it is a massive breach of protocol and it warms my heart to see the heat Bibi is getting at home about this.
4
Yours is exactly the disrespect to which I was referring. You do not refer to our President as Barry and you shouldn't refer to other heads of state by their nicknames. You are obviously showing contempt for Israel which is the only democracy in the middle east. Do you like that we kowtow to the Saudis who abuse the human rights of half their citizens; all the women, just because they have oil.
2
So if Likud does badly in March, will Bibi blame Boehner?
10
I have never much cared for Mr. Netanyahu, but from an America perspective at least, I don't see him addressing Congress as a big deal. People know where he stands on the issue, and nobody will learn anything about Mr. Netanyahu that they did not already know. His address will not influence the outcome of the talks one bit, and it will not influence the US - Israel relationship. The United States prides itself on being a great democracy. The leader of an ally wants to come talk. Fine. We can handle it.
16
Maybe the address will not influence the outcome of the talks-- but it will influence many American Jews to take a bolder stand against Israeli right-wing overreach. The Speaker's small-minded arrogance and the Prime Minister's testosterone deficiency won't be cured by this fiasco, but many if not most American Jews who previously supported Israel without question will now ask themselves just how valuable is their allegiance if it has encouraged such a disgusting insult by the Israeli government to the President of the United States.
3
While we have all learned that irreverent cartoons are revered in France, is nothing else sacred in your country? No protocol whatsoever to be respected? "The leader of an ally wants to come to talk. Fine." Does it not matter that the "leader" will not be talking with the USA "leader"? The way this "talk" was brokered is sneaky and unconscionable. Boehner and Netanyahu were made for each other.
4
Lots of radio shows, and Charlie Rose for that purpose. An address to Congress engineered for the sole purpose of disrespecting the President of the United States is an offense against both nations, and borderline seditious. Shame on Bibi and Boehner.
3
Patriotism is nearly dead in the U.S. It is all about personal ambition. That trumps American interests and national security. For an American congressional leader to invite a foreign leader (who is no Winston Churchill) to speak before the American congress to refute an American president represents an America in decline more than any shrinking American military commitments abroad.
549
But, it defines what Republicans mean when they say 'American Exceptionalism'.
2
Mark Ryan:
You may not realize how correct you are about your statement that patriotism is nearly dead in America. I migrated from a country where patriotism is dead and buried, and that country is as hopeless as you can imagine. I am able to compare that country with the direction America is currently heading, and I am filled with trepidation.
America's greatest enemy is not external; the enemy is within - its internal rotting politics.
You may not realize how correct you are about your statement that patriotism is nearly dead in America. I migrated from a country where patriotism is dead and buried, and that country is as hopeless as you can imagine. I am able to compare that country with the direction America is currently heading, and I am filled with trepidation.
America's greatest enemy is not external; the enemy is within - its internal rotting politics.
2
What Obama should do is tell Netanyahu, privately, that if he makes his
speech to Congress, the US will issue a public announcement before the Israeli elections that if Netanyahu is still Prime Minister after the elections, the next time the question of Palistinian statehood comes up at the Security Council, the US will vote present and not veto it.
speech to Congress, the US will issue a public announcement before the Israeli elections that if Netanyahu is still Prime Minister after the elections, the next time the question of Palistinian statehood comes up at the Security Council, the US will vote present and not veto it.
102
Thank God! There are sane Israelis who call Netanyahu's forthcoming address to our Congress as 'irresponsible' and 'politicizing' the coming elections in their country. But more than that, is our Speaker's disgraceful invitation. It really amounts to treason. Instead of showing a United front he backstabs his own President and shows his resentment and disagreement in the worst way possible. He is allowing a "Foreigner' to dictate our Foreign Policy who has his own agenda and making 'US' to do their dirty work. Why does our country have to support the dictat of this arrogant leader who feels entitled to our wealth,modern weaponry and vote in the Security Council? He has the temerity to interfere in our own country's elections,does what he pleases and blames the victim. Yet we support him at a great cost to us - loss of credibility in the rest of the world. Oh! I forgot! We have the AIPAC here.
100
Well said.
1
The president should have yanked Israel's funding. Netanyahu believes that we should follow his lead blindly and that we should listen to him. When you bite the hand that feeds, you just may starve. America, is concerned with American politics above and beyond any other country. A potential outcome of this ploy is the very real American alienation of Israel. Are the Republicans so willing to be wagged by Netanyahu for potential votes in 2016, that they would divest themselves of votes of a large number of American votes. #playingwithfire
50
Perhaps soon, criticism of Israel's policies by politicians will occur not only in Israel, but even here in the U.S. I may be over-optimistic, but I foresee an end to the disgraceful, dangerous fawning over Netanyahu by our craven Congress. Boehner & Co will come to see that using Netanyahu for political leverage now on Iran, and using him to embarrass Obama (repeatedly), will only create problems for said pols down the road, when such behavior is seen correctly as compromising U.S. interests.
Kudos to the Times. It's rare to see a piece in the mainstream U. S. press highlighting Israeli dissent.
Kudos to the Times. It's rare to see a piece in the mainstream U. S. press highlighting Israeli dissent.
212
@Linda
In your dreams.
In your dreams.
4
This move may not solidify Netanyahu's chances of getting re-elected, but it sure does guarantee that he has a future as a Fox News Commentator. To heck with peace, nuclear negotiations, etc. Good retirement move, Bibi!
59
I'm thankful that Mr. Netanyahu accepted the invitation to address a joint session of Congress - as have many heads of state throughout American history.
The American people got only the short PR version of the Iranian nuclear negotiations from President Obama during his publicity-oriented, domestic policy heavy, State of the Union address. (It also failed to cover other things like how Administration policies in Iraq led to the ISIS "caliphate" and how the success story the president recently touted - Yemen has now fallen to Islamists, the failed US policies in Libya, in Syria, in embracing Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and so on.) On Iran it is the Western negotiators who have moved in Iran's direction, not the other way around. Thankfully Mr. Netanyahu will be able to present a more factually based account to the American public when he speaks to Congress.
The American people got only the short PR version of the Iranian nuclear negotiations from President Obama during his publicity-oriented, domestic policy heavy, State of the Union address. (It also failed to cover other things like how Administration policies in Iraq led to the ISIS "caliphate" and how the success story the president recently touted - Yemen has now fallen to Islamists, the failed US policies in Libya, in Syria, in embracing Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and so on.) On Iran it is the Western negotiators who have moved in Iran's direction, not the other way around. Thankfully Mr. Netanyahu will be able to present a more factually based account to the American public when he speaks to Congress.
8
Not without an invititation by the President.
2
It's become clearer and clearer that Netanyahu just isn't that smart. He may be ruthless and use Republican party shout down bullying type tactics but lately he comes across as a male version of Sarah Palin. He really only understands the consequences of his actions long after he's made them. His war mongering is growing tiresome and the world is tired of hearing him cry wolf and victimization and is discovering his only motivation is pandering to the far right zionists in order to stay in power. Even the cunning Michael Oren has realized this.
79
Thank you Netanyahu for being a great statesman, a military hero and man who loves his country. Paid propaganda will only take these attackers so far. The truth always comes out. May God bless Israel and may God bless America and keep it from all evil, all evil. Thank you Boehner for inviting him to speak before congress the American people thank you.
2
I find this kind of action highly inappropriate for diplomatic policy. It's disrespectful not only of Israel, but also the Republican Congress and is an affront to American politics.
Can you imagine what the Wall Street Journal would have written if under Bush the democrats had circumvented the POTUS and invited the President of France to speak about opposition to Iraq?
This is dangerously close to letting foreign powers help dictate American foreign policy. I hope there is major fallout that slides on top of both Bibi and the GOP. This shouldn't be tolerated.
Can you imagine what the Wall Street Journal would have written if under Bush the democrats had circumvented the POTUS and invited the President of France to speak about opposition to Iraq?
This is dangerously close to letting foreign powers help dictate American foreign policy. I hope there is major fallout that slides on top of both Bibi and the GOP. This shouldn't be tolerated.
127
It's also illegal. See The Logan Act.
24
Closer than you may think. Senator Lindsay Graham has stated that he and others would "follow [Netanyahu's] lead" on the Iran sanctions issue.
http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/1.634286
http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/1.634286
21
Don't forget the Israelis murdered a leader who wanted a more moderate approach. Israel does not want peace, they do not want to be friends with their neighbors or any other country in the world that does not fund their military. They want to remain the strongest military force in the middle east and they see Iran as a threat to that.
57
There are 2 supposed statesmen in this story, who showed an amazing inability to grasp the nuances of governing -- Netanyahu and Boehner. May they both retire from public office soon. They would be doing both of their countries a favor.
117
May Bibi educate Obama about the need end the Iranian threat. Only through the use of force, ideally regime change through ground invasion, can this be done. Romney and the Republicans understand this. So does Bibi. But the question is does Obama and why do liberals not? Are they such appeasers and lovers of Iran?
May the Republicans win the executive branches and legislative in the election and make Netanyahu's wise advice a reality.
May the Republicans win the executive branches and legislative in the election and make Netanyahu's wise advice a reality.
6
Bibi wants war with Iran? Let Bibi and HIS army fight them, leave OUR AMERICAN soldiers out of this one. Bibi should go back to Israel and take Boehner with him.
Stop the endless support for Israel NOW!
Stop the endless support for Israel NOW!
46
A disaster for the world. You couldn't be more wrong as Bush/Cheney were and are.
22
Ground invasion of Iran by whose troops? What would that accomplish? We forced a regime change on Iran in 1953 and everyone but you apparently knows how well that worked out.
Netanyahu is subverting the diplomatic process and offending those on both sides of the Atlantic. Going to war against Iran would be insane.
Netanyahu is subverting the diplomatic process and offending those on both sides of the Atlantic. Going to war against Iran would be insane.
49
Bibi's arrogance knows no bounds. He is accustomed to the U.S. congress scrambling to kiss his hand. Americans must place American foreign policy in the hands of representatives who represent the strategic interests of the United States, and not those of a foreign government. The most effective way to do this is to vote out of office at the next election any incumbent who shows up to listen to Netanyahu's war mongering speech.
100
BeBe is the least helpful PM Israel has ever had in terms of brokering long term peace with Palestine, even worse than Sharon. Hopefully this will help the Israeli electorate see that he's all about BeBe and not Israel's long term health, security and standing in the World community.
36
Why is it moral to stop the Iranians but not immoral for not stopping Israelis' actions in Gaza and West Bank?
Like most Americans, I support the Israelis' right to survive 100% but I do not support their persecutions of any other people.
Why are the Israelis always talking about the Iranians but not the Palestinians?
Like most Americans, I support the Israelis' right to survive 100% but I do not support their persecutions of any other people.
Why are the Israelis always talking about the Iranians but not the Palestinians?
101
Because they're stealing from the Palestinians day in and day out, and people know it, while the bogus distraction over Iran's alleged nuclear threat continues to pay political dividends to Israel in the form of sanctions against Iran.
But IMO Obama will leave office having eviscerated the Israeli sanctions scam.
But IMO Obama will leave office having eviscerated the Israeli sanctions scam.
14
Students and teachers were murdered in Peshawar. Girls were kidnapped by Boko Haram, which is waging war against Nigeria.
There have been some condemnations of these acts. But the subject that people really are complaining about is Netanyahu's acceptance of Boehner's invitation.
What's worse--mass murder or a breach of etiquette? Judging by reactions in the press and elsewhere, violating the rules of etiquette is a more serious crime than killing or kidnapping children.
There have been some condemnations of these acts. But the subject that people really are complaining about is Netanyahu's acceptance of Boehner's invitation.
What's worse--mass murder or a breach of etiquette? Judging by reactions in the press and elsewhere, violating the rules of etiquette is a more serious crime than killing or kidnapping children.
5
HEY! WHAT'S THAT? Somenbody somewhere is doing a bad thing, and we all must make sure the situation is rectified before being permitted to talk about Israel and Iran.
Pitifully transparent.
Pitifully transparent.
6
I'm not concerned with a slight to custom or how the speech might help the Israeli PM in his election. What bothers me is that Netanyahu will use the speech to generate hysteria about Iran and the “war on terror”, as he has for years, to distract U.S voters from the truth: under Netanyahu’s leadership, the Israeli government has ramped up illegal settlement building, increasing the population of Jewish settlers by over 23%, made the biggest land grab in a generation, committed countless human rights abuses and killed thousands of civilians in the West Bank and Gaza, and done everything possible to maintain the status quo of Israeli occupation and domination. I agree with Jewish Voice for Peace call for members of Congress to skip the speech. More at www.skipthespeech.org
65
Democratic Senators and Representatives should simply not attend this speech. Netanyahu has clearly picked sides in American politics and there is no reason to give him any more points. Israel matters less than India in the world of nbow and the future and as far as I am concerned I no longer want to have my tax money going to a country that clearly sees us a sucker ripe for picking and who thinks it should make our decisions by its imperial direction.
56
I only hope that Democratic politicians, normally beholden to the Israel lobby, make clear what an unacceptable move this is, and one that -- like others -- represents the meddling of a foreign government in our own internal politics. Mr. Netanyahu does run the risk of overplaying his hand out of characteristic hubris. It would not be in Israel's interest if support for Israel became a partisan issue in this country, or if Americans asked more frequently, loudly, and insistently whether support for Israel is consistent with the US national interest, and, specifically, whether we must support Israeli governments who are themselves beholden to radical fringe parties for whom religious ideology trumps any reasonable concerns for security or efforts for a long-term settlement with the Palestinians.
43
I always felt fate played a cruel hand in middle east peace. Just when Rabin was making progress he was assassinated and Sharon came down with a stroke when he finally realized that he must seek peace. Let Bibi speak. If he uses this opportunity and states that he seeks peace and willing to accept a two state solution and stop settlement expansion and if fate still plays a hand he will certainly lose the election. This much I know! So let's test fate. How wonderful it would be if peace finally comes to the middle east!
1
Peace and a two state solution will not come from Bibi.
19
Any deal with Iran, like the rest of our foreign relations, should be the purview of American judgment, not toeing a line set by the Prime Minister. He certainly does not take US wishes into consideration when he acts!
37
The presenting of Netanyahu's speech to Congress is the most outrageous thing I've ever heard. Americans must flock to DC on the day of the speech to protest. Members of Congress, should the speech occur, must leave the hall or turn their backs. America is at stake.
68
wow, what an overreaction.
7
Sign me up!
1
I don't think so. A sensible reaction.
1
Israel's current leader is a force for evil, sheer malevolence. Maybe Congressional Democrats should do to Netanyahu what the NYC police union's head urged his members to do at a couple of recent police funerals; attend, but turn their backs on him (of course, they would have to rise to do so).
48
Love for Israel is not unconditional to most Americans. That's a shame, because as memory and understanding of WW2 fades, so too will the political understanding it takes to maintain such a close relationship. Granted, the Israel lobby is powerful in the US, including Congress, but that will only go so far. Patience and empathy is waning, and Bibi isn't helping at all.
37
Benjamin Netanyahu is desperate to be re-elected and would like nothing more to do it at the expense of President Obama by sabotaging any chance of a U.S. brokered peaceful resolution ending Iran's nuclear arms program. I'm glad to see political push back in Israel for yet another "dirty trick" by this Israeli Nixon who, like his neo-con Republican allies here, is promoting a war with Iran. If Mr. Netanyahu insists on addressing Congress, I hope the Democrats will boycott him. President Obama should also consider inviting Isaac Herzog and/or Tzipi Livni to come to the White House to present an alternative view of both the Iranian and Palestinian situation.
46
When Abraham Foxman, the longtime head of the ADL, says that Netanyahu was ill-advised to accept the invitation from Boehner, you know that Bibi made a boo-boo.
65
Netanyahu's behaviour is particularly bemusing given Obama's critical recent role in crushing Palestinian aspirations at the UN. Talk about an ingrate.
43
It appears that members of Congress (in both parties) feel it is acceptable to show more allegiance to Mr. Netanyahu and his nation's interests than to the American public or our elected President. Nothing good will come of this.
85
Bibi has nothing more than the US interests at heart. AIPAC understands this as well as many Republicans. WHy do liberals not?
3
Yoda, I do hope you're being facetious....
17
Mr. Netanyahu,
Stop trying to interfere with and subvert our country's foreign policy and go back to your own country.
Most Americans are aware of your land-grabbing, inhumane policies and your are not welcome here anymore. Didn't you get the message when the President of the United States shut the White House doors to you?
Stop trying to interfere with and subvert our country's foreign policy and go back to your own country.
Most Americans are aware of your land-grabbing, inhumane policies and your are not welcome here anymore. Didn't you get the message when the President of the United States shut the White House doors to you?
99
Speaker Boehner, who have constantly chastised the president on acting contrary to the U.S. Constitution, is in danger of doing the same; he is ignoring the constitutional mandate that the framing of foreign policy is the exclusive province of the Executive branch.
42
The replacement of conservatives as the dominant Israeli party by the election would do more for us in the Middle East than all our wars, drones and interventions. If Israel were pursuing peace and a 2-state solution, ISIL would lose much of its attraction for young people, especially in the West.
34
2 state? The so-called Palestinians are nothing more, as Professor GIngrich so correctly pointed out, along with Netanyahu, a mythical people who have no right to live in Israel. They need to leave. The sooner the better.
1
@Yoda
By that very logic, Israel is a "mythical" country as well, conjured up arbitrarily in 1947. You can't have it both ways.
By that very logic, Israel is a "mythical" country as well, conjured up arbitrarily in 1947. You can't have it both ways.
24
@ Yoda who quoted in part: "Palestinians are nothing more ... (than) a mythical people who have no right to live in Israel."
What would be funny were the situation not so tragic, is that the Palestinians are saying the same thing about the Jews of very different ethnic backgrounds who migrated to Israel from all over Europe and settled on the lands of the forcibly dispossessed Arab population who had been previously living there.
All done using the fig leaf that a supreme being in the sky somewhere had allegedly "promised" those lands to the "chosen" people centuries before, despite said people later having dispersed to the four corners of the earth with only a handful of Jews left in that area prior to the establishment of the state of Israel.
Really no different than the "Manifest Destiny" belief widely held in the United States during the 19th century that American settlers were destined to expand throughout the North American continent. After having almost wiped out all of the native people already living here in the process, now we are finally mature enough to acknowledge how wrong we were in the way we went about it. Let us hope it doesn't take the Jewish people a century and a half to see the error of their ways.
What would be funny were the situation not so tragic, is that the Palestinians are saying the same thing about the Jews of very different ethnic backgrounds who migrated to Israel from all over Europe and settled on the lands of the forcibly dispossessed Arab population who had been previously living there.
All done using the fig leaf that a supreme being in the sky somewhere had allegedly "promised" those lands to the "chosen" people centuries before, despite said people later having dispersed to the four corners of the earth with only a handful of Jews left in that area prior to the establishment of the state of Israel.
Really no different than the "Manifest Destiny" belief widely held in the United States during the 19th century that American settlers were destined to expand throughout the North American continent. After having almost wiped out all of the native people already living here in the process, now we are finally mature enough to acknowledge how wrong we were in the way we went about it. Let us hope it doesn't take the Jewish people a century and a half to see the error of their ways.
18
As an outsider to Israeli politics, it still seems to me that Bibi has been a destructive and disingenuous force like no other past prime minister there. He claims to want to negotiate with the Arabs, but does everything he can to sabotage the possibility. He has alienated the European countries that should be Israel's allies. He had shown contempt for the President of the US over and over. He has diminished support for Israel among younger and liberal US Jews. His Gaza war, a movie we already saw before, and with him, a movie we are likely to see again. Israel's choices are all hard choices, but with Bibi they will stay that way indefinitely.
49
I'm sure the Iranian government (read Supreme Leader Ali Khameini) would agree wholeheartedly with the Israeli opposition, with the Obama White House and any Democrats in Congress who are whining about Netanyahu's upcoming appearance. And frankly all of them should be ignored.
Iran's nuclear threat is too vital to our nation's interests to allow this sort of politics from the Israeli or American left to interfere. Sen. Marco Rubio was right when during last week's Senate Foreign Affairs Committee hearing he said the core issue is Khameini's religiously-based fervor to acquire a nuclear weapon to live out his oft-stated Islamic dream of a prophesied cataclysmic Muslim confrontation with the West. What the left in the US and Israel most fear about a Netanyahu address is that he's the one leader who is smart enough and brave enough to describe how Iran is playing US negotiators right into Khameini's hands.
Iran's nuclear threat is too vital to our nation's interests to allow this sort of politics from the Israeli or American left to interfere. Sen. Marco Rubio was right when during last week's Senate Foreign Affairs Committee hearing he said the core issue is Khameini's religiously-based fervor to acquire a nuclear weapon to live out his oft-stated Islamic dream of a prophesied cataclysmic Muslim confrontation with the West. What the left in the US and Israel most fear about a Netanyahu address is that he's the one leader who is smart enough and brave enough to describe how Iran is playing US negotiators right into Khameini's hands.
5
agreed. May Romney win the next election and bring about regime regime. No Democrat would be brave enough to do this. Hopefully Netanyahu will make this obvious in his (educational) speech in front of Congress.
This is classic projection. The only people I experience daily seeking a "prophesied cataclysmic Muslim confrontation with the West" are the American evangelicals trying to bring on the rapture and the Israelis who are cynically using them. Actual Americans - as opposed to our bought and paid for politicians like Rubio - don't have a dog in this fight.
22
Do tell, since I'm sure they have classified information concerning the negotiations.
8
This is the end game in a very badly played hand by Mr. Netanhahu. I do not wish the Israel people ill, but they are being represented by some one who either does not care about them and cares only about himself and winning, or has boxed himself in to a corner from which there is no exit. His acceptance to speak before the House of Representatives is the possible result of the latter. It has been over 40 years since the beginning of the "war." There has been no progress but here have been many settlements of the wrong kind. Mr. Yahoo wants to change the subject and talk about Iran, when the question in everyone's mind is, "If the Israle's have the bomb, why can't Iran?" It is time for Israel to make some consessions and begin a new game in which everyone can win. Mr. Netanyahu is not the person to lead that effort. He has disqualified himself, and the USA should consider withdrawing its support until such time that we can have trust in a new Israeli leader.
103
It one thing for Netanyahu to come to the US and speak outside of Congress to any group that wants to listen to him.
It is another thing for him to speak to the Congress directly.
Boehner and McConnell do not care about Iran. They see Iran as a means of scoring political points.
Bibi wants war with Iran.
Bibi should personally go fight or keep his mouth shut.
It is another thing for him to speak to the Congress directly.
Boehner and McConnell do not care about Iran. They see Iran as a means of scoring political points.
Bibi wants war with Iran.
Bibi should personally go fight or keep his mouth shut.
263
Bibi understands the need for regime change through military action. Only then can the Iranian threat be eliminated. Why do Democrats and liberals refuse to see this. Hopefully Romney, a man who listens to Netanyahu, will win the next election and bring about a more reasonable US course of action. Obama sure does not understand what needs to be done.
1
Netanyahu served and fought six years in his country's military and was wounded several times. He was a captain in Israel's most elite special forces. Moreover, his older brother, Jonathan was killed leading the commando unit that rescued over 100 Air France hostages held at Uganda's Entebbe airport.
What Netanyahu wants least for his country of 7 million Jews is a war against 77 million Iranians. But even less inviting is Iran's govt, that sees Israel's extinction as a religious duty, armed with nuclear weapons.
When invited to address the House of Representatives there is nothing wrong for a close American ally to comply. It would be an insult to refuse. If anything it is the president who is out of line objecting to the prerogative of a coequal branch of govt. Imagine the Speaker objecting to the White House giving a state dinner to the communist leader of China. The House is entitled to inform itself and the nation, on one of the most pressing issues of the day. Obama has already welshed on promises he made during the 2012 campaign about denying Iran a nuclear program. The president will be out of office in 2016, but Israel and the US and the Congress will have to live with the consequences of his deal with Iran after 2016. Just as we have to live with his disastrous decision to leave Iraq without any US protection, turning Afghanistan into the central front in the war on terror, ignoring Syria when it was still time to end that bloodbath, etc.
What Netanyahu wants least for his country of 7 million Jews is a war against 77 million Iranians. But even less inviting is Iran's govt, that sees Israel's extinction as a religious duty, armed with nuclear weapons.
When invited to address the House of Representatives there is nothing wrong for a close American ally to comply. It would be an insult to refuse. If anything it is the president who is out of line objecting to the prerogative of a coequal branch of govt. Imagine the Speaker objecting to the White House giving a state dinner to the communist leader of China. The House is entitled to inform itself and the nation, on one of the most pressing issues of the day. Obama has already welshed on promises he made during the 2012 campaign about denying Iran a nuclear program. The president will be out of office in 2016, but Israel and the US and the Congress will have to live with the consequences of his deal with Iran after 2016. Just as we have to live with his disastrous decision to leave Iraq without any US protection, turning Afghanistan into the central front in the war on terror, ignoring Syria when it was still time to end that bloodbath, etc.
3
Obama was the one who was able to forge a coalition to get the tougher economic sanctions on Iran.
There is no way the US can handle another full scale war with Iran. The American people do not have the stomach nor the treasure for another decade plus Middle East adventure.
There is no way the US can handle another full scale war with Iran. The American people do not have the stomach nor the treasure for another decade plus Middle East adventure.
14
The spectacle that Congress critters make of themselves leaping to their feet every time Bibi exhales is truly embarrassing. Here in flyover country, the hired hacks who claim to represent us are so encased in propaganda that they don't know how much we've come to despise Israeli Neocons and their effect on our politics. Although Republicans have openly referred to Netanyahu as "the messiah," most American Jews wouldn't vote for him as dogcatcher.
253
>Republicans have openly referred to Netanyahu as "the messiah," <
Please document that claim. Until you do I consider it a preposterous and malicious fabrication.
It is in fact President Obama who has been likened to Jesus by his coterie in the WH and by supporters outside. And I can document that.
Please document that claim. Until you do I consider it a preposterous and malicious fabrication.
It is in fact President Obama who has been likened to Jesus by his coterie in the WH and by supporters outside. And I can document that.
2
Once again we get silence and whimpishness from the neutered Democrats. Where are they? Where is the loud outrage that ought to be forthcoming from them? Imagine for a moment that a Democrat Speaker had invited a foreign leader to address the House without going through the Bush White House a decade ago? Imagine that whoever they invited was someone loudly and strongly opposed to Bush policies. Can you imagine the deafening roar that would have come from the GOP? No wonder fewer and fewer people bother to vote anymore.
85
The House invited General Douglas MacArthur to address it though he was detested by President Truman, who had just fired him. Truman did not object however, because he understood that the Congress is a coequal branch of govt and has the prerogative to invite whom it pleases.
All those Dems are owned by AIPAC as well
1
I actually want Netanyahu to be re-elected. He has done more for making Americans aware of what Israel is doing to us than any previous politician. The longer he stays in power, the quicker this marriage comes to a divorce.
80
I too was once a loyal supporter of Israel, but I have to admit the neocons in the Bush Administration who helped push us into Iraq--another 'dangerous country according to Likud and Richard Pearle, and others'--left me shaking my head the other night after watching the mind-numbing 'American Sniper'. If Bibi wants our money and us to do his dirty work with the Arabs--which we have been doing for 50+ years, he should stay out of the dysfunctional Washington political game, where the right wing here will stoop to new lows in destroying a freely-elected president. The GOP and Bibi want to bomb Iran, its obvious. I have news--don't ask our GIs--ask Sarah Palin, John McCain, Lindsay Graham, Dick Cheney, their right-wing progeny and the Israeli Defense Force to bomb Iran themselves. The Israelis re-electing this crazy man should learn from Berlusconi and Bush how radical right wing lunatics can ruin a country.
112
As a American who supports Israel, I feel that Mr. Netanyahu needs to be taken to the woodshed. I understand that as prime minister, he has an obligation to defend Israel from all enemies.
But, the United States also have the right to do what it feel is best for its interests.
My former first sergeant's words to NCOs who performance wasn't up to par was, "I think we need to get your attention."
In like manner, President Obama needs to get Mr. Netanyahu's attention by doing the following:
a. Calling back the American ambassador from Israel for consultation.
b. Declare the Israeli ambassador to the US and his two deputies, "persona non grata," and give them 24 hours to leave the country. Also, add the ambassador's name to the Department of Homeland Security "no fly" list to prevent him from returning to the states.
c. Cancel all military exercise with the Israeli for the next six months.
To increase their effectiveness, the above three actions should be done while Mr. Netanyahu is speaking to Congress.
The only reason Mr. Netanyahu is behaving this way is that he has no respect for the president. And I wonder, is the disrespect due to the fact that Mr. Obama is a Black man?
But, the United States also have the right to do what it feel is best for its interests.
My former first sergeant's words to NCOs who performance wasn't up to par was, "I think we need to get your attention."
In like manner, President Obama needs to get Mr. Netanyahu's attention by doing the following:
a. Calling back the American ambassador from Israel for consultation.
b. Declare the Israeli ambassador to the US and his two deputies, "persona non grata," and give them 24 hours to leave the country. Also, add the ambassador's name to the Department of Homeland Security "no fly" list to prevent him from returning to the states.
c. Cancel all military exercise with the Israeli for the next six months.
To increase their effectiveness, the above three actions should be done while Mr. Netanyahu is speaking to Congress.
The only reason Mr. Netanyahu is behaving this way is that he has no respect for the president. And I wonder, is the disrespect due to the fact that Mr. Obama is a Black man?
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" And I wonder, is the disrespect due to the fact that Mr. Obama is a Black man?"
No, it is because Obama refuses to use US military forces to bring about regime change in Iran. A reflection of his anti-semiticism.
No, it is because Obama refuses to use US military forces to bring about regime change in Iran. A reflection of his anti-semiticism.
2
What joint military exercises are you referring to? There aren't any. Ambassadors cannot be disciplined for political purposes absent illegal activity. Nothing illegal about Netanyahu accepting Boehner's invitation. As far as the first option goes -- calling back our ambassador -- sure, if Obama wants to come across as petty and small-minded, it's a good idea.
2
Doesn't Israel get enough American money? It needs us to fight its wars, too?
18
This stupid decision reflects more on Behner than the Israeli Pime Minister, although it wasn't very bright on his part either. But Behner just shows is utter disdain for the President, and lack of respect for the office of President of the United States.
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In the past I made the assumption that support of Israel by America was a perpetual friendship due to numerous common ties. Frankly, if the Republicans are appropriating the relationship the same way they have attempted to appropriate religion, "patriotism," Christmas, 'their' tea partyish Founding Fathers (although I am a descendent), and other aspects of American life, I am less inclined to favor Israel.
Speaker Boehner made a non-Constitutional formal invitation to the prime minister in violation of the Logan Act usurping the constitutional powers of the executive normally exercised only by the State Department and the president. The Republican Party is trying to make its territory here. Cave canem.
Speaker Boehner made a non-Constitutional formal invitation to the prime minister in violation of the Logan Act usurping the constitutional powers of the executive normally exercised only by the State Department and the president. The Republican Party is trying to make its territory here. Cave canem.
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Look its precisely the evangelicals that are fanatical in their support of Israel, not for any love of Jews but as part of their eschatology. The end times can't begin until the Jews occupy all of Biblical Israel. Check out any evangelical church and enjoy the sight of the Israeli flag on the alter. People in NY get a clue.
5
Just when I thought Netanyahu couldn't get lower than his precedents: Arguing with President Obama at the White House with the cameras rolling; going on American media in 2012 speaking of his esteemed friend Mitt Romney, or having Joe Biden met in Israel with new developments, the Prime Minister has outdone himself. His message is clear - he has sewn himself into the pockets of the US Congress and he does not have to worry what anyone else thinks (save for his local base of Settlers and Ultra-Orthodox).
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Netanyahu has to educate the American people about anti-semiticism and its reflection in the fact that the US refuses to use its military forces to bring about regime change. If this is not anti-Semitic, I do not know what is.
1
Hi Yoda,
Netanyahu speaks frequently about anti-semitism. But anti-Jewish sentiment is not part of this equation. As for the contention of using the American military to force regime change, that proposition had been discredited since we tried it in Iraq. The US is not a magician and President Obama is realistic. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my post. Best regards.
Netanyahu speaks frequently about anti-semitism. But anti-Jewish sentiment is not part of this equation. As for the contention of using the American military to force regime change, that proposition had been discredited since we tried it in Iraq. The US is not a magician and President Obama is realistic. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my post. Best regards.
10
@Yoda--you've posted the same message multiple times and it makes no more sense than the first time.
13
Netanyahu has imperiled Israel's most vital national interest, its relationship with the United States. He has governed for years without an absolute majority in his own country and he thinks he can thumb his nose at a two term landslide winning President.
This will not be forgotten.
This will not be forgotten.
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There is nothing to be done about Mr. Netanyahu that the voters in iin Israel won't do better. But there is something to be done about Mr. Dermer. His disrespect for American values and institutions, including the Presidency, in my mind, warrants declaration as PNG.
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The Jewish electorate will determine whether the Prime Minister of Israel is re-elected or not. The unfortunate reality of America is that the Republican conservative cabal will only be further enflamed in their irrational vitriolic hatred (no other words serves) of America’s duly elected President whether Mr. Netanyahu appears or not.
29
I don't understanding the Netanyahu thinking. How does it help his cause to alienate a very substantial part of the American electorate? Israel's very survival as a nation depends on out continued support. Why put that in jeopardy, especially when anyone who's paying attention can sense that many Americans are ambivalent at best about the whole relationship?
37
He is educating the American public who, obviously, does not see how using US military forces for regime change in Iran forwards the cause of peace. He will point out the dangers of appeasement, something that the American people are desperate need of being reminded of.
2
Iran is not the nation that wants war. Israel -- with its secret weapons of mass destruction -- is the war monger. The world see this.
5
The Democrats should boycott the event. Having boycotted the President in the last election, it may be a step towards some form of reconciliation.
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It would be an interesting display of which Democrats favor the US and which are afraid to anger Israel and AIPAC.
31
American interests MUST come first. OUr allegiance is to our people not the people of Israel.
27
It's worse than annoying. To write "Netanyahu is playing with fire ..." would be a mild understatement.
Netanyahu has a long history of trying to manipulate Americans of all stripes, persuasions and stations in life to some perceived advantage to himself. Do recall how he started to blatantly interfere with our 2012 election by openly backing Mitt Romney over an incumbent president. He only stopped meddling when criticism began to bite and the ploy began to strengthen, not weaken, President Obama and weaken, not strengthen, Romney as planned. If anything, he made Romney look like a spineless stooge. So Netanyahu backtracked, hurriedly, as his gambit backfired and threatened to pull the American-Israeli relationship out by the roots of while dragging the roof onto his head.
Although he later apologized, or seemed to, I doubt he was sincere. He didn't sound sincere. He sounded pained. His words struck me as forced and hollow, that hollowness magnified by their repetition and his refusal to answer journalists' questions. His gambit then seemed to be: stonewall, wait until it blows over then try again some other day. Like now.
He still hasn't learned the lesson, evidently; assuming he's even capable of it, or of understanding the power the mere appearance of impropriety possesses. This image of impropriety is why he should cancel the speech before Congress, then pray that the repercussions of accepting Boehner's cynical invitation end right there.
He should be so lucky ... .
Netanyahu has a long history of trying to manipulate Americans of all stripes, persuasions and stations in life to some perceived advantage to himself. Do recall how he started to blatantly interfere with our 2012 election by openly backing Mitt Romney over an incumbent president. He only stopped meddling when criticism began to bite and the ploy began to strengthen, not weaken, President Obama and weaken, not strengthen, Romney as planned. If anything, he made Romney look like a spineless stooge. So Netanyahu backtracked, hurriedly, as his gambit backfired and threatened to pull the American-Israeli relationship out by the roots of while dragging the roof onto his head.
Although he later apologized, or seemed to, I doubt he was sincere. He didn't sound sincere. He sounded pained. His words struck me as forced and hollow, that hollowness magnified by their repetition and his refusal to answer journalists' questions. His gambit then seemed to be: stonewall, wait until it blows over then try again some other day. Like now.
He still hasn't learned the lesson, evidently; assuming he's even capable of it, or of understanding the power the mere appearance of impropriety possesses. This image of impropriety is why he should cancel the speech before Congress, then pray that the repercussions of accepting Boehner's cynical invitation end right there.
He should be so lucky ... .
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Not following diplomatic protocol is a bad idea. Netanyahu has made it clear that if the United States is not willing to go to war against Iran, that the US is no friend of Isreal. Unbelievable. What else do we need to do for that country to convince them that we are on their side? At what point does Netanyahu say America is a friend?
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Nation-states don't have "friends", only secular economic and strategic interests mutually shared.
Our longstanding problems with Iran began in 1953. We meddled in Iranian politics to overthrow an elected government deemed unsympathetic to our strategic interests. We overthrow it to implement a Cold War anti-Soviet containment strategy in that part of the world. US/Iranian mutual national interests began to diverge at that point because the regime we installed in Tehran was ineffectual, apostate and corrupt. Our mutual national interests finally ruptured when the beneficiary of our meddling, Shah Pahlavi, was overthrown and driven into exile.
What Netanyahu actually fears isn't an Iranian A-bomb and intercontinental missile delivery system, still many years off, but any convergence of American and Iranian strategic interests caused by the rise of ISIS/ISIL in the Levant. To prevent it, he hopes to poison the soup.
Our longstanding problems with Iran began in 1953. We meddled in Iranian politics to overthrow an elected government deemed unsympathetic to our strategic interests. We overthrow it to implement a Cold War anti-Soviet containment strategy in that part of the world. US/Iranian mutual national interests began to diverge at that point because the regime we installed in Tehran was ineffectual, apostate and corrupt. Our mutual national interests finally ruptured when the beneficiary of our meddling, Shah Pahlavi, was overthrown and driven into exile.
What Netanyahu actually fears isn't an Iranian A-bomb and intercontinental missile delivery system, still many years off, but any convergence of American and Iranian strategic interests caused by the rise of ISIS/ISIL in the Levant. To prevent it, he hopes to poison the soup.
32
Its only your true friends who tell you when you're wrong.
3
When we tell him to go find another friend.
3
When was the last time a sitting American President spoke before the Knesset? What arrogance on the part of Netanyahu. Enough of our endless support of this man. Time to turn off the spigot and worry about our own people in this country.
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Well Obama could have and chose not to speak before the Knesset in March, 2013 because he wanted a politically neutral venue (whatever that is as the Knesset has left-wing, right-wing, Arab, and Druze members) for his speech. So it was his decision not to speak. He did however meet with Netanyahu at that time. However, Bush spoke before the Knesset in May 2008. Answer your question?
1
You fail to mention the fact that Boehner is as bad as Bibi.
3
The arrogance of the Israeli Prime Minister and treasonous behavior of the Speaker of the House is being funded by AIPAC. Take note Democrats.
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The real traitors are those who refuse to use US military forces to bring about regime change in Iran (thus making the world safer). Boehner, Romney (and his neo-con foreign policy advisors) and conservatives see this. Why do liberals not?
@ Yoda,
I look forward to you paying higher taxes out of your military salary to pay for this war as you and your children fight on the front lines in Tehran. And what exactly is the plan after we take over Iran?
Not every solution is a military one. After 14 years of war, haven't we learned that it often leads to bigger problems (Iraq insurgency, ISIS, etc).
I look forward to you paying higher taxes out of your military salary to pay for this war as you and your children fight on the front lines in Tehran. And what exactly is the plan after we take over Iran?
Not every solution is a military one. After 14 years of war, haven't we learned that it often leads to bigger problems (Iraq insurgency, ISIS, etc).
25
I wish I could recommend your comment more than once.
4
We are so focused on politics that we forget the substance. After all, isn't this about not letting Iran get the bomb? If Iran gets the bomb because Netanyahu showed deference to Obama, wouldn't we all lose? It is better to defy Obama now, than to deal with a nuclear Iran later. If anything, this invitation shows that both Boehner and Netanyahu are real statesmen, and demonstrates their courage in defying both countries petty politics when the fate of the world hangs in balance.
And by the way, just because Obama is US president does not at all mean that he is right on Iran. And the question here is not who is more politically powerful, but who is right.
Better that Obama's ego be hurt, than that the world be destroyed.
--
And by the way, just because Obama is US president does not at all mean that he is right on Iran. And the question here is not who is more politically powerful, but who is right.
Better that Obama's ego be hurt, than that the world be destroyed.
--
7
If the negotiations break down because of interference by Netanyahu and right-wing Republicans in this country, wouldn't we all lose? Military muscle certainly won't solve the Iranian problem any more than it is solving the Palestinian one.
31
I agree with you completely. Iran's movement towards nuclear weaponry is abhorrent and Obama has been impotent in the face of it. Prime Minister Netanyahu has every right to speak and every reason to be concerned.
3
Why wouldn't Netanyahu wait until after the election if you are correct? You don't think this is an obvious political ploy? I think you've fallen for it.
25
Another example of - Bibi in this case - of finding out you've gone to far only after you have gone too far?
He's been a disaster for Israel, the Palestinians and for the United States (that, as usual, remains tongue-tied in criticizing him or Israel due to campaign financing fears and claims of anti-Semitism).
He's been a disaster for Israel, the Palestinians and for the United States (that, as usual, remains tongue-tied in criticizing him or Israel due to campaign financing fears and claims of anti-Semitism).
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It is an outrage that John Boehner extended the invitation. It is an outrage that Benjamin Netanyahu accepted it.
329
Boehner extended the invitation after the persistent insistence of Netanyahu and his boy in DC.
3
Well, they ARE both outrageous ... so maybe that fits.
2
And may the coming backlash hit BOTH of them hard.
2
Netanyahu already did great damage to the bipartisan support of Israel when he threw in on the side of Romney. Now this confirms it to be a long term choice.
Real bipartisanship is rare in America. Israel had it. It does not have it anymore.
It is a strange choice, because Republican presidents past have been very hard on Israel.
Trusting Republicans for generosity and selflessness, at the cost of alienating Democrats, choosing to trust the Republicans to do the right thing for someone else, all of that is foolish, just foolish.
Real bipartisanship is rare in America. Israel had it. It does not have it anymore.
It is a strange choice, because Republican presidents past have been very hard on Israel.
Trusting Republicans for generosity and selflessness, at the cost of alienating Democrats, choosing to trust the Republicans to do the right thing for someone else, all of that is foolish, just foolish.
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If Mr. T. posted a comment here blaming Israel for bad haircuts Palestinians are receiving in the West Bank and Gaza, his supporters here would cheer.
1
Trusting Obama is foolish. The president has demonstrated a passive stance against Iran who has proven to continue building their nuclear armaments. Just this week we learned of their new extended missile programs which might, in fact, reach as far as the U.S. Mr. Obama also demonstrated his lack of compassion for terrorist destruction and for the Jewish people by his recent absence in France. Mr. Boehner has gone above Obama as someone here must begin to demonstrate a strong stance against Islamist extremism. Mr. Netanyahu has nothing lose. He lost our defense with the election of Obama a long time ago.
1
Mr. Netanyahu does Israel a great disservice. He is managing tp turn off many in the USA with his arrogant behavior. He has decided only right wing Americans are of amy importance to Israel. We Democrats are taking notice. He would be wise to change his course. Mr. Boehner is just as arrogant and disgraceful in his handlong of this speech. We won't forget the slight. One day it will be our turn.
680
Netanyahu is aware of how corrupted our political process has become. He only cares about the big donors and not the American people.
30
You are absolutely right. Netanyahu is making the American peope not only hate him personally, but also dislike Israel. He's had an even worse effect in Europe, where his personality and pushiness even to the point of coming to a march he was expressly not invited to, has made European leaders even more ready to turn against Israel, and stoked anti-semitism in Europe.
Netanyahu wants us to fight Israel's battle with Iran with our blood and money. He's crazy, we will NEVER side with ANY Mideast state in a war. If he wants to attack Iran, he needs to shut up and command Israel to attack Iran, on its own. Americans will not die for Israel.
Netanyahu wants us to fight Israel's battle with Iran with our blood and money. He's crazy, we will NEVER side with ANY Mideast state in a war. If he wants to attack Iran, he needs to shut up and command Israel to attack Iran, on its own. Americans will not die for Israel.
7
Aside from the obvious insult, what makes this maneuver doubly stupid is that it will result in precisely the opposite of the desired result.
For Boehner, who allegedly wants to legislate stronger sanctions, this action sunk the very real possibility of a Congressional override of the President's veto of any such legislation. As late as last week, at least a dozen House Democrats might have to override; now, that just ain't going to happen.
For Netanyahu, his hope was that this photo op would display his diplomatic skills and international importance. Instead, he has shown himself to be ignorant of the diplomatic skills he was hoping to highlight, and a poor steward of Israel's most important relationship - its ties the both the US Presidency as well as Congress - both Democratic and Republican. And this isn't the first time he has managed to combine Backfire with Fail. Way to go, Bibi.
For Boehner, who allegedly wants to legislate stronger sanctions, this action sunk the very real possibility of a Congressional override of the President's veto of any such legislation. As late as last week, at least a dozen House Democrats might have to override; now, that just ain't going to happen.
For Netanyahu, his hope was that this photo op would display his diplomatic skills and international importance. Instead, he has shown himself to be ignorant of the diplomatic skills he was hoping to highlight, and a poor steward of Israel's most important relationship - its ties the both the US Presidency as well as Congress - both Democratic and Republican. And this isn't the first time he has managed to combine Backfire with Fail. Way to go, Bibi.
3
It's pretty clear our "special relationship" with Israel is a little bit too special. That an Israeli leader, who benefits from $5 bn./year in military aid from the US, thinks its okay to try to undermine US diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and possibly force us into a major war, tells us that it's time to end the special relationship. Let Israel fund its own wars and occupations. And let's pray this will wake up the shameless Israel panderers in both parties. The Israelis. the Saudis or the Egyptians -- none of them are our friends.
497
I agree with you, but nothing will ever change the relationship between Israel and the US. Nothing Israel ever does will stop the fact that they will continue to receive the most in foreign aid of any other country in the world, regardless of which party is in control of the White House. While every other country in the world condemns Israel, the United States will continue to fund their military. The balance of power is too far in Israel's direction for anyone to stop, including the President.
17
Good luck in that war with Iran. Does anyone in DC have a map or read history? I have no idea what these clowns intend to do or how in this seemingly inevitable war is to be conducted, a war that is so against the interests of the American people. Iran is no Iraq. The Repubs remind me of the Bourbons before 1789 "They remrmbered nothing they forgot nothing." Perfect.
4
I couldn't agree more. The governments of Israel, Egypt and Saudi Arabia are equally responsible for the mess in the Middle East because they ALL for their different reasons want to block progressive forces gaining a hold in the region.
1
When the Right in Israel speaks only to the Right in the US, then they have polarized the discussion. It really makes the Centrists and the Left over here want to wash their hands of this frustrating and endlessly troublesome relationship.
322
How dare the Israeli Prime Minister & John Boehner insult the POTUS by not going through the proper channels in regards to this speech & opening dialogue with Iran
I can understand the Republicans as they oppose everything the POTUS does and stand for nothing. For the Israeli Prime Minister to do the same then come running to us with his hands out is despicable. By insulting the POTUS and protocol, he's doing the same to the American public.
The Europeans have gotten wise to his war mongering ways, it's about time us American's do the same and cut him loose.
I can understand the Republicans as they oppose everything the POTUS does and stand for nothing. For the Israeli Prime Minister to do the same then come running to us with his hands out is despicable. By insulting the POTUS and protocol, he's doing the same to the American public.
The Europeans have gotten wise to his war mongering ways, it's about time us American's do the same and cut him loose.
504
Since Obama does not cut aid to Netanyahu, he must be fine with Israel's policies and behaviors.
It is naive to think that Obama disapproves. By the president's continued support for Israel, it is clear that he's fine with the war crimes against the Palestinians and the ongoing attacks against Iran.
It is naive to think that Obama disapproves. By the president's continued support for Israel, it is clear that he's fine with the war crimes against the Palestinians and the ongoing attacks against Iran.
1
I could not have said it better! Something tells me that if President Obama were a white man, Netanyahu would not be so arrogant and insulting. Israel is being led astray by a foolish prime minister.
Boehner isn't the best guy to have on one's side, lately.
81
This distinct break with protocol and international understanding, can only be accomplished by the arrogance of the Prime Minister of Israel and, the not to be outdone, by the insensitivity of the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Is their hatred for our President so toxic that they would stoop to this low level for the sake of getting the former re-elected by pandering to his Orthodox Jewish base, and asserting the power of the latter with his ultra conservative colleagues? Disgraceful! And the people of Israel should protest loud and clear to the extent that it costs Netanyahu his re-election in March and avoid putting American aid to Israel at risk for this terrible breach of international protocol. It is arrogant and loaded with "chutzpah" on the part of both parties, and should be condemned by all who care!
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Well said, but I fear your point will fall on deaf ears, and that is unfortunate for Israel.
27
Mr.Netanyahu is not friend of USA, and he has no respect to our president Obama, also this goes to Mr.Boeher, if l was Republican party l will tell him get lost, as long as Mr.Obama is our president and elected twice, than we have to show him respect, Mr.Netanyahu is not doing any good for Israel also, he was never for two state, he was never a free palestine, so he is responsible for anti Israel feeling in our world.
37
I totally agree with you. Mr. Netanyahu "endorsed" Mitt Romney during the 2012 election. He then had the audacity to lecture Mr. Obama before the tv cameras.
Something needs to be done to get Mr. Netanyahu's attention because he has gone completely stark raving mad.
I say that Ambassador Dermer needs to be kicked out of the country and placed on the DHS no fly list.
Under President Obama, billions of US tax dollars have went to the aid of Israel. And what does Mr. Netanyahu does in return? He spits in the president's face.
Such flagrant disrespect cannot go unpunished.
Something needs to be done to get Mr. Netanyahu's attention because he has gone completely stark raving mad.
I say that Ambassador Dermer needs to be kicked out of the country and placed on the DHS no fly list.
Under President Obama, billions of US tax dollars have went to the aid of Israel. And what does Mr. Netanyahu does in return? He spits in the president's face.
Such flagrant disrespect cannot go unpunished.
52