President Obama bites the hand of the people who supported him politically, so now he gets it and plays nice. But otherwise the President is looking for a breakthrough legacy and Iran is it and there is no stopping this mindset until an announcement is made with Iran on Nuclear curtailment. It does not matter that Iranian leaders are liars and will not honor an agreement and the President is very willing to throw Israel and his Jewish supporters under the bus. The President is completely clueless about the Middle East and how it will blow up in his face without the Israelis at our side.
1
Let the IDF invade Iran if Bibi doesnt want to negotiate and persue a peaceful path.
3
So Isreal is part of our family.... has to be the child that does not listen and if that child does not get their way they have a tantrum. The child keeps playing with other childrens toys and sandbox (settlements) after being asked not to do so while dad try's to talk to the neighbors child. That child steals money from Dad (spys) wallet. That child has a stick thrown at him by the neighbors kid and enters the neighbors yard and destroys the play fort of the other kid. The child goes and talks to the Dads relatives and complains Dad is not standing up to the neighbor and is stupid. If this was my Kid he would have been in a big timeout with no allowance and getting registered for a private reform school.
7
Republicans are bringing global shame upon American Polity. No country and statesmen of stature allow another country to so publicly capitalize on bipartisanship- even if they do , its behind closed doors. This projects the wrong wrong wrong image of America to the world.
10
How can you get a deal if you refuse to talk about a deal? If your goal is to sabotage a deal you have no other option than war. Coming from an equal player this wouldn't be as tragic. Let’s not forget Israel has nuclear weapons. How do you tell another country only you have right to have these weapons and they are not allowed to even talk about having them. After seeing what happened to Saddam and Khadafy would not you want a seat at this table? How can you explain to your population that Iran is suppose to shut up and behave? Both sides need to resolve this and it can be resolved with one side saying there is nothing to be done but keep beating the other side until they submit. If the war option is used then what? Remember the line Iraqi oil will pay for the war. Sure the Jewish people have tragic history that they want never to have to visit again. To use that as an excuse to sit with your fingers in your ears I believe Is counterproductive. Haven’t our miss adventures in the region taught us that sure we can win the fight but can we also win the peace? All sides need to exhaust every avenue of negotiation before the first bomb is dropped or the first life is lost. The stubbornness of old men is always paid with the blood of our children. Everyone please talk before you send our children to war..
8
Jews have frequently been blamed for crimes committed by others.
And have frequently been vilified as a result of societal frustrations and envy beyond their control to influence in any way.
A lot of this is very evident in the public reactions to the current controversy surrounding Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Obama.
Mr. Netanyahu is extremely concerned about the existential danger posed to his country by Iran's potential possession of nuclear weapons.
Just as President Obama would be if Mexico initiated a nuclear weapons program.
The growing number of negative reactions we are to seeing to Mr. Netanyahu and Israel in polls and social media and in comment spaces such as this are about much more than the issue of nuclear weapons in Iran.
They really represent the canary in the cage warning us that Jew-blaming is coming into vogue again.
And have frequently been vilified as a result of societal frustrations and envy beyond their control to influence in any way.
A lot of this is very evident in the public reactions to the current controversy surrounding Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Obama.
Mr. Netanyahu is extremely concerned about the existential danger posed to his country by Iran's potential possession of nuclear weapons.
Just as President Obama would be if Mexico initiated a nuclear weapons program.
The growing number of negative reactions we are to seeing to Mr. Netanyahu and Israel in polls and social media and in comment spaces such as this are about much more than the issue of nuclear weapons in Iran.
They really represent the canary in the cage warning us that Jew-blaming is coming into vogue again.
1
OK, fine. If Bibi doesn't understand that peace is cheaper, he should go ahead and bomb Iran. That way, he uses his people's money and blood and not ours. And the wrath of the entire Arab world would rise against him. Hopefully, we'd let him sort it out.
4
Why should Netanyahu be alarmed? After all, the President did say that Iran wouldn't be able to develop a weapon in less than a year and that the agreement would be in place for ten years. Does President Obama have any idea of how stupid that sounds?
I am not Jewish, but I have a lot of issues with Obama's behavior towards the Israelis. Ditto Kerry. It's pretty obvious that neither of them have a clue and don't like the Israelis. It's one thing to broker peace in the middle east, if that is ever possible. It is another thing to totally ignore a country that has always been a friend of the USA. We backed the dictators in the middle east, and lost that connection when all the dictators were overthrown. We're hated over there by everyone but the Israelis because of our policies of the past. Obama and Kerry have no idea of what is going on over there.
1
The tail continues to wag the dog.
6
Sure, the Iranian mullahs are not nice folks (or at least that is how the Western media keep portraying them), but neither is the Israeli or US government. I have a problem with that whole approach of ours. The West has been screwing up that region for a century or more, all for egoistic reasons. It is logical that Iran is one of, if not THE key regional power there, it has been for thousands of years. I think it is unfair to sacrifice an entire region for the sake of the tiny bully Israel, which keeps stealing other people's land and is doing everything it can to prevent peace down there.
I don't like how the IAEA, the UN etc. are being abused by a few countries in order to force their egoistic views of the world upon the world. Let's look at it objectively:
- there has been no proof that Iran is developing nuclear bombs, yet the world has been blackmailed by a few countries into destroying Iran's economy
- the few countries officially having nuclear arms and Israel as well behave as if they were in any way better and privileged; why on earth should they have the right to have nuclear arms and others not? China also has enemies, so do Pakistan, Russia and the US. So, having enemies can't be the reason.
In my view Iran has every right in the world to develop any and all nuclear technologies except bombs. If that is refused, Iran and all other countries that feel oppressed should cancel all treaties regarding nuclear non proliferation.
I don't like how the IAEA, the UN etc. are being abused by a few countries in order to force their egoistic views of the world upon the world. Let's look at it objectively:
- there has been no proof that Iran is developing nuclear bombs, yet the world has been blackmailed by a few countries into destroying Iran's economy
- the few countries officially having nuclear arms and Israel as well behave as if they were in any way better and privileged; why on earth should they have the right to have nuclear arms and others not? China also has enemies, so do Pakistan, Russia and the US. So, having enemies can't be the reason.
In my view Iran has every right in the world to develop any and all nuclear technologies except bombs. If that is refused, Iran and all other countries that feel oppressed should cancel all treaties regarding nuclear non proliferation.
4
Netanyahu's arrogance and deception is outrageous. Most of the world's people were "stateless" for most of the last 2000 years. There were no states before a few hundred years ago. For him pose as some great savior of Jews is an insult to the intelligence of the world, which can plainly see how he has for years worked to wreck any possibility of a deal with the Palestinians. How is such fanaticism in the interest of Jews? And why must this pompous foreign potentate be given a red carpet in our country, America?
7
Afyer all these decades it't time to cut Israel free and see if she can stand on her own.
6
Benjamin Netanyahu’s observation to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) on Monday evening last, that, "Iran is the foremost state sponsor of terrorism in the world," [and] "As prime minister, I have a moral obligation to speak up in the face of these dangers while there is still time to avert them,” contrasts sharply with the recent observation by Human Rights Watch, the US based but internationally renowned human rights monitor, when it concluded--after last summer’s bombardment of the Gaza strip,--“Previous inquiries by the Israeli military of alleged war crimes committed by its forces have not met international standards for credible, impartial and independent investigations”. Perhaps Mr. Netanyahu might, rather than advance illusory arguments about the intentions of Iran, focus instead on his government’s shortfalls in the area of international terrorism. Surely the term ‘moral obligation’ has no place in a speech by this Israeli Prime Minister?
Declan Doyle
Lisdowney
Ireland
Declan Doyle
Lisdowney
Ireland
6
No foreign leader should EVER be allowed to dictate our foreign policy , and no foreign leader should ever be allowed to come to this country and to speak before OUT elected officials and demean and degrade our president. Netanyahu has caused a big riff in the relations between Israel and many in the US who see this as an affront to the American president.
11
I never knew before reading the comments here that haters of Israel were such sensitive souls. All along I've thought that they are concerned about the way the Palestinians are being treated. Now I come to find out their real worry is the way President Obama is being treated. You learn something every day.
Netanyahu is no friend of the United States and he owes the world an apology form inciting recruitment for ISIS. Jordan's King Abdullah ll told CNN's Fareed Zakaria that there was an increased recruitment for ISIS after the war last summer between Israel and the Palestinians. Now he comes to the United States to get Congress riled up to go to war with Iran. And he encouraged the Bush administration to attack Iraq; what did that get us.
So, Netanyahu, what country do you have in your cross-hairs after Iran?
So, Netanyahu, what country do you have in your cross-hairs after Iran?
7
Israel wants war and the republicans cannot wait to deliver one to them. Their ploy will not work. We need to focus on the fact Israel is not a friend of the US.
9
BiBi says he has a moral obligation to address Congress. Who is he to claim a moral obligation? He's responsible for slaughtering hundreds of Palestinian civilians. King Abdullah of Jordan claims the Palestinian deaths caused a spike in ISIS recruits to Syria and Iraq. And where has BiBi pursued a two state solution? I would go further to say he is responsible for the increase in anti-Semitism crime in Europe and elsewhere.
I hold every Democrat responsible that chooses to attend this address. It has the same vibe as their vote to invade Iraq. When will they support their President like the rest of us?
I hold every Democrat responsible that chooses to attend this address. It has the same vibe as their vote to invade Iraq. When will they support their President like the rest of us?
10
Netanyahu and his extreme right wing Likud party ignore resolutions concerning his illegal land grab policies in West Bank settlements and the veritable strangulation, siege, and starvation of Gaza, shirking world opinion. He doggedly persists in the execution of these policies, emboldened by intractable US support, even though he is clearly stoking the fires of bitter entrenched hatred amongst the palestinians and arabs at large spanning generations. Israel is effectively a hegemonistic colonizer and a brutal occupation force having no right to exist, yet incredibly insisting on being formerly recognized as such. This dogged treachery and arrogance is the driving force behind the Hamas missile attacks and Iran´s push for nuclear weapons, no question.
3
No one wants to see a country as insane as Iran get a nuclear arm. I think the best approach would be for the United States to continue with diplomacy, and if Israel wishes to unilaterally attack without our participation of any kind, as Netanyahu has threatened to do many times, then it should do so.
I also have serious issues with the amount of foreign aid we are giving to other countries in total. That money is more than enough to offset the 20% cut in benefits to seriously disabled people that the House has currently threatened.
Finally, America has reached new lows when a foreign leader addresses Congress at the invitation of just one party on how we should conduct our affairs. The fact that it is happening is humiliating to our nation.
I also have serious issues with the amount of foreign aid we are giving to other countries in total. That money is more than enough to offset the 20% cut in benefits to seriously disabled people that the House has currently threatened.
Finally, America has reached new lows when a foreign leader addresses Congress at the invitation of just one party on how we should conduct our affairs. The fact that it is happening is humiliating to our nation.
2
The tail has been wagging the dog for quite a long time. Now the tail wants to take the place of the dog, and do the barking besides the biting. Annex Israel as the n-th American state and then it will all be legal and lawful.
1
It's simple. The polite way to describe Obama is ambivalent. The cold way is sympathetic to Arab interests, skeptical about Israeli interests, tending to anti Semitism - risking a nuclear Iran and obliteration of Isreal.
Should Iran go nuclear, Iran will lean the Mid East with nuclear states everywhere among the crazy. Obama will go down as worse than Jimmy Carter.
Regardless, Bibi Netanyahu will go down as impolitic and abrupt, dedicated to his nation, intolerant of those that wish to destroy Israel, loyal to Israeli citizens, Jews, Christians and Muslim alike - as the leader of the only democracy in the Mid East.
The speech will be noted. And nothing will change. Obama will leave office and the next president will pick up the pieces. Bibi will leave office, and the next leader of Israel will have to shoulder the mess left by this president.
If the Mid East goes nuclear, WW III is assured.
Should Iran go nuclear, Iran will lean the Mid East with nuclear states everywhere among the crazy. Obama will go down as worse than Jimmy Carter.
Regardless, Bibi Netanyahu will go down as impolitic and abrupt, dedicated to his nation, intolerant of those that wish to destroy Israel, loyal to Israeli citizens, Jews, Christians and Muslim alike - as the leader of the only democracy in the Mid East.
The speech will be noted. And nothing will change. Obama will leave office and the next president will pick up the pieces. Bibi will leave office, and the next leader of Israel will have to shoulder the mess left by this president.
If the Mid East goes nuclear, WW III is assured.
When congress doesn't do what President Obama wants, he sidesteps them with an executive order ala immigration.
When congress tries to exercise it's constitutional power and merely hear what Prime Minister Netanyahu has to say, the president calls a foul. What is the President and the Democrats who are boycotting the speech afraid of? The truth?
It's "disrespecting" the president and racist to disagree with him? The opposite of that is pandering.
When congress tries to exercise it's constitutional power and merely hear what Prime Minister Netanyahu has to say, the president calls a foul. What is the President and the Democrats who are boycotting the speech afraid of? The truth?
It's "disrespecting" the president and racist to disagree with him? The opposite of that is pandering.
With friends like Israel, who needs enemies?
4
I have no problem with Netanyahu expressing his view of the Iran nuclear negotiations, in front of Congress or anywhere else. What I can't understand is why he felt it necessary to accept Boehner's offer without going through the state department. The notion that a seasoned politician would not recognize this invitation is a breach of protocol and realize it is a ploy on Boehner's part to undermine the authority of the president is preposterous.
3
Barack Obama and Benjamin Netanyahu always had rather strained relations. But since Obama has became our president, relations between Israel and our country has become much worse. Despite of strong Jewish lobby in the White House. AIPAC gonna prove this.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a long time avoided criticism of Obama and his administration. He has earned the title of an extremely loyal politician. Netanyahu was real pro-American. Some summary:
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/the-history-behind-the-awkward-obama-b...
Now Barack Obama is sure Netanyahu will not remain for a new term, and he does not need to establish new relations with Israel now. Some proof:
http://forward.com/articles/214551/israels-v-uses-barack-obama-style-gro...
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a long time avoided criticism of Obama and his administration. He has earned the title of an extremely loyal politician. Netanyahu was real pro-American. Some summary:
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/the-history-behind-the-awkward-obama-b...
Now Barack Obama is sure Netanyahu will not remain for a new term, and he does not need to establish new relations with Israel now. Some proof:
http://forward.com/articles/214551/israels-v-uses-barack-obama-style-gro...
John Boehner's invitation, without following protocol, simply is another sign that Republican leaders have no respect for the President and no respect for the office of the Presidency. John Boehner is Prime Minister Netanyahu's hand puppet, while Netanyahu incurs no costs for the outrage his public appearance at the playground known as Congress has prompted.
3
Natanyahu being shamefully disrespectful to the President and turning Israel into a partisan issue? Yes.
Obama entering into a shameful deal with Iran in which the U.S. has caved and will allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons? Yes.
Who is worse? Netanyahu's failing is one of protocol and common courtesy. Obama's is one of substance.
Obama entering into a shameful deal with Iran in which the U.S. has caved and will allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons? Yes.
Who is worse? Netanyahu's failing is one of protocol and common courtesy. Obama's is one of substance.
I am amazed that a foreign politician comes to United States, to complain and to try to divert the US foreign policy. And the majority of the US Congresspeople agree to listen to him. Unheard of. America is becoming a country ruled by lobbies.
11
Any body who thinks that a military option is really an option, is delusional at best, and lying to themselves at worst. The U.S. and its allies have been playing whack-a-mole with the extremists in Iraq and Afghanistan for the last 14 years and are no closer to closure than ever. This is what Netanyahu wants, and we must not allow him to manipulate us into another unwinnable conflict.
7
Netanyahu claims to have great respect for both Obama and the office of the President. Why, then, did he sneak - and that is the right word - around to keep the President and his Secretary of State in the dark as he secretly planned this so he could undermine U.S. foreign policy. That is just about as disrespectful as one can get.
8
The one thing that is not being dragged into the light of day is AIPAC and their role in this diplomatic embarrassment.
4
There cannot be a second opinion that Jews suffered enormously throughout history and more terribly at the hands of Hitler. Today, they have a State of their own, and plenty of donors, the U.S. and most of Europe. They are economically and militarily strong. They get political support for all their actions. Sometimes, the action to contain militants, cross its limits, e.g. Gaza invasion, and even then, Israel has got support from powerful countries of the world.
Be that as it may, the relationship between the U.S. and Iran, has nothing to do with Israel. If it apprehends nuclear attack by Iran, there is a medium to address that issue. Iran has always opened its doors for inspection of its nuclear sites by international bodies.
America will not enter into an agreement with an erstwhile foe unless it is convinced that such action will not be detrimental to regional peace. Israel cannot dictate terms with regard to foreign affairs of other countries.
Cold war is history now. It is time to move on. Countries cannot remain foes forever.
Be that as it may, the relationship between the U.S. and Iran, has nothing to do with Israel. If it apprehends nuclear attack by Iran, there is a medium to address that issue. Iran has always opened its doors for inspection of its nuclear sites by international bodies.
America will not enter into an agreement with an erstwhile foe unless it is convinced that such action will not be detrimental to regional peace. Israel cannot dictate terms with regard to foreign affairs of other countries.
Cold war is history now. It is time to move on. Countries cannot remain foes forever.
It's disgraceful that we allow a foreigner in our Congress to lobby against the interests of the American people. How many more must die so that the injustice perpetrated by Israel, and by the consent of the US government, on the Palestinian people? How many more wars will we wage in support of Israel? How many billions have we alienated to the point that they support ISIS?
1
Who does Netanyahu think he is? He has nothing to say about the foreign policy of the United States. He's not a citizen and he's not an elected official. If he wants Israel to declare war on Iran, then nobody's stopping him. He doesn't need to confer with the US government about that, either. Go tend to your own affairs, Mr. Netanyahu. You've alienated many of us who formerly supported Israel. You can't support the building of settlements and claim you're seeking "peace." You can't claim to know what the US and other nations are working toward in ongoing negotiations with Iran and then say your grandstanding before Israel's election is not political in nature. You're on your own. Goodbye and good luck.
2
In September of 2000, A peace agreement between Israel and Palestine came close to being a reality. Then Ariel Sharon marched into East Jerusalem, near the area of the Temple Mount, to prove his "rights", and to provoke a riot. A riot gladly taken up by his hardline Palestinian counterparts who, like Sharon, wanted no part of peace. It worked. And peace was defeated. It was a concerted effort on both sides.
Tomorrow, Netanyahu will give a similar gift to his counterparts, the hardliners in Iran. Ammunition for those in Iran who do not want peace, who do not want to see their cherished weapons destroyed, who do not want to give up their hold over their people. A hold base on hate, fear and distrust. And once again, the hawks will defeat the doves. Peace is so fragile, and so easily destroyed.
Tomorrow, Netanyahu will give a similar gift to his counterparts, the hardliners in Iran. Ammunition for those in Iran who do not want peace, who do not want to see their cherished weapons destroyed, who do not want to give up their hold over their people. A hold base on hate, fear and distrust. And once again, the hawks will defeat the doves. Peace is so fragile, and so easily destroyed.
Mr. Netanyahu has done lasting harm to the relationship between Israel and the U.S. The only good that can come from this is if the Israli people see him for what he is and not relect him.
6
So where are all those American patriots when you need them? Maybe they are blind to the fact that a foreign government is highjacking American foreign policy and corrupting their democracy, but surely they can see a foreigner coming to the US of A to challenge and insult their President.
4
Democratic members of Congress should probably not go to far afield during Bibi's speech.
Republican leadership is not above using the absence of Democrats, particularly Senators, to call a special session to pass legislation that requires a super majority or a 2/3 's vote.
Republican leadership is not above using the absence of Democrats, particularly Senators, to call a special session to pass legislation that requires a super majority or a 2/3 's vote.
Both sides are dancing on the head of their respective pins. The rest of the world looks on wonders, "family fight", some family. This truly reflects how dysfunctional the relationship has become.
Netanyahu needs a lesson: being voted out of the office. He is unfit to be the president of Israel when he does not respect my president. He is not welcome here. My president represents the United States of America, not Israel. If he cannot accept that, he should not come.
2
So now we have the "Mr. Netanyahu Goes to Washington Movie."
First Act: Ex-U.S. citizen, Israeli ambassador Ron Dermer cooks up a scheme to assure PM Netanyahu's re-election in a tough race.
Second Act: PM Netanyahu comes and gives a red-meat attack-Iran speech to AIPAC, insults the presidency and the American people, and now everyone's undies are in a bundle with Congresspeople inventing all kinds of justifications for either attending or not attending his speech. The 24 hour news cycle isn't even about Netanyahu; it is about what people think about other people's reaction to Netanyahu. Ha ha. What a madcap comedy. How will it be resolved?
Mr. Netanyahu has successfully undermined his own message. Who will care what he says about Iran now? Everyone knows his message before he even delivers it. Moreover, he has damaged himself politically in Israel. This little scheme cooked up by Dermer has blown up in Netanyahu's (and Dermer's) face.
So, now it is time for the third act where everyone tries to make nice-nice. Say it was all a misunderstanding. Reassert that whatever was done was like a family spat, and we will go on as if nothing ever happened. Netanyahu thus tries to calm the political turmoil and President Obama (and John Kerry) reassures the electorate that America still loves Israel. Air-kisses all around. Big laugh, fade to black.
What a sordidly ridiculous piece of political theater this has been. Maybe someone will make a satirical film out of it.
First Act: Ex-U.S. citizen, Israeli ambassador Ron Dermer cooks up a scheme to assure PM Netanyahu's re-election in a tough race.
Second Act: PM Netanyahu comes and gives a red-meat attack-Iran speech to AIPAC, insults the presidency and the American people, and now everyone's undies are in a bundle with Congresspeople inventing all kinds of justifications for either attending or not attending his speech. The 24 hour news cycle isn't even about Netanyahu; it is about what people think about other people's reaction to Netanyahu. Ha ha. What a madcap comedy. How will it be resolved?
Mr. Netanyahu has successfully undermined his own message. Who will care what he says about Iran now? Everyone knows his message before he even delivers it. Moreover, he has damaged himself politically in Israel. This little scheme cooked up by Dermer has blown up in Netanyahu's (and Dermer's) face.
So, now it is time for the third act where everyone tries to make nice-nice. Say it was all a misunderstanding. Reassert that whatever was done was like a family spat, and we will go on as if nothing ever happened. Netanyahu thus tries to calm the political turmoil and President Obama (and John Kerry) reassures the electorate that America still loves Israel. Air-kisses all around. Big laugh, fade to black.
What a sordidly ridiculous piece of political theater this has been. Maybe someone will make a satirical film out of it.
8
The world is a much safer place thanks to President Obama's measured foreign policy. Whatever Netanyahu tells the US Congress, he is not going to talk the President into invading Iran. And the paradox of all this is that the most dangerous country in the world already has nuclear weapons (Pakistan)...
7
What are the perils to a nuclear armed Iran? Talk about bias. Why not have a mature conversation about Iran's nuclear ambitions?
2
it is undeniable that the scheduling of the speech was a breach of protocol. it was politically motivated by the House Speaker to embarrass the president during an ongoing negotiation with a hostile government. viewed from that prospective, should netanyahu have been complicit in originating the invitation, or in accepting it ? the answer to that question depends on how much he knew about the substantive details of the proposed agreement, and the consequences of the deal to the united states, israel, and the rest of the world. if the deal would permit iran to acquire nuclear bomb making ability, whether in a year, or ten years he had every justification for accepting the invitation. impartiality requires that we listen to him before condemning him.
Interesting that when Bibi was PM ib the late 90s he didn't seem so concerned about Pakistan building their nuclear arsenal. Looks like this time he's more concerned that the cartoon Iranian bomb he used to draw the original "red line" will soon blow up in his face.
4
Over the past three days, between 4 and 6 of the headlines in the NYTimes and Wash Post have obsessed about this issue. Given that we gain little, if anything, from our consistent support of Israel, the Israeli leaders insults to our nation and our leaders should not be given any more press than necessary. It's time to evolve an egalitarian policy towards the Middle East. It's time to drop Israel from the center of our foreign policy in the region. It's time to stop losing money and effort to this bottomless sink. And most of all, it is time to enforce an end to this interference in our national politics.
3
Pardon my naivety, but shouldn’t Mr. Netanyahu be spending this kind of energy on solving the Palestinian issue? He should get that right, then come to the US and talk about it.
4
At the individual level it is highly unlikely that one would react to disrespect lying down. Then why are taking it on the chin when this leader of a small country disrespects collectively our whole country? I am incensed. For me it has become personal.
3
PM Netanyahu is here for one purpose: to let the American people know of the horrendous details and concessions in the Obama plan. A plan which will give the ayatollahs the nuclear bomb. Even most Arabs fear that, and have made that clear in private. A nuclear Iranian regime is a grave threat not only to Israel but also the US and indeed, the world. It would give a radical Islamic regime hegemony over the Middle East. In an attempt to prevent that, the Arab states would engage in a race toward developing or purchasing nuclear armaments. And furthermore, the Iranians have acquired the most advanced missile technology, capable of delivering nuclear warheads. The range of these missiles has rapidly expanded to the point where they can hit targets well beyond Israel. In the not too distant future they will likely have an ICBM.
There is a viable non-military alternative to the bad agreement Obama is on the verge of making. And that is a step up in the imposition of sanctions. That, in combination with low oil prices, will force the Islamic regime to give up its capability to manufacture nuclear weapons. Iran must NOT be allowed to remain a nuclear threshold state, as Obama would have it.
There is a viable non-military alternative to the bad agreement Obama is on the verge of making. And that is a step up in the imposition of sanctions. That, in combination with low oil prices, will force the Islamic regime to give up its capability to manufacture nuclear weapons. Iran must NOT be allowed to remain a nuclear threshold state, as Obama would have it.
2
Netanyahu is a direct contributor to middle east instability, the rise of Islamic extremists and the continued alienation of Israel and with it, distrust and hatred of America. Now he brings his decisiveness here, as if we don't have enough already. Go home Netanyahu, and close the door on your way out.
5
This whole controversy is making me sharply critical of Israel itself:
where is the public outcry in Israel against this shameful debacle?
where is the public outcry in Israel against this shameful debacle?
3
“Moral Obligation” a term that moral people should be allowed to use, not the ones who commit war crimes, who steal someone’s property and call it its own given by God.
Where was his morality when the phosphorous bombs rained on Gaza killing civilian men, women and children?
Where was his morality when IDF forces enter the homes of innocent civilians in the middle of the night and arrest them in the occupied territories of West Bank and Gaza?
Morality and Netanyahu do not go together.
Where was his morality when the phosphorous bombs rained on Gaza killing civilian men, women and children?
Where was his morality when IDF forces enter the homes of innocent civilians in the middle of the night and arrest them in the occupied territories of West Bank and Gaza?
Morality and Netanyahu do not go together.
3
It is Israel that possesses hundreds of nuclear weapons and, unlike Iran, refuses to sign the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. Iran has never declared an intention to produce nuclear weapons. According to reputable Israeli experts, Iran cannot acquire a military nuclear capability for five to ten years, and if and when it does acquire it, they expect Iran to use it to restrain Israel’s foreign incursions rather than attack it.
2
One wonders if folk commenting about the lack of respect shown to Obama by his world leader peers is deserved. On the foreign policy front what exactly has Obama done to deserve respect? Respect is earned as is its opposite.
1
Breaking News - Bibi accepts Obama invitation to make Rose Garden address on importance of funding Homeland Security.
1
Imagine that one day the Mafia by force overthrew Italy's government, took over, and installed itself as rulers would anyone recognize the Mafia as Italy's legitimate government? I think not.
That's pretty much what happened in Iran in 1978. However, instead of a criminal enterprise like the Mafia, the usurpers are Twelver religious-fanatics who illegitimately maintain control over Iran without the benefit of meaningful elections. Yes, Rouhani was elected but out of a slate of candidates specifically chosen by their "supreme leader" the ayatola, the real power in Iran. And I understand that this bunch of unelected criminals threw out another bunch of unelected criminals, the shah and his cohorts, but that in no way confers legitimacy upon the current rulers.
Right now at the nuke negotiations the Twelver Iranians are stalling and engaging in "takia", (Koranically sanctioned lying and deception), so that they can complete their nuke program which they intend to use to bring about the coming out of some mythical 12th imam whom they call "Al Mahdi". Al is supposed to show up with Jesus to redeem the world. Don't take my word for it, look it up:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelver
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_al-Mahdi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taqiya
You think that it's easy to deal with such craziness? What they should be discussing are the terms of the Twelvers' departure and the installation of a legitimate elected government.
Ramp up the sanctions!
That's pretty much what happened in Iran in 1978. However, instead of a criminal enterprise like the Mafia, the usurpers are Twelver religious-fanatics who illegitimately maintain control over Iran without the benefit of meaningful elections. Yes, Rouhani was elected but out of a slate of candidates specifically chosen by their "supreme leader" the ayatola, the real power in Iran. And I understand that this bunch of unelected criminals threw out another bunch of unelected criminals, the shah and his cohorts, but that in no way confers legitimacy upon the current rulers.
Right now at the nuke negotiations the Twelver Iranians are stalling and engaging in "takia", (Koranically sanctioned lying and deception), so that they can complete their nuke program which they intend to use to bring about the coming out of some mythical 12th imam whom they call "Al Mahdi". Al is supposed to show up with Jesus to redeem the world. Don't take my word for it, look it up:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelver
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_al-Mahdi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taqiya
You think that it's easy to deal with such craziness? What they should be discussing are the terms of the Twelvers' departure and the installation of a legitimate elected government.
Ramp up the sanctions!
2
Netanyahu is trying to undermine the American administration's serious negotiations with Iran. Everyone knows that. The Republicans invited Netanyahu to speak knowing he would be trying to undermine the Administration's serious negotiations with Iran. How is this not civil war?
4
Who said this?
"No Cure for Barbaric Israel but Annihilation" - Khameini, the illegitimate, unelected dictator of the so-called "islamic republic of" Iran.
"Iran will help anyone willing to 'cut out the cancer' of Israel". Khamenei.
Israel is "heading toward annihilation," - President of the so-called, illegitimate "islamic republic of" Iran
"Israel is a 'permanent threat' to the Middle East that will 'soon' be liberated. President of Iran. He also appeared to again question whether the Holocaust ever really happened.
"Like it or not, the Zionist regime is heading toward annihilation ... The Zionist regime is a rotten, dried tree that will be eliminated by one storm." President of Iran.
Israel is two countries to the west of Iran. They share no border, Israel does not posses one inch of territory which Iran has any claim to, there is no natural enmity between Israel, Jews and Iran. The only conclusion that can be reached is that Iran's unelected illegitimate rulers are blinded by fervent anti-Jewish hatred.
You hear talk like this coming out of Iran and couple it with oil-rich Iran's needless nuclear ambitions and you cannot blame Israel for being a little nervous.
I do not fault Netanyahu one iota for doing all that he can to protect his People and his Nation, even if that means stepping on our president's clueless toes.
One Holocaust was enough.
"No Cure for Barbaric Israel but Annihilation" - Khameini, the illegitimate, unelected dictator of the so-called "islamic republic of" Iran.
"Iran will help anyone willing to 'cut out the cancer' of Israel". Khamenei.
Israel is "heading toward annihilation," - President of the so-called, illegitimate "islamic republic of" Iran
"Israel is a 'permanent threat' to the Middle East that will 'soon' be liberated. President of Iran. He also appeared to again question whether the Holocaust ever really happened.
"Like it or not, the Zionist regime is heading toward annihilation ... The Zionist regime is a rotten, dried tree that will be eliminated by one storm." President of Iran.
Israel is two countries to the west of Iran. They share no border, Israel does not posses one inch of territory which Iran has any claim to, there is no natural enmity between Israel, Jews and Iran. The only conclusion that can be reached is that Iran's unelected illegitimate rulers are blinded by fervent anti-Jewish hatred.
You hear talk like this coming out of Iran and couple it with oil-rich Iran's needless nuclear ambitions and you cannot blame Israel for being a little nervous.
I do not fault Netanyahu one iota for doing all that he can to protect his People and his Nation, even if that means stepping on our president's clueless toes.
One Holocaust was enough.
4
Netanyahu in overstepping his bounds and disrespecting our president is playing right into the hands of his political opponents in Israel. Hopefully they will use this against him, by seeing that Netanyahu is a liability to their own people, in that he's biting the hand that feeds him and all of Israel.
Can this guy do more to NOT bring the stated peace he professes. Israel desperately needs a new leader. Hopefully this is Netanyahu's final and desperate swan song.
Can this guy do more to NOT bring the stated peace he professes. Israel desperately needs a new leader. Hopefully this is Netanyahu's final and desperate swan song.
2
Mr. Bibi, empty words are not enough...your actions say you are not being truthful.
3
I'm no big fan of Netanyahu but in this case he speaks the truth.
No deal with Iran is acceptable without provisions which permit unfettered access to any and all 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 Iran has 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.
One Holocaust was enough.
Boehner on the other hand was a tad classless for extending an invitation to a nation's leader without White House endorsement. Probably the pro-Israel lobby got him to do it.
No deal with Iran is acceptable without provisions which permit unfettered access to any and all 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 Iran has 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.
One Holocaust was enough.
Boehner on the other hand was a tad classless for extending an invitation to a nation's leader without White House endorsement. Probably the pro-Israel lobby got him to do it.
2
Israel nor Benjamin Netanyahu nor AIPAC rule the United States. If they do, we've got a lot more to be concerned about than Sharia law.
2
So, let's say we scuttle the negotiations with Iran. What is the next step Netanyahu and Boehner propose we take? Neither one of them has the guts to say what they would do, and I don't see a single pundit among the pro-bibi commentators that offer a coherent alternative.
The GOP is consisitently oppoing every action the president takes while never offering a plan of their own (healthcare, anyone???). If Bibi wants to bomb Iran, let him do his own dirty work. Send the Republicans in congress to Iran as ground troops to finish the job. Good riddance.
The GOP is consisitently oppoing every action the president takes while never offering a plan of their own (healthcare, anyone???). If Bibi wants to bomb Iran, let him do his own dirty work. Send the Republicans in congress to Iran as ground troops to finish the job. Good riddance.
3
Imagine if the Democrats had invited Jacques Chirac to address Congress when Wubya was in office. What an insult to the Presidency.
Boehner has gone beyond the pale, and not just with his man-tan.
Boehner has gone beyond the pale, and not just with his man-tan.
8
The more conciliatory the White House sounds, the more Netanyahu is strengthened at home. Israelis need to know the U.S. is tired of Netanyahu's bellicosity and entitlement, and that their relationship with the U.S. needs repair.
2
Iran has rockets capable of delivering nuclear weapons to Israel.
What is forgotten in the word storm is that Iran is feverishly developing and improving rockets to allow them to deliver these weapons to Europe and, like N. Korea, ultimately to America.
Iran's primary interest is in bringing the world under Sharia law to hasten their version of the "End Days": not unlike Isis Iran considers the United States and Europe as "The Crusaders" that must be stopped.
In that 1 nuclear bomb and a small one at that will effectively end Israel it leaves me wondering at the size and goals of Iran's bomb and missile ultimate target.
Doesn't anyone else wonder?
What is forgotten in the word storm is that Iran is feverishly developing and improving rockets to allow them to deliver these weapons to Europe and, like N. Korea, ultimately to America.
Iran's primary interest is in bringing the world under Sharia law to hasten their version of the "End Days": not unlike Isis Iran considers the United States and Europe as "The Crusaders" that must be stopped.
In that 1 nuclear bomb and a small one at that will effectively end Israel it leaves me wondering at the size and goals of Iran's bomb and missile ultimate target.
Doesn't anyone else wonder?
2
Let's face it! The Jews are a powerful force in the United States, that is totally out of proportion to their numbers! Also, most Americans of all persuasions, along with their fellow Jewish Contrymen, support Israel! Objectively, speaking, most of the tribe usually, take the moral higher ground! Thank G-d! I can think of a number of other groups, who represent a larger part of our populace, that many thoughtful people would have a hard time following! However in this instance, Bibi, a foreign leader, is showing disrespect, for our President, and his office! Something most American Jews and their fellow countrymen,I would think agree with! With all these distractions, however, you can be sure, the support that America gives Israel will endure, simply because it continues on a higher moral ground, that most Americans, will continue to support!!!
All this fawning over Netanyahu is disturbing...who determines American foreign policy?
2
President Obama is such a tough guy. He'll meet with any dictator, any place, without any preconditions. But don't ask him to meet our closest ally in D.C. Oh, boy....
4
Excellent! AIPAC's annual hysteria festival has not been working so now they've decided to outdo themselves with a visit from Prime Minister Netanyahu. Of course the Prime Minister's incessant fear mongering and war mongering is seemingly the only Israeli export of importance at the moment. Let's not forget that China is Israel's number one export customer of advanced weapons technology. Such wonderful and considerate ally Israel has become. Urging us to war and arming our enemies.
2
It's a telling story that the congressional black caucus will not be attending the speech. Whether the jews of America want to deny it there is a anti semitic wave sweeping the nation. It started on the college campuses and now into members of congress. Even if protocol was not followed there is no reason for the democrats to boycott a head of state who's nation could be wiped out in a second if Iran launches nuclear devices at them. Iran's religous leaders pledged sometime ago that their stated goal is to kill all the jews in Israel. Ive always voted democrat as my father did and his father. I Will never again vote for a democratic candidate.
1
Bibi isn't in danger of sabotaging a long standing and dear relationship with America, he has already accomplished that.
He does fit in well with the buffoonery in American politics because he is exactly that, an egotiostical clown.
I hope Bibi is trounced in the upcoming election.
He does fit in well with the buffoonery in American politics because he is exactly that, an egotiostical clown.
I hope Bibi is trounced in the upcoming election.
2
Why is the same scrutiny being applied to Iran's nuclear capabilities being applied to Israel's?
What with Bibi's self-righteous bellicosity blasting us in the face, maybe his sanity ought to be questioned as much as Iran's is and used as a rationale for challenging them on Iran's nuclear capacity and aims.
Talk about wanting to take the whole crises in the middle east to an apocalyptic head, it seems it could more likely be Bibi's doing and not Iran's or ISIS's.
What with Bibi's self-righteous bellicosity blasting us in the face, maybe his sanity ought to be questioned as much as Iran's is and used as a rationale for challenging them on Iran's nuclear capacity and aims.
Talk about wanting to take the whole crises in the middle east to an apocalyptic head, it seems it could more likely be Bibi's doing and not Iran's or ISIS's.
3
James Fallows put Netanyahu's 'existential threat' nonsense to rest 10 days ago, but the farce continues.
"On "Existential" Threats"
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2015/02/on-existential-...
"On "Existential" Threats"
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2015/02/on-existential-...
Enough about Netanyahu already. Look at who he will end up speaking to. Most of the democrats will have said no thanks. Netanyahu is the Ted Cruz of Isreal. Ignore him.
1
Nuclear weapons in the Middle East are a terrible thing. Let's take them from Iran AND Israel.
3
Just recently the NYT ran a story that portrayed an American democrat political operative working in Israel specifically to unseat Netanyahu. So I ask, when did the political games begin?
2
Republicans can shout their lies as loudly as they want but that doesn't change the fact that foreign policy is the President's venue not Congress's. They have acted against the Constitution of the United States. At minimum their behavior is seditious and should be investigated for treason in a time of war.
3
"Disrespecting our President"
There is an old saying: No one can disrespect (or insult) you without your permission. And Obama is determined to be disrespected in order to rally the Democratic party's progressive, anti-Israel base (as the legions represented in this comment section so ably exhibit themselves).
All Obama had to do, to defuse the situation, was to welcome Netanyahu with open arms to the White House right after the speech to Congress for "friendly discussions among allies." But, no, the point is never to let an opportunity to whip up the political base go to waste. And boy are they whipped up, as evidenced here.
There is an old saying: No one can disrespect (or insult) you without your permission. And Obama is determined to be disrespected in order to rally the Democratic party's progressive, anti-Israel base (as the legions represented in this comment section so ably exhibit themselves).
All Obama had to do, to defuse the situation, was to welcome Netanyahu with open arms to the White House right after the speech to Congress for "friendly discussions among allies." But, no, the point is never to let an opportunity to whip up the political base go to waste. And boy are they whipped up, as evidenced here.
1
Yes, it should be obvious to all that Netanyahu's perspective on a nuclear-armed Iran is different from Washington's. After all, even if Iran could hit Israel, it still couldn't do much to affect some of the West's most important energy sources. Oh, wait, it could, couldn't it now?
Whether Obama needs his Netanyahu Ticket or already has one is something unknown to little old me, but one thing the dear chap could use would be an decent, current globe, large enough so he could read the names of countries and major cities without needing reading glasses. It would be a fascinating, educational experience for him, indeed.
Whether Obama needs his Netanyahu Ticket or already has one is something unknown to little old me, but one thing the dear chap could use would be an decent, current globe, large enough so he could read the names of countries and major cities without needing reading glasses. It would be a fascinating, educational experience for him, indeed.
It is pretty ballsy for a dependent client state (not ally, since in fact we have no treaty-based relationship with Israel) to snub its nose at its benefactor. Also, potentially pretty stupid. More and more Americans are wondering exactly why we are spending huge amounts of taxpayer dollars to support a country that openly disrespects our president and our political process and gives us nothing but grief. Why indeed?
3
Netanyahu apparently has as little regard for the intelligence of the American people as the GOP. Of course he knew he was being disrespectful. His lack of respect for President Obama has been obvious from the get go. The only reason he is softening his tone is due to the flack he is getting at home and around the world. Even more so, Boehner and his cohorts quite clearly knew what they were doing and have said so quite openly.
2
It is time for American's to look at Israel pragmatically. Israel is not really an ally that can do much to assist the United States. It is definitely time to stop sending money to Israel. They have a booming economy and actually do not need our money. If we want, we can make sure that they are in a position to protect themselves. But enough is enough. Israel is really not an asset to our international interest. They are disrespectful to our President and will continue to be so if they can not have their own way. We simply do not need Israel. Arm another country in area that we believe will be a more valuable asset to the immediate interest of the United States. Israel is no longer valuable.
3
When was the last time we inspected Israel's nuclear stockpile? Iran may need the weapons to protect itself from Israel.
3
No one can ever dethrone the Democrats from their traditional role of Appeasers, in emulation of Woodrow Wilson, and FDR. They fiddled, while Mosul burned. Woodrow had his Lusitania, Franklin had his Pearl Harbor, and Obama had his ISIS. And it's not over yet for Obama.
1
There are three options available to limit Iran's ability to produce nuclear weapons: (1) destroy militarily their uranium isotope enrichment infrastructure, (2) do nothing and allow them to enrich, and (3) negotiate a resolution with them, backed by a firm and thorough inspection regime. Economic sanctions may or may not be imposed with each of these options. Mr. Netanyahu is under the delusion that cripping economic sanctions will strip the Iranians of the knowledge they have already acquired. He is wrong, and he should be told he is wrong in every available venue.
4
Obama has been a very good president and the Iranian negotiations are smart. But the ten-year sunset on the deal that he cited tonight comes up way too short. Twenty years would be OK, though not great. Iran has been intractable for 35 years already, offering at most in all that time occasional sly suggestions of maybe sometime soon being amenable to diplomacy.
1
I was listening to Susan Rice wrap Iran's nuclear program up in red lines yesterday. Guess we didn't use up the entire spool with Syria or Ukraine. You'll have to forgive Netanyahu for questioning its effectiveness.
2
American Congress, turn your back on this visitor's insult to our President. Mr. Netanyahu, you are doing a disservice to America, and to your own. Go home.
"Do not make friends with a hot tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared." (Proverbs 22:24-25)
"Do not make friends with a hot tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared." (Proverbs 22:24-25)
3
This reminds me of another speech once given to Congress by another leader: Douglas McArthur. Those who discount the value of diplomacy will probably eat this one up too.
1
I am so done with the Republican Party and its national leadership. There are a few good and great Republicans still around, but the numbers keep getting smaller and smaller and smaller.
Happily, I'm from Washington State and we have a great legacy of first rate quality Republican leadership. But nationally, I'm done.
And as for Netanyahu, I hope he looses his upcoming election so we can all be done with him too. He is a disgrace. Not that we haven't had a few disgraceful leaders in our past as well - President Andrew Jackson and Richard Nixon come to mind, for example.
But as for the present, we have a careful, measured, thoughtful, brilliant and marvelous President in Obama.
Too bad Israel is not so lucky.
Happily, I'm from Washington State and we have a great legacy of first rate quality Republican leadership. But nationally, I'm done.
And as for Netanyahu, I hope he looses his upcoming election so we can all be done with him too. He is a disgrace. Not that we haven't had a few disgraceful leaders in our past as well - President Andrew Jackson and Richard Nixon come to mind, for example.
But as for the present, we have a careful, measured, thoughtful, brilliant and marvelous President in Obama.
Too bad Israel is not so lucky.
6
The Israeli Prime Minister is acting as he should; putting up his best defense/offense for the state he represents. President Obama is doing the same. The party in this that is acting against their own country's interests is the Congress, which has managed in a single act, to weaken our international standing, and our allegiance to the State of Israel. They have done it only out of avarice for the President, and for internal political gains. I think that these Republican are not good, loyal Americans. I think they would do anything to strengthen their own standing, even at the cost of our country.
2
Why we don't make Israel the 51st and be done with all of this. Israel is viewed as our protectorate only we get no say in it's policy even with billions in aid.
I'd prefer Bibi as a governor. Then we can get down to the serious business of protecting US interests by validating a 2 state solution and beginning the process of making peace in the region.
I'm sick and tired of our having to give, give to Israel but get nothing in return but manipulation or contempt. Oh and the hatred of others which leads to dead Americans.
I'd prefer Bibi as a governor. Then we can get down to the serious business of protecting US interests by validating a 2 state solution and beginning the process of making peace in the region.
I'm sick and tired of our having to give, give to Israel but get nothing in return but manipulation or contempt. Oh and the hatred of others which leads to dead Americans.
5
"My speech is not intended to show any disrespect to President Obama."
Then why did he break protocol by agreeing to speak before Congress before clearing this with the White House?
(And why did he do this two weeks before an election in Israel?)
Then why did he break protocol by agreeing to speak before Congress before clearing this with the White House?
(And why did he do this two weeks before an election in Israel?)
4
Ironically, Iran could be the big winner from Netanyau's gaffe. If they play nice during these negotiations, they could seriously undercut the Israeli hammerlock on US foreign policy in the Middle East.
4
The republicans are swearing allegiance to a foreign government, and attempting to start a war with Iran, something they have been cheering on and singing about long before John McCain sang 'Bomb Bomb Iran' sung to the tune of the Beach Boys song, Barbara Ann back in 2007?
Republicans are always siding with foreign governments against the United States just like forcing the issue with Canadian XL Pipeline.
The republicans are the anti-America party and they have proven it by every deed yet they still call themselves patriots....well they may be patriots of some other country but surely not this one.
Republicans are always siding with foreign governments against the United States just like forcing the issue with Canadian XL Pipeline.
The republicans are the anti-America party and they have proven it by every deed yet they still call themselves patriots....well they may be patriots of some other country but surely not this one.
3
If Israelis ever thought that America could be trusted to help it contain Iran -- aside from interminable meetings with unctuous negotiators -- it will know better in 48 hours. And then proceed accordingly. Obama is certainly doing the DNC and Hillary no favors for 2016.
3
Obama needs to apologize to Netanyahu and he needs to do it now. His childish behavior, one very damaging to US-Israeli relations, in sharp contrast to Netanyahu's is disgraceful.
2
Obama Says Discord With Netanyahu Is Not ‘Permanently Destructive’
Neither is the one with Iran, I would hope.
Neither is the one with Iran, I would hope.
2
Was kind of hoping that the discord would be permanent, since Israel has become the paragon of human rights abuse and arrogance
6
When the leader of some foreign country insults our president, that foreign country insults America. The last time I checked, America does not need Israel to guarantee America's continued existence.
5
It would be interesting to see what would be the result in the mid-East if Americans kept their cash and their armaments to themselves during the past forty years.
I think that America would still be thoroughly intact and substantially wealthier.
I think that America would still be thoroughly intact and substantially wealthier.
4
"A destraction!" Don't think the Israelis see it that way.
I'm going to go out on a limb here. The President, although certainly not anti-Semitic, is anti-Zionist.
I'm going to go out on a limb here. The President, although certainly not anti-Semitic, is anti-Zionist.
2
Mr. Boehner has no authority to conduct foreign affairs. he is an embarrassment to our nation and worse, he puts our nation in jeopardy.
5
At the end of the day, Netanyahu must recognize that AIPAC can only be as effective for Israel as the American people can tolerate it.
4
I know that Obama is a classy guy but I wish he would tell Bibi to take a hike.
5
It is long past time to end the powerful hold that AIPAC has on the Congress of the USA!
It is also time to end the billions of US tax dollars that are sent to israel every year.
It is also time to end the billions of US tax dollars that are sent to israel every year.
5
Israel has every to object to any agreement, but, Netanyahu does not have the right to come to our congress to make his point. Boehner showed his true colors by choosing a foreign government over out government. Isn't that called being a traitor. Boehner and the Republicans can disagree all they want with Obama on anything regarding foreign policy, but as soon as they bring a foreign leader into OUR government to score political points, their patriotism should be called into question.
6
This is such a nakedly political ploy on Netanyahu's (and Boehner's) part: please, Bibi, don't insult our intelligence by spouting on about your "moral obligation" to tell us about Iran.
6
How is it that religion still rules the world? Are we not smart enough to evolve; are fairy tales going to send us to our demise?
4
Because I am super pro-Israel, I will hold my silence on this one. However, I wonder whether Natanyahu's thinking is too strongly linked to a phantom dichotomy; i.e., either he embarrasses Obama and gives fodder to American neocons (who are afraid that we will abandon Israel) and thereby scuttles the Iran peace talks AND creates outcomes that make bombing of Iran inevitable, OR Obama will make peace with Iran and bargain away Israel's chances of living in peace.
Now how do the segment of Americans of which I am part, that want to defend and protect Israel, assure them that speaking with Iran is essential for solving the problem of Iranian nukes. If we don't speak to Iran, whom should Obama speak to about Iranian nukes?
How do we assure Natanyahu that the neocons have been dramatically wrong before with Iraq; we ended up producing a mess with repercussions that will be felt for the rest of history, and certainly for a very long time (100 years?).
And how do I say this with the utmost respect to Natanyahu that his disrespect toward Obama is plain ticking me off. He has spent time in the US, understand America as well as anyone else, and hence he must know that one thing Americans just plain do not abide is anyone messing with us.
Kalidan.
Now how do the segment of Americans of which I am part, that want to defend and protect Israel, assure them that speaking with Iran is essential for solving the problem of Iranian nukes. If we don't speak to Iran, whom should Obama speak to about Iranian nukes?
How do we assure Natanyahu that the neocons have been dramatically wrong before with Iraq; we ended up producing a mess with repercussions that will be felt for the rest of history, and certainly for a very long time (100 years?).
And how do I say this with the utmost respect to Natanyahu that his disrespect toward Obama is plain ticking me off. He has spent time in the US, understand America as well as anyone else, and hence he must know that one thing Americans just plain do not abide is anyone messing with us.
Kalidan.
1
Wow! Almost 1,000 comments thus far, virtually 100% of which express breathless, over-the-top outrage over . . . what? Nothing more than a speech to Congress by a foreign leader that wasn't sanctioned by the White House. Jeez, you would think Prime Minister Netanyahu had single-handedly started World War III.
Maybe everyone who's incensed about this tempest in a teapot should actually listen to what Mr. Netanyahu has to say tomorrow, and then decide whether his message deserved to be shared with the American people directly rather than just with Congress and/or President Obama behind closed doors.
In the meantime, commenters who have spent time submitting hypercritical remarks about Mr. Netanyahu might want to redirect their energies to criticizing Vladimir Putin, a true threat to world stability and peace.
Maybe everyone who's incensed about this tempest in a teapot should actually listen to what Mr. Netanyahu has to say tomorrow, and then decide whether his message deserved to be shared with the American people directly rather than just with Congress and/or President Obama behind closed doors.
In the meantime, commenters who have spent time submitting hypercritical remarks about Mr. Netanyahu might want to redirect their energies to criticizing Vladimir Putin, a true threat to world stability and peace.
4
"Destructive" and "disrespectful" do accurately describe the blatant and unprecedented public attempt by the leader of one country, in this case Israel, to undermine an important foreign policy initiative of another on that country's own soil, in this case, highly sensitive U.S. negotiations to curtail Iran's nuclear program. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should never have injected himself into our partisan politics by accepting the the equally "disrespectful and "destructive" invitation from Republican House Speaker John Boehner to address Congress. The consequences of such brazen meddling are potentially cataclysmic not only for the Middle East that is already aflame in a widespread sectarian war, but also for the long-term viability of the unconditional U.S. support that Israel has enjoyed.
16
An excellent summary of the issue. Thanks.
1
The hate speech I have heard and seen directed towards Mr. Obama in the past six or seven years has been shocking. Now this. It seems the party of Lincoln has morphed into the party of John Wilkes Booth.
4
Netanyahu will go down in Israel's history as the one who lost America
3
The entire world looks on in disgust as once again Bibi does absolutely anything, no rules apply to him, to get his way. The U.S./Israel relationship needs to be weakened & normalized right away. I don't mind the security agreement, just treating the US like you own it I resent. Bibi is losing support for Israel by the minute.
4
In 2014, Israel was fighting a few square miles of terrain; and was running out of ammunition after a few weeks. How can Israel go one-on-one with Iran? Is it time for Netanyahu to consider the surrender of his flag; and start negotiating with all countries for mass exodus of the Jews from Israel> Instead, Netanyahu recently said that Jews should leave Europe and come to Israel, suggesting Israel is safer than Europe for Jews. He starting to remind me of David Karesh and the Branch Davidians.
7
Go back to your OWN country, Netanyahu. This is NOT the United States of Israel and no one elected this bully to a US political office.
6
Just let him speak and afterwards stop supporting the State he represents. He is the leader chosen by the Israelians. He is their voice so react to their voice. They are a minirity in the middle east but act like a mojority. The US should back out of the middle east and let them fight it out. Iran is a thought out problem for the US as their is no nuclear program in sight. But will be when the US start paying them certainly when Kerry is making the deal b
Bibi, Blessed be He, leader of the Jews of the planet, has picked up the mantle,
much like Moses carried the tablets down from a Sinai peak,
will show the path of the righteous and nukecuelahr disarmament of Iran.
Israel has it's tentacles of terror throughout the region now.
Imagine Israel with a nuclear weapon.......
This is not political. It is not intended to challenge Obama.
He cannot remain silent..........
much like Moses carried the tablets down from a Sinai peak,
will show the path of the righteous and nukecuelahr disarmament of Iran.
Israel has it's tentacles of terror throughout the region now.
Imagine Israel with a nuclear weapon.......
This is not political. It is not intended to challenge Obama.
He cannot remain silent..........
3
When American politicians favor Israel, they enter the land of milk and honey, but when they don't, they get beaten with the ugly stick. What do you think American politicians do?
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2014/09/01/friends-israel
In 1984, AIPAC affiliates decided that Senator Charles Percy, an Illinois Republican, was unfriendly to Israel. In the next election, Paul Simon, a liberal Democrat, won Percy’s seat. [AIPAC head Tom] Dine said at the time, “Jews in America, from coast to coast, gathered to oust Percy. And American politicians—those who hold public positions now, and those who aspire—got the message.”
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2014/09/01/friends-israel
In 1984, AIPAC affiliates decided that Senator Charles Percy, an Illinois Republican, was unfriendly to Israel. In the next election, Paul Simon, a liberal Democrat, won Percy’s seat. [AIPAC head Tom] Dine said at the time, “Jews in America, from coast to coast, gathered to oust Percy. And American politicians—those who hold public positions now, and those who aspire—got the message.”
6
I am sickened by the disrespect that Netanyahu shows to our President. Where does Israel get off treating America, and our president in this fashion.
I am sorry friends don't treat friends with such disrespect. I think it is time to cut them loose. They want things there way, FINE, then go it alone. Stop ALL FOREIGN aid and Military aid to Israel NOW!
I am sick of Israel assuming that the American Taxpayer somehow owes them ongoing, unquestioning support. NO, the friendship is not solid, not when they show such disrespect to our President.
Game over Israel. You didn't save the princess.
I am sorry friends don't treat friends with such disrespect. I think it is time to cut them loose. They want things there way, FINE, then go it alone. Stop ALL FOREIGN aid and Military aid to Israel NOW!
I am sick of Israel assuming that the American Taxpayer somehow owes them ongoing, unquestioning support. NO, the friendship is not solid, not when they show such disrespect to our President.
Game over Israel. You didn't save the princess.
11
There is a video of Netanyahu at a party bragging that America is Israel's lap dog and it being so easy to manipulate America to do whatever he wants.
It is not any secret, the video has been posted and re-posted and viewed hundreds of millions of times since it was filmed in 2001. How many times has he scuttled the Oslo Accords or caused trouble for the US since then?
So it turns out that America is not the actual lap dog to Israel, only the republicans.
It is not any secret, the video has been posted and re-posted and viewed hundreds of millions of times since it was filmed in 2001. How many times has he scuttled the Oslo Accords or caused trouble for the US since then?
So it turns out that America is not the actual lap dog to Israel, only the republicans.
What do we get from Israel as an ally for the cost we incur?
And the costs keep going up, even as Israel is a strong little country.
Netanyahu is speaking to congress tomorrow because he wants us to pick a fight with and fight a war against Iran. And what it's really about is so Israel can keep building settlements and displace the Palestinian people on the basis of bible stories and the entitlement that's woven into those stories.
And the costs keep going up, even as Israel is a strong little country.
Netanyahu is speaking to congress tomorrow because he wants us to pick a fight with and fight a war against Iran. And what it's really about is so Israel can keep building settlements and displace the Palestinian people on the basis of bible stories and the entitlement that's woven into those stories.
19
I care about the US and what at is best for the
US. I really am amazed how an outside nation can play us as fools.
US. I really am amazed how an outside nation can play us as fools.
14
Jim Tanner, Iran has been playing the US for the fool for the length of Obama's term.
Our politicians are afraid of Netanyahu and do not want to cross him. He has too much power and influence in our politics and Israel is not part of the United States of America. Although sometimes Israel seems to sway our elections and we must put our own interests first. If Israel wants to go to war, let their soldiers fight it and not American boys and girls. Haven't we learned our lesson with Iraq? Even American Jews are upset with Netanyahu and have spoken out against him on this comment board.
15
What was it Sarkozy said about Netanyahu?
4
And what was it that Obama replied? Open mics will get you ever time.
1
What a bizarre, one-sided relationship this is. One where the client state calls the shots.
Netanyahu's actions were disrespectful to the office of the president - forget that it's Obama - and as such, disrespectful to the United States. There isn't a reasonable person who would deny that if the roles were reversed (GOP Pres, Dem Congress) the Republicans would be hysterical with rage, and ready to hang the Speaker for treason.
But that's not the most bizarre aspect of this.
The most bizarre aspect is that Democrats, and now the White House, are going out of their way to say that this changes nothing in the relationship with Israel. It's as though Israel is the aggrieved party here all of a sudden. It's like we've entered the Twilight Zone!
I realize this is a pipe dream, but it would be useful if our media ever dared to examine precisely why it is that a client state holds such sway over its benefactor (forget about this instance for a bit, what about Israel voting against us - their only advocate - in a recent UN vote about Ukraine, and many other slaps in the face). There is no other bilateral relation as toxic and bizarre as this one.
Of course, we all know that no one in our media would make such an investigation because Israel advocates would go apoplectic (not to mention the dreaded A.S. charges). But it's downright WRONG that a foreign power holds such influence over our government.
Netanyahu's actions were disrespectful to the office of the president - forget that it's Obama - and as such, disrespectful to the United States. There isn't a reasonable person who would deny that if the roles were reversed (GOP Pres, Dem Congress) the Republicans would be hysterical with rage, and ready to hang the Speaker for treason.
But that's not the most bizarre aspect of this.
The most bizarre aspect is that Democrats, and now the White House, are going out of their way to say that this changes nothing in the relationship with Israel. It's as though Israel is the aggrieved party here all of a sudden. It's like we've entered the Twilight Zone!
I realize this is a pipe dream, but it would be useful if our media ever dared to examine precisely why it is that a client state holds such sway over its benefactor (forget about this instance for a bit, what about Israel voting against us - their only advocate - in a recent UN vote about Ukraine, and many other slaps in the face). There is no other bilateral relation as toxic and bizarre as this one.
Of course, we all know that no one in our media would make such an investigation because Israel advocates would go apoplectic (not to mention the dreaded A.S. charges). But it's downright WRONG that a foreign power holds such influence over our government.
20
It's the money in American elections, not the votes or even the policy.
The video of him at a party bragging about how he easily manipulates the US and always gets what he wants has been viewed over half a billion times since 2001.
It has been discussed by the media around the world thousands of times and anyone who can figure out how to use YouTube can see it any time they want.
Here is just one of the thousands of copies of the video on the internet.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrtuBas3Ipw
It has been discussed by the media around the world thousands of times and anyone who can figure out how to use YouTube can see it any time they want.
Here is just one of the thousands of copies of the video on the internet.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrtuBas3Ipw
The United States should always in its own best interests. Why does Israel think it's right to possess nuclear weapon trumps Iran's? Does anyone believe that North Korea, a nuclear power is more responsible than Iran?
We are fortunate that Iran is negotiating with us at all. In 1953 we an the Brits removed an elected government to instll a fascist polic state. In the 1980s, we supplied our good friend Saddam Hussein with weapons to use against Iran, and we turned a blind eye towards his use of poison gas. What gives the right to be a moral arbriter?
Their have been moments when when America a force for good, but we should also keep in mind some of the crimes we perpretated, including torture. Our record south of our order has not been glorious.
We are fortunate that Iran is negotiating with us at all. In 1953 we an the Brits removed an elected government to instll a fascist polic state. In the 1980s, we supplied our good friend Saddam Hussein with weapons to use against Iran, and we turned a blind eye towards his use of poison gas. What gives the right to be a moral arbriter?
Their have been moments when when America a force for good, but we should also keep in mind some of the crimes we perpretated, including torture. Our record south of our order has not been glorious.
10
"We will not let it happen. There will never be a sunset on America’s commitment to Israel’s security. Never.” -- some still you wonder why the rest of the world does not like the U.S.
7
I feel ashamed as an American that as the most powerful nation on earth we can be humbled by a small country like Israel.
Israel can embarrass us any time it wants and we keep providing it with "aid" $$$ with no strings attached.
The US press goes out of its way to treat such insults as if they were non-existent or minor "unhelpful" developments.
Israel can embarrass us any time it wants and we keep providing it with "aid" $$$ with no strings attached.
The US press goes out of its way to treat such insults as if they were non-existent or minor "unhelpful" developments.
13
You are correct stop support immediatly the moment Netanyahu starts talking.
Stop sugar coating Israel and help your own cNation first. We are in bigger trouble than Israel without our support. And on which press are the 10 Billions printed for Iran's support.
Stop sugar coating Israel and help your own cNation first. We are in bigger trouble than Israel without our support. And on which press are the 10 Billions printed for Iran's support.
1
“What you’re going to see is a very, very deep disagreement over policy by an American government led by President Obama and an Israeli government for now led by Netanyahu,” said Jeremy Ben-Ami, the executive director of the Democratic-aligned and pro-Israel group J Street."
For now led by Netanyahu! Talk about a U.S. organization desperately trying to influence Israeli politics in the direction of President Obama's preferred policies.
Some prominent American Jewish organizations and individuals were negligent or entirely missing-in-action when it came time for rescuing European Jews from Hitler during the thirties and forties. Eventually almost all of them changed their minds, but by the time they did, it was too late to save many,
Thankfully this situation has greatly improved and today the great majority of Jews stand four-square behind Israel.
J-Street claims to support Israel, but its chooses to express this support by opposing the freely and democratically elected Prime Minister and government of Israel. Which is to say it is opposing the choices made by the people of Israel in the last election.
That is their right.
I personally believe, however, that a better and far more truthful name for this organization would be O-Street.
Either way, it appears that not many of its members are planning to move to Israel any time soon.
For now led by Netanyahu! Talk about a U.S. organization desperately trying to influence Israeli politics in the direction of President Obama's preferred policies.
Some prominent American Jewish organizations and individuals were negligent or entirely missing-in-action when it came time for rescuing European Jews from Hitler during the thirties and forties. Eventually almost all of them changed their minds, but by the time they did, it was too late to save many,
Thankfully this situation has greatly improved and today the great majority of Jews stand four-square behind Israel.
J-Street claims to support Israel, but its chooses to express this support by opposing the freely and democratically elected Prime Minister and government of Israel. Which is to say it is opposing the choices made by the people of Israel in the last election.
That is their right.
I personally believe, however, that a better and far more truthful name for this organization would be O-Street.
Either way, it appears that not many of its members are planning to move to Israel any time soon.
6
Once again, President Obama is the calm adult in the room.
16
Obama should shrug it off publicly as 'more of the same' - and remind the American people that from the moment of his election they have done nothing but obstruct and disrespect - at great cost to the country - and Bibi has done the same - I guess he's betting on a Republican in the white house in 2 years --- DREAM ON !
15
I wonder how Netanyahu will begin his speech tomorrow.... "Obama doesn't love America, and he doesn't love Israel, either. He doesn't love me, and he doesn't love you."
20
C'mon, NYT, this comment deserves a gold badge for its clever execution.
Of course the discord with Israel is not permanent.
Thank you and bless you Twenty-Second Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Thank you and bless you Twenty-Second Amendment to the United States Constitution.
1
Actions speak louder then words, and the actions of Netanyahu and the Republicans are both outrageous in conduct and wrong in policy.
The simple fact is Netanyahu's goal is war and the Republican's are happy to oblige him. They want failure and are happy to do anything that makes it happen. They were wrong in regard to Iraq - and handed over to Iran - and they are wrong now.
The simple fact is Netanyahu's goal is war and the Republican's are happy to oblige him. They want failure and are happy to do anything that makes it happen. They were wrong in regard to Iraq - and handed over to Iran - and they are wrong now.
15
Everyone said Israel was wrong with respect to bombing the Osirak reactor in Iraq in the early 80's. Villified and condemned.
Several decades later, the U.S. and the West offered their belated thanks on Israel preventing Saddam from having the bomb.
So your track record on this particular issue is spotty at best.
And if "actions speak louder than words", I would say that that is a withering indictment on this President and his foreign policy record.
Several decades later, the U.S. and the West offered their belated thanks on Israel preventing Saddam from having the bomb.
So your track record on this particular issue is spotty at best.
And if "actions speak louder than words", I would say that that is a withering indictment on this President and his foreign policy record.
1
This statement about non-permanent discord probably hints at the failure of Iranian talks. US-Israel relationship, given its strong bonding, needs no observation, creating an exit route after failure of talks is another matter.
Prospects of negotiated settlement was quite bleak to start with. As it happens typically in a developing democracy, the positional, non-elected authorities, who indulge in hype and bluster have nothing to lose and probably even much to gain by their harsh rhetoric. To expect real national interests shall prevail over ideological cacophony, is perhaps an optimistic attitude, not an assessment.
Talks are more likely to breakdown and isolate Iran.
Prospects of negotiated settlement was quite bleak to start with. As it happens typically in a developing democracy, the positional, non-elected authorities, who indulge in hype and bluster have nothing to lose and probably even much to gain by their harsh rhetoric. To expect real national interests shall prevail over ideological cacophony, is perhaps an optimistic attitude, not an assessment.
Talks are more likely to breakdown and isolate Iran.
2
I think if Netanyahu is going to make campaign speeches right in our own Capitol Building, then every American should be allowed to vote in the upcoming Israeli presidential elections.
11
There's something wrong with this picture. We have a foreign head of state coming over to essentially emasculate our President and throw dirt on the Office of the President of the United States. The President should show up at the speech, pull out the microphone plug and use a bullhorn to read Congress the Riot Act for this poorly thought out charade. I am now a proud Obama supporter.
14
YES, for ince grab the bull horn and let your voice be heard President Obama. Interrupt the guy and show the fighter within. Scare the hell out of Israel and the GOP.
I can't understand why the U.S. has to cotinuosly show obesence to Israel. When you analyze the facts Isrsel is as perpetual violator of the Palestinian rights and international law and on that basis should be shunned if not sanctioned. The U.S. has more cultural affinity with European countries. Israel has never participated in the coalitions in Afghanistan, ether time in Iraq, Libya, Kuwait, and Israel does mot miss on opportunity to flout the U.S. from the attack on the Liberty to the PMs speech to Boehner. The only thing that comes to mind is that Israel appeals to the bully side of US mentality.
10
Boehner's disingenousness - his feigned shock and dismay - is breathtaking, He pretends he did not purposely violate a vital protocol - protocol, what's that? This man could lie to his mother while combing his hair in the hall mirror.
7
There is nothing new Netanyahu has to say. We've been forced to listen to him repeatedly. If anything his belligerence dilutes his message.
This move by Boehner and Netanyahu is wholly inappropriate and dismaying. The Republicans have lost any sense of propriety.
Don't think attempt at undercutting delicate negotiations will be quickly forgotten, either here or in Israel where this speech is also causing grief.
The rudest move imaginable, playing right into talk radio's sweet spot--hate Obama, for anything and everything. But this one is over the top.
This move by Boehner and Netanyahu is wholly inappropriate and dismaying. The Republicans have lost any sense of propriety.
Don't think attempt at undercutting delicate negotiations will be quickly forgotten, either here or in Israel where this speech is also causing grief.
The rudest move imaginable, playing right into talk radio's sweet spot--hate Obama, for anything and everything. But this one is over the top.
8
Perhaps the calculations have already been done and it's been determined by Israel that it prefers a cooling in its relationship with the United States, over the so-called free world giving the Iranians a virtually unfettered cake-walk to a nuclear bomb.
Boehner has shot himself in his other foot (first one this week being the DHS can-kicking) by thinking he had the protocol/authority to invite a foreign head of state. And Netanyahu should have known better than to accept a call from Boehner. Last I checked, Boehner was elected to represent 724,000 people in Ohio. The President was elected to preside over the country's affairs of state.
8
The US should tell Netanyahu and Dermer to take their deceptions, their corruption, and their money and GO HOME!
13
The President speaks for this country not for the war mongering (republican/neocon's). BiBi should stop his Apartheid practices against the Palestinians and come up with a two state solution period. Israel should be voting this criminal out of office and move on with sensible solutions. The middle east would be a lot better off with this problem solved!
10
"Sensible solutions" would preferably include the enitrety of the Muslim world accepting the concept of Israel's right to exist, without which your plan of action is only so much hot air.
Well, Netanyahu and Boehner are both breaching protocol (i.e., proper respect for the office of President, who constitutionally represents us in our foreign relations), but more distressing is that they and others seem to have been inhabited by the spirit of the warmongers (chief among them Dick Cheney). Woe to us and the world if we cannot finally say no to them and their ilk. Of course every nation must set its own course, but we do not have to follow. We should make peace, not war, and we should finally reject the war party, meaning Netanyahu as well as McCain and Boehner. Got help the world if their vision of dispute resolution should ever prevail.
9
It's not "warmongering" to note the oncoming onslaught of Muslim terror (Hamas, Hezbollah, ISIS, Iranian nuclear weapons, etc) and protest against it.
1
America needs to ask what it is getting from this relationship other than a bill of $5,000,000,000 per year?
60
When the Israelis have relied on the U.S. on military technologies, financial subsidies, and protection in the U.N., I don't think it can be viewed as independent country and unilaterally make demands on so many of these issues. If so, then the Americans can legitimately question the real value of this of alliance- if at all- to the Americans.
37
But the president of Mexico can speak from the same pulpit and make denands of how we should treat his fleeing citizens? Obamas just mad because America will get to see a real leader that loves his country first hand.
2
Netanyahu doesn't like the deal Obama is trying to strike, at all.
Then probably Iran might think "Hey, this guy doesn't like this deal... maybe this deal is good for us..."
That would be a fool way to think for Iran, but humans can be as fool as only humans can, especially when they are under the influence of strong emotions. At the end, maybe Netanyahu is helping this deal.
One more thing, I don't know much details about Iran's nuclear program and how advanced it is. I don't know details about the deal that is being negotiated either. But what I know, is that a war between Iran and USA would definitely be a very, very, very bad thing.
Sometimes you need to compromise on stuff you don't like, just to get closer to the other side and expect to improve relations in a civilized way, slowly.
Then probably Iran might think "Hey, this guy doesn't like this deal... maybe this deal is good for us..."
That would be a fool way to think for Iran, but humans can be as fool as only humans can, especially when they are under the influence of strong emotions. At the end, maybe Netanyahu is helping this deal.
One more thing, I don't know much details about Iran's nuclear program and how advanced it is. I don't know details about the deal that is being negotiated either. But what I know, is that a war between Iran and USA would definitely be a very, very, very bad thing.
Sometimes you need to compromise on stuff you don't like, just to get closer to the other side and expect to improve relations in a civilized way, slowly.
12
"Give peace a chance"
21
They have. There were no takers. Hello, ISIS.
1
Sure, Kim. Let's sing Kumbaya with the Ayatollah's, and all will be well.
1
Won't you please tell that to the Muslim countries surrounding Israel and clamoring for its demise?
1
Prime Minister Netanyahu has single handily and more importantly interjected himself between the president whom he hates and the dishwater swill of the clown car republican party over the last 6 years and as a result only made relationship matters worse. His role of breaking every known protocol in making this speech and his prior one before congress has done more to create anti-israeli feelings in this country than any other politician. As one reader correctly pointed out Netanyahu has appeared in more press more TV shows and radio interviews in the US interjecting his crotchety point of view than any other foreign head of state in modern times.
I am so sick of every time an American politician speaks up and criticizes Israel they first have to invoke the sacred law of our relationship with that country by stating in some form or another "we love Israel and it can do no wrong" song and dance. Israel can do wrong and has done wrong by the way it treats the citizens of the Palestinian territories. In my one man view Netanyahu could be classified as a war criminal for the last round of relentless bombings in Gaza. Over 1400 women and children were needlessly killed in the last incursion something people have managed to forget. So when he stands up in front of a worthless group of US Congressmen too afraid to boycott his appearance let's think of him as a egotistical publicity clown he is nothing more.
I am so sick of every time an American politician speaks up and criticizes Israel they first have to invoke the sacred law of our relationship with that country by stating in some form or another "we love Israel and it can do no wrong" song and dance. Israel can do wrong and has done wrong by the way it treats the citizens of the Palestinian territories. In my one man view Netanyahu could be classified as a war criminal for the last round of relentless bombings in Gaza. Over 1400 women and children were needlessly killed in the last incursion something people have managed to forget. So when he stands up in front of a worthless group of US Congressmen too afraid to boycott his appearance let's think of him as a egotistical publicity clown he is nothing more.
44
SFjoe , you say ''1400 women and children were needlessly killed something people have managed to forget''... This is the root cause of why we're in the pickle we're in.. We have a tendency to only see what the bad guys are doing to us but never see what us good guys are doing to them bad guys.
the dishwater swill of the clown car republican party
-------------------------
Precisely the kind of nasty rhetoric the American voters rejected in Nov. 2010, and in Nov. 2014, by even larger margins. The Democrats -- the party of John Edwards and Jesse Jackson Jr. and Gov. Blago -- just don't get it. Honest clowns are much preferred over felonious clowns.
-------------------------
Precisely the kind of nasty rhetoric the American voters rejected in Nov. 2010, and in Nov. 2014, by even larger margins. The Democrats -- the party of John Edwards and Jesse Jackson Jr. and Gov. Blago -- just don't get it. Honest clowns are much preferred over felonious clowns.
How about the relentless firing of rockets at civilian population centers, rampant use of human shields, and terror tunnels? All that's kosher?
1
First they say one thing, then they say something else. This clueless administration has been doing this for quite some time now.
4
After allowing a foreign leader the unprecedented opportunity to intervene directly on a sensitive political issue, it's hard to know what to expect next. Perhaps a joint session of Congress for Charles Koch to discuss the Administration's policy on global warming?
28
We currently have a foriegn leader intervening every day from the Oval Office.
Or one of Hillary's major donors from Algeria? Or Goldman Sachs.
I heard PM Netanyahu's speech to the AIPAC today. it was awesome, like listening to one of Churchill's famous speeches. Obama was originally considered a great speechmaker but he lost it a long time ago. His foreign policy is in tatters, his domestic policies are self destructive. Only the people continue to suffer under his unwise regime. List to Netanyahu tomorrow in Congress, it will blow your socks off!
11
He has only one real objective, to suck us (US) into another middle east war.
As our president said, it is fundamentally their fight.
Bibi - Pick up the phone and call Tehran.
As our president said, it is fundamentally their fight.
Bibi - Pick up the phone and call Tehran.
2
You should be so lucky that your socks are all Netanyahu blows away ... naive Americans are in for a grim reckoning.
I would rather suck on a lemon.
2
American foreign policy has had two voices for years: ours and Israels.
At least, now, Americans can see it with their own eyes. Even most Democrats, who pretend to be offended by this offensive speech, won't miss this speech if it's the last thing they do.
Americans should see that too.
At least, now, Americans can see it with their own eyes. Even most Democrats, who pretend to be offended by this offensive speech, won't miss this speech if it's the last thing they do.
Americans should see that too.
8
How often have we heard a US president, including Mr. Obama, state that we will not negotiate with terrorists? It's a rhetorical question. Iran, by any definition is a terrorist state and was the primary supplier of IED's and other weaponry used to kill and maim our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. How quickly we forget.
Again, Iran is a terrorist nation-state committed to (their words) the annihilation of the Great Satan and the destruction of Israel as well. What has changed? Nothing! This president does not understand realpolitik or the meaning of an existential threat. So negotiate with terrorists if you must but remember that the Koran says it is permissible to lie to infidels - I believe that means us folks here in the US.
Again, Iran is a terrorist nation-state committed to (their words) the annihilation of the Great Satan and the destruction of Israel as well. What has changed? Nothing! This president does not understand realpolitik or the meaning of an existential threat. So negotiate with terrorists if you must but remember that the Koran says it is permissible to lie to infidels - I believe that means us folks here in the US.
12
Iran is a menace not only to Israel but to the whole Middle East. It never ceases to amaze me how some people believe Iran as some poor little democracy struggling with all these inner demons in an attempt to find peace. Iran is a religious theocracy strictly controlled by its mullahs backed by the military, police and paramilitary forces that enforce everything from dress codes and music choices to economic and foreign policy. It is a leadership that gave us three consecutive rigged elections, suppressed democracy demonstrations harshly and funds terror groups and propped up Assad in Syria. This is a nation that hid the existence of its nuclear program for 18 years and still has stonewalled as late as last week the International Atomic Energy Agency. . Any dealings with this rogue nation that presume otherwise are dangerously naive. Burying our heads in the sand in order to ignore the significant threat Iran poses won’t make it go away.
16
"Iran is a religious theocracy strictly controlled by its mullahs backed by the military, police and paramilitary forces that enforce everything from dress codes and music choices to economic and foreign policy"
Response: Israel is a religious theocracy strictly controlled by its mullah Bibi backed by the military, police and paramilitary forces that enforce everything from dress codes to where women can sit on bus to economic and foreign policy
Response: Israel is a religious theocracy strictly controlled by its mullah Bibi backed by the military, police and paramilitary forces that enforce everything from dress codes to where women can sit on bus to economic and foreign policy
1
Yet Iran signed the NPT, and Israel didn't.
Maybe if Israel didn't have secret nuclear weapons, other countries in the neighborhood wouldn't think about getting them for themselves?
Maybe if Israel didn't have secret nuclear weapons, other countries in the neighborhood wouldn't think about getting them for themselves?
2
I am not able to decide whether Mr Netanyahu is a bully, or whether he thinks that he is a special being , and only he can explain to the masses what is really going on in the world. In any event, I find this similar to the free lance diplomacy engaged in, for instance, by John McCain when he goes to the Ukraine and makes promises that can't be kept, or goes to India and does the same thing. What it comes down is ego, power, and just plain manipulation. And John Boehner is a disgrace.
32
We get nothing in return for our support for Israel other than the enmity of Islamic terrorists which puts our citizens and national security at risk. Our policy is 100 percent influenced by domestic politics, plain and simple. If there were 100 Palestinian American billionaires in this country and many of them contributed huge sums of money to candidates, PAC's and SuperPACS and demanded pro-Palensitian polices in return our policy would do a complete 180. Everyone on the planet knows this but for whatever reason it's impolite to point out in the United States
34
Our Jews pretty much all vote Democrat, always have, and apparently always will. Your point?
Are you suggesting we abandon the Jewish state and make nice with ISIS? Your comment is astonishing. If it wasn't our support for Israel annoying Islamist terrorists it would be something else - like our pesky desire to educate women.
3
President Obama today - ""If, in fact, Iran is willing to agree to double-digit years of keeping their program where it is right now and, in fact, rolling back elements of it that currently exist ... if we've got that, and we've got a way of verifying that, there's no other steps we can take that would give us such assurance that they don't have a nuclear weapon."
I want to know what happens after the 'double digit (10) years"? I can also suggest 'other steps' for ensuring Iran doesn't get nuclear weapons. How about not limiting the restrictions to double digit years, to something like forever. How about extending the break out period beyond 1 year. Oh, and the 'double digit' admission by President Obama is after his administration denied that there was any sunset period in the agreement under discussion.
Also, President Obama said Netanyahu had been wrong before with his opposition to a 2013 interim deal with Iran, pointing out that Iran had rolled back elements of its program during that time. President Obama offers no proof of that. In fact, there are reliable reports, including from the UN inspectors, that Iran has been proceeding with development of its nuclear program and that it has consistently refused agreed upon access for inspection of many nuclear sites, and that the work at those sites are suspicious at the least.
I want to know what happens after the 'double digit (10) years"? I can also suggest 'other steps' for ensuring Iran doesn't get nuclear weapons. How about not limiting the restrictions to double digit years, to something like forever. How about extending the break out period beyond 1 year. Oh, and the 'double digit' admission by President Obama is after his administration denied that there was any sunset period in the agreement under discussion.
Also, President Obama said Netanyahu had been wrong before with his opposition to a 2013 interim deal with Iran, pointing out that Iran had rolled back elements of its program during that time. President Obama offers no proof of that. In fact, there are reliable reports, including from the UN inspectors, that Iran has been proceeding with development of its nuclear program and that it has consistently refused agreed upon access for inspection of many nuclear sites, and that the work at those sites are suspicious at the least.
10
Though the US and Israel dispute looks nothing to do with our relationship with other countries, the image of two US, one the President and the other Congress, has given enormous damages in our relationship with other countries. For example, countries that have established security treaties with us like Japan or South Korea, would wonder the promptness and reliability of the security commitment by the US if the US divide like this in case of their security emergency.
Japan has already started preparation of the constitutional change of the Article 9. Since China has become more assertive, divisive US is the good excuse for the Prime Minister Abe to take the course of rearmament of Japan.
It is unfortunate, but new page is opened already.
Japan has already started preparation of the constitutional change of the Article 9. Since China has become more assertive, divisive US is the good excuse for the Prime Minister Abe to take the course of rearmament of Japan.
It is unfortunate, but new page is opened already.
5
Yes and of the three branches of our American government which is the one they are most concerned about (it isn't Netanyahu's planned audience). The nations you have mentioned are observing Obama and his tag team Department of State, its secretary described here as an untethered astronaut somersaulting away into space.
1
Suddenly left leaning liberals who overwhelm the New York Times comments sections are "patriots" incensed over "disrespect" to the office of the President?? Please, spare us the faux outrage. This same group is consistently anti-Israel, could care less about Israeli security and conveniently latch themselves onto any subject matter where they can attack Israel, whether it be attacking pro-Israel lobbies, the Israeli PM or US financial support for Israel. If they are so concerned about lobbies and foreign aid, perhaps they should ask themselves why the U.S. gives 130 billion a year to Western Europe for defense and why wealthy Arab lobbies do not have much influence in the US.
14
Democrats are anti-israel?!? Someone clearly hasn't been paying attention to politics, or exit polls, for the last few decades to make a statement like that.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for a friend is to protect them from themselves. Going to war with Iran would be a disaster for Israel (not to mention the U.S.). Obama is doing israel a favor
Sometimes the best thing you can do for a friend is to protect them from themselves. Going to war with Iran would be a disaster for Israel (not to mention the U.S.). Obama is doing israel a favor
1
I find that after decades of thie middle east situation, I have lost a great deal of support for Israel.
31
The shame of it is that John Boehner, whose irresponsible decision to invite Nehanyahu to address the House and involve him in the Republicans' ongoing war against President Obama precipitated this quarrel, is not being held to account for his actions. Now, not only is the House under his leadership poisoning domestic politics they are also poisoning internal politics as well.
24
Here is the irony. American troops are fighting alongside Iranian troops in combating ISIS/ISIL in Iraq. It is utterly and completely impossible that there is not some coordination going on between military forces. So now Israel wants us to start a war with Iran and ignore ISIS/ISIL because Iran is a "greater danger?" This is insane aside from being insulting to the United States. Netanyahu is distorting the Iranian situation massively for his own political purposes. We should never let any foreign government or official dictate our foreign policy prerogatives, and yet, here we are, kowtowing to Netanyahu on a fools mission. He should be ashamed. We should be ashamed.
41
American troops fighting alongside Iranian troops is a bit of a stretch
5
Less of a stretch than you imagine. Look into the new assault tonight on ISIS, led in part by an Iranian general alongside American trained Iraq forces. Americans and Iranians are working directly together. But neither side wants their people to know....
3
If Israel is a "member of the family," it's time to disown them.
"He who troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind."_Proverbs
"He who troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind."_Proverbs
24
Israel is such a fine democracy that its PM comes over here to help our own elected President govern. Can't ask for more than that.
13
That would depend on Bibi and whomever Israel elects to represent its nation. Lying and manipulation is destructive in any context.
3
Memo to Susan Rice, your vetoes and protection of israeli atrocities and land theft doesn't undermine UN's credibility, but it has undermined OUR credibility.
26
We have poured billions of dollars into Israel, and what have we gained from this? A country that thinks it can both beg for aid and dictate our foreign policy while sending its leader to our congress to insult our president. It is time to reexamine the equation. We lose nothing by stopping aid to Israel. They lose everything.
33
Glad everyone is figuring out how to save face and preserve an important relationship.
I wish that someone would tell Susan Rice that she doesn't have to be the fall guy for these statements she is fed and which are ultimately mitigated by softer rhetoric.
I wish that someone would tell Susan Rice that she doesn't have to be the fall guy for these statements she is fed and which are ultimately mitigated by softer rhetoric.
3
I believe her record of five (5) Sunday morning talk shows, to talk about a videotape, still stands.
I think the world is moving along well. Although Israel has named its main enemy as Iran, I think Israel's main enemy is its own prejudices. Both Arabs and Jews are Semitic, which gives them a common bond, and although they hate each other (I think all Semitic Tribes all hate each other) their common hatred of the Indo-Aryan-Iranian peoples is probably their worst problem.
ISIS is killing Shiites (who are ethnically Indo-Iranian, not Semitic) and the common Jewish belief (Israeli) is that they are more likely to bond with other Semitic Tribes than Indo-Aryan peoples.
This is where the split is between Israel and the US. The fact is that Americans do have an appreciation for Iranian culture (though the Iranians did favor the Nazis in WWII over the Americans) so the Jews have far more antipathy for Iranian culture than Americans. Like Christians, Iranians have adopted the Semitic God Jaweh but they have Aryan influences from ancient Persia and Zoroastrianism in their culture which are antithetical to purely Semitic beliefs.
Christianity, being most popular in the West among European tribes, maintains cultural residues from original Germanic culture in which leaders had to appeal to their followers (insipient Democracy) rather than accept dictatorial force against 'underlings'.
This appreciation of Iranian culture that is creating a military union against ISIS is infuriating the Jews and the Arabs - but it is simply similar ancient cultures creating alliances.
ISIS is killing Shiites (who are ethnically Indo-Iranian, not Semitic) and the common Jewish belief (Israeli) is that they are more likely to bond with other Semitic Tribes than Indo-Aryan peoples.
This is where the split is between Israel and the US. The fact is that Americans do have an appreciation for Iranian culture (though the Iranians did favor the Nazis in WWII over the Americans) so the Jews have far more antipathy for Iranian culture than Americans. Like Christians, Iranians have adopted the Semitic God Jaweh but they have Aryan influences from ancient Persia and Zoroastrianism in their culture which are antithetical to purely Semitic beliefs.
Christianity, being most popular in the West among European tribes, maintains cultural residues from original Germanic culture in which leaders had to appeal to their followers (insipient Democracy) rather than accept dictatorial force against 'underlings'.
This appreciation of Iranian culture that is creating a military union against ISIS is infuriating the Jews and the Arabs - but it is simply similar ancient cultures creating alliances.
3
It may be fine with Obama, but Netanyahu should remember the old saying of the mohels...what comes around goes around.
6
Like it has for the Democrats, after 8 years of vile abuse of President Bush. How fitting.
To put a foreign leader ahead of our president by our Congress ...... At what point does treason kick in?
32
When will Speaker Boehner invite Hassan Rouhani, President of Iran, to address a joint meeting of Congress so that the Congress and the American people can hear directly the Iranian side of this topic?
27
The discord between President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu is not permanent, because neither leader is permanent. What is becoming permanent is a growing breach between younger American Jews, who are more cosmopolitan then their elders and younger Israeli citizens, who are more intolerant than their elders.
10
I think the separation is much greater between young Americans in general and Israel. Many do not believe in or practice Judaism or Christianity so they will not be swayed by religious arguments. They have grown up seeing the Palestinians getting abused, not the Israelis.
3
Iran is engaged in arming both Hamas and Hezbullah and has never agreed to negotiations or peace with Israel in any sense. That is the essence of the problem. US detente is one thing, but you cannot have detente with an active aggressor... which Iran is against Israel.
12
What unmitigated gall to come to our shores and demand that we go to war with Iran. That is the alternative. How many American lives have been lost and how many Americans have been injured over the years due to our unwavering support of Israel? How much hatred and resentment have we born because of our support of Israel? How many billions of dollars have we spent protecting and arming them?
I am furious at the selfishness, the affront and disregard for our nation, our people and our President. My support for Israel is grievously tested.
I am furious at the selfishness, the affront and disregard for our nation, our people and our President. My support for Israel is grievously tested.
26
No American lives have been lost or injured due to Israeli support. Unless there is some fantasy war that Americans fought for Israel the rest of the world is not aware of. And please cite some proof that Israel is calling for America to go to war with Iran instead of simply parroting false narratives aimed at undermining Israel.
3
Well said Jacklyn. What surprises me is that on forums such as this your view would probably represent 80 or 90 % of posters. Yet next day some obscure polling enterprise will come out with 80 % supporting Israel and get widespread news coverage.
Isn't there a way to definitely get the exact level of support US policy towards Israel has among the population.
Isn't there a way to definitely get the exact level of support US policy towards Israel has among the population.
3
I have not read all comments, but from what I've read they're all taking the side of Obama or Netanyahu. It's interesting Iran is always the villain in both accounts. No one is considering why Iran is pursuing nuclear capabilities (and may be) pursuing nuclear arms. It's even more interesting that both Netanyahu and Obama refuse to acknowledge that Israel is that cause. By being so aggressive with its neighbors over the past 70 years, Israel has gained great distrust in the region, and increasingly across the globe. Countries have sought ways to measure this - e.g. Egypt betrayed its former ally the USSR, and made deals with the US, instead. I.e. they traded one super power for another. It worked, in the short term, gaining them more Western respect, and Western arms. Obviously, it failed in the long term (as most alliances do). What Iran is looking for is long-term respect, elusive to all countries in the region who are unable to negotiate fairly, because they are coming from a point of disadvantage, i.e. inferior arms.
And as is the case with both the US and Israel, they are seeking their goals through fear and manipulation, because looking at post WW2 history, that's all such country understands. Both countries are allowed to dictate terms due to fear of their arms, and their allies. Iran seeks an equal playing field.
I'm not surprised that neither leader will acknowledge this. I am surprised, however, that the 800+ commenters fail to make this realization.
And as is the case with both the US and Israel, they are seeking their goals through fear and manipulation, because looking at post WW2 history, that's all such country understands. Both countries are allowed to dictate terms due to fear of their arms, and their allies. Iran seeks an equal playing field.
I'm not surprised that neither leader will acknowledge this. I am surprised, however, that the 800+ commenters fail to make this realization.
10
Yeah, the country that was invaded by 5 Muslim armies the day after it declared independence is at fault for it all. Not to mention all their other attrocities - many ongoing - that Israel has had to endure.
2
For once obama is correct - it is not permanent. When the US votes in a real leader with some intelligence, they will have a lot of work to do to regain the trust of the large number of allies obama has angered and abandoned, starting with Israel and working all the way around the world.
The teens may have have partied in those european rallies in 2008 for obama, but the adults in the room knew the US was making a terrible mistake, and we've had 6 years to endure of it. 2017 cannot arrive soon enough...
The teens may have have partied in those european rallies in 2008 for obama, but the adults in the room knew the US was making a terrible mistake, and we've had 6 years to endure of it. 2017 cannot arrive soon enough...
7
As a Brit, therefore nominally your most loyal and obedient ally, I can inform you that Bush Jr ruined your reputation to the point that its unlikely we'll ever go to war alongside you again for a loooooong time.
Obama has started to repair your farcically bad international reputation.
I'm not surprised you don't seem to be aware of how your nation is perceived internationally.
Obama has started to repair your farcically bad international reputation.
I'm not surprised you don't seem to be aware of how your nation is perceived internationally.
Obviously this comment is facetious. It is widely acknowledged among pundits and the public alike that the nadir in US International relations occurred under President Bush. Obama has done much to repair our image abroad, and for that we should be grateful, but it will take a long time.
I haven't agreed with everything Obama has done from a foreign policy standpoint, but I agree with his position on Iran. The last thing we need right now is a war with Iran. Netanyahu has shown he lacks credibility on this issue, and not just because of his profound error in judgement in speaking to congress, but rather because, according to reports, he has misrepresented the intelligence and ignored the rcommendations of a number of high ranking Israeli national security advisors.
I haven't agreed with everything Obama has done from a foreign policy standpoint, but I agree with his position on Iran. The last thing we need right now is a war with Iran. Netanyahu has shown he lacks credibility on this issue, and not just because of his profound error in judgement in speaking to congress, but rather because, according to reports, he has misrepresented the intelligence and ignored the rcommendations of a number of high ranking Israeli national security advisors.
It is not Mr. Netanyahu's publicly stated intentions that are at issue. We all know he is running for reelection and he also welcomes the opportunity to use the Congress of my country as a prop for his political campaign. He also welcomes the opportunity to fulfill his delusion that he is speaking on behalf of all Jews, including me by co-opting the same platform that the President of my country used to address the people of my country. It is disgraceful that Boehner and the Republicans are treating Netanyahu as a co-equal to our President. And it is also disgraceful that Democrats, with all their grumbling, allow themselves to be used by Boehner and Netanyahu.
16
I hope his people can see their prime minister while he takes advantage of every opportunity to ensure the future of America and Israel. If it translates into more support for him so be it. If nonsuppporters of the idea don' t like it then they can always send an emissary to Tehran for a rebuttal to the existential question posed by Netanyahu but unfortunately Kerry may have be at them to it.
It's good to know that John Boehner has Bibi Netanyahu's back. In the event of a serious crisis threatening the survival of Israel, the House will quickly vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
11
Obama acts directly against US national security interests and the safety of the American people by conceding point after point to Iran including sanctions relief. The Iranians are building ICBMs whose only purpose is to deliver long range nuclear payloads inter-continentally. You know, to the USA. Obama supporters should stop being so petty and naive and understand the stakes here are much larger than their childish indignation about protocol. If protocol were such an issue they would have complained when Obama trotted out the British Prime minister David Cameron to call on US senators personally to shill for Obama's Iran deal. Spare me the phony patriotism from the left, conveniently invoked when Israel is the subject.
12
What next from BB? Treating us the way he deals whith the Palestinians? Thus he seriously think he can tell us what to do? Let's take away all the billions that goes to found the Israel defense and the best of our military war technology and then see what would happen.....Israel would not last very long!. So, bb we don't need your advise. Is this guy tying to be more important than our president? Or was he a victim of his own arrogance and that of the idiotic Repubican Congress, that did not follow protocol?
19
NYT " Netanyahu Tells Aipac He Intends No Disrespect to Obama."
Israel's prime minister daring speech at Capitol Hill tomorrow reminds me of an academic anecdote related to Waldo Emerson, Harvard graduate, essayist and lecturer 1829-1832.
A young ambitious graduate student prepared an essay criticizing Plato. Waldo Emerson's paper revision came with the following notation: When you strike at a king, you must kill him.
Is Netanyahu ready to strike and kill his king tomorrow?
Israel's prime minister daring speech at Capitol Hill tomorrow reminds me of an academic anecdote related to Waldo Emerson, Harvard graduate, essayist and lecturer 1829-1832.
A young ambitious graduate student prepared an essay criticizing Plato. Waldo Emerson's paper revision came with the following notation: When you strike at a king, you must kill him.
Is Netanyahu ready to strike and kill his king tomorrow?
3
That is really an excellent question. It goes directly to the core of the issue.
According to Harper's Index, March 2015:
According to Harper's Index, March 2015:
"Percentage of Benjamin Netanyahu's primary-campaign contributions that came from the United States: 90."
"That came from three U.S. families: 30."
Something serious to chew on.
According to Harper's Index, March 2015:
"Percentage of Benjamin Netanyahu's primary-campaign contributions that came from the United States: 90."
"That came from three U.S. families: 30."
Something serious to chew on.
43
Netanyahu didn't run for any primaries. And for your information the Israeli election funding is very different then the US one. Most funding comes through the state and the rules of campaigning are very strict
1
Time to re-consider the US relationship with Israel; this country has no respect for the internal policies and procedures of the USA. The interference in our internal affrairs has gone on past endurance. Let them go on their way on their own. Enough interference is enough.
41
Oh, i didn't mean disrespect, i just want to make my point about obama's policies. Reminds me of when right wingers say "We're not saying Obama's a Muslim, we just don't know. He says he's not". Or "we aren't saying Obama's not an American, we just don't know. We need to see him birth certificate." Talk about an abuse, Boehner has abused this country unbelievably.
39
"We aren't saying the Obama administration is utterly incompetent at anything remotely connected to foreign policy, we're saying that his dithering and betrayal of America's decades-old allies and interests is endangering the entire free world."
We should cut off all aid for Israel, simple as that. Use the $4B/yr in our own country.
If the Isreali people don't like it, they can elect someone, as they have for the past 50 years, who does not egregiously disrespect our country on our own soil. They can then apologize on behalf of their primate leader and ask for our forgiveness and to reinstate the aid.
If the Isreali people don't like it, they can elect someone, as they have for the past 50 years, who does not egregiously disrespect our country on our own soil. They can then apologize on behalf of their primate leader and ask for our forgiveness and to reinstate the aid.
44
Call your local representative and tell him that, clearly Obama and most of the Congress and many US tax payers don't agree with you.
Very happy to see signs of cutting the strings to our "Puppet Masters" in Israel. They're big boys who can fight their own battles. Huge sums of money given to them every year that can stay right here.
37
Iran would not be foolish enough to nuke Israel. they would though have more influence in Middle East issues,and better relations with U.S. which israel wants to prevent.
14
I agree with commenters who say that Netanyahu's scheduled address before a joint session of Congress is inherently disrespectful. And it is dangerous in the extreme. Netanyahu has every media outlet at his disposal to make his case to the American people and the national security establishment. He can go on the Sunday morning talk shows, and he can buy as much media time in advertising as he is willing to pay for. He can spread his message to every church and synagogue in the United States, but he cannot, and must not be allowed to involve himself in the partisan battle between the Republican Party and president Obama and his administration.
A secretly orchestrated address before the two houses of Congress that are controlled by the president's political adversaries insinuates American domestic politics into the discussion in a way that is corrosive and destructive. Make no mistake, this is a political stunt intended to suggest that congressional Republicans and the radical fringe of the Republican Party are more concerned about Israel's continued safety and existence than the American government and by extension the Democratic Party. Netanyahu has made no secret of his and his party's preference for the Republican Party. He and his party have been on a collision course with long-standing American policy for some time, and to all appearances, Netanyahu is using this occasion to improve his political prospects in the upcoming Israeli election. No disrespect? Really!
A secretly orchestrated address before the two houses of Congress that are controlled by the president's political adversaries insinuates American domestic politics into the discussion in a way that is corrosive and destructive. Make no mistake, this is a political stunt intended to suggest that congressional Republicans and the radical fringe of the Republican Party are more concerned about Israel's continued safety and existence than the American government and by extension the Democratic Party. Netanyahu has made no secret of his and his party's preference for the Republican Party. He and his party have been on a collision course with long-standing American policy for some time, and to all appearances, Netanyahu is using this occasion to improve his political prospects in the upcoming Israeli election. No disrespect? Really!
43
Netanyahu has stepped over the line in what amounts to an overt attempt to dictate our foreign policy while the whole world watches. People in Congress who support him in doing this are selling out their country for the cheap thrill of preventing Obama from achieving a deal with Iran. This is a new low for the Republicans.
42
The only country in the middle east with nuclear weapons has a population of 8.2 million. Neither that country or the USA will admit the large nuclear arsenal that everyone knows about.
A nearby country with a population of 77.1 million wants to develop nuclear technology.
One of these countries sends it prime minister to lecture the USA congress on how to behave.
Guess which.
Now that's chutzpah
A nearby country with a population of 77.1 million wants to develop nuclear technology.
One of these countries sends it prime minister to lecture the USA congress on how to behave.
Guess which.
Now that's chutzpah
38
You missed some key questions that also need answers:
Which country is starting a nuclear race in the Middle East by virtue of its own nuclear intentions? (That nearby 77.1 million country).
Which country has repeatedly threatened to wipe a neighboring country off the map, while denying the Holocaust as a matter of course? (That nearby 77.1 million country).
Which country is actively engaged in extending its hegemony over the entire Middle East region, and can already count 4 Muslim capitals as its proxies? Not to mention several out-and-out terrorist organizations... (Yep, that nearby 77.1 million country).
So perhaps there are those who can benefit from the Prime Minister's "lecture"...
Which country is starting a nuclear race in the Middle East by virtue of its own nuclear intentions? (That nearby 77.1 million country).
Which country has repeatedly threatened to wipe a neighboring country off the map, while denying the Holocaust as a matter of course? (That nearby 77.1 million country).
Which country is actively engaged in extending its hegemony over the entire Middle East region, and can already count 4 Muslim capitals as its proxies? Not to mention several out-and-out terrorist organizations... (Yep, that nearby 77.1 million country).
So perhaps there are those who can benefit from the Prime Minister's "lecture"...
1
I want a president who is more concerned about my safety and security instead of diplomatic protocol.
Refusal to attend Netanyahu's speech reminds me more of the behavior of a two year old than the President of the United States
Obama should swallow his ego and attend this important meeting.
Refusal to attend Netanyahu's speech reminds me more of the behavior of a two year old than the President of the United States
Obama should swallow his ego and attend this important meeting.
17
Yet the fact that the US Congress went behind the president's back to secretly setup a meeting with a foreign leader so as to allow that foreign leader to dictate US foreign policy is completely lost on you.
Unbelievable.
Unbelievable.
2
The two year olds involved here are Boehner and Netanyahu, and anyone else involved in orchestrating this purely political trip. Tell me, what new information came out of this "important meeting"?
"Safety and security" and "diplomatic protocol" aren't mutually exclusive.
"Safety and security" and "diplomatic protocol" aren't mutually exclusive.
2
Here's a man who has been unable to foster constructive relations with any of his neighboring countries yet whose own country has benefited mightily from the United States in these many years coming to interfere with our efforts to repair some of the animosity that has arisen between the United States and Iran during the last 30 years. Thank you, Prime Minister Netanyahu!
31
I shared my thoughts, but the post was deleted. Too bad, I want Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand to know that they have lost a voter and financial contributor. The thought of someone I voted for attending this fiasco makes my stomach turn. Warmongers, the lot of them.
31
Good post. Now we need other voters to call certain other Congress-persons to task. Go to maplight.org to find out how much your Congress-person has received from AIPAC.
4
I am an American. I pledge allegiance to the United States of America.
Who do those people at the AIPAC Conference pledge allegiance to?
An American Veteran
Who do those people at the AIPAC Conference pledge allegiance to?
An American Veteran
43
I absolutely flipped my gasket reading this article. Who does this guy thinks he is? I find it abhorrent that someone would attempt sabotage a nuclear disarnament in 2015.
40
Only it's not disarmament. It's a green light for the world's number 1 state sponsor of terrorism - Iran - to achieve nuclear weapons, with the seal of approval from the President of the United States.
Sometimes these basic facts even matter...
Sometimes these basic facts even matter...
I'm wondering if anyone else finds it odd that Israel, generally recognized as having nuclear weapons of its own, would object so strongly to Iran having the same kind of weapons. If Israel feel unsafe if Iran gets its hands on nuclear weapons, why would we deny Iran the right to feel similarly fearful? I mean, one possible solution is that all parties involved agree to a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East, and that all nations with such weapons would have to give up theirs.
33
Because Iran is committed to the destruction of Israel. They tell the Israeli's and the rest of the world that all the time. Israel, on the other hand, does no such thing. I hope that helps you.
5
I'm wondering if anyone finds Ron either ill informed or a propoganda tool. Israel is our ally defending itself from a terrorist aligned nation whose fundamentalist leaders want to march israel's people into the sea. Israel does have nukes...and nothing happens. ...Israel just wants to exist...if the tables were turned, no more Israel.
4
Right you are. There is a huge opportunity here for Iran: go public with a proposal to make the Middle East a WMD-free zone.
2
It seems that EVERYBODY has forgotten what the whole mess is about,
including the appearance of ISIS, and that is the Occupation of Palestinian
lands. If that had been solved years ago the Middle East would be a quite different, and peaceful place. That grievance is the root cause of the enmity towards jews all over the world, where before quite managed to be good neighbours.
including the appearance of ISIS, and that is the Occupation of Palestinian
lands. If that had been solved years ago the Middle East would be a quite different, and peaceful place. That grievance is the root cause of the enmity towards jews all over the world, where before quite managed to be good neighbours.
15
Well, Netanyahu's behavior has caused be to have disrespect for him and by extension, for Israel.
33
Bibi must go!!!!! He alone has put Israeli- US relationship at an historic low. His thuggish demeanor and heavy hand in the Gaza has isolated and vilified Israel on the world stage. Yes Israel is a strategic ally in the Middle East but its policies must not dictate US policies. After 14 years of warfare, the US has little to show for it and it is the Obama's administration new tact of diplomacy that may pave the way to a more stable Middle East. Iran, for better or worse, is becoming a major player in the Middle East and may be a key element in Iraq's stability and in the battle against Isil. War mongering and saber rattling do not work in the volatile Middle East; Israel must be a key ally in the Middle East and not a liability; under Netanyahu, his policies have become just that to the Obama administration.
31
So, you complain about how Israel must not "dictate US policies," but at the same time make a dramatic proclamation about how Israel should rule itself ("Bibi must go!!").
Nope, no hypocrisy there.
Nope, no hypocrisy there.
"The United States will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," Ms. Power told the audience. "Period."
I think we can forgive the prime minister if he is not that reassured by the drawing of red lines.
All that aside, this was a political controversy between the parties, who are already competing for 2016. It is not one that is meaningful to most Americans. So Netanyahu spoke. Who is going to remember two months from now? How many people listened to his speech? When was the last speech anyone made that people remember more than a line or so from, if that? Martin Luther King, Jr.?
If this is the biggest event of the day . . . .
I think we can forgive the prime minister if he is not that reassured by the drawing of red lines.
All that aside, this was a political controversy between the parties, who are already competing for 2016. It is not one that is meaningful to most Americans. So Netanyahu spoke. Who is going to remember two months from now? How many people listened to his speech? When was the last speech anyone made that people remember more than a line or so from, if that? Martin Luther King, Jr.?
If this is the biggest event of the day . . . .
4
Sure, as long as those of us who remember the prime minsiter's enthusiasm for going to war in Iraq, in 2002, can be forgiven for regarding all claims for his expert judgment with bucketfuls of salt.
3
Slap in face followed by "no disrespect intended" always gets you off the hook.
25
and…" I beg your pardon.."
It is clear to me that what the Prime Minister has to say is precisely what we need to hear about the real state of the danger Iran poses; the things our own President will not tell us, either because he does not know or because he is lost in his own fantasy of negotiating with the Iranians. The Prime Minister will certainly tell the world about the emperor's new clothes.
I think all of the noise about protocol is just that. What have we got to fear from hearing the israeli perspective?
I think all of the noise about protocol is just that. What have we got to fear from hearing the israeli perspective?
9
I think that the president is acutely aware of the risks of a negotiated settlement with Iran, but I think he is also acutely aware of the risks associated with no negotiated settlement and what that would lead to.
5
When the US invaded Iraq--with enthusiastic support from Netanyahu--we set a series of events in motion that resulted in Iran becoming more powerful. We should have thought about that a little more in advance before we blissfully assumed that we could take down Saddam Hussein and Iran would not take advantage of his absence, but that's water under the bridge.
Right now, Iran has powerful influence in the conflicts of that region: the civil war in Syria and the fight against ISIS especially. It's not what we like, but it's the reality.
Netanyahu's solution to conflict is aggression and more aggression; but Iran is a larger and tougher foe than the Palestinians. It seems he'll need the US attack Iran--and he'll support us, just like with Iraq.
Remember how well that turned out?
Right now, Iran has powerful influence in the conflicts of that region: the civil war in Syria and the fight against ISIS especially. It's not what we like, but it's the reality.
Netanyahu's solution to conflict is aggression and more aggression; but Iran is a larger and tougher foe than the Palestinians. It seems he'll need the US attack Iran--and he'll support us, just like with Iraq.
Remember how well that turned out?
39
exactly ... and that is just why the republicans stridently invited him to speak. they love the drumbeat of war, and seemingly many americans have forgotten how the iraqi invasion turned out, because look who's dominating our legislative body.
11
Respect is a two-way street and Netanyahu will eventually reap what he is sowing.
Israel is a sovereign nation and Netanyahu is the head of a sovereign nation. As such, he is free to disregard what is in the interest of the U.S. if he feels it benefits his nation or if he feels his nation's interests are in conflict with ours.
However, he best realize - and quickly - the same is true in reverse as well. The U.S. is also a sovereign nation and President Obama is free to disregard Israel's interests whenever they conflict with our interests or whenever it benefits our interests to do so, period. We (Americans) do not live to serve Israel, and we have no more stake in its survival than we do in the survival of any other ally.
Israel is a sovereign nation and Netanyahu is the head of a sovereign nation. As such, he is free to disregard what is in the interest of the U.S. if he feels it benefits his nation or if he feels his nation's interests are in conflict with ours.
However, he best realize - and quickly - the same is true in reverse as well. The U.S. is also a sovereign nation and President Obama is free to disregard Israel's interests whenever they conflict with our interests or whenever it benefits our interests to do so, period. We (Americans) do not live to serve Israel, and we have no more stake in its survival than we do in the survival of any other ally.
43
You're more like the myopic Mr. Magoo I grew up with, frankly. Yes, both nations are sovereign, and, no, Americans do not live to serve Israel. But your mere framing of the question reveals your blind spot, willful disregard of the facts, and collosal ahistoricity. (1) Israel has never asked that one drop of American blood be shed on its defense; Israel defends its own, unlike virtually all other U.S. "allies," present and past. Direct corollary (2), when Netanyahu sought understanding/approbation from Obama re: Israel's intention to knock out Iran's nuke capability while it could, should diplomacy fail, O. not only did O. forbid Bibi, he applied a stranghehold, refusing to promise in return that if diplomacy failed and Iran nuke-ified, that the U.S. would take the nukes out. (S. Powers's promise to AIPAC today that there will be no nuke-ified Iran is emptier than her I-have-Israeli-friends essay.) Worse, Obama's "grand bargain" would tit-for-tat *let* Iran approach nuclear weapons capability *and* gain regional power/player, hegemony in return for allying with the U.S. against ISIS. The truth is that, except for Obama's administration and scant few others, few Americans see the region or our interests that way; most see Israel's survival as important to the U.S. on many levels, certainly moral, but also cultural, economic and trade-wise, from strategic/intelligence/security/militarily perspectives.
5
Israel is a millstone around America's neck. WE can't afford to take care of our own, but can shovel billions of taxpayer dollars overseas.
3
Has anyone dared to ask that same question in public ?
1
Netanyahu should announce the end of his illegal occupation of the West Bank, apologize to Americans for selling the Iraq War and making our lives harder in the middle east, thank Americans for BILLIONS in taxpayer money, and then go back home to lose his election.
39
Israel is only a partial democracy. For that matter, why must we alwaysd protect Israell and give them so much foreign aid?? Adre we n otg a sovreioign natikon and can defe nd or ignore whom we want? Tjhere is no excuse for carrying Israel along these many years.
10
I understand that any Iranian atomic weapons program should not become a reality, and I also recognize that this is a tremendous security issue for Israel, as it is for everyone else on the planet. I find, however, the Prime Minister's diplomatic manners way lacking and smacking of partisan politics. In my opinion the President has been disrespected.
27
Given that you understand that this is "a tremendous security issue for Israel", perhaps you can also understand the desperation of the Israeli Prime Minsiter and the course of action he's been forced to take.
I just wish previous U.S. Presidents had been as adamant in preventing Israel from introducing nuclear weapons into the middle east as Mr. Obama is in preventing Iran from doing the same.
24
JFK's tried hard and ended up dead 3 months after he sent an ultimatum to golds.
2
Let Netanyahu voice his "moral obligations" to the Congress. Would it not be disturbing to anyone that the uncorking of Iraq (Saddam) and Libya (Khaddafi) has unleashed toxicity? No containment of ISIS as it is no longer localized to the Syrian/Iraqi desrt region. If Hillary runs, will you hear "what difference does it make?" Yes, I would be concerned and wish to voice my opinion to an ally that has ruined the neighborhood which is becoming more like a gang infested ghetto (Middle East).
3
Lets face it: America is today, a reflection of President Obama.
President Obama has changed America after 6 years in office. (and he is not done). One can call it progress, enlightenment, human rights achievements what ever fits your comfort zone. Things have changed under President Obama. Corruption in Washington that runs amok with no consequence of justice served. An administration that answers to no one. Yet Obama wants to change the world.
We are not the shining city on the hill, when viewed by others in the world; yet we are determined to fix the world's problems.
If Netanyahu is disrespectful to President Obama then he is also disrespectful to the American people...unless one would feel that Obama does not represent all Americans. If that is true, how is it that in America now, we have accepted same-sex marriage and legalized marijuana. Both becoming the law of the land. (and Obama is not done yet).
Making influence peddling legal in our government in Washington, some times called lobbying. A vice that has exploded under Obama, when as a young idealist he was against it. Obama now turns his will on the outside world.
A nation asleep, under President Obama, fascinated by the technologies of today. Selfies and being cool. Sadly politicians on both sides try to emulate President Obama, as a tool to election; forgetting the basic values that made this country great.
If Netanyahu has no respect for Obama it may well be, what, as country we have become
President Obama has changed America after 6 years in office. (and he is not done). One can call it progress, enlightenment, human rights achievements what ever fits your comfort zone. Things have changed under President Obama. Corruption in Washington that runs amok with no consequence of justice served. An administration that answers to no one. Yet Obama wants to change the world.
We are not the shining city on the hill, when viewed by others in the world; yet we are determined to fix the world's problems.
If Netanyahu is disrespectful to President Obama then he is also disrespectful to the American people...unless one would feel that Obama does not represent all Americans. If that is true, how is it that in America now, we have accepted same-sex marriage and legalized marijuana. Both becoming the law of the land. (and Obama is not done yet).
Making influence peddling legal in our government in Washington, some times called lobbying. A vice that has exploded under Obama, when as a young idealist he was against it. Obama now turns his will on the outside world.
A nation asleep, under President Obama, fascinated by the technologies of today. Selfies and being cool. Sadly politicians on both sides try to emulate President Obama, as a tool to election; forgetting the basic values that made this country great.
If Netanyahu has no respect for Obama it may well be, what, as country we have become
7
From what I have read, there is a good deal more corruption in the Congress than in the White House. Moreover, to the best of my knowledge, President Obama has not been an active advocate of same-sex marriage or legalized marijuana. Moreover, lobbying in the national government has risen dramatically since WWII, but the vast bulk of that change occurred before President Obama took office. Finally, your comment that the Administration answers to no one is factually inaccurate. A number of Administration officials have been called to testify before various congressional committees, some Administration actions have been challenged in court (which has happened to all of our recent presidents. The Administration has also been criticized in quite a bit of reporting (some of it lacking in factual accuracy).
2
" Corruption in Washington that runs amok with no consequence of justice served. An administration that answers to no one. Yet Obama wants to change the world."
And here I thought that GW Bush and Cheney had a lock on the corruption angle.
And here I thought that GW Bush and Cheney had a lock on the corruption angle.
1
The ignorance of the US is not Obama´s doing, it started with that
"great & wise " president : Ronald Reagan . Now you´ve become a danger
to the world : Extremely powerful, and extremely dumb. And don´t start
praying because IT is not it .
"great & wise " president : Ronald Reagan . Now you´ve become a danger
to the world : Extremely powerful, and extremely dumb. And don´t start
praying because IT is not it .
Just a thought.
How would the Israelis feel if the Labor Party, without checking with Prime Minister Netanyahu, invited President Obama to give a speech before the Knesset to convince Israelis to use diplomacy with Iran instead of the threat of war to reduce the likelihood of Iran engaging in nuclear enrichment to build nuclear weapons?
Obama could imply that he really likes the Labor Party better than Netanyahu's right-wing coalition parties, and subtly hint that there would be consequences, such as the lessening the amount of aid Israel receives from the U.S., if Israel does not follow Obama's advice--stating no disrespect meant, of course, to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
How would the Israelis feel if the Labor Party, without checking with Prime Minister Netanyahu, invited President Obama to give a speech before the Knesset to convince Israelis to use diplomacy with Iran instead of the threat of war to reduce the likelihood of Iran engaging in nuclear enrichment to build nuclear weapons?
Obama could imply that he really likes the Labor Party better than Netanyahu's right-wing coalition parties, and subtly hint that there would be consequences, such as the lessening the amount of aid Israel receives from the U.S., if Israel does not follow Obama's advice--stating no disrespect meant, of course, to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
19
Considering Obama's popularity, or actually lack of it in Israel it will only backfire.
President Obama was invited in the past to speak at the Knesset, where he could have said anything he liked - but he declined.
This should have been a dispute between John Boehner and President Obama. It was Boehner, after all, who invited Netanyahu to speak to Congress - purposely circumventing the President's authority on international affairs.
.
The White House mismanaged it, and brought Netanyahu into the debate when they shouldn't have. The correct response would have been, 1: a good old fashioned, LBJ style Presidential dress down of John Boehner; and 2: for President Obama to show up unannounced when Netanyahu was addressing Congress. Turn Boehner's address, into his meeting.
.
The White House mismanaged it, and brought Netanyahu into the debate when they shouldn't have. The correct response would have been, 1: a good old fashioned, LBJ style Presidential dress down of John Boehner; and 2: for President Obama to show up unannounced when Netanyahu was addressing Congress. Turn Boehner's address, into his meeting.
4
I am agreeing with Diana Moses. We need to put a little heat on Obama to effect a respectable treaty with Iran. Who else knows more about the threat of Iranian terror than Israel? Obama would like nothing more than to turn a deaf ear to Netanyahu (his critic in this case).So many of the comments decry the "audacity" that Israel and Netanyahu have shown. Under normal circumstances this event would not be taking place. How fortunate we are that this day has come when nations of the world will place their ears close to their radios to hear what Obama is too cowardly to say. In the name of fate, Netanyahu will be able to air his grievances against Iran (and U.S. policy in that regard). Truth will prevail in the end thanks to this wonderful turn of fate.
9
I'm not clear about what you think the President is too cowardly to say. He has indicated that a negotiated deal with Iran involves an element of risk, but all the other options also involve an element of risk. Truth sometimes prevails in the end, but that process sometimes takes a very long time.
3
Just the fact that Sheldon Adelson is a close associate of Benjamin Netanyahu speaks volumes.
35
That a large number of the Democrats who won't attend his speech are African-Americans who feel he showing disrespect to Obama might give Bibi some pause. Someday Israel might need their support in Congress. He is making that less likely all because of politics.
14
Netanyahu showed disrespect to the US President, in flagrant violation
diplomatic protocol. First foreign leader to perform in Congress against the policy of the US president and against his will.
If Barack Obama does not find an adequate response to Netanyahu's speech, he will lose the confidence of many Americans who appreciate it as a weakness of his presidency.
Netanyahu speech focused on the failure of negotiations with Iran, and he does not hide. But this contradicts the interests of peace and security in the world, including Israel's interests.
Put the nuclear program of Tehran under the control of the international community - a problem that must be addressed to avoid another major war.
Israeli prime minister's speech on the contrary it brings.
diplomatic protocol. First foreign leader to perform in Congress against the policy of the US president and against his will.
If Barack Obama does not find an adequate response to Netanyahu's speech, he will lose the confidence of many Americans who appreciate it as a weakness of his presidency.
Netanyahu speech focused on the failure of negotiations with Iran, and he does not hide. But this contradicts the interests of peace and security in the world, including Israel's interests.
Put the nuclear program of Tehran under the control of the international community - a problem that must be addressed to avoid another major war.
Israeli prime minister's speech on the contrary it brings.
10
You're factually wrong, and the repeating of this nonsense across various internet forums indicates a possible organized, manufactured campaign by the likes of CAIR, WRMEA, etc.
The fact of the matter is that congress has the same rights as the president as far as who can speak before it as a body, as over our history about 200 foreign leaders have done so.
As for your last ludicrous comment about putting the nuclear weapons program of iran under int'l control, go read up on what the IAEA says about iran's almost total lack of cooperation.
The fact of the matter is that congress has the same rights as the president as far as who can speak before it as a body, as over our history about 200 foreign leaders have done so.
As for your last ludicrous comment about putting the nuclear weapons program of iran under int'l control, go read up on what the IAEA says about iran's almost total lack of cooperation.
4
"as a body, as over our history about 200 foreign leaders have done so."
Each and every one of them were extended an invitation by the POTUS. Netanyahu had Adelson and Dermer conspire behind the White House, as they are doing right now to seek an additional $300 Million in defense aide.
Each and every one of them were extended an invitation by the POTUS. Netanyahu had Adelson and Dermer conspire behind the White House, as they are doing right now to seek an additional $300 Million in defense aide.
1
@bob: Where in the Constitution is the Congress given explicit lawful permission to invite foreign leaders to US soil?
1
Why do we need Israel? This is why: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Orchard
9
"I meant no disrespect" almost always means I do not respect you, especially in the middle eastern context. This is no exception. Unfortunately the WH played this one poorly, calling this speech practically the end of days and the worst thing ever. What did they think was going to happen? Of course he would come as planned and stick to message. As annoying as this speech invitation was, Bibi came out better on this one and it's another example of naively conceived PR and messaging from the WH.
2
He is trying to make this personal. Typical bully tactics. Isolate and bully.
Its just about buying influence and alienating those who dont. Revolting.
Its just about buying influence and alienating those who dont. Revolting.
15
Mr.Netanyahu is insulting the office of the president of United States. He has no shame. Mr. Boehner is scoring some political points . He is dividing the American Jewish voters and getting AIPAC support at the cost of United States. This is pathetic, unpatriotic and STUPID. Israeli or any foreign leader friend or foe should not dare play in our internal politics and if they do, should pay a price.
33
If he doesn't mean any disrespect to Obama, then why is he here for a political grandstand session that will only benefit Netanyahu and right- wing members of Congress?
26
It will be interesting to hear Bibi's speech, Israel is one of our most important allies.
11
Certainly our most expensive.
8
Too funny. What exactly makes them an ally?
11
Important ally - in what respect?
8
Prime Minister Benjamin has made two joint addresses to Congress (1976 and 1994), what has he done since then.
3
I don't know who "Prime Minister Benjamin" is, but Benjamin Netanyahu did not address Congress as Prime Minister in either 1976 or 1994. In 1976, he was a student at MIT. In 1994, he was not yet Prime Minister.
6
Given Mr. Obama's dismal track record of foreign affairs, I have zero confidence in his nuclear "deal" with Iran. Obviously with the most to lose...Israel feels the same way.
11
Dismal? You should stop listening to Michelle Bachman.
6
Yeah, not permanently destructive. After a while, we will have some grown-ups involved.
I am not your 'family,' Mr. Netanyahu, and the suggestion is at least awkward, if not presumptuously arrogant and subtly imposing. You are the leader of a sovereign nation, and I am a citizen of a different one. I trust my elected leaders to act on my behalf, not on yours.
31
It is difficult to imagine a scenario where the Democrat Congress would oppose a Kerry-Obama deal no matter how bad the deal is. Let's not kid ourselves. This current administration in Washington is practicing appeasement on all its foreign policy fronts and the results overall are disastrous. The US couldn't prevent India, Pakistan or N. Korea from developing atomic weapons and they aren't capable of stopping Iran. That Iran wants a bomb is undeniable to anyone with open eyes. For Israel this is indeed an existential threat. One bomb on Israel is a total catastrophe. If the Republicans in Congress want to hear Bibi's take of the forthcoming agreement what's the beef? Let the facts be put out in public so that everyone knows what's going on. Too much closed door so-called diplomacy has been used to cover up bad agreements that once made become irreversible. Obama has been bad mouthing Israeli's PM for a long time way before the invitation by Boehner. So why now is Obama so sensitive about 'protocol'. Isn't it a breach of diplomatic protocol to say nasty things about Bibi to the French President more or less in public?
14
Your comment raised a couple of interesting questions.
You write: "The US couldn't prevent India, Pakistan or N. Korea from developing atomic weapons and they aren't capable of stopping Iran... Let the facts be put out in public so that everyone knows what's going on."
The US couldn't (or didn't) prevent Israel either. That is an inconvenient fact which, when put out in public, puts the picture in rather different light, doesn't it?
You also write: "Isn't it a breach of diplomatic protocol to say nasty things about Bibi"
And the Pollard affair, where Israel was essentially spying on its patron (sorry -- "closest ally" is probably your preferred term) -- is it in keeping with diplomatic protocol to DO nasty things to your ally?
You write: "The US couldn't prevent India, Pakistan or N. Korea from developing atomic weapons and they aren't capable of stopping Iran... Let the facts be put out in public so that everyone knows what's going on."
The US couldn't (or didn't) prevent Israel either. That is an inconvenient fact which, when put out in public, puts the picture in rather different light, doesn't it?
You also write: "Isn't it a breach of diplomatic protocol to say nasty things about Bibi"
And the Pollard affair, where Israel was essentially spying on its patron (sorry -- "closest ally" is probably your preferred term) -- is it in keeping with diplomatic protocol to DO nasty things to your ally?
5
Did India, Pakistan and North Korea all achieve nuclear weapons on Obama's watch? Was Bush practicing appeasement when he failed to mount a military defense of Georgia when Putin invaded? As far as I can tell, the sole criticism of President Obama's foreign policy is that he doesn't swagger more. I don't see Republicans offering any alternative policies. If Iran wants a nuclear bomb, it will build or buy one. Israel has its own nuclear bomb, so unless Iran has a death wish, it is pure hyperbole to claim that Iran getting a bomb poses an existential threat to Israel.
4
Please. Iran's leaders are not ready to martyr their entire population for sake of Israel's destruction yet. They know very well if they launch a single one there will be at least a hundred of missiles headed their way. If there is a will to go to war with Iran to ensure they cannot develop nuclear capability, please be my guest, but you'll be going in there alone.
I'm sorry, but to snub the President and then expect another $20bn in US taxpayer cash for your country's defense does not appear to be a very wise approach.
I'm sorry, but to snub the President and then expect another $20bn in US taxpayer cash for your country's defense does not appear to be a very wise approach.
11
No disrespect? Who does he think he's kidding? He looks down his nose at Obama, just like the House Speaker and Senate Republican majority leader; he not only disrespects our twice elected president, but Netanyahu disrespects the American taxpayers who have sheltered Israel from day one. Go play your political games back home, Mr. Prime Minister, and stay there. We can take care of Iran without your meddling!
26
"We can take care of Iran without your meddling!"
If only the evidence supported such a statement. In reality, it seems very likely that the settlement currently being negotiated will allow the Iranians a virtual cake-walk to a nuclear bomb.
If only the evidence supported such a statement. In reality, it seems very likely that the settlement currently being negotiated will allow the Iranians a virtual cake-walk to a nuclear bomb.
It is against our national interests. Netanyahu wants the United States to wage war against Iran. The Jewish Pac group is acting in the interest of a foreign power. Congress is also going against American interests. Our foreign policy is a mess.
15
Billionaire Adelson has made no secret of his desire that the US attacks Iran - for the benefit of Israel.
Like many rich, he wants others to do his bidding. Netanyahu, who receives support of Adelson's newspaper and money , is bound to do all he can to make this happen. The US must guard against this.
Like many rich, he wants others to do his bidding. Netanyahu, who receives support of Adelson's newspaper and money , is bound to do all he can to make this happen. The US must guard against this.
28
I think Boehner showed the penultimate disrespect to Obama and to the public at large. His actions do not dignify the job as House Speaker. Having said that he will probably go down as one of the weakest and ineffectual speakers ever.
18
Israel foreign policy is not a crystal clear one and Netanyahu is certainly a very polemic person to say the least. As usual, Israel uses quite deceiving tactics to lure international policy and opinion to sympathize with the Israel agenda in the middle east region. Isis is a creation of this (no one jew has been abducted or victimized by then and I hope never) and the atomic thing with Iran is just another thing Netanyahu is using to justify a future military intervention in this region. Israel´s agenda is to get rid of all arab/muslim influence in the middle east to consolidate its presence in the area. Plain and simple. And it cannot be achieved without full support of west (US-Europe).
5
I for one feel disrespect.
11
Noam Chomsky has a fantastic interview by Amy Goodman on today's democracy Now...One thing if Iran had a Nuclear Bomb that Israel would take them out..AIPAC has a way too much power over the USA media and government
18
Bibi and Israelis really need to humble themselves; they have been getting a free ride for a long time.
Americans are getting a little tired of Israel and this is not a good thing. Many in the USA have stood with Israel because of the preaching of ultra conservative Christians but this has worn thin.
Many in the USA are now viewing Israel as a very secular nation only using the USA for money. Israelis are not a warm and fuzzy people, they are becoming very hard to like.
Americans are getting a little tired of Israel and this is not a good thing. Many in the USA have stood with Israel because of the preaching of ultra conservative Christians but this has worn thin.
Many in the USA are now viewing Israel as a very secular nation only using the USA for money. Israelis are not a warm and fuzzy people, they are becoming very hard to like.
26
This is disrespectful of my country, my president and me. I wish that we did not have to give our hard earned tax dollars to this state. I disagree with so much Israel does, not only with regard to the speech but with regard to it's own citizens. I use to see their point but now I realize that I was doped by well done propaganda. President Netanyahu go home and leave my country be.
Chuck from Ohio
Chuck from Ohio
28
This is my country too and I have absolutely no problem with it and welcome the Prime Ministers speech given Obama has already misled us about the deal. Nuclear war capability by a terrorist state like Iran trumps any petty complaint about protocol.
10
Bingo!
1
At least Netanyahu finally paid lip service to the idea that he doesn't intend to disrespect the President by going behind his back to schedule a speech before Congress.
9
Netanyahu will not gain support from anyone ( who does not support him already) by disrespecting the President and the People of the US.
Actively intruding on the politics of our country is more likely to create negative feelings toward Israel than toward Iran. Say what you want, at least Iran is willing to negotiate.
Of course the real culprit here is Boehner, who, lacking any sense of leadership, will resort to any inappropriate behavior to try to make his lame points, whatever they are. Inviting Netanyahu is yet another ludicrous effort to influence policy.
If Boehner thinks Netanyahu will inspire most Americans to want more war, i'm confident he 'll find quite the opposite reaction in the next little while.
Actively intruding on the politics of our country is more likely to create negative feelings toward Israel than toward Iran. Say what you want, at least Iran is willing to negotiate.
Of course the real culprit here is Boehner, who, lacking any sense of leadership, will resort to any inappropriate behavior to try to make his lame points, whatever they are. Inviting Netanyahu is yet another ludicrous effort to influence policy.
If Boehner thinks Netanyahu will inspire most Americans to want more war, i'm confident he 'll find quite the opposite reaction in the next little while.
28
"Netanyahu will not gain support from anyone ( who does not support him already) by disrespecting the President and the People of the US."
Actually, you're wrong there. Bibi's standing up to President Obama - widely viewed here in Israel as a terrible president who is actively selling Israel out - is likely going to gain him a ton of votes.
Actually, you're wrong there. Bibi's standing up to President Obama - widely viewed here in Israel as a terrible president who is actively selling Israel out - is likely going to gain him a ton of votes.
It's little wonder Netanyahu gets on so well with the GOP. He fits their personality profile: boorish, unsophisticated, untruthful.
26
Wonder how many world heads of state consider Netanyahu a close friend and a statesman - hold on, maybe they are all anti-semitic.
6
I think its time for the US to reconsider its vote on Palestine's application for statehood at the UN (Palestine 194). Let's give Palestine a voice too. Maybe they'll come here an give Congress a speech on those illegal settlements.
28
All Congress should be able to do is legislate.
7
Boehner's invitation and Netanyahu's speech to Congress is such a mistake on so many levels as to be destructive of the relationship that heretofore has existed. There will be consequences in the future that will harm both nations and peoples, unknown now but obvious when they occur. Considering the insult to this country that has been perpetrated in the name of honest debate, the press, the media, and the President have stepped cautiously and gingerly to avoid a real rupture in relations. But hidden in emotions and hearts are attitudes that need not have nor should have been engendered. To my mind Boehner and Netanyahu are fools, dangerous fools.
20
"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel...played down any personal dispute with President Obama, but said he had to speak out on the Iran negotiations."
If he has to speak out on the Iran negotiations, he should speak out at the UN or in his own country. Speaking at the invitation of the Speaker of the House in a highly partisan Congress is just plain wrong.
If he has to speak out on the Iran negotiations, he should speak out at the UN or in his own country. Speaking at the invitation of the Speaker of the House in a highly partisan Congress is just plain wrong.
22
Bibi Netanyahu blatantly lies when he states "For 2,000 years my people, the Jewish people, were stateless, defenseless, voiceless”.
Jews have been citizens in many countries over the last 2,000 years, including American Jews since 1776. But 2000 years ago, Jews were citizens of the Roman Empire and the Persian Empire (where the Talmud was written). During the Middle Ages, Jews were citizens of Muslim-ruled Spain, and of various other European nations. My Great-Grandparents, all Jewish, were citizens of the UK, Austro-Hungary and Tsarist Russia before becoming American Citizens.
Israeli's are those people who are citizens of Israel, and includes Israeli Muslims and Christians.
Netanyahu is a hypocrite, as he and Likud are the main current cause of Palestinians being the stateless Semites. Until and unless Palestinians have their own sovereign republic, Israel is morally compelled to offer Palestinians Israeli citizenship, something that should have occurred within a few years of 1967. Until then, Israel should consider itself a theocracy rather than a democracy.
I certainly hope and pray that Israel's voters have the common sense and decency in 2015, to replace Benjamin Netanyahu with an Israeli President that Jews can be proud of.
Jews have been citizens in many countries over the last 2,000 years, including American Jews since 1776. But 2000 years ago, Jews were citizens of the Roman Empire and the Persian Empire (where the Talmud was written). During the Middle Ages, Jews were citizens of Muslim-ruled Spain, and of various other European nations. My Great-Grandparents, all Jewish, were citizens of the UK, Austro-Hungary and Tsarist Russia before becoming American Citizens.
Israeli's are those people who are citizens of Israel, and includes Israeli Muslims and Christians.
Netanyahu is a hypocrite, as he and Likud are the main current cause of Palestinians being the stateless Semites. Until and unless Palestinians have their own sovereign republic, Israel is morally compelled to offer Palestinians Israeli citizenship, something that should have occurred within a few years of 1967. Until then, Israel should consider itself a theocracy rather than a democracy.
I certainly hope and pray that Israel's voters have the common sense and decency in 2015, to replace Benjamin Netanyahu with an Israeli President that Jews can be proud of.
36
During the Holocaust, America turned back ships of refugees. Why is it that no other religion or culture is begrudged a state where it is guaranteed not to be oppressed?
I am an American Jew and I am proud that Israel often alone stands up to bullies. She has shown guts where others shrink away and the US owes much to Israel.
I am an American Jew and I am proud that Israel often alone stands up to bullies. She has shown guts where others shrink away and the US owes much to Israel.
9
"...and the US owes much to Israel."
What do we owe, and for what?
What do we owe, and for what?
2
When the USA bought the Louisiana Purchase from France, or stole one third of the USA from Mexico, or bought Alaska from Russia, or stole Hawaii from its indigenous Queen, or stole Puerto Rico from Spain, the inhabitants became citizens of the USA. Many of these citizens, especially American Indians and African-American Slaves, did not have civil rights but nonetheless they were American Citizens.
Due to the wording of our Constitution, Americans residing in Puerto Rico or Guam cannot vote for President or for Senator or for a voting member of Congress, but their citizens can vote for President, Senator or Congressman, by changing their residence to one of our 50 States. Puerto Rico has had the opportunity to become a State, but its residents have voted against that, because the tradeoff is they don’t pay Federal Income Taxes.
But when, in 1967, Israel grabbed up the West Bank from Jordan and Gaza from Egypt, Israel refused to provide Israeli citizenship to Palestinians living there, not has Israel permitted Palestinians to have their own sovereign republic.
So is it Israel that has begrudged a state for oppressed Palestinians, and it is Israel who is a theocracy. It doesn’t take guts for Israel to bully Palestinians, but it would take a lot of guts for Israel to grant them Israeli citizenship or independence as a fully sovereign republic.
The USA’s refusal to except refugees prior to 1945, is an embarrassment but is no excuse for Israel’s own misbehavior.
Due to the wording of our Constitution, Americans residing in Puerto Rico or Guam cannot vote for President or for Senator or for a voting member of Congress, but their citizens can vote for President, Senator or Congressman, by changing their residence to one of our 50 States. Puerto Rico has had the opportunity to become a State, but its residents have voted against that, because the tradeoff is they don’t pay Federal Income Taxes.
But when, in 1967, Israel grabbed up the West Bank from Jordan and Gaza from Egypt, Israel refused to provide Israeli citizenship to Palestinians living there, not has Israel permitted Palestinians to have their own sovereign republic.
So is it Israel that has begrudged a state for oppressed Palestinians, and it is Israel who is a theocracy. It doesn’t take guts for Israel to bully Palestinians, but it would take a lot of guts for Israel to grant them Israeli citizenship or independence as a fully sovereign republic.
The USA’s refusal to except refugees prior to 1945, is an embarrassment but is no excuse for Israel’s own misbehavior.
2
Netanyahu does not want peace in the Middle East. His power is rooted in conflict and fear mongering, just like his U.S. counterparts like McCain, Graham, Giuliani, et al. Not there is isn't plenty of inherent conflict ad fear, just that their agenda is to fan the flames, not reduce them.
24
Obama should be invited to the Kineset to give a speech about how Israel's illegal settlements are ruining any chance of reaching a two-state solution.
Fat chance.
Fat chance.
38
For the Congress to be truly democratic the Minority Leader must invite the Leader of the Opposition in the Holy Land to speak in Washington!
11
For the Congress to be truly democratic and fair, they must invite the leader of Iran to present their side of the story about the nuclear and other issues.
Netanyahu was promised by Bush, McCain and Romney that the US would attack Iran. Well it did not happen. Now Bibi has to get his friends/supporters in both Parties in DC to stall the peace talks and wait for a Republican President to finally attack Iran. The fake story of Israel fear of an attack by Iran was exposed when President Carter said Israel had 100's of Nukes. Netanyahu reported in 2014 to his party Iran was no where near developing nukes and needed a teacher. But the lies in America are needed to get support. Now Iran should move forward with other nations to get to join the United Nations. Many in US Congress-Senate are loyal to Israel not the United States as they have shown.
18
If he didn't intend any disrespect, then when it became apparent that the whole world viewed it as disrespect, he would have withdrawn. The fact that he chose to move forward with this ill-conceived plan, means that not only was he being knowingly disrespectful, he has now proven that he is a disrespectful liar.
167
The president of the United States can withstand this show of disrespect. Really. Time to put personal animus aside.
4
Or it means that a nuclear Iran is more important than ruffled feathers. Thank goodness a world leader is capable of making that judgment.
5
The whole world doesn't view it as disrespect. I don't. And what you are saying is just old propaganda. By the way, as Americans, we should welcome different points of view. Its part of the US heritage.
4
Is a potential nuclear Iran as dangerous as an actual nuclear Israel?
28
Yes it is. Actually, it's more dangerous without the nukes than Israel is with them. Israel just wants to be left alone to live in peace. It's surrounded by millions of hostile Arabs. It does what it has to do to stave off it's annihiliation. If Israel had the intentions of its neighbors, it would have nuked at least one of them with a small tactical bomb, long ago. But it doesn't. Why give the bully a huge club when he already has the size, population and will to destroy.
8
No.
6
Since there's been an actual nuclear Israel for a long time, and it hasn't dropped a bomb on anyone, the logical answer would be that a potential nuclear Iran that says it will obliterate Israel if it can, is more dangerous than an actual nuclear Israel.
7
If you slap someone in the face and then utter "Hey, no hard feelings!", are you really that sorry?
The Israeli Prime Minister knows exactly what he is doing here and is not sorry for any of it. It is of course, his intention to derail this deal with Iran, in keeping with the Israeli governments apparent policy of short circuiting negotiations wherever they may take place. Please go away Ben.
The Israeli Prime Minister knows exactly what he is doing here and is not sorry for any of it. It is of course, his intention to derail this deal with Iran, in keeping with the Israeli governments apparent policy of short circuiting negotiations wherever they may take place. Please go away Ben.
19
Three thoughts, not very related:
(1) Netanyahu does not have any class, obviously. This is unarguable; that said...
(2) It seems an open question what is the best strategy moving forward toward Iran. People apparently disagree, but should put their reasons for supporting a clear and workable strategy on the table. The press has not done their job on this point.
(3) The President of the United States and the Congress of the United States are responsible for best pursuing the interests of the United States, AIPAC or no AIPAC.
(1) Netanyahu does not have any class, obviously. This is unarguable; that said...
(2) It seems an open question what is the best strategy moving forward toward Iran. People apparently disagree, but should put their reasons for supporting a clear and workable strategy on the table. The press has not done their job on this point.
(3) The President of the United States and the Congress of the United States are responsible for best pursuing the interests of the United States, AIPAC or no AIPAC.
9
I heard PM Netanyahu's remarks to AIPAC and was appalled at his distortion of known facts about Iran. He continues to insist that Iran is building a nuclear weapon when there is no evidence that Iran has, had or will have a nuclear weapons program. He continues to present the exaggerated statement that Iran is the greatest danger to the world, even as ISIS/ISIL continues to terrorize the Middle East. He continues to talk about Iranian hegemony when Iran has not occupied a scrap of foreign territory since the 1700s. On the contrary, Iran has had territory stolen from it.
His message to AIPAC was militant, and he was cheered. His own defense and intelligence establishment insist that Iran is not an existential danger to Israel. He is the only one representing this view.
AIPAC eats this kind of raw meat up with relish. The crowd applauded every hostile attack he presented. I hope that his speech before Congress avoids this jingoistic and unrealistic exaggeration. Americans want to see peace and stability. If PM Netanyahu delivers the same speech with all of its factual distortions that he presented before AIPAC he will be doing a great disservice to his own country, to the United States and to the world.
His message to AIPAC was militant, and he was cheered. His own defense and intelligence establishment insist that Iran is not an existential danger to Israel. He is the only one representing this view.
AIPAC eats this kind of raw meat up with relish. The crowd applauded every hostile attack he presented. I hope that his speech before Congress avoids this jingoistic and unrealistic exaggeration. Americans want to see peace and stability. If PM Netanyahu delivers the same speech with all of its factual distortions that he presented before AIPAC he will be doing a great disservice to his own country, to the United States and to the world.
27
The inability of so many American voters to think for themselves allows for the highjacking of the American democracy. The manipulation of US public opinion is rampant and far too easy.
3
I did not "misperceive" the partisan nature of Mr. Netanyahu's actions, and the intentional disrespect of the President, that those actions so clearly conveyed. Nor do I agree with Ms Rice's fanciful declaration that the partnership will never be "tarnished".
Let's just call it like it is. The leader of our once strong ally has shown great disrespect to the office of the President and therefore, to every American citizen. In so doing, he has added another layer of distrust. It gets back to the same old story; I can have a fight with my brother, but if you pick on him, you will face my wrath, because you are not part of the family.
Let's just call it like it is. The leader of our once strong ally has shown great disrespect to the office of the President and therefore, to every American citizen. In so doing, he has added another layer of distrust. It gets back to the same old story; I can have a fight with my brother, but if you pick on him, you will face my wrath, because you are not part of the family.
19
How about respecting our democratic system Mr. Netanyahu? .. after all, there is good reason why there is division of power in the different branches of our government, and why the office of the president is charged with running American foreign policy.
22
And in those divisions of power - Congress has the right to vote against any proposals the President puts forth. That is exactly why Congress should be addressed.
1
Let's make this simple. Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, facing regular full-scale wars and terrorist attacks by Arab and Persian neighbors throughout its brief history seeking to wipe it off the face of the earth. Iran is only one of those neighbors sworn to Israel's destruction. A nuclear-armed Iran is thus an existential threat to Israel. It is equally an existential threat to Europe and the United States. We have seen the death, destruction and devastation that ISIS, a loose organization seemingly bounded only by ideology, can do - imagine what a well-organized nation-state with a similar radical views of the West could do.
All this nonsense about who hurt whose feelings or who disrespected who in the run-up to Netanyahu's speech is absolute nonsense and pales in comparison to the stakes at issue with Iran. Israel is the canary in the coal mine - the threats it faces keep mounting, and if Israel falls, the rest of the West is next. This is not a war of civilizations, but a war against extremist violent ideologues who hijack their religion to pursue nefarious goals. Israel is, and has been, most on the front-lines of that war, and for Netanyahu to make his point directly to the U.S. Congress is in no way improper.
The stakes are too high to let personal feelings get in the way. All should roll up their sleeves and, united, seriously deal with the violent idealogues that threaten peace. Netanyahu's speech should be viewed as the spark for that.
All this nonsense about who hurt whose feelings or who disrespected who in the run-up to Netanyahu's speech is absolute nonsense and pales in comparison to the stakes at issue with Iran. Israel is the canary in the coal mine - the threats it faces keep mounting, and if Israel falls, the rest of the West is next. This is not a war of civilizations, but a war against extremist violent ideologues who hijack their religion to pursue nefarious goals. Israel is, and has been, most on the front-lines of that war, and for Netanyahu to make his point directly to the U.S. Congress is in no way improper.
The stakes are too high to let personal feelings get in the way. All should roll up their sleeves and, united, seriously deal with the violent idealogues that threaten peace. Netanyahu's speech should be viewed as the spark for that.
11
Obama is trying to deal with it. Boehner, in his bull headed opposition to everything that Obama does, his desire to play world politics and his childish attempts to show how smart he is, is undermining the president. And so is Netanyahu. Shame on them both. Imagine Obama speaking to Knesset to try to influence them against Netanyahu's policies. Can't imagine that? Maybe because Obama has more respect for Israel's right to make their own decisions and more respect for the internal affairs of a sovereign nation.
8
So, because you see these issues as so important, you're willing to sweep aside any United States rules for separation of powers and the diplomatic role of the Executive Office. Because YOU see these issues correctly and the elected President of our country does not - according to your rules and you point of view. That just isn't good enough. We other Americans who also vote and think about these issues also matter and do accept the government structure of our government. This is an obvious slight to our Presidency, functioning as our point for diplomacy in the world. Period. One last thgouht - why is Israel stealing the West Bank? Why not keep it in "escrow" until a peace agreement is in hand. Because, for all your fear mongering rhetoric - though some may be fair, some not - Israel is in the midst of this incredible situation you paint, stealing the land that could help restore Palestinian dignity and eliminate a big issue for world Muslims. Why is this not an issue for discussion when we discuss the troubling issues at hand?
9
There's a up side to all this, I think, for the Obama Administration; under these circumstances, I think they may be less likely to agree to what would turn out to be a bad deal with Iran and one they would regret. In other words, I think they'll be more careful with everyone watching so closely. I don't think the Obama Administration wants a bad deal, or intends to agree to a bad deal, but I think they could end up with one if they are not careful enough and let their judgment be focused too narrowly.
5
What chutzpa, unbelievable. Who is Bibi to come to my country and interfere with our foreign policy in such a shameless way. The only possible upside to this outrageous interference, and insult to our president, is if Israeli voters turn him out of office. We would never tolerate this kind of behavior from any other so-called allies.
45
Earth to Dan: All sorts of countries, including ones fairly inimical to the U.S. in important ways (quick example is Pakistan, which protected Bin Laden in his enclave in the shadow of that nation's "West Point") get huge amounts of U.S. money, and have paid lobbyists here working your favorite elected officials and otherwise peddling influence. The difference is that Israel is more out-front and above-board re: its wants and needs. Call it "nervy," and I'll be the first to acknowledge that Netanyahu has pushed too hard in some ways, but it's frankly more open and honest than any other diplomatic goer on either side of the pond. (Read up on what the UK did, oh, so quietly, vis-a-vis the US and the Libyan perpetrators of the Pan Am/Lockerbie terror.) While there are legitimate diplomatic aspects, and, yes, Netanyahu has encroached, by the same token, there is a legit argument that with the Senate passing tougher Iran sanctions 99 -0, and Obama resisting that and further sanctions all the way (while he was then secretly working on a "backchannel grand bargain" with Iran's Mullahs that, frankly, buggers the sensibilities of many thoughtful observers on both sides of the partisan aisle, that it is Obama who is out of step with the American polity. Further, Israel is a splendidly solid U.S. ally across trade, diplomatic, policy, strategy, intelligence, and security sectors; ask any U.S. military, security, preparedness, intel, trade, commerce expert (just not State or O.).
4
Israel should be left to shift for itself. It has always been a dependency of the United States and never really an ally. A troublesome dependency, at that. The old shouts of 'antisemitism' at those who do not want our policy controlled by the Israeli state just won't work any more.
38
Doc Murray apparently has not really investigated, or he'd know that Israel is perhaps America's most steadfast ally, and certainly one of the most invaluable, in that it provides the U.S. with:
-- robust economic trade and cultural cross-fertilization, particularly very critical consumer electronic and health technology contributions & collaborations, such that Doc M. and his loved ones and outpatiients if he has any are almost certainly using Israeli-developed systems and gizmos;
-- important cultural exchange and tourism going both ways;
-- unparalleled regional intelligence and access in that difficult part of the world (CIA-trained foreign ISIS fighters were trained on the ground in Israel, just to cite one example)
-- critical military collaboration and more (with new U.S. military technologies bought from U.S. companies and tested in real battle conditions, with the U.S. obtaining direct feedback on effectiveness, and unparalleled collaborative development in all-important cyber areas, among others)
-- particular intelligence contributions to the U.S. wrought from Israel's regional humintel, which while it could be better, far exceeds the U.S.'s near-zero capability in that part of the world
-- explicit intelligence on al Qaeda and on ISIS, on Israel's borders
-- a strategic cultural beachhead, if you will, as the only free-market economy and fully democratic, fully human- and civil-rights honoring nations in the region (Turkey, maybe, and less and less over time...),
-- robust economic trade and cultural cross-fertilization, particularly very critical consumer electronic and health technology contributions & collaborations, such that Doc M. and his loved ones and outpatiients if he has any are almost certainly using Israeli-developed systems and gizmos;
-- important cultural exchange and tourism going both ways;
-- unparalleled regional intelligence and access in that difficult part of the world (CIA-trained foreign ISIS fighters were trained on the ground in Israel, just to cite one example)
-- critical military collaboration and more (with new U.S. military technologies bought from U.S. companies and tested in real battle conditions, with the U.S. obtaining direct feedback on effectiveness, and unparalleled collaborative development in all-important cyber areas, among others)
-- particular intelligence contributions to the U.S. wrought from Israel's regional humintel, which while it could be better, far exceeds the U.S.'s near-zero capability in that part of the world
-- explicit intelligence on al Qaeda and on ISIS, on Israel's borders
-- a strategic cultural beachhead, if you will, as the only free-market economy and fully democratic, fully human- and civil-rights honoring nations in the region (Turkey, maybe, and less and less over time...),
4
Israel is our only friend in the mid east. Saying they depend on us is an insult. Netanyahu is only an elected official, not Israel itself, anymore that W. was America.
4
"No disrespect"
Then he should of stayed at home
The only winners are the bad guys when friends get to this point
Then he should of stayed at home
The only winners are the bad guys when friends get to this point
26
Mr. Netanyahu is being played by the Republicans. His visit was set up by them without informing the White House. They wanted to exploit his differences with President Obama and allow their spinmeisters to opine that our President is throwing Israel under the bus etc. The Republicans approached it as if they were attacking the Affordable Health Care Act or the Presidents's recent legislation on immigration.
As such, they will have no use for Mr. Netanyahu once President Obama leaves office. In fact, he may even be a problem for them. This is politics and I hope Mr. Netanyahu realizes this and keeps his guard up.
As such, they will have no use for Mr. Netanyahu once President Obama leaves office. In fact, he may even be a problem for them. This is politics and I hope Mr. Netanyahu realizes this and keeps his guard up.
7
Netanyahu is up for election soon, so he may be gone before Obama. Meanwhile, don't worry about Bibi. The Republicans and Bibi are using each other. It's called politics.
1
Is there a precedent for a foreign leader to publicly challenge the foreign policy initiative of another country on that other country's soil? The arrogance of Netanyahu and his friends in congress is beyond belief.
Netanyahu has every right to oppose and work to undermine any foreign policy initiative of another country but he and his country should bear the fallout from such activity. It is okay for him to oppose all and any negotiation with Iran provided he and Israel are prepared to fight the war without the support of the other countries (USA and the European powers) he holds in contempt.
Enough of this insult already.
Netanyahu has every right to oppose and work to undermine any foreign policy initiative of another country but he and his country should bear the fallout from such activity. It is okay for him to oppose all and any negotiation with Iran provided he and Israel are prepared to fight the war without the support of the other countries (USA and the European powers) he holds in contempt.
Enough of this insult already.
33
Mr Netanyahu has often argued his case from the sanctuary of his homeland. Why address the Congress of the United States? Our representatives read the papers don't they? Don't they know what is going on here?
21
Mr. Davies:
Ah, a babe in foreign policyland.
In the fight for the establishment of the Jewish State, when 6 million lay slaughtered, entire cultures destroyed, any and every avenue that could be used to gain support, was used.
But that time has now morphed, when Israel's basic security is not truly threatened (thank goodness, for I am Jewish), Israeli politicians from the right use those same avenues for support (moral, political and financial) of ill-conceived policies (the self-wounding West Bank and Gaza occupation, the denial of true equality for it's own disenfranchised citizens, both Jewish and Arab).
That means courting conservative U.S. politicians , largely beholden to the Evangelical Christians, who have always thought: "Israel, right or wrong." because it is part of their world view and end-of-world theology.
Surely this comes as no surprise to you....
Ah, a babe in foreign policyland.
In the fight for the establishment of the Jewish State, when 6 million lay slaughtered, entire cultures destroyed, any and every avenue that could be used to gain support, was used.
But that time has now morphed, when Israel's basic security is not truly threatened (thank goodness, for I am Jewish), Israeli politicians from the right use those same avenues for support (moral, political and financial) of ill-conceived policies (the self-wounding West Bank and Gaza occupation, the denial of true equality for it's own disenfranchised citizens, both Jewish and Arab).
That means courting conservative U.S. politicians , largely beholden to the Evangelical Christians, who have always thought: "Israel, right or wrong." because it is part of their world view and end-of-world theology.
Surely this comes as no surprise to you....
3
I'm so far from an Evangelical that I'm amazed that we share a planet. But the Holocaust makes me ill and I'm as pro-Israel as a Zionist. That said, I don't think Boehner had any thought in inviting Netanyahu other than his ongoing fight to embarrass and offend the president.
2
I think Prime Minister Netanyahu is disingenuous when he says he means no disrespect to President Obama or to the Office of The President. His acceptance to speak before Congress is exactly that; a slap in the face.
One can only imagine how the Prime Minister would feel if the situation were reversed. Maybe he should give that some thought or, maybe his opposition leaders should invite the President to speak on the expansion of settlements and how the US feels it counterproductive to peace talks.
Maybe then he'll understand.
One can only imagine how the Prime Minister would feel if the situation were reversed. Maybe he should give that some thought or, maybe his opposition leaders should invite the President to speak on the expansion of settlements and how the US feels it counterproductive to peace talks.
Maybe then he'll understand.
17
It is not disrespect to the American people. It making sure we have information to understand the proposed agreement with Iran. I'm amazed at what I read about this agreement. One source said that we know that that Iran already has enough enriched uranium to make a bomb. They are being allowed to keep it. Another source reported Iran has been promised they can have a bomb in ten years. That just a drop in the time bucket to people in that area of the world. Another report has Obama threatening to shoot down Israeli planes if they try to blow up Iran's nuclear enrichment centers. I wonder how that would read the next day. President shoots down Israel's planes trying to stop Iran from making a bomb. I worry that our safety is secondary to our presidents desire to have a legacy of being the one who signed an agreement with Iran
5
hrm, you are wrong - it is disrespecting the American people. The President of the United States represents all of us and our country before the world. The constitution places conduct of foreign affairs in the office of the President, not of the Speaker of the House - and both Boehner and Netanyahu knowingly disregard this. Besides that, Netanyahu can just as easily stay home and make his argument - whatever it may be. (And at this point, after his trip here, do you think anyone in America outside of AIPAC cares what his argument is?) Also, Israel's safety is not and never was the same as America's safety. We are two different countries, living in different parts of the world. Our president was elected to represent (and protect) us, not Israelis, and if the best way to do that is to make a deal with Iran then so be it. If Netanyahu doesn't like it, tough.
Netanyahu should just tuck his tail between his legs and go back home - we sure don't want him here insulting our democratically elected president, our country, our way of life. Who does he think he is to come into our home and insult us?
Netanyahu should just tuck his tail between his legs and go back home - we sure don't want him here insulting our democratically elected president, our country, our way of life. Who does he think he is to come into our home and insult us?
3
And this is the only way for Netanyahu to provide this information to Congress and the people of the United States? - I think not. It's a cynical political ploy by Boehner and Netanyahu for political points that they need. Nothing more. Nothing less.
Let's just suppose that Netanyahu is right and that Iran is able to develop a nuclear weapon in the latter years of the agreement. Now suppose that there is an immoderate government that is threatening not just Israel, but other parts of the world. Now we have a war with a power that has nuclear weapons. On the other hand, we could strengthen sanctions as Netanyahu is suggesting and force Iran to a better deal much more likely to prevent this scenario in the first place. It is possible that it is Netanyahu who is trying to prevent an armed conflict, not Obama.
9
Well stated! Only the it won't be in the latter years...
3
This is a sad day for democracy in the United States and Israel. It looks like both Netanyahu and Boehner are following their megadonor Sheldon Adelson's commands to eliminate any remnants of consensus left and steer towards war with Iran. Adelson, the world-wide gambling profiteer, has bankrolled Netanyahu's campaigns for years and has supported the right wing takeover in Israel and annexation of property in Jerusalem and the West Bank by settlers. At the same time every Republican presidential candidate kowtowed to him and was rewarded with riches in campaign and Super PAC support. Netanyahu has even lobbied Japan's government to fast track casino licenses for Adelson. This is Citizens United at display, combined with underlying racism that doesn't trust a "schwartz" President. Even more sad recognizing that Jews and African Americans stood together during the civil rights era. Boehner is the enabler of this, what a disgrace. He better watch the empty water bottles in congress after the speech.
27
Netanyahu has become Boehner's.. et al.. enabler...and as a thank you, Boehner has reciprocated in kind.
I resent Netanyahu trying to manipulate President Obama's policy decisions, both as a Jew...and foremost, as an American.
We have enough military arms to blow the earth into never land...and enough warmongers in Congress to beat their misbegotten chests if we shoot 'em up.
If it becomes necessary, everyone will end up on the same page...but the Israeli Prime Minister is fomenting fear to an audience that cannot wait to draw their pistols.
I resent Netanyahu trying to manipulate President Obama's policy decisions, both as a Jew...and foremost, as an American.
We have enough military arms to blow the earth into never land...and enough warmongers in Congress to beat their misbegotten chests if we shoot 'em up.
If it becomes necessary, everyone will end up on the same page...but the Israeli Prime Minister is fomenting fear to an audience that cannot wait to draw their pistols.
23
As a foreign leader, Netanyahu has no right or power to dictate his policies to the US. Even Israel's former security chief has criticized Netanyahu's visit, observing that it did more harm than good to Israel's relations with the US. Perhaps, is it for standing ovation Netanyahu is making this visit to the US?
17
Is a nuclear Iran as dangerous as north Korea? If green energy is nuclear then we have to support anyone who wishes to have this in a balance way, meaning, not as a threat to society. If N. Korea has posed no significant threat then iran shou;d be entitled to the same
10
North Korea does not hold a tenet of wiping another nation off the planet. Especially another nation that with a single nuclear weapon would bring mass destruction. So no, a nuclear Iran is even more dangerous.
2
Why is everyone so critical of Mr. Netanyahu. No one else would dare raise their voice in an international forum to defend the rights of humanity against world terror. I know that if leaders of his ilk were around during the Nazi regime in 1938 things may not have gone down the way they did. It's not 1938 and the U.S. had more than a taste of radical Islamic terrorism. Iran has emerged as the largest financier of world terror. The entire debacle in Syria and Lebanon is a direct result of Iranian financed terror. The terror tunnels constructed in Gaza is also a product of Iran's terror network. How can the world continue to treat Iran as a partner in international spheres when it has such a tarnished reputation. To sit in silence under these circumstances is what most of the world would recommend. Iran cannot and should not be allowed to negotiate as an equal partner in any nuclear negotiations based on it's recent record of support to terror organizations. The naysayers are crying out that Mr. Obama's pride has been shamed. If Obama really cared about world peace he would have set his pride aside and attended this very important joint session of Congress. It is Obama who is really playing politics here and not Netanyahu.
12
Thanks you. I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels this way.
9
Bushwah.
Yes, it's not 1938 and Netanyahu does not have to physically come to address the US Congress in person in order to be heard. All his views can be heard, and have been, via multiple media worldwide.
The President -- whether a Bush or Obama -- has the authority to invite a head of state to address Congress, not the Speaker.
Respecting this would have given Netanyahu a better chance for a respectful hearing. Ignoring it makes him come across as brash and arrogant. He is playing politics and so is Boehner. So is Obama, of course, but it is in reaction to a deliberate provocation, an important distinction.
Yes, it's not 1938 and Netanyahu does not have to physically come to address the US Congress in person in order to be heard. All his views can be heard, and have been, via multiple media worldwide.
The President -- whether a Bush or Obama -- has the authority to invite a head of state to address Congress, not the Speaker.
Respecting this would have given Netanyahu a better chance for a respectful hearing. Ignoring it makes him come across as brash and arrogant. He is playing politics and so is Boehner. So is Obama, of course, but it is in reaction to a deliberate provocation, an important distinction.
11
Good grief. After a hideous past regime Obama and other European leaders have finally gotten some people in Iran to meet and turn down the temperature on all the rhetoric. That is not "sitting in silence".
In waltzes Boehner to one up the President with an invitation to candidate Netanyahu without the common courtesy of checking in with the elected leader of our country. He could have invited other candidates if he didn't want it to look like a huge political faux pas. There are plenty of people in Israel like the former Prime Minister and some of their generals who think this is about Bibi's ego, not saving us all from the Apocalypse.
In waltzes Boehner to one up the President with an invitation to candidate Netanyahu without the common courtesy of checking in with the elected leader of our country. He could have invited other candidates if he didn't want it to look like a huge political faux pas. There are plenty of people in Israel like the former Prime Minister and some of their generals who think this is about Bibi's ego, not saving us all from the Apocalypse.
10
It shows total disrespect for the office of president of the U.S.A. He should not be telling America how to conduct it's foreign policy. I am glad that Iran and the U.S are becoming friends rather than enemies. So if Netnnyahu is stirring the pot,I wonder what he is fishing for?
14
If he doesn't realize how disrespectful he is being by making the speech under the circumstances then he is not qualified to be a world leader. As for the Republicans... they haven't shown an ounce of respect for Obama from day one so we expect nothing less than ignorance from them. The whole thing stinks.
15
Israel is automatically referred to as our close ally and that our relationship is special. I am mystified by these characterizations. What is it that Israel has done for the US that warrants it? I believe Israel has a right to act in its own interest and should be expected to do so. That does not mean that US policy should be decided based on Israel's interests. The whole Netanyahu/Boehner act is unseemly but is an extension of tail waging the dog relationship. I don't object to US support when it coincides with our interests, but it is foolish to believe that this is automatically the case.
Insofar as Iran is concerned, it seems apparent that the options are negotiation or military action. What is the least worst alternative? Military action is unlikely to be determinative. It will just delay the process and have other pretty ugly consequences.
Insofar as Iran is concerned, it seems apparent that the options are negotiation or military action. What is the least worst alternative? Military action is unlikely to be determinative. It will just delay the process and have other pretty ugly consequences.
12
I really think that the main objective of the John Boehner's invite to Netanyahu really has nothing to do with their objection to a foreign policy (that has not been fully formulated) with Iran, but to greatly embarrass President Obama. This is uncharted and unprecedented waters the Congressional Republicans are embarking on and it is dangerous. And it is all for perceived political gain with no regard to the security of this country. Can't Republicans in Congress make their objections to the president's foreign policy known without pulling this potentially dangerous stunt?
13
Mr. Netanyahu can speak out all he likes: hold a press conference, give a speech at AIPAC, write a letter to the NYT, I'm sure his staff can come up with some ideas. I guess these possibilities are not good enough for him. I have contacted my Senators and asked them not to attend this farce.
31
"... this farce."
Indeed that sums it up, as whoever it was -- Sartre? Napoleon? -- first said. Marx.
Indeed that sums it up, as whoever it was -- Sartre? Napoleon? -- first said. Marx.
1
This is the second time Netanyahu has improperly and rudely asserted himself into our personal affairs. All he wants is for us to give up the bodies of our youth and spend a fortune fighting a war on Israel's behalf. I have no patience for him anymore. My government says they are going to cut 20% off social security payments for severely disabled people; but there is always money for war. Considering that our government is attacking programs that benefit the American People, why on earth are we giving over #3.1 billion a year to Israel, which is, after all, a foreign country? Do the Republicans believe the citizens of Israel are more important than the disabled people they were elected in part to represent? Or, let me rephrase that, do the Republicans believe they have been elected to prioritize the interests of Israel's citizens over American citizens who are elderly or disabled? Its time for a heavy duty reality check.
27
If only there were no elections coming... all this never would habe happened.
onourselvesandothers.com
onourselvesandothers.com
4
As an American Jew who has spent a lot of time in Israel and is committed to its survival, it is clear to me that Netanyahu is an enormous disaster. He has done nothing to solve Israel's biggest problem -- the need to find a humane and peaceful solution for the residents of the West Bank and Gaza Strip -- and nothing to alleviate the persistent economic woes of Israel's citizens, and now he is alienating Israel's only real ally on its most important foreign policy issue. It is time for Israel to put him out to pasture.
23
I bear no ill will towards Israel- but I don't see why this country is obligated to protect their interests.
You are committed to the survival of Israel? Good for you. But, please, don't commit my resources in your plans. I want my resources to be spent on my fellow citizens.
You can always emigrate there if it is so important to you.
You are committed to the survival of Israel? Good for you. But, please, don't commit my resources in your plans. I want my resources to be spent on my fellow citizens.
You can always emigrate there if it is so important to you.
15
I don't believe Israeli PM Netanyahu is acting out of any disrespect to President Obama. While I know that Obama's understanding of Judaism was shaped by an ethic more like that of the late PM Rabin, I don't read personal animosity between Obama and Netanyahu into this situation at all. In fact, The Times has reported that Netanyahu's appearance was not arranged behind the White House's back.
Discussion of Netanyahu's stance towards Obama is, rather, a welcome distraction from what are more likely his real aims, which are (1) mutual fundraising opportunity with the Republican party and (2) Netanyahu's usual pre-election militarist rhetoric, which, depending on unfolding conditions, may or may not precede a high-profile military action.
Discussion of Netanyahu's stance towards Obama is, rather, a welcome distraction from what are more likely his real aims, which are (1) mutual fundraising opportunity with the Republican party and (2) Netanyahu's usual pre-election militarist rhetoric, which, depending on unfolding conditions, may or may not precede a high-profile military action.
3
I wonder what the GOP reaction would have been if Pelosi had secretly invited a foreign leader to speak to the Congress and had purposely excluded GWB from the process.
Your thoughts, Boehner and Bibi apologists?
Your thoughts, Boehner and Bibi apologists?
16
yes, quite a secret. it's been on the front pages for a month
2
Well, given your comment was posted an hour ago, I'd say the crickets bear your answer.
Good call, Juliet.
Good call, Juliet.
1
Though leaning toward Netanyahu in the elections and also very worried about President Obama's tentative deal with Iran, I still have to see this as a colossal blunder. If Israel becomes a partisan issue in the U.S. she ultimately cannot survive. It is already heartbreaking that so many college students and liberals sympathize more with the Palestinians than the Israelis. And so illogical! Israel is everything the left should embrace and the right deplore.
4
Two things missing from the comments of Obama supporters:
1. Concern about Israel's safety.
2. Concern about protecting anything other than Obama's ego.
1. Concern about Israel's safety.
2. Concern about protecting anything other than Obama's ego.
16
Bingo! In spite of the Democratic rhetoric about supporting Israel, they really don't care. The Democrats only support Israel in an effort to garner the Jewish vote.
3
I support Israel and am concerned for the safety of its citizens. I therefore find the provocations of Netanyahu even more despicable.
If Nancy Pelosi had done something similar under Bush, would you not have been concerned that she was undercutting the President's authority in foreign policy? Not every power struggle is about ego.
If Nancy Pelosi had done something similar under Bush, would you not have been concerned that she was undercutting the President's authority in foreign policy? Not every power struggle is about ego.
8
I am very concerned about Israel's safety and also about what Iran is really up to. However, I am also concerned about the risks involved in a war with Iran and the risks associated with various "surgical" operations to stop their nuclear program altogether. I don't think any of our options look very appealing, but trying for a negotiated agreement does not preclude later military action.
4
Mr. Netanyahu can say that he does not intend any disrespect, but his actions speak louder than his words. When actions contradict words, the statements must be seen as disingenuous and even hypocritical. His actions begin with Mr. Ron Dermer’s involvement, who is not really an ambassador but a political operative with a record of deep involvement in American politics. Mr. Netanyahu cannot be so uninformed about American politics to ignore the political intent of Speaker John Boehner’s irresponsible invitation. Mr. Netanyahu's carelessness in handling Israeli-American relations is also reflected in the unreasonableness of his negotiating position regarding Iran’s nuclear program which is a maximalist, all-or-nothing position that has no place in diplomacy.
Such maximalist position appears even less credible given Israel’s undeclared and illegal but widely assumed nuclear arsenal. More would be gained if Mr. Netanhayu stopped meddling in American politics, stopped disrespecting the American president, ceased trying to dictate American foreign policy and national security decisions and instead sought to contribute positively to negotiations with Iran by replacing his aggressive posture with a more conciliatory approach that would include (a) an admission that Israel has a nuclear arsenal, (b) a commitment to at least reduce it substantially, and (c) a pledge never to be the first to use a nuclear weapon.
Such maximalist position appears even less credible given Israel’s undeclared and illegal but widely assumed nuclear arsenal. More would be gained if Mr. Netanhayu stopped meddling in American politics, stopped disrespecting the American president, ceased trying to dictate American foreign policy and national security decisions and instead sought to contribute positively to negotiations with Iran by replacing his aggressive posture with a more conciliatory approach that would include (a) an admission that Israel has a nuclear arsenal, (b) a commitment to at least reduce it substantially, and (c) a pledge never to be the first to use a nuclear weapon.
18
Do you think any other Prime Minister of our Allies would come and speak to Corngress uninvited by our President? If you do, i have a bridge in Brooklyn to sell you. This is the one that you and I support financially too.
9
This man, single handedly, is one of Israel's single biggest threats, with his belligerence, opportunistic tendencies, and absolute paralysis when it comes to anything but "tough talk". What has happened in Israel that is good since his government has been in power? nothing!.
That his coming at this moment, not invited by the White House, but by the Speaker, and orchestrated by the Israeli Ambassador (who is a Florida Republican) should not be taken as a big middle finger directed towards the White House, shows his what has come to be this man's highest talent: his chutzpah. But in his arrogance, and in the speaker's stupidity, they have jeapordized Israel's future by politicizing it in a way that had NEVER been done in the US. All for nothing, as he will probably lose the election.
That his coming at this moment, not invited by the White House, but by the Speaker, and orchestrated by the Israeli Ambassador (who is a Florida Republican) should not be taken as a big middle finger directed towards the White House, shows his what has come to be this man's highest talent: his chutzpah. But in his arrogance, and in the speaker's stupidity, they have jeapordized Israel's future by politicizing it in a way that had NEVER been done in the US. All for nothing, as he will probably lose the election.
14
So what if Iran get the bomb? Israel has them which they obtained surreptitiously as well. So does the US.
The NPT is a joke and anachronistic. The 'big' powers have no moral standing on this issue.
The best rebuttal that Obama can do, which even after all these insults I doubt he has the courage to.. is to put Israel's nukes on the table. FORMALLY.
Call for a nuclear free zone. This is the best opportunity an American President will ever have vis a vis Israel
The NPT is a joke and anachronistic. The 'big' powers have no moral standing on this issue.
The best rebuttal that Obama can do, which even after all these insults I doubt he has the courage to.. is to put Israel's nukes on the table. FORMALLY.
Call for a nuclear free zone. This is the best opportunity an American President will ever have vis a vis Israel
9
So what if Iran gets the Bomb? You can argue about policy or whether it's futile to try, but it is (and should be) a big deal for us.
4
Netanyahu's very presence is disrespectful; to the President, to many Jews in the U.S. and Israel, and to Americans in general. Hopefully the visit will make more visible the insinuation of AIPAC into American politics, and of "at any cost" politics of congressional Republicans.
20
Of course he is partisan; of course he is political and means this as political speech. It is naive to believe otherwise. Were the shoe on the other foot, he would be the first to admit as much. I'm not quite sure who to believe about Iran's capability but I certainly don't believe him.
8
Does anyone else find it ironic that conservative Republicans try to cut funding for DHS on the same week that they invite Netanyahu to address Congress? The Secret Service - part of the Department of Homeland Security - is authorized by law to protect visiting heads of foriegn states and their spouses traveling with them as well as other distinguished foreign visitors to the United States.
14
Yes, we all see the irony!
8
What I don't see is a logical connection to wanting an end to Obama's abuses of power through unlawful, de-facto and de jure legislative acts to grant amnesty to illegals crossing the US border with Mexico, and Obama's appeasement of Iran and Islamic extremists Iran finances.
5
Presidents have been making and modifying policies through executive orders since George Washington's time. Moreover, as I understand the executive orders, they only provide a temporary amnesty which de facto already exists (mostly) because we don't have enough resources to round up all the alleged illegals, determine which are actually illegal, and defend the border, while coping with our own domestic lawbreakers. What do you suggest instead? And who is appeasing Iran? How?
1
At least it is out in the open that Israel controls US foreign policy. The pretense that the US president is in charge has been eliminated.
21
The president used to be in charge of foreign policy and the Congress used to be in charge of making laws on domestic matters such as immigration. Now Congress is trying to be more influential in foreign policy and President Obama is unilaterally ordering what will be done on illegal immigration. Both the Congress and the President need to restrict their activities to the realms the Constitution originally assigned to them.
3
You need to read the Constitution. Congress has significant rights and powers re foreign affairs, including the approval of treaties, declaring war and, oh yeah, funding EVERYTHING.
1
GMooG
Wrong!
The SENSTE, not the HOUSE, gets to "advise and consent" by two thirds vite.
The Executive get to conduct foriegn policy.
The Congress (bothe Houses) get to declare war.
The House by itself has NO say in foreign ppolicy or in advising and consenting on treaties.
What you are suggesting is UNSUPPORTED by the US Constituion.
Other than that ...
Wrong!
The SENSTE, not the HOUSE, gets to "advise and consent" by two thirds vite.
The Executive get to conduct foriegn policy.
The Congress (bothe Houses) get to declare war.
The House by itself has NO say in foreign ppolicy or in advising and consenting on treaties.
What you are suggesting is UNSUPPORTED by the US Constituion.
Other than that ...
This whole affair has a "boxed oneself into a corner" aspect. For many years, AIPAC has virtually been an arm of the Likud, completely in tune with Likud's demonization of the Israeli center-left, so that by now many Americans must think that "Likud" and "Israel" are synonyms. The upshot of this is that when the inevitable conflict arose between certain aims of a liberal Democratic administration versus those of a Likud government, the antagonists appear to be the US versus Israel.
It needn't have been like this. AIPAC, like Netanyahu, undoubtedly sees Iran as a genuine existential threat to Israel - fair enough as a hypothesis, even if as I believe, pretty exaggerated. But instead of calmly putting forth their point of view, the anti-Obama rhetoric of some of its members resembles that of the comments section of the Jerusalem Post where taunts of "Jew-hater" and "Arab-lover" are workaday. Why would it have taken a genius to realize that to Americans, both Jewish and non-Jewish alike, AIPAC acts like an agent not just of a foreign country, but of a foreign political party?
It needn't have been like this. AIPAC, like Netanyahu, undoubtedly sees Iran as a genuine existential threat to Israel - fair enough as a hypothesis, even if as I believe, pretty exaggerated. But instead of calmly putting forth their point of view, the anti-Obama rhetoric of some of its members resembles that of the comments section of the Jerusalem Post where taunts of "Jew-hater" and "Arab-lover" are workaday. Why would it have taken a genius to realize that to Americans, both Jewish and non-Jewish alike, AIPAC acts like an agent not just of a foreign country, but of a foreign political party?
13
CPAC and AIPAC: two peas in a pod.
9
PM Netanyahu still doesn't get it. He has disrespected all Americans with this stunt--not just President Obama.
25
This is chutzpah with a capital C. And why not? America is the best democracy money can buy and Israel's backers collectively have the most money. So America can be persuaded to get mired in more middle east wars to benefit the direct interests of less than 2% of its population, none of whom will ever fight in these wars. As a fact of realpolitik, each country must stand on its own, and if it can't, then it cannot survive as a country. Israel has to accept this reality.
19
It is shameful that this man is allowed to disrespect the president of the US. Showed his true colors. He is not welcome, show him the door.
29
Really simple from this American who happens to be Jewish. Oh puh--- leeze Bibi. Get real. Do NOT insult the President of the United States. Show respect for the office and follow established protocol. And do it whether you like it or not and remember that you are not a citizen of my country. There are a long list of president's I'm not wild about but I would not countenance insulting them the way you've insulted this president. And personally, I think Barack Obama has done the United States proud.
56
The sheer arrogance of Boehner and Netanyahu is stunning. But in a political world where Obama-hate is bigtime political currency, even unacceptable behavior seems reasonable to some. That being said, the greatest national security threat to Amaerica and Israel is a GOP-led congress, not Iran. Iran is a straw-man the GOP is using to attack Obama's impressive record on foreign policy. When we think of the messes he has had to clean up from 8 Bush years, along with the unprecedented obstruction from the republicans, his presidency ranks with Lincoln and the Roosevelts.
Bibi's visit and speech will fade from our memory the moment he's done. He and Boehner are small men with big egos. Not in Obama's class, and he will simply ignore them, like he should and he will.
Bibi's visit and speech will fade from our memory the moment he's done. He and Boehner are small men with big egos. Not in Obama's class, and he will simply ignore them, like he should and he will.
32
Yet the Prime Minister has never felt a moral obligation to come to the US to personally pick up the billions in aid we give to his country.
20
He is showing disrespect for the president by giving his speech. In fact, he seems to go out of his way, and take delight, in disrespecting him. I am an American who is Jewish and I do not believe a word when this person is trying to be "sincere". Let Israel have him, but the United States should be done with him and stop letting Israel spit in our communal America eye. We have done enough for Israel and received only arrogance and contempt for our efforts.
28
Too late for that, buddy!
4
What a joke. He, McConnell, and Boehner got together to try to stick it to Obama. I hope it backfires on all of them.
32
Any proposed strike against Iran would be at the expense of probably thousands of civilian lives in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem that would be vulnerable to Iranian long-range missiles fired in retaliation to such a cataclysmic military misjudgement.
As soon as Israel’s German-made, Dolphin Class, attack submarines would fire their cruise missiles from hidden positions off the Strait of Hormuz, aimed at Iranian development sites, Iran would implement its retaliation strategy that would aim to turn Israeli cities into fireballs. By then, of course, it would be too late for the UN, the US or the EU to act. The die would have been cast and the Middle East will be in flames.
As the U.S. House of Representatives wonders what it could have done to prevent such extensive damage to not only Israel, but to global oil supplies and the world economy – it might well reflect on its disastrous policy to have allowed the Israel lobby to control its foreign policy agenda over the past two decades that has built a tiny state in the Middle East, run by a belligerent right-wing coalition, into the largest repository of arms, both nuclear and otherwise, per capita, in the entire world. A nuclear time-bomb waiting to explode in the face of the international community, that could set back global peace and trade by 20 years.
There can be no adequate answer to such an inevitable catastrophe, should Mr Netanyahu be allowed by the international community to act with impunity.
As soon as Israel’s German-made, Dolphin Class, attack submarines would fire their cruise missiles from hidden positions off the Strait of Hormuz, aimed at Iranian development sites, Iran would implement its retaliation strategy that would aim to turn Israeli cities into fireballs. By then, of course, it would be too late for the UN, the US or the EU to act. The die would have been cast and the Middle East will be in flames.
As the U.S. House of Representatives wonders what it could have done to prevent such extensive damage to not only Israel, but to global oil supplies and the world economy – it might well reflect on its disastrous policy to have allowed the Israel lobby to control its foreign policy agenda over the past two decades that has built a tiny state in the Middle East, run by a belligerent right-wing coalition, into the largest repository of arms, both nuclear and otherwise, per capita, in the entire world. A nuclear time-bomb waiting to explode in the face of the international community, that could set back global peace and trade by 20 years.
There can be no adequate answer to such an inevitable catastrophe, should Mr Netanyahu be allowed by the international community to act with impunity.
20
One question that US taxpayers might ask is "Why do my elected officials support and send $8million a day of my money to the most censured country in UN history?" Once you've answered that question, you will want to wholeheartedly support publicly funded elections. Our corrupt government is an embarrassment.
35
"...most censured country in UN history?" Israel's numerous international enemies (and their "business" partners) have been trying to use the UN as a forum to destroy Israel from day 1. Many of the most brutal, dictatorial, and savage govenments in the world sit on various "human rights" commissions and committees in the UN.
3
I will agree with you unless he truly believes this deal with Iran puts Israel in critical danger.I have been beating Netanyahu up for giving a speech to Congress without clearing it with President Obama. I said it was overreach and Obama had every right to be upset with the Prime Minister. I admit I was wrong. As Prime Minister of Israel, Netanyahu has the responsibility to protect the people of Israel in any way he deems necessary.
My anger should have been directed towards Boehner and other members of Congress to work this out with the President. Instead our elected officials put their own careers in front of what was best for the country. Obama has the opportunity to be the only adult in the room by inviting the Prime Minister to the White House after his address to Congress to have an adult conversation in private about the issue. He should also publicly shift his being upset with Netanyahu to Boehner. For it is Boehner who is the ass in the room.
My anger should have been directed towards Boehner and other members of Congress to work this out with the President. Instead our elected officials put their own careers in front of what was best for the country. Obama has the opportunity to be the only adult in the room by inviting the Prime Minister to the White House after his address to Congress to have an adult conversation in private about the issue. He should also publicly shift his being upset with Netanyahu to Boehner. For it is Boehner who is the ass in the room.
3
The top ten readers picks at 4:30 pm, briefly paraphrased.
1. Of course Netanyahu is disrespecting our President.
2. With friends like Netanyahu, who needs an enemy?
3. Netanyahu accepts our aid but pays no heed to our interests.
4. If Netanyahu’s concern were diplomatic rather than political, he wouldn’t be giving a speech to Congress.
5. The Republicans are putting a foreign leader ahead of our own President.
6. Netanyahu is a liar. Of course he’s playing politics and of course he’s disrespecting our President.
7. The Speaker of the House is not the Commander in Chief. Netanyahu is violating the Logan Act, which forbids foreign nationals from intervening in matters of national security.
8. Netanyahu’s words are hogwash. The reader supported Israel for years but this is the final straw.
9. Boehner doesn’t care about the American lives he and his party have already wasted in the Middle East.
10. Of course Netanyahu is disrespecting our President.
1. Of course Netanyahu is disrespecting our President.
2. With friends like Netanyahu, who needs an enemy?
3. Netanyahu accepts our aid but pays no heed to our interests.
4. If Netanyahu’s concern were diplomatic rather than political, he wouldn’t be giving a speech to Congress.
5. The Republicans are putting a foreign leader ahead of our own President.
6. Netanyahu is a liar. Of course he’s playing politics and of course he’s disrespecting our President.
7. The Speaker of the House is not the Commander in Chief. Netanyahu is violating the Logan Act, which forbids foreign nationals from intervening in matters of national security.
8. Netanyahu’s words are hogwash. The reader supported Israel for years but this is the final straw.
9. Boehner doesn’t care about the American lives he and his party have already wasted in the Middle East.
10. Of course Netanyahu is disrespecting our President.
28
Since the USA virtually supports Israel, Netanyahu's moral obligation is to mind his own business, run Israel, keep out of USA politics, and thank the USA for its taxpayers' money.
12
I support the nation of Israel and always have. Bibi is playing with fire.
10
The arrogance of Netanyahu speaking directly to the US Congress against an international treaty being pursued diplomatically by the President and Secretary of State of the United States, against difficult odds, shows blatant disrespect for the Office and the President’s intelligence.
Netanyahu's treatment of the Palestinian people has been inhumane and deplorable — with enough evidence for prosecution as war crimes. He is an exacerbating cause of the current conflict, not a credential that grants him license to meddle in the international policies of the United States.
He is not naive, but outrightly deceitful when he says that "he intends no disrespect to Obama." His courtship with Romney in the 2012 US presidential elections showed his lack of discretion and dislike for President Obama.
It will better for Israel, the Palestinian people and the prospect for a difficult peace in the Middle East if he is removed from office in the coming election. He should retreat to silence and heed the advice of his elders — particularly Ben Gurion, a founding stone of the modern state of Israel http://www.nybooks.com/articles/archives/1987/may/28/israel-the-tragedy-...
Netanyahu's treatment of the Palestinian people has been inhumane and deplorable — with enough evidence for prosecution as war crimes. He is an exacerbating cause of the current conflict, not a credential that grants him license to meddle in the international policies of the United States.
He is not naive, but outrightly deceitful when he says that "he intends no disrespect to Obama." His courtship with Romney in the 2012 US presidential elections showed his lack of discretion and dislike for President Obama.
It will better for Israel, the Palestinian people and the prospect for a difficult peace in the Middle East if he is removed from office in the coming election. He should retreat to silence and heed the advice of his elders — particularly Ben Gurion, a founding stone of the modern state of Israel http://www.nybooks.com/articles/archives/1987/may/28/israel-the-tragedy-...
25
Obama when we remove our offer of substantial financial annual aid to Israel: "It's nothing personal"
22
He's digging deeper and deeper. Doing tremendous damage to Israel.
20
I agree. That's exactly what Barack Obama is doing.
2
But not as much damage as Iran will do to it.
2
Unlike Israel which has done so repeatedly, Iran has never directly militarily attacked any of its neighbors. Yes, it funds proxies including Hamas and Hezbollah, but there is little reason to actually fear that a nuclear-armed Iran would invite nuclear retaliation by directly attacking Israel. Israel's real fear is that Iran obtaining nukes would interfere with Israel acting with impunity as it presently does. That is a real possibility, but not one that most people are likely to view negatively.
3
Netanyahu and Boehner rolling the political dice as the negotiations with Iran continue.
Snake-eyes!
Snake-eyes!
4
I hope all the people who are cheering Netanyahu and Boenher on to breach American protocol and policy as well as insulting American voters understand that now all of our allies now have a right to come to and address the Congress on American foreign policy. Even when the President is a Republican. This has been a long trend of Republicans since President Reagan, as a candidate, ran a parallel foreign policy by sending James Baker a private citizen, to Iran to negotiate the release of the Iran hostages while President Carter was attempting to deal with Iran regarding the hostages. Fifty years later the Republicans are still pulling the very dangerous stunts with American foreign policy.
15
I wish that Netanyahu had not asserted that he intends no disrespect towards the President because his disrespect is blatantly exhibited by this whole incident. He did not need to say anything to Congress before the negotiations were concluded and sends the message that he does not trust the President to conduct the best negotiations possible under the circumstances.
7
Laughable.
By refusing to come here vis-a-vis a secret arrangement, he had every intention to disrespect President Obama, beginning with the very genesis of that arrangement.
By no means are the Democrats saints, but they have never stooped as low as this. Today's GOP is an abject embarrassment, as is Bibi, and his only accomplishment in coming here was to secure that exact reputation for the GOP and for himself.
By refusing to come here vis-a-vis a secret arrangement, he had every intention to disrespect President Obama, beginning with the very genesis of that arrangement.
By no means are the Democrats saints, but they have never stooped as low as this. Today's GOP is an abject embarrassment, as is Bibi, and his only accomplishment in coming here was to secure that exact reputation for the GOP and for himself.
16
Israel wants the U.S. to attack Iran, not strictly to dismantle the nuclear program, because that's impossible without an enormous ground force, but for the longer term goal of locking the U.S. into a regional military commitment -- forever -- and preventing American security and Pentagon experts from "turning East", where our interests really lay.
Bibi is using the political system, AIPAC and various political lobbies to attack our strategy and security infrastructure. Bibi is engaged in nothing short of a broadside attack on our national security interests. I'm amazed the media isn't even more critical.
I'm sure the FBI is keeping a close eye on all the players.
Bibi is using the political system, AIPAC and various political lobbies to attack our strategy and security infrastructure. Bibi is engaged in nothing short of a broadside attack on our national security interests. I'm amazed the media isn't even more critical.
I'm sure the FBI is keeping a close eye on all the players.
11
I have no problem with Netanyahu voicing his concerns about the Iran nuclear negotiations before Congress or anywhere else. What I have a problem with is his accepting Boehner's invitation without going through the state department. The idea that somehow this seasoned professional international politician had no idea that accepting this offer without informing the administration, or that he didn't understand it was a ploy by Boehner to further diminish the President's stature, is ridiculous.
No, Netanyahu took an openly partisan stance against Obama before the 2012 election and he's doing it again. However much he identifies with the US right wing, his actions are disrespectful and reckless to the President and this county's government, risking a backlash that could threaten Israel's relationship with its most important strategic partner.
On second thought, maybe he's not such a great politician after all.
No, Netanyahu took an openly partisan stance against Obama before the 2012 election and he's doing it again. However much he identifies with the US right wing, his actions are disrespectful and reckless to the President and this county's government, risking a backlash that could threaten Israel's relationship with its most important strategic partner.
On second thought, maybe he's not such a great politician after all.
11
If we listen to Mr. Netanyahu and the rest of these neo-cons, the US will be in perpetual war for the next 100 years.
This group understand that they can stay in power for decades by continually creating enemies where none existed. Simply create a threat- by smoke and mirrors, fake papers, fake reports- easily doctored.
Then, give the warnings of nuclear mushrooms and nuclear winter- scare the snot out of anyone who will listen. Who can defend us? Only Bibi and Republicans.
This group understand that they can stay in power for decades by continually creating enemies where none existed. Simply create a threat- by smoke and mirrors, fake papers, fake reports- easily doctored.
Then, give the warnings of nuclear mushrooms and nuclear winter- scare the snot out of anyone who will listen. Who can defend us? Only Bibi and Republicans.
11
Zz, Who is supposed to care about Netanyahu the disgraced liar?
"U.S. intelligence agency officials interviewed by The New York Times in March 2012 said they continued to assess that Iran had not restarted its weaponization program, which the 2007 National Intelligence Estimate said Iran had discontinued in 2003" (wikipedia, NYT "U.S. Faces a Tricky Task in Assessment of Data on Iran", March 17, 2012) "Netanyahu has been warning the world of Iran's "imminent" nuclear threat for more than 20 years. In 1992, Benjamin Netanyahu, then a parliamentarian, warned that Iran was three to five years away from being able to produce a nuclear weapon." (Asia Times Online, "Rouhani's outlook riles Israeli hardliners", June 26, 2013) "Sarkozy tells Obama Netanyahu is a "liar"" (Reuters, Nov 8, 2011)
"U.S. intelligence agency officials interviewed by The New York Times in March 2012 said they continued to assess that Iran had not restarted its weaponization program, which the 2007 National Intelligence Estimate said Iran had discontinued in 2003" (wikipedia, NYT "U.S. Faces a Tricky Task in Assessment of Data on Iran", March 17, 2012) "Netanyahu has been warning the world of Iran's "imminent" nuclear threat for more than 20 years. In 1992, Benjamin Netanyahu, then a parliamentarian, warned that Iran was three to five years away from being able to produce a nuclear weapon." (Asia Times Online, "Rouhani's outlook riles Israeli hardliners", June 26, 2013) "Sarkozy tells Obama Netanyahu is a "liar"" (Reuters, Nov 8, 2011)
2
Bibi may not realize it but he is playing bad cop for Obama and making the case for Iran to negotiate in earnest. If Bibi or the Tea Party congress has its way under a future administration, Iran cannot expect as good a deal as they can negotiate right now. So thanks, Bibi, the disrespect could not be better timed. And, by the way, if you really, really want peace in the region, quit stealing other people's land.
5
From the "Yeah, right" department...
3
Go Bibi! Let the sun shine in!!!
2
We now have the chance to listen to Netanyahu directly. I would suggest that those who claim to already know what he is about tune in and see if they were right.
5
Couldn't he have sent an e-mail?
2
"...directly," Deborah?
I didn't realize Bebe lived on some other planet with no airwaves whatsoever.
Meanwhile, do explain how you would be fine with the Democrats making the same type of arrangement behind the back of a sitting Republican president.
I can't wait.
I didn't realize Bebe lived on some other planet with no airwaves whatsoever.
Meanwhile, do explain how you would be fine with the Democrats making the same type of arrangement behind the back of a sitting Republican president.
I can't wait.
3
Why should the leader of a foreign country dictate US foreign policy?
4
It is interesting that Yehuda Weinstein, the Israel Attorney General, widely understood to be Mr Netanyahu's poodle, wanted the PMs' speech broadcast live on Israel TV.
However, Salim Joubran, the Head of the Electoral Central Election Committee, considered it to be an election speech. Therefore it is subject to a 5 minute delay in Israel so they can cut out all the Netanyahu self-publicising stuff.
Mr Boehner has made a big mistake and Netanyahu's chutzpah has compounded it.
However, Salim Joubran, the Head of the Electoral Central Election Committee, considered it to be an election speech. Therefore it is subject to a 5 minute delay in Israel so they can cut out all the Netanyahu self-publicising stuff.
Mr Boehner has made a big mistake and Netanyahu's chutzpah has compounded it.
163
It is unheard of in any other country that a foreigner (Netanyahu) is invited and allowed by their country's law makers (House and Senate) to criticize and disrespect their own president (Obama) openly. This country, USA, should have united and unified to bar anybody to disrespect our president. Netanyahu , you are not welcome in USA. Just turn around and leave USA ASAP.
4
Does PM Netanyahu's visit to the US increase the likelihood of a US deal with Iran?
The biggest new story in the World right now is this visit AND the fact Israel against the US deal with Iran.
I don't think Iran can turn down a deal that Israel is so publically against.
The biggest new story in the World right now is this visit AND the fact Israel against the US deal with Iran.
I don't think Iran can turn down a deal that Israel is so publically against.
2
I am a Jew, but I am an American first. Netanyahu has disrespected America for partisan reasons. That can not stand.
26
Amen.
1
It is hard for me to understand the degree of outrage by Democrats about this when there was little or no concern when David Cameron lobbied Congress at the request of Obama a few months back.
3
“My speech is not intended to show any disrespect to President Obama or the esteemed office that he holds.”
Neverhteless, that is exactly what he has done. He is the Head of State of one of our closest allies. He has completely ignored diplomatic protocol, bypassed our Head of State and accepted an invitation over the President's objections. If the shoe were on the other foot, and our President accepted an invitation from the Labor Party to speak to Israel's Knesset without consulting him and over his objections, I seriously doubt that he would view it as not being disrespectful.
Neverhteless, that is exactly what he has done. He is the Head of State of one of our closest allies. He has completely ignored diplomatic protocol, bypassed our Head of State and accepted an invitation over the President's objections. If the shoe were on the other foot, and our President accepted an invitation from the Labor Party to speak to Israel's Knesset without consulting him and over his objections, I seriously doubt that he would view it as not being disrespectful.
16
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is here preparing to address Congress, because Barack Obama's dithering, red line drawing, and appeasement of Islamic extremism (see "ISIS not Islamic" comparing GOP leaders to terrorists, insulting Christians in America at the National Prayer Breakfast) leaves Israel the only thing standing in the way of a Caliphate.
Iran is on the verge of having a nuclear weapon because Obama is pouting over Netanyahu endorsing Romney in 2012. Yes folks, its all politics with Obama. Always is.
Iran is on the verge of having a nuclear weapon because Obama is pouting over Netanyahu endorsing Romney in 2012. Yes folks, its all politics with Obama. Always is.
7
Politics? So Netanyahu's endorsement of Romney was not?
It was rather a stupid, blatant interference in US politics, don't you think?
It was rather a stupid, blatant interference in US politics, don't you think?
5
Obama's terminology about ISIS is based on the view that it has about as much to do with real Islam as the Reverend Jim Jones had to do with Christianity in his later years. As for the nuclear weapon policy reflecting Obama's pique in the 2012 election: their program is much older than the Obama Administration, which was responsible for the cyber attack on Iran's nuclear program. "Appeasing terrorists?" Haven't you read about the air strikes and the work to mobilize allies along a broad front?
Since when is it appropriate to have a foreign country, and a client state at that, try to dictate our foreign policy?
17
Actually, this could play to our advantage in that it might encourage Iran to come to terms or otherwise face the alternative with the GOP and its tool in Israel Mr. N favoring a bellicose solution.
1
Of course Bibi intends no disrespect to Pres. Obama. He respects him every bit as much as John Boehner, Mitch McConnell, Rudy Giuliani, and Donald Trump do.
13
There is talk in silence, and silence in talk.
Elie Wiesel
----
From the day when Boehner announced his invitation of Mr. Netanyahu to speak to the USA Congress,
1. the Democrats as well as WH-team have talked a lot but their talk did not send out any valuable information but bikering .
2. in contrast Mr. Netanyahu kept being silent , and his silence told us that he is concerned with Israel's survival rather than participating in WH's bikering and its "work" in Israel's elections.
Think about the USA tax-payers' moneys funelled by WH/State Department in anti-Netanyahu propaganda as well as all "electoral" machinations by which they want to defeat Mr. Netanyahu. Those prove the emptiness
of their childish, sad talk .
What a pity !
WH/State Department paranoia against Mr. Netanyahu .
Elie Wiesel
----
From the day when Boehner announced his invitation of Mr. Netanyahu to speak to the USA Congress,
1. the Democrats as well as WH-team have talked a lot but their talk did not send out any valuable information but bikering .
2. in contrast Mr. Netanyahu kept being silent , and his silence told us that he is concerned with Israel's survival rather than participating in WH's bikering and its "work" in Israel's elections.
Think about the USA tax-payers' moneys funelled by WH/State Department in anti-Netanyahu propaganda as well as all "electoral" machinations by which they want to defeat Mr. Netanyahu. Those prove the emptiness
of their childish, sad talk .
What a pity !
WH/State Department paranoia against Mr. Netanyahu .
3
Mr. Netanyahu should wait until he is properly invited to give a speech. This IS a bipartisan event, and a major breach of diplomatic etiquette as well as politically inappropriate. And Mr. Boehner has gotten too big for his boots.
12
The problem with Boehner is that he's not big enough for his role.
4
This is nothing but a cynical Republican jab at the President, supported by Mr. Netanyahu. As a jewish American (emphasis on the noun), I resent the disrespect shown by both toward the President, and that would hold if the President were George Bush or anyone else.
If Congress or Mr. Netanyahu think that scuttling the talks will prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons if they can they are stupid or naive. Mr. Netanyahu is neither, just spreading fear to win an election. In the case of Congress, they are both..
If Congress or Mr. Netanyahu think that scuttling the talks will prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons if they can they are stupid or naive. Mr. Netanyahu is neither, just spreading fear to win an election. In the case of Congress, they are both..
18
If Bibi has to speak out he can do it in Israel. How dare he grand stand in Congress. Accepting Boehner's invitation was an insult to our president and an avoidable politicization of US-Israel relations. As a Jew, I'm thoroughly disgusted. Shame on Bibi and Boehner.
26
The president listens to everyone in the Middle East in the interest of "fairness", whether they respect the US or not. He needs to give Netanyahu a hearing as well. He's one of the few there who has actually earned it.
Time for the president to be, well, the president and not someone engaged in a personal spat.
Time for the president to be, well, the president and not someone engaged in a personal spat.
8
What rot. Since his election, President has leaned over backwards to engage with his opponents in Congress and his supposed ally Netanyahu, and all the thanks he has been extended is a series of kicks in the teeth.
14
Bibi's respect for this president- and, for that matter, this country- extends only to our capacity and willingness to exercise Security Council vetoes on Israel's behalf. Any other nation that has a policy of appropriating its neighbor's property would be given a far different reception in the U.S. than the one Israel is routinely given- even by Mr. Obama.
14
The good people of Israel need to vote this guy out of office before he destroys them. He's the Dick Cheney of the Middle East and it's beginning to be harder and harder for him to hide it.
9
"That I will never vote republican again is a given. I'm becoming quite skeptical of Israel as well."
Well, you'd better not vote Democratic either. When it comes to Israel, there's not a dime's worth of difference between the two parties.
Well, you'd better not vote Democratic either. When it comes to Israel, there's not a dime's worth of difference between the two parties.
3
It's not a stretch to believe that Netanyahu does not trust President Obama's intentions or judgment. The facts speak for themselves. The President judged ISIS to be the "Junior Varsity". They represent a virtual "Islamic State" in area formerly part of Syria and Iraq. He supported the deposing of Qaddafi in Libya and a radical regime has taken hold. He supported the Moslem Brotherhood's overthrow of Mubarak and the current regime is less friendly to us. He called our policy in Yemen a success and we have had to leave Yemen and close our embassy. He completely misjudged Putin and the debacle in the Ukraine speaks volumes about his policies. Anyone who is aware of the sacrifice of Soviet soldiers to free the Crimea of the Nazi occupation could have predicted Russian intervention and many did. Why should Netanyahu trust our President's judgment even if he is sincere about preventing Iran from becoming an increased threat armed with nuclear weapons? If Israel does not speak up who will? The answer to Netanyahu by the Administration should be a recitation of the facts not an attempt to make Netanyahu the issue.
6
And we don't trust Netanyahu's intentions or judgment.
4
One can support Isreal without supporting Netanyahu... that's precisely why there is an election on the horizon - and why opposition candidates are polling very well.
This is a cynically crafted effort to slight the US President and is the last of any number of acceptable means through which the Prime Minister could have communicated his concerns - and no doubt has. He comes before a dysfunctional and universally disdained Congress and subsequently forfeits any standing his comments might have had- and his usual impolitic and heavy-handed style is another reason why the forthcoming elections in Israel auger a change in leadership.
I remain amazed at the patience and diplomatic elegance of our President; perhaps Mr. Neteanyahu will be graced with a "You Lie!" exclamation from our distinguished body of legislators and thus recognize what a political environment he has chosen to grace.
This is a cynically crafted effort to slight the US President and is the last of any number of acceptable means through which the Prime Minister could have communicated his concerns - and no doubt has. He comes before a dysfunctional and universally disdained Congress and subsequently forfeits any standing his comments might have had- and his usual impolitic and heavy-handed style is another reason why the forthcoming elections in Israel auger a change in leadership.
I remain amazed at the patience and diplomatic elegance of our President; perhaps Mr. Neteanyahu will be graced with a "You Lie!" exclamation from our distinguished body of legislators and thus recognize what a political environment he has chosen to grace.
169
It's difficult for israel to rely on a american leader who draws lines in the sand and then runs for the hill. Iran has sworn to wipe the Jews of Israel from the face of the earth. Once they have the nuclear bomb it is certain they will execute their plan. Iran continues to plod along developing a nuclear bomb. We have a president who is way over is head in the job. There is a resurgence of anti semitism in the U.S. as demonstrated on the college campuses and even the Black Caucus. I doubt anyone of these democratic congressmen would care if the Jews of Israel disappeared.
What needs to be shouted during Bib's speech is not "You Like!", but "400 Israeli Nukes!"
What gives Israel right to tell us how to run our foreign policies?
The have ignored us at every step while stealing Palestinian's lands.
They have bombed and killed fr more civilians than the Palestinians have.
Yes they are hated throughout the middle east, and it is because of the Palestine Problem.
Iran used to have a Jewish population until the revolt against the Shah. The Shah who was brought to power by Eisenhower and Churchill for the benefit of British Petroleum.
Now Netanyahu or is it netan yayhoo, wants the U.S. to give in to his foreign policies. What he thinks of Iran are his opinions, not necessarily facts.
We let big oil decide our policies in the past, and you can see what that got us.
Now how many Americans doe Bibi want to die for his campaign against Iran?
Sure Iran said it wants to eliminate Israel, but can they actually do it? would they actually use nukes, knowing it would mean the end of them 30 minutes later? Are they that stupid, or is it just rhetoric designed to get Israel to attack them? They are not stupid, they are conniving and cunning, not stupid.
The have ignored us at every step while stealing Palestinian's lands.
They have bombed and killed fr more civilians than the Palestinians have.
Yes they are hated throughout the middle east, and it is because of the Palestine Problem.
Iran used to have a Jewish population until the revolt against the Shah. The Shah who was brought to power by Eisenhower and Churchill for the benefit of British Petroleum.
Now Netanyahu or is it netan yayhoo, wants the U.S. to give in to his foreign policies. What he thinks of Iran are his opinions, not necessarily facts.
We let big oil decide our policies in the past, and you can see what that got us.
Now how many Americans doe Bibi want to die for his campaign against Iran?
Sure Iran said it wants to eliminate Israel, but can they actually do it? would they actually use nukes, knowing it would mean the end of them 30 minutes later? Are they that stupid, or is it just rhetoric designed to get Israel to attack them? They are not stupid, they are conniving and cunning, not stupid.
17
Netanyahu either knows that he's violating every protocol of diplomatic behavior or he doesn't. Either way, he looks to be an unreliable ally and no longer trustworthy. His strong-arm tactics in America are most likely a problem in Israel, too. America needs to step back from him and let the people of Israel decide if they want that kind of leader. I wouldn't.
7
Boehner/Adelson diving for dollars.
10
No disrespect to our president, says Netanyahu, as he disrespect our president and our country. Go home!
8
I'm surprised that Obama and Netanyahu don't get along better, given that they both live high on the hog. Judicial Watch has a litany of Obama vacations, date nights, spring break trips, etc. And there was a report that Netanyahu has been splurging public funds on multiple residence cleanings (20k shekels per month), 2011 residence expenses that doubled to 1m shekels, etc. Seems like two folks who live in the lap of luxury at the expense of tax payers would be bosom buddies.
1
would you like to see our president given a suite at the remada inn as his official residence?
All you have to do is put the shoe on the other foot and imagine what it would mean if Obama came to Israel under such conditions. No disrespect, indeed. This man has lost all sense of propriety and, indeed, shame. I hope he is turned out of office at the next opportunity. What an egomaniac.
And by the way, Boehner has disgraced himself yet again with the invitation.
And by the way, Boehner has disgraced himself yet again with the invitation.
14
How would Netanyahu feel if President Obama decided to go to Israel to make a speech...and didn't tell him in advance. Maybe a speech to a Palestinian organization. Imagine what the Israeli government and press would make of that!
10
Israel, and Netanyahu in particular, is happy to fight Iran to the last American. I applaud Pres. Obama for putting American interests first, and seeking a diplomatic solution to the Iran problem.
Netanyahu's timelines on Iranian nuclear progress have been consistently wrong. He can't be trusted on this topic.
And as for his address to the Republican-controlled Congress, Netanyahu has indeed politicized Israel's relationship with the U.S., and shown great disrespect for Obama and his office. If this is how an "ally" treats its benefactor and the guarantor of its very existence, I'd be very curious to see how Israel treats its enemies.
Netanyahu's timelines on Iranian nuclear progress have been consistently wrong. He can't be trusted on this topic.
And as for his address to the Republican-controlled Congress, Netanyahu has indeed politicized Israel's relationship with the U.S., and shown great disrespect for Obama and his office. If this is how an "ally" treats its benefactor and the guarantor of its very existence, I'd be very curious to see how Israel treats its enemies.
20
President Obama probably doesnt give a fig about this speech - he has already won re-election - and with enemies like Netanyahu and the DHS-defunding GOP shooting themselves in the foot - he has all the friends he needs!
1
I have no issue with Netanyahu voicing his displeasure of Obama's foreign policy. If the US pursuing a course of action that he thinks is detrimental to his country's interests, he is all right to be vocal about his disagreement. However, I take issue with Netanyahu disrespecting the presidency and using our Congress as a campaign prop.
If Netanyahu wanted to warn America about the dangers of negotiating with Iran, he could have done so without leaving his office. He could have easily adopted Putin's approach and pen an op-ed in a widely circulated outlet like the NYT or WSJ. Such an approach would guarantee a wide audience and national discussion of the issue. But no, he needed to give his speech at the White House's doorsteps and align himself with the President's political rivals. He clearly intends to belittle the President and the gutless GOP ghouls in Congress are more than happy to play along.
If Netanyahu wanted to warn America about the dangers of negotiating with Iran, he could have done so without leaving his office. He could have easily adopted Putin's approach and pen an op-ed in a widely circulated outlet like the NYT or WSJ. Such an approach would guarantee a wide audience and national discussion of the issue. But no, he needed to give his speech at the White House's doorsteps and align himself with the President's political rivals. He clearly intends to belittle the President and the gutless GOP ghouls in Congress are more than happy to play along.
5
Hey Ben, whatever you say. No disrespect intended.
If we wanted to summarize Netanyahu’s strategic plan, it could be put together in a few sentences:
1) Don’t sign any nuclear deal with Iran.
2) Then America should launch a ground war, occupy Iran and turn it into
Iraq-like tribal territory full of religious fanatics killing each other, but incapable of creating a modern country or developing the nuclear technology.
Of course, the trillions dollars wasted on waging such a war, the consequential enormous human sufferings, and the casualties of the American military would not be Netanyahu’s problem of Mr. Boehner’s because there is no mandatory military draft here in America during the war times nor the imposed war taxes to pay for those conflicts.
It’s tough to decide who is more incompetent, Speaker Boehner or Prime Minister Netanyahu...
Thus we should agree with Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Boehner that there is no intended disrespect toward President Obama, but just toward America...
1) Don’t sign any nuclear deal with Iran.
2) Then America should launch a ground war, occupy Iran and turn it into
Iraq-like tribal territory full of religious fanatics killing each other, but incapable of creating a modern country or developing the nuclear technology.
Of course, the trillions dollars wasted on waging such a war, the consequential enormous human sufferings, and the casualties of the American military would not be Netanyahu’s problem of Mr. Boehner’s because there is no mandatory military draft here in America during the war times nor the imposed war taxes to pay for those conflicts.
It’s tough to decide who is more incompetent, Speaker Boehner or Prime Minister Netanyahu...
Thus we should agree with Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Boehner that there is no intended disrespect toward President Obama, but just toward America...
7
I am not in favor of a Head of another state (Israel included) coming to the US without an arrangement with our President to speak to the US Congress. Boehner took a cheap shot - Netanyahu obliged by accepting the invite. Two negatives do not make a positive. Now, they are both standing on the sidewalk going, "what just happened here?". They know what happened; they knew it would happen; the American people knew what would happen; we are not dumb. Well, may be we are for electing "representatives" such as Boehner.
5
I do not understand what it is thought might be achieved if negotiations with Iran are broken off, if no agreement is brokered, and if sanctions are strengthened. Not only would such steps not deter Iran from developing a nuclear capability, they would push Iran into accelerating the development of its nuclear capability. Moreover, if one takes the view that Iran cannot be trusted and Iran's long term intent is to destroy countries such as Israel, then one is taking the view that that no deal with Iran could ever be acceptable, and no amount of increased sanctions could ever get the Iranians to negotiate in what would be regarded as a trustworthy fashion. Thus if one wants to prevent Iran from going nuclear and if one does not believe that it can be achieved by negotiation, then there would only appear to be one remaining possibility, namely one must resort to military force.
4
And that's pretty much Netanyahu's view of every conflict, isn't it?
2
Can you imagine what a mess the world would now be if we had a President Mitt Romney? With President Romney, Speaker Boehner, Majority Leader McConnell, Sheldon Adelson and Mr. Netanyahu would be in full control of American foreign policy. If you think the world is in dire straits now, just think what will happen if American and Israeli bombs begin falling on Iran.
If Boehner does not understand the dangerous impact of his meddling, he is an incompetent. If he does understand... I can't bear to think of that. In either case these men are endangering the whole world.
If Boehner does not understand the dangerous impact of his meddling, he is an incompetent. If he does understand... I can't bear to think of that. In either case these men are endangering the whole world.
5
Yes, in fact, I can imagine what the world would be like if Romney were President. A President who really understood the threat posed by Russia. A President who didn't naively trust Iran. A President who didn't underestimate ISIS by referring to it as the "JV team."
Sounds pretty good to me.
Sounds pretty good to me.
Netanyahu will learn his lesson when American voters send his strongest supporters in Congress packing, like they did to Cantor.
No person showing greater loyalty to a foreign state should be allowed to serve in US Congress.
No person showing greater loyalty to a foreign state should be allowed to serve in US Congress.
10
Mr Boehner is pleased that ticket sales are up for this event.Mr Boehner, one does not sell out ones President and Country for good press reviews. You republicans always bring up Mr Churchill's name. Winston Churchill would have had no dealings with people of your ilk. Mr Boehner you have no control over your own party, you might want to ask Bibi for help in keeping your own renegade republicans in line.
10
To be honest, what did Churchill ever do but relentlessly nag Roosevelt into entering, and therefore winning War World II? Britain was under a blitzkrieg and US was only thing that stopped all of Europe from falling. This morning, an article in NYT quoted an Israeli that said no one ever came to their defense in WWII, including the half million Americans that died I guess, but they weren't Jews so why should Israel care? If we are waiting for gratitude from Tel Aviv, we shouldn't hold our breath.
1
I'm surprised Netanyahu isn't making a stop in Canada. He and Canadian PM Stephen Harper are best buddies. There are lots of hugs and kisses and tears in their eyes when they meet each other. They look like long-lost brothers.
1
Harper doesn't count. You know it. I know it. Netanyahu knows it.
1
Then let him invite the president to address the Knesset.
2
Bring it, I agree. Obama would NEVER do it because he lacks the courage to face people who might dare question and criticize his intentions and false narratives. As we've seen only the UN is a safe haven for Obama to give a speech filled with platitudes and meaningless "grievances".
But good luck with that.
But good luck with that.
1
Really "no disrespect"? Even Netanyahu's countenance when he is seen with Pres. Obama, is one of disdain....
4
I suggest President Obama solicit an invitation to address the Knesset. Surely this would be as productive and non-threatening as Prime Minister Netanyahu's address to Congress.
4
I understand this guy's position. I just resent him for not respecting U.S. protocol.
6
He may not have intended any disrespect toward Obama, but Boehner and the rest of the GOP who so openly courted Netanyahu had nothing but intentional disrespect to the president with this latest shenanigan.
10
Samantha Power: "The USA will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon. Period." ISIS is a jv team. Iraq has weapons of mass destruction. The Iraqis will greet us with open arms. Excuse me for having no faith in Ms. Power's statement. Saying something doesn't make it so. Even with the word "Period" attached.
6
Ellen - Samantha Power is not the one who claimed that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction. That was over a decade ago and Colin Powell was the Secty of State at the time. Dick Cheney, then the VP, said that Iraqis would greet us with open arms when we invaded.
Obama has nothing to worry about.
An Iran deal would be a executive agreement, not a "treaty" that requires Congressional approval. Even if it did, the Pentagon Lobby would ensure an Iran agreement passed the Congress. The Pentagon has bigger fish to fry and they're tired of Israel meddling in our military arrangements. Obama is preceding the backing and support of the Pentagon. (Do you think he could precede without it? No chance).
The Pentagon doesn't like to politicize their positions. They work behind the scenes and they've been fighting Israel's provocative nature for years. The Pentagon and our security experts know Iran is fighting ISIS, not Israel. The U.S. doesn't even have a mutual defense treaty with Israel as we do with dozens of nations around the world.
The "special relationship" we hear so much about on TV is purely political theater, not strategic and it doesn't extend to mutual defense treaties, the Pentagon, or the big game. In the big game, Israel is becoming a bigger problem and impediment to our security goals.
It's time the media explains this forthrightly.
An Iran deal would be a executive agreement, not a "treaty" that requires Congressional approval. Even if it did, the Pentagon Lobby would ensure an Iran agreement passed the Congress. The Pentagon has bigger fish to fry and they're tired of Israel meddling in our military arrangements. Obama is preceding the backing and support of the Pentagon. (Do you think he could precede without it? No chance).
The Pentagon doesn't like to politicize their positions. They work behind the scenes and they've been fighting Israel's provocative nature for years. The Pentagon and our security experts know Iran is fighting ISIS, not Israel. The U.S. doesn't even have a mutual defense treaty with Israel as we do with dozens of nations around the world.
The "special relationship" we hear so much about on TV is purely political theater, not strategic and it doesn't extend to mutual defense treaties, the Pentagon, or the big game. In the big game, Israel is becoming a bigger problem and impediment to our security goals.
It's time the media explains this forthrightly.
4
If it is so bad that Iran might get nuclear weapons then why isn't anybody worried that a both Israel and Pakistan both have them.
8
Unlike the Bush administration that invaded Iraq in the face of it's allies, President Obama's administration is trying to work with it's allies and negotiate a peaceful solution with Iran. Congress's stated goal is to undermine the President - this is just another attempt to discredit him. The real issue here is that the Republicans did not inform the White House of the invitation. Boehner should be removed as Speaker of the House.
15
Really?
Mr.Netanyahu, the United States has been your staunchest ally, and yet you choose to disrespect it by accepting the invitation of a dissenting Speaker!
You chose to disrespect our hospitality and wash away years of goodwill built by your predecessors! Sir, you have sullied your own kind by this senseless pursuit of trying to rectify something which is none of your business!
Remember that we, the United States of America are neither Jewish nor Muslim nor anything! We are secular, and respect all faiths! And we have shown you the utmost of respect and genorisity from the time your great country was born! Your countrymen have shown great courage and fortitude since times immemorial. Yet you choose to not have faith in it, and turn to a weak Republican Party to help you win your election?
Go home, and win your postion on your own merit!
Mr.Netanyahu, the United States has been your staunchest ally, and yet you choose to disrespect it by accepting the invitation of a dissenting Speaker!
You chose to disrespect our hospitality and wash away years of goodwill built by your predecessors! Sir, you have sullied your own kind by this senseless pursuit of trying to rectify something which is none of your business!
Remember that we, the United States of America are neither Jewish nor Muslim nor anything! We are secular, and respect all faiths! And we have shown you the utmost of respect and genorisity from the time your great country was born! Your countrymen have shown great courage and fortitude since times immemorial. Yet you choose to not have faith in it, and turn to a weak Republican Party to help you win your election?
Go home, and win your postion on your own merit!
19
Considering that Netanyahu probably doesn't respect Obama nor this country
in the first place, how could anything he does be construed as disrespectful?
Maybe it is time for Israel to learn for itself just how long it can stand alone on its own two feet, without being held up supposedly against its wishes by any ally such as the US. Seeing as how Netanyahu ranks Israels interests far ahead and exclusive of any the US may have or seek to find, without us to hinder their actions would leave Netanyahu free and unfettered to wage war whenever and wherever he'd like. Maybe even playing out that "assumed" option that up till now has been taken for granted as "real".
Sounds like more of a nuclear poker game between Israel and Iran than it does diplomacy, with the US kind of being played in the middle as the deep-pocketed chump who's getting fleeced by the other two players at the table.
in the first place, how could anything he does be construed as disrespectful?
Maybe it is time for Israel to learn for itself just how long it can stand alone on its own two feet, without being held up supposedly against its wishes by any ally such as the US. Seeing as how Netanyahu ranks Israels interests far ahead and exclusive of any the US may have or seek to find, without us to hinder their actions would leave Netanyahu free and unfettered to wage war whenever and wherever he'd like. Maybe even playing out that "assumed" option that up till now has been taken for granted as "real".
Sounds like more of a nuclear poker game between Israel and Iran than it does diplomacy, with the US kind of being played in the middle as the deep-pocketed chump who's getting fleeced by the other two players at the table.
4
For once can journalists, pundits, etc. do their job and ask two very important questions of those blindly supporting Bibi's views?:
1. What other options are available if we do not pursue the diplomatic route? We held off Russia (cold war) for years through back and forth diplomacy, a huge military spending on our part and plenty cold war games.
2. If the other option is going to war with Iran or bombing Iran are you in favor of bringing back the draft? As of now we have Graham, McCain and others pushing for boots on the ground in Iraq, Libya and Syria. Whose boots? And oh by the way will include our 18 year old daughters as well as sons in the draft?
Ooops third point - once we bomb them do we then spend billions helping to build them back up as we did Germany and Japan?
It is totally dishonest to NOT bring up the draft every time we hear from someone wanting to use military might. And please do not tell me that modern warfare does not require boots on the ground. If that were the case all those pushing for more and more boots on the ground need to shut up.
1. What other options are available if we do not pursue the diplomatic route? We held off Russia (cold war) for years through back and forth diplomacy, a huge military spending on our part and plenty cold war games.
2. If the other option is going to war with Iran or bombing Iran are you in favor of bringing back the draft? As of now we have Graham, McCain and others pushing for boots on the ground in Iraq, Libya and Syria. Whose boots? And oh by the way will include our 18 year old daughters as well as sons in the draft?
Ooops third point - once we bomb them do we then spend billions helping to build them back up as we did Germany and Japan?
It is totally dishonest to NOT bring up the draft every time we hear from someone wanting to use military might. And please do not tell me that modern warfare does not require boots on the ground. If that were the case all those pushing for more and more boots on the ground need to shut up.
13
This is why Americans need to listen to Netanyahu's speech and why he wants the people to hear, not just Congress. My understanding from reading the paper is that he wants to tighten sanctions until Iran agrees to a much more restricted deal. I have heard no mention of bombing. I certainly wish people would go to first sources for their information...listen to Netanyahu themselves instead of making assumptions.
2
There have been sanctions on Iran since 1979, increasingly onerous since that time. What more are sanctions going to achieve? That's over 30 years already, a fact which I'm sure most Americans know nothing about.
1
The Dems and those bashing Netanyahu seem to be a bit hypocritical in their stance of non-interference.
One of our Presidents ex campaign guys is there right now trying to unseat Netanyahu and I guess no one commenting recalls Clinton's guys Greenberg and Carville going to Isreal in '99 to fight for Ehud Barak in his campaign against Bibi?
I'm not advocating interference but our President does EXACTLY what he wants without regard to others opinions and the Constitution leaving no room to criticize. Anyway, this will have all blown over by the end of the week.
One of our Presidents ex campaign guys is there right now trying to unseat Netanyahu and I guess no one commenting recalls Clinton's guys Greenberg and Carville going to Isreal in '99 to fight for Ehud Barak in his campaign against Bibi?
I'm not advocating interference but our President does EXACTLY what he wants without regard to others opinions and the Constitution leaving no room to criticize. Anyway, this will have all blown over by the end of the week.
5
It seems that virtualy all of tyhe NYT picks fall on the side of anti Netanyahu which is quite a disappointment. While I would prefer that this kerfufule had not escalated to this point, I can understnd Netanyahu's gut wrenching choice to do all he can possibly do to prevent Iran from achieving the bomb. What we have heard from Obama's administration so far seems to be weakness on that point.
5
They are more likely anti-Boehner and -GOP than they are anti-Netanyahu. The partisans have lined up and chosen sides.
3
AACNY: And you're NOT a partisan?
2
I have read many articles in this paper and others, about Netanyahu's visit and speech, and skimmed many of the comments sections (such as this one).
As the comments in response to this article also show - those posting, and corresponding 'likes' to those posts are overwhelmingly anti Netanyahu , and what his message conveys.
Congress may be 'solidly behind his message' The American people ? I'm not so sure they buy it.
While he sincerely believes that the threat to his country by Iran is existential, he does not offer any workable suggestions or solution whatsoever to solve it.
As long as Iran thinks it is at risk of a preemptive strike, it will burrow further underground and race faster towards becoming Nuclear.
I am solidly behind those with the unenviable task of trying to formulate a reasonable agreement, to slow or stop that race, and while Iran is certainly not a place I'd like to live - a cohesive Iran is far more desirable than the chaos of a failed state such as Syria or Iraq.
As the comments in response to this article also show - those posting, and corresponding 'likes' to those posts are overwhelmingly anti Netanyahu , and what his message conveys.
Congress may be 'solidly behind his message' The American people ? I'm not so sure they buy it.
While he sincerely believes that the threat to his country by Iran is existential, he does not offer any workable suggestions or solution whatsoever to solve it.
As long as Iran thinks it is at risk of a preemptive strike, it will burrow further underground and race faster towards becoming Nuclear.
I am solidly behind those with the unenviable task of trying to formulate a reasonable agreement, to slow or stop that race, and while Iran is certainly not a place I'd like to live - a cohesive Iran is far more desirable than the chaos of a failed state such as Syria or Iraq.
12
Warmongers who want to get re-elected by warmongers don't care much for diplomacy, it doesn't beat the loud drums.
12
I assure you it won't be their children who will become cannon fodder.
2
If Bibi wants to apply a military solution in the form of air strikes on Iran's Nuclear Facility with his Air Force we simply tell the Iran's we have no dog in the fight and are as neutral as Swiss cheese.
2
Anybody who gives Obama a hard time is alright in my book. Including Vladimir Putin.
4
President Obama and many democrats are miffed because they know what Mr. Netanyahu is going to say - the deal that John Kerry is seeking will allow Iran to get the bomb. Don't kid yourself NYT readers, once Israel is obliterated, the Great Satan is next on the list. Does anyone doubt that the Iranians will give weapons to others to use against us?
I'm sure many do not believe this but Mr. Obama will be remembered as our Neville Chamberlin.
I'm sure many do not believe this but Mr. Obama will be remembered as our Neville Chamberlin.
7
OK, then let's destroy the nuclear capability of BOTH. Israel and Iran.
He said "With all due respect" Now he can say whatever he wants. It's in the Geneva Conventions.
4
When it is possible that the Israeli president comes here and speaks to the congress through behind the back of our president, is it any wonder that nobody in the world trusts us to be an honest broker in the middle-east?
We have done the Saudi king's and Netanyahu's bidding in Iraq. Thankfully this time, our president refused to entertain such requests to get embroiled in Syria. And I hope the American people stand behind their president and show this guy proper etiquette.
Perhaps in the name of "equal time", we should also invite Iran's president to come here and speak to the congress about why relations between Iran and US have come to such a pass.
We have done the Saudi king's and Netanyahu's bidding in Iraq. Thankfully this time, our president refused to entertain such requests to get embroiled in Syria. And I hope the American people stand behind their president and show this guy proper etiquette.
Perhaps in the name of "equal time", we should also invite Iran's president to come here and speak to the congress about why relations between Iran and US have come to such a pass.
7
Mr. Netanyahu's is mistaken. The issue isn't disrespect for President Obama or the Office of the President: it is disrespect for the United States. There is no reason to suspect that the United States would agree to treaty that would allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons. The US has been a committed ally of Israel, something that has become increasingly difficult as Israel has illegally expanded West Bank settlements, taken water rights and land from Palestinians, attacked civilian populations, and developed its own atomic weapons. Is there anything short of the complete subjugation of Arab states, that Prime Minister Netanyahu would find acceptable.
15
Mr.Netanyahu's views about the nuclear negotiations has been known for years. Nothing new is going to come out of the speech and therefore what ever he says does not change the direction of the negotiations. The US congress gave a platform to Netanyahu to promote his re-election even if it is necessary to breach the protocol. If US congress wants to be impartial, they should have invited the opponent of Netanyahu as well to deliver a speech to the congress. It is pure partisan politics at any cost.
7
My crystal ball is not as clouded as yours. Almost certainly Netanyahu will reveal new intelligence, since Mossad's spy network in Iran is so extensive, while ours is safely restricted to spy planes and satellites.
1
Now he tells us he intends no disrespect. Netanyahu arranges to address our Congress behind our president's back and in cahoots with the Republican speaker of the House. He violates, obviously and knowingly, all diplomatic manners then tells us days later that he intends no disrespect. I am every bit as Jewish as Bibi, and I cannot adequately express my disgust at his effrontery, pomposity, falsity and sneaky, thuggish conduct. Ugh! That's the best I can do.
18
Right, Mr. Prime Minister. We believe you when you tell AIPAC that it is meant to have no disrespect just in the same way you believe in a two-state solution and justice for Palestinians with a wink to your cronies.
But as smart as you think you are, President Obama is smarter. He will get a good deal with Iran in the interests of the entire world, including Israel and this snub by you will be a benefit for Mr. Herzog in the elections.
But as smart as you think you are, President Obama is smarter. He will get a good deal with Iran in the interests of the entire world, including Israel and this snub by you will be a benefit for Mr. Herzog in the elections.
12
In what has been widely described as the largest intelligence leak since Edward Snowden, Al Jazeera has begun releasing a series of spy cables from the world’s top intelligence agencies.
In one cable, which is eerily similar to the CIA/Bush administration fabricated reasons for going to war in Iraq, the Israeli spy agency, Mossad, contradicts Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s own dire warnings about Iran’s ability to produce a nuclear bomb.
Former Mossad chief, Meir Dagan publically stated that a war with Iran would be a bad idea, a very bad idea. Other Israeli security officials have expressed frustration by Netanyahu’s rhetoric on the Iranian nuclear threat, accusing him of "messianic" political leadership pushing for military action.
The leaked cable is a huge embarrassment for Netanyahu just as he prepares his highly controversial US visit.
In one cable, which is eerily similar to the CIA/Bush administration fabricated reasons for going to war in Iraq, the Israeli spy agency, Mossad, contradicts Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s own dire warnings about Iran’s ability to produce a nuclear bomb.
Former Mossad chief, Meir Dagan publically stated that a war with Iran would be a bad idea, a very bad idea. Other Israeli security officials have expressed frustration by Netanyahu’s rhetoric on the Iranian nuclear threat, accusing him of "messianic" political leadership pushing for military action.
The leaked cable is a huge embarrassment for Netanyahu just as he prepares his highly controversial US visit.
7
Times: "No Disrespect Toward Obama Intended, Says Netanyahu"
His followers understand precisely that this is what "he has to say," and that what he really expresses is total contempt for the president. His objective is to feed raw meat to his allies in the now radical right Republican party--and to boost his chances for reelection as Israel's prime minister. This is classic Wag the Dog. At the same time, it's hard to work up much sympathy for the president and his cohorts, who after a display of irritation with Israel are now ingratiating themselves with AIPAC. Obama, through his weakness and ineptness and lack of principle has managed to allow Netanyahu to put himself at the center of the story. Obama's excuse for not meeting with Netanyahu--that it is too close to the Israeli elections--is positively Nixonian. I expect in time Obama, too, will fall in line. Not a healthy state of affairs for the United Staes of America.
His followers understand precisely that this is what "he has to say," and that what he really expresses is total contempt for the president. His objective is to feed raw meat to his allies in the now radical right Republican party--and to boost his chances for reelection as Israel's prime minister. This is classic Wag the Dog. At the same time, it's hard to work up much sympathy for the president and his cohorts, who after a display of irritation with Israel are now ingratiating themselves with AIPAC. Obama, through his weakness and ineptness and lack of principle has managed to allow Netanyahu to put himself at the center of the story. Obama's excuse for not meeting with Netanyahu--that it is too close to the Israeli elections--is positively Nixonian. I expect in time Obama, too, will fall in line. Not a healthy state of affairs for the United Staes of America.
2
The primary disrespect is not Netanyahu's. He is just acting opportunistically, as usual. The primary disrespect is Boehner's and the House Republicans, who invited Netanyahu in a stunning breach of protocol, merely in order to try and gain a cheap political advantage for him and for themselves.
15
If Mr. Netanyahu isn't playing partisan politics, why did he openly endorse Barack Obama's opponent, Mitt Romney, the Republican candidate for president?
15
As soon as people say "No disrespect intended," they mean "I intentionally intend to be disrespectful."
18
It is not Mr. Boehner's House -- it is our House, and although many wouldn't object to Mr. Netanyahu speaking there, there is still a way to go about things. As an American, I feel insulted.
23
Mr. Netanyahu,
Pack your bags, go home to your 'one and only state' and take Mr. Boehner with you.
Pack your bags, go home to your 'one and only state' and take Mr. Boehner with you.
26
Netanyahu correctly understands that Barack Obama has little interest in Israeli security - after all, Obama started off negotiations with Iran with firm demands for no enrichment and unfettered inspections. Where are we now? Iran can now continue to enrich uranium and inspections must be announced. Really? This is Obama's plan for a country in the midst of regional hegemony that has lied repeatedly about its nuclear program? Has he forgotten Iran has violated no less than SIX UN resolutions in regard to its nuclear program and repeated inspections violations. Not only has Obama not defended Israel and other Arab regional players, but he has failed to defend America. The Iranians are currently known to be building ICBMs - these are not to attack Israel (they have short range missiles for that purpose) but designed to deliver nuclear payloads inter-continentally as their name implies - to America.
The Obama administration and its supporters should spare us the phony distraction about pseudo "protocol" and address the real issues at hand. Nuclear hegemony is somewhat more important than political egos.
The Obama administration and its supporters should spare us the phony distraction about pseudo "protocol" and address the real issues at hand. Nuclear hegemony is somewhat more important than political egos.
6
At the present time, nuclear hegemony in the Middle East clearly belongs to Israel...
2
I'm glad they have that as a deterrence. I trust Israel but evidently you want to trust Iran. Why would you want to trust Iran with the nuclear bomb? Do you not see the evil they are fomenting in the Middle East and their intent to take over the Middle East and ultimately want to destroy America's way of life as we know it?
As an American Jew I cannot believe the gall of Prime Minister Netanyahu in both trying to be the tail that wags the dog and in claiming that he speaks for all Jews.
A this point the USA should cut off all aid to both Israel and Egypt- aid that is used on both sides to suppress human rights. We must stop protecting the criminal Netanyahu regime in the United States and prove that that we are an 'impartial' mediator in bringing peace between the two sides.
A this point the USA should cut off all aid to both Israel and Egypt- aid that is used on both sides to suppress human rights. We must stop protecting the criminal Netanyahu regime in the United States and prove that that we are an 'impartial' mediator in bringing peace between the two sides.
19
consider: https://firstlook.org/theintercept/2015/03/02/brief-history-netanyahu-cr...
now consider: "It is the habit of every aggressor nation to claim that it is acting on the defensive." ~ Jawaharlal Nehru.
now consider: "It is the habit of every aggressor nation to claim that it is acting on the defensive." ~ Jawaharlal Nehru.
10
“The last thing anyone who cares about Israel, the last thing that I would want, is for Israel to become a partisan issue, and I regret that some people have misperceived my visit here this week as doing that."
Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit was arranged between a former Republican operative, now Israeli ambassador to the US, Ron Dermer, and the Republican Speaker of the US House of Representatives. Pardon us Mr. Prime Minister for calling out your lie.
Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit was arranged between a former Republican operative, now Israeli ambassador to the US, Ron Dermer, and the Republican Speaker of the US House of Representatives. Pardon us Mr. Prime Minister for calling out your lie.
18
Much ado about nothing.
Netanyahu will say his piece and go home.
The Obama administration will continue negotiating with Iran.
In the event negotiations fail or are derailed, Iran will continue building a nuclear bomb and will eventually become the second Islamic power to possess nuclear weaponry.
Netanyahu will say his piece and go home.
The Obama administration will continue negotiating with Iran.
In the event negotiations fail or are derailed, Iran will continue building a nuclear bomb and will eventually become the second Islamic power to possess nuclear weaponry.
3
Some people prefer to delegate U.S. security, warmaking powers, and political decisions to Israel. Other people know how to distinguish and U.S. interest from an Israeli interest, just like they can distinguish between a U.S. interest and a Taiwanese interest.
20-30 years ago, many American politicians were calling for World War to "protect Taiwan" from threats or even perceived threats. They were serious. Taiwan was their hobby.
Israel is the new Taiwan. Like Taiwan, our opinions and security arrangements will change.
20-30 years ago, many American politicians were calling for World War to "protect Taiwan" from threats or even perceived threats. They were serious. Taiwan was their hobby.
Israel is the new Taiwan. Like Taiwan, our opinions and security arrangements will change.
8
The issue at hand is Iranian nuclear hegemony in the Middle East is considerably more important than a president's thin skin and ego. Too bad Obama supporters don't like that Congress acted without him - his deal with Iran is woefully flawed and Boehner did absolutely the right thing by stepping in and inviting Netanyahu to speak the truth to the American people. Given that Obama intentionally misled Americans in his State of the Union address about the so-called "progress" of the deal, someone had to step in to stop this dangerous train wreck. Furthermore, we have three co-equal branches of government, and Obama is an elected offiicial, not a king.
5
The contempt was by Obama.
Thinking the microphone was off, French Prime Minister Sarkozy complained about Netanyahu, "I can't stand him…"
Obama didn't even defend Netanyahu but said, "'You're sick of him, but I have to deal with him every day..."
9
@Thom McCann,
Isn't it obvious that world leaders have little respect for Netanyahu and "can't stand him"? I don't blame them!
Isn't it obvious that world leaders have little respect for Netanyahu and "can't stand him"? I don't blame them!
15
No person of conscience can stand Netanyahu OR his grotesque terror state.
4
Actually, the comments speak mainly to how Netanyahu makes friends everywhere.
Why can't Netanyahu just be straight with Obama, instead of playing the hypocrite? If it's not "disrespect", what is it? He, as a head-of-state decided to come to Washington and speak in the Congress, without the administration's blessing?
The US has so far "invested more than $20 billion in Israel's security". This allows Netanyahu to see Israel as part of America's bipartisan politics, and have the right to interfere in the US-led nuclear talks with Iran.
I hope Herzog will unseat him. If he stays in power Americans will have to re-consider their relationship with him.
The US has so far "invested more than $20 billion in Israel's security". This allows Netanyahu to see Israel as part of America's bipartisan politics, and have the right to interfere in the US-led nuclear talks with Iran.
I hope Herzog will unseat him. If he stays in power Americans will have to re-consider their relationship with him.
15
All Obama has to do is invite Netanyahu to the White House, or to a nearby Starbucks. Otherwise, how can Netanyahu be expected to no longer "play a hypocrite"? Obama, always above the fray. As the GOP Senate demonstrates fulsomely.
It seems Netanyahu is as important as the USA president Obama in the USA , gets unusual attention, and Israel is the most important ally. What is that Netanyahu or Israel providing to the USA?
4
You're not paying attention. Our most important allies are the countries of the
EU. As for israel, outside of its endless conflict with Pakestine, its middle East foreign policy has more in common with ours than any other country in the middle East.
EU. As for israel, outside of its endless conflict with Pakestine, its middle East foreign policy has more in common with ours than any other country in the middle East.
Sometimes it helps to look beneath the surface. The US is negotiating with Iran, seeking maximum concessions. What better way to pressure Iran than to have Israel advocate a harder line? That helps Obama to look reasonable when pushing hard on Iran. Bottom line, the further Netanyahu goes, the stronger Obama's negotiating position.
3
This whole event exemplifies the problem inherent in our democracy: Why does any foreign government have such sway in our politics, it is disgusting and an insult to our ideals as a nation. Money makes this situation what it is, and until we can remove money and its destructive influence America will continue to pay homage to people that surely do not deserve it.
18
A little late for that, Bibi. Talk about two-faced!
11
Ron Dermer is a Republican operative. My understanding is that if you hold U.S. citizenship you may not serve in another country's army. I would have thought that also applies to holding an executive government position in a foreign country, no?
Netanyahu has been disrespectful by his act, regardless of how he tries to cover his words. Perhaps even the thickest of skulls can see the axe fall. Big time booboo, Bibi!
Netanyahu has been disrespectful by his act, regardless of how he tries to cover his words. Perhaps even the thickest of skulls can see the axe fall. Big time booboo, Bibi!
14
PM Netanyahu as the elected leader of his country is not only free but obligated to put forth his perspective on this or any other matter currently facing his country. However, PM Netanyahu is unprecedented among American allies at any time in U.S. history in his show of not only disrespect; lecturing the Pres. Obama at a press conference to openly supporting his opponent in the last election. While admitting quite freely he speaks "Republican" and on his last trip here he was wined and dined by Republican big wigs, he once again showed he works from a partisan playbook by turning down all invitations from Democratic members of Congress to speak before them.
5
I will not listen to bib's speech. He has no right to blatantly disrespect the president. Go home, you are unwelcome here.
14
Plain and simple Netanyahu is a liar. He and Boehner cooked up this address to Congress in an attempt to embarrass the President. But the real embarrassment is that Boehner is further revealed for being the knucklehead that he is who will do anything to score political points and Netanyahu has shown himself to be an untrustworthy and duplicitous weasel. I wish every Democrat in Congress would get up and leave him speaking to a half empty room.
For a lying Netanyahu to speak of a "moral obligation" is laughable -- he has no acquaintance with morality, ethics, class or common sense.
He has insulted all Americans with this stunt and so has Boehner and the rest of the Republicans who in their hatred for the President in particular and by extension the United States in general would rather conduct this sideshow than take the sane path of negotiation with Iran.
Boehner and Netanyahu are perfect together -- two weasel politicians who care only about themselves and the next election and not a whit about world peace.
For a lying Netanyahu to speak of a "moral obligation" is laughable -- he has no acquaintance with morality, ethics, class or common sense.
He has insulted all Americans with this stunt and so has Boehner and the rest of the Republicans who in their hatred for the President in particular and by extension the United States in general would rather conduct this sideshow than take the sane path of negotiation with Iran.
Boehner and Netanyahu are perfect together -- two weasel politicians who care only about themselves and the next election and not a whit about world peace.
15
After this latest fiasco I could see Boehner inviting Putin to speak to Congress so they can screw up the Ukraine peace deal too. Bibi is trying to use the Congress to stick a thumb in Iran's eye in an attempt to thwart the ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran. He can't get the US to back away so he is trying to make it where Iran will. The GOP controlled US Congress is a willing tool in Bibi's games. Another complete failure on the part of the US Republican party and yet another example of how they are inept at governing.
12
Netanyahu has shown nothing bit disrespect for President Obama and the office of a US President. People have forgotten that Netanyahu also stood before the UN and verified everything the Bush administration said about Iraq having WMDs, he was certain of that.
Netanyahu does not dictate the US foreign policy and our elected officials should NEVER allow any foreign leader to dictate our foreign policy. Any elected official that does that should be run out of office and I don't plan to vote for any Democrat that attend this slap at the president of the United States of America.
Netanyahu does not dictate the US foreign policy and our elected officials should NEVER allow any foreign leader to dictate our foreign policy. Any elected official that does that should be run out of office and I don't plan to vote for any Democrat that attend this slap at the president of the United States of America.
17
We have a situation where the Speaker of the House, in attempting to make a play on the President, has unwittingly(?) allowed Iran to create a rift in the relationship between Israel and the United States.
It is emblematic of the Prime Minister's megalomania that he agreed to this. His speech to Congress, while perhaps historic, will be remembered as a failed attempt to sway American policy, while further jeopardizing his position at home. The fact that such a seasoned player would make such a rookie mistake is a telling feature that Netanyahu is waning.
It is emblematic of the Prime Minister's megalomania that he agreed to this. His speech to Congress, while perhaps historic, will be remembered as a failed attempt to sway American policy, while further jeopardizing his position at home. The fact that such a seasoned player would make such a rookie mistake is a telling feature that Netanyahu is waning.
13
Let's not mistake effects for causes in this situation. It seems clear to me that a 60 year history of US hostility toward Iran has doubtless driven them to acquire such weapons as a safeguard or deterrent. Similarly, that same American hostility, directed toward Cuba made Russian missiles seem necessary to Castro.
My point is this: Our meddling, invasions and subversive activities carried out against numerous peoples abroad may have directly contributed to the dilemma that we face today. Were I Iranian, I would see the US as the "great Satan" too; and I would feel justified in doing so. Until we can see our own complicity, as well as the blood on our hands, we will have perpetual war...perpetually. Aren't we sick of it yet?
My point is this: Our meddling, invasions and subversive activities carried out against numerous peoples abroad may have directly contributed to the dilemma that we face today. Were I Iranian, I would see the US as the "great Satan" too; and I would feel justified in doing so. Until we can see our own complicity, as well as the blood on our hands, we will have perpetual war...perpetually. Aren't we sick of it yet?
12
“What I do wonder is why the White House feels threatened because the Congress wants to support Israel and wants to hear what a trusted ally has to say,” Mr. Boehner said on the CBS program “Face the Nation” on Sunday.
So with Bonehead's logic/defense, our Congress will now regularly feature opinion speeches by our other trusted allies regarding crucial foreign policy decisions without the preapproval by our President, and definitely when they're 2 weeks away from an election deciding their fate as a leader of their nation.
So with Bonehead's logic/defense, our Congress will now regularly feature opinion speeches by our other trusted allies regarding crucial foreign policy decisions without the preapproval by our President, and definitely when they're 2 weeks away from an election deciding their fate as a leader of their nation.
5
Deeply mired in bellicose antagonism for all things Arab, Netanyahu is not capable of negotiating around any opposing view that might even momentarily question Israel's permanently expanding settlements into "annexed" land and edgy projection of armed power in the region. He rabidly attacks the Obama/Kerry framework of sensible compromise with Iran without even knowing the preliminary diplomatic outcome. That Realpolitik worked until recently; he now needs to reinvent himself or yield to more creative Israeli leadership.
5
Is Israel an ally or not? Obama treats Israel as if they did not matter in the scheme of things in the MIddle East. Yet, Israel is our one true ally there (or, potentially so). Iran, on the other hand, doesn't treat its own citizens well. How can we expect them to live up to any agreement we make with them? Netanyahu has politicized this event but he has run out of alternatives. After Obama leaves office and points to all his accomplishments, will Israel's place in the Middle East be one of them? Or have they become unimportant?
1
I just cannot believe this. One would think this man owned the United States and the only reason for America's might to save Israel from it's own sins.
If the influence AIPAC has on our elected representatives isn't a national security threat, I don't know what is.
If the influence AIPAC has on our elected representatives isn't a national security threat, I don't know what is.
17
Too late for damage control now, Bibi.
Israel's political leadership makes America less secure. Meanwhile, Iran is fighting ISIS everyday, along with the American military, while Israel does nothing except build more illegal settlements.
What a joke.
Israel's political leadership makes America less secure. Meanwhile, Iran is fighting ISIS everyday, along with the American military, while Israel does nothing except build more illegal settlements.
What a joke.
18
Since Netanyahu claims that the U.S. and Israel are more than friends, "we're family", perhaps President Obama should do what any family leader would do when a member of the family misbehaves, give him a time out.
5
Too little, too late, Prime Minister. You've made your move and Israel will have to live with it.... As does the US, its face smacked by one of its 'closest allies'.
How do we get beyond this moment? Not by sending extra cheer leaders to capitol hill from AIPAC. There is no way for eleventh hour disclaimers to undo the double calamity of the House Speaker's cheeky invitation and the PM's calculated insult-cum-interference in accepting it.
From here on, the GOP will carry the extra weight of its branch office in Tel Aviv. Does anyone recall the 'Senator from Formosa"? ( Wm.Knowland, R-Calif) Here we go again. Over playing one's hand is always risky in politics: is that possible with Israel in the US? Let us see....
How do we get beyond this moment? Not by sending extra cheer leaders to capitol hill from AIPAC. There is no way for eleventh hour disclaimers to undo the double calamity of the House Speaker's cheeky invitation and the PM's calculated insult-cum-interference in accepting it.
From here on, the GOP will carry the extra weight of its branch office in Tel Aviv. Does anyone recall the 'Senator from Formosa"? ( Wm.Knowland, R-Calif) Here we go again. Over playing one's hand is always risky in politics: is that possible with Israel in the US? Let us see....
4
I am somewhat confused here. After reading article after article and many intelligent comments I come away with the following. Israel is our only friend in the Middle East and we need to keep this relationship strong. OK, I understand that and agree with the premise. However, from where I stand, I don't see how we benefit from this friendship. We subsidize Israel with billions in foreign aid annually. We sell them weapons so they can defend themselves. Regardless of the animosity between the two present leaders, there is no way US support for Israel will change under this administration or the next. But, what do we get in return? I rarely read where high-ranking Israeli officials publically thank us for anything. Lately, they insult us by announcing new settlements whenever US diplomats visit Israel. Could someone explain to me just how do we benefit from all this (other than pandering to the US Jewish population for votes)?
12
3
Netanyahu and Boehner are cut from the same cloth. They are both embarrassments to their respective countries and their actions deliberately endanger the possibility of peace in the Middle East. They both act as if they have to answer to no one, not even the people of their own countries. How about that, folks?
13
This is the height of disrespect for our President. i am generally an Israeli supporter but this has really soured my outlook.Netanyahu is taking advantage of the ugly partisan politics that is overwhelming our congress. I am ashamed of our congress but also angry that another world leader who claims to be an ally, would disrespect not only Obama but the U.S. Presidency.
7
Netanyahu is doing Obama a favor. As long as Obama can maintain sufficient domestic support for a deal, Netanyahu's public opposition strengthens Obama's negotiating position with Iran.
Within any zone of agreement that might exist between the US and Iran, Obama should use the fact of strong Israeli and US domestic opposition to a deal, to help extract maximum concessions from Iran.
Within any zone of agreement that might exist between the US and Iran, Obama should use the fact of strong Israeli and US domestic opposition to a deal, to help extract maximum concessions from Iran.
2
Why any self respecting Jew would vote democratic is beyond me. And playing politics? Isn't that exactly what the President is doing? Can you imagine feelings here if Mexico hated us, told us they wanted us wiped off the face of the earth, were trying to get nuclear power, and, say France, with a weak gov't was negotiating a nuclear agreement? I suspect even those folks in NYC would be upset.
2
Support of Israel has always been bipartisan, but if that changes, I certainly would look at the other party. On the other hand, there are still politicians who support Israel and the rights of women at the same time in the Democratic party. For now, I am hoping that they will prevail.
2
NYT article today re: Kerry and U.N. includes this from Iran's negotiator:
“Our negotiating partners, particularly the Western countries and particularly the United States, must once and for all come to the understanding that sanctions and agreement don’t go together,” Mr. Zarif said. “If they want an agreement, sanctions must go.”
Same old story: Sanctions go, Iran recoups lost trade money, while surreptitiously working on nuclear development in surveillance-proof and bomb proof underground facilities. The fantasy of "negotiations" then resumes to plead with Iran for more info, etc. And round and round we go. Why do we even waste time with them? "Speak softly, and carry a big stick," a president with backbone once said.
“Our negotiating partners, particularly the Western countries and particularly the United States, must once and for all come to the understanding that sanctions and agreement don’t go together,” Mr. Zarif said. “If they want an agreement, sanctions must go.”
Same old story: Sanctions go, Iran recoups lost trade money, while surreptitiously working on nuclear development in surveillance-proof and bomb proof underground facilities. The fantasy of "negotiations" then resumes to plead with Iran for more info, etc. And round and round we go. Why do we even waste time with them? "Speak softly, and carry a big stick," a president with backbone once said.
4
The problem for Mr. Netanyahu is that in certain political and media circles, disagreement with Obama is viewed as disrespect. Like the Emperor in the famous story, Obama must be perceived as fully clothed and any who see otherwise are vilified.
1
"“My speech is not intended to show any disrespect to President Obama or the esteemed office that he holds,” Mr. Netanyahu told the estimated 16,000 people gathered here. “I have great respect for both.” That is, as we say, the cow's husband or more colloquially refereed to as "bull."
14
He doesn't want Democrats to walk out. He is running scared here and at home. He is undermining our foreign policy with impunity.
5
Our relationship with Israel is a joke . . . on the American people.
A 2-26-15 NYTimes article reads: "Israel’s Defense Ministry announced Sunday that it had signed a deal with the United States to purchase 14 more F-35 planes for the Israel Air Force at $110 million dollars each."
The U. S. taxpayers give the Israeli taxpayers $3 billion every year to do with as they please. Now, U. S. taxpayers are told that as part of "America’s bedrock security support for Israel" on a bipartisan basis, the entire Congress and the Obama administration have agreed with Israel to use half of our annual monetary gift to Israel to buy from the United States 14 of the most sophisticated aircraft in our military arsenal (probably at a discounted unit price and with training for Israeli pilots thrown in for free or an extra 50 cents.)
Can anyone be surprised that Netanyahu and the citizens of Israel are just laughing at our stupidity?
I suggest that the Israeli pilots get in the U. S. supplied jets that they now have and start attacking ISIS targets. If not, why not? Perhaps a brave Republican U. S. Senator or a die-hard Israeli supporter from the Democratic party in the U. S. Senate, such as Diane Feinstein or Dick Durbin, will ask this question of Bibi Netanyahu when he lectures the U. S. Congress on March 3, 2015?
The response would make good headlines for the NYTimes on March 4, 2015.
A 2-26-15 NYTimes article reads: "Israel’s Defense Ministry announced Sunday that it had signed a deal with the United States to purchase 14 more F-35 planes for the Israel Air Force at $110 million dollars each."
The U. S. taxpayers give the Israeli taxpayers $3 billion every year to do with as they please. Now, U. S. taxpayers are told that as part of "America’s bedrock security support for Israel" on a bipartisan basis, the entire Congress and the Obama administration have agreed with Israel to use half of our annual monetary gift to Israel to buy from the United States 14 of the most sophisticated aircraft in our military arsenal (probably at a discounted unit price and with training for Israeli pilots thrown in for free or an extra 50 cents.)
Can anyone be surprised that Netanyahu and the citizens of Israel are just laughing at our stupidity?
I suggest that the Israeli pilots get in the U. S. supplied jets that they now have and start attacking ISIS targets. If not, why not? Perhaps a brave Republican U. S. Senator or a die-hard Israeli supporter from the Democratic party in the U. S. Senate, such as Diane Feinstein or Dick Durbin, will ask this question of Bibi Netanyahu when he lectures the U. S. Congress on March 3, 2015?
The response would make good headlines for the NYTimes on March 4, 2015.
15
What has Israel done for the US lately? Nothing is coming to mind.
21
It seems ridiculous to keep citing the "breach in diplomatic protocol" as the cause of all this disharmony between President Obama and Mr. Netanyahu. Considering the importance of the issue, if that were true it would be awfully petty.
Clearly, the president is worried that Mr. Netanyahu's speech could scuttle the deal with Iran, but if the deal is worth making how could anything Mr. Netanyahu says make a difference?
If the agreement truly guarantees the security of America's allies in the region, surely convincing the world of that is not beyond the oratorical skill of our president - one of the most eloquent presidents of all time.
Unfortunately, it appears that the deal doesn't provide any guarantees, and relies heavily on trusting a regime with a history of deceiving international inspectors. If Iran's compliance can not be assured, their Sunni neighbors will have no choice but to develop nuclear programs of their own - and as a long time proponent of nuclear disarmament, I can't imagine the president wants that.
It may have been better for Israel in the short run for Netanyahu to have gracefully backed out of this speech in deference to President Obama, but even though the friction is unfortunate, the drama has focused global attention on this proposed agreement, and in the long run the only thing that matters is preventing Iran from going nuclear.
Clearly, the president is worried that Mr. Netanyahu's speech could scuttle the deal with Iran, but if the deal is worth making how could anything Mr. Netanyahu says make a difference?
If the agreement truly guarantees the security of America's allies in the region, surely convincing the world of that is not beyond the oratorical skill of our president - one of the most eloquent presidents of all time.
Unfortunately, it appears that the deal doesn't provide any guarantees, and relies heavily on trusting a regime with a history of deceiving international inspectors. If Iran's compliance can not be assured, their Sunni neighbors will have no choice but to develop nuclear programs of their own - and as a long time proponent of nuclear disarmament, I can't imagine the president wants that.
It may have been better for Israel in the short run for Netanyahu to have gracefully backed out of this speech in deference to President Obama, but even though the friction is unfortunate, the drama has focused global attention on this proposed agreement, and in the long run the only thing that matters is preventing Iran from going nuclear.
62
Gary, to say that Netanyahu's speech can't impact the negotiations is the negotiations are "real" or "good" is naive. Letting Netanyahu, who wants US (not Israel) to bomb Iran out of the nuclear world rather than work through diplomacy, speak to this issue using our Congress is wrong at its core and it most definitely can impact a negotiation by either/both inflaming the Iranians and/or U.S. citizens who are not privy to the specifics of the negotiations nor the specifics of the issue as whole. Such a speech plays into the hawkish GOP and only serves to show the world our continued political dysfunction which in itself can hurt any negotiation. Our president sets our foreign policy. Not the Israeli PM or the Speaker of the House.
It is not up to Bibi or Boehner to decide if these negotiations are a good thing or not. It is up to Boehner and all of us to support our president and our Constitution in how such foreign affairs are conducted. The intention of both the PM and Boehner is to do neither of these things and this is harmful on multiple levels.
It is not up to Bibi or Boehner to decide if these negotiations are a good thing or not. It is up to Boehner and all of us to support our president and our Constitution in how such foreign affairs are conducted. The intention of both the PM and Boehner is to do neither of these things and this is harmful on multiple levels.
3
"....it appears that the deal doesn't provide any guarantees, and relies heavily on trusting a regime with a history of deceiving international inspectors."
Interesting how you and other commentators are privy to the details of these negotiations.
When encouraging the U.S. to invade Iraq, Netanyahu stated, "If you take out Saddam, I guarantee you it will have enormous positive reverberations on the region." So much for his judgement and that of the neocons. Blunt force seems to be the only tool they possess. Obama has some finesse and we need to give him an opportunity. I trust the President far more than Netanyahu and the neocons to make a deal that is in the best interest of the American people.
Interesting how you and other commentators are privy to the details of these negotiations.
When encouraging the U.S. to invade Iraq, Netanyahu stated, "If you take out Saddam, I guarantee you it will have enormous positive reverberations on the region." So much for his judgement and that of the neocons. Blunt force seems to be the only tool they possess. Obama has some finesse and we need to give him an opportunity. I trust the President far more than Netanyahu and the neocons to make a deal that is in the best interest of the American people.
4
Israel wants the best outcome. I guess Netanyahu figures he can get that outcome by derailing the current efforts. That's his calculation. I hope that's the right policy for the Israel and the region and not just for Netanyahu.
It seems possible Netanyahu believes that, since Obama is a lame-duck president, he can bypass the White House and work directly with the Republican Congress to shape American policy toward Iran—this would be quite heady stuff for an Israeli prime minister to be engaging in, even if he does have mighty AIPAC behind him.
After his overt intervention in the American political process, his claim that he speaks for all American Jews, and his almost disdainful treatment of the President, the Israeli prime minister has already so overplayed his hand that whatever he says tomorrow is going to be anticlimactic. This is odd coming from an avid chess player; Netanyahu seems to have made his moves recklessly; if he had been more cautious, he might have remembered that, whether he likes it or not, he is going to be dealing with President Obama for the next two years, and regardless of what he may think, the phrase “lame-duck president” was not meant to be taken literally, a better metaphor might be “aging-lion president.” Even worse, he has forgotten that America is not a nation devoid of pride; for most of its citizens, an insult to the president by a foreign leader, oblique or not, is not going to sit well; it is an affront to the presidency and hence to the nation itself.
It is possible that Netanyahu has already set in motion forces that will lead to his political demise. For a lot of people in Washington, and Jerusalem, too, his departure would be good news.
After his overt intervention in the American political process, his claim that he speaks for all American Jews, and his almost disdainful treatment of the President, the Israeli prime minister has already so overplayed his hand that whatever he says tomorrow is going to be anticlimactic. This is odd coming from an avid chess player; Netanyahu seems to have made his moves recklessly; if he had been more cautious, he might have remembered that, whether he likes it or not, he is going to be dealing with President Obama for the next two years, and regardless of what he may think, the phrase “lame-duck president” was not meant to be taken literally, a better metaphor might be “aging-lion president.” Even worse, he has forgotten that America is not a nation devoid of pride; for most of its citizens, an insult to the president by a foreign leader, oblique or not, is not going to sit well; it is an affront to the presidency and hence to the nation itself.
It is possible that Netanyahu has already set in motion forces that will lead to his political demise. For a lot of people in Washington, and Jerusalem, too, his departure would be good news.
9
Isn't Netanyahu kind of like the Emperor with no clothes? When is someone going to call his bluff? He's just your typical bully. He's making a fool out of everyone in his corner, including himself. Anyone with an ounce of intelligence sees right through him.
10
“Our hope is that the council will continue to shift its focus away from Israel and really focus on the bad human rights violators throughout the world,” a senior State Department official told reporters on Sunday, referring to nations like Syria and North Korea, which Mr. Kerry has singled out for its “appalling” human rights record."
This is the laughable comment Kerry made today at a UNHRC meeting. Mr. Kerry, we don't finance and arm NK or Syria. We don't prostitute ourselves at international fora, like you did today, to protect the Syrian or NK regimes.
This is the laughable comment Kerry made today at a UNHRC meeting. Mr. Kerry, we don't finance and arm NK or Syria. We don't prostitute ourselves at international fora, like you did today, to protect the Syrian or NK regimes.
Netanyahu can couch it anyway he wants, but he pulled a fast one, taking his domestic political campaign to American shores. Imagine Obama, uninvited, making a speech to Israelis during the height of his presidential campaign, a speech against on-going, delicate negotiations Israel was conducting in a matter of the security of both nations.
15
I doubt anyone at AIPAC has a kid in the military. So easy to call for war when it's some one else's kid who'll die.
25
He has not called for war.
4
Exactly who is calling Americans to war? What Netanyahu wants (and what bipartisan members of Congress and the Senate want) are more sanctions. Sanctions were working when Obama unwisely decided to concede away all of our advantages.
3
Please tell me when AIPAC called for war. Show us a cite, or a link - in other words, prove it. You can't, because they haven't. Instead of simply parroting Obama's false narrative that the only alternative to his bad agreement is war, why not educate yourself as to what Israel, regional Arab nations and bipartisan membership of the Congress and the Senate are calling for: renewed sanctions.
Those were working until Obama began to dismantle them.
Those were working until Obama began to dismantle them.
2
Actions speak louder than words. The American system of separation of powers places diplomacy in the hands of the executive branch: the President, his Secretary of State, and his ambassadors. Congress does not conduct its own foreign policies, its role is to ratify the executive branch's decisions, or not. Congress does not run its own show.
Netanyahu is Prime Minister of a close American ally. There is no way he is ignorant of this. When Obama proved insufficiently sympathetic to Netanyahu's agenda, Netanyahu shopped around the US government to find more sympathetic ears. If Netanyahu can't get the relationship he wants with the President, he will have a relationship with Congress instead.
Netanyahu claims no respect, but his actions say otherwise. It's one thing for Americans to disagree amongst ourselves. But it's another when our branches of government start conducting their own, separate diplomatic relationships.
Netanyahu is Prime Minister of a close American ally. There is no way he is ignorant of this. When Obama proved insufficiently sympathetic to Netanyahu's agenda, Netanyahu shopped around the US government to find more sympathetic ears. If Netanyahu can't get the relationship he wants with the President, he will have a relationship with Congress instead.
Netanyahu claims no respect, but his actions say otherwise. It's one thing for Americans to disagree amongst ourselves. But it's another when our branches of government start conducting their own, separate diplomatic relationships.
276
The US has no duty, moral or otherwise, to go to Israel assistance if the Iraelis attack Iran. Waging aggressive war was one of the principal charges leveled at the Nazi regime at Nuremberg. I'm still waiting for the ICC to indict the Bush/Cheney team for waging aggressive war in the destruction of Iraq. Winners' justice as usual.
3
Yes, I agree: " It's one thing for Americans to disagree amongst ourselves. But it's another when our branches of government start conducting their own, separate diplomatic relationships."
So why can't any American, in government, utter two words: "Israeli Nuke".
So why can't any American, in government, utter two words: "Israeli Nuke".
There is something inherently wrong with the viewpoint that Israel is the only nation in the Middle East that is allowed to possess nuclear weapons. Why is a counterbalancing nuclear force in the region not seen as being equitable ?
Given Israel's continued aggressive behavior and their unrelenting march to displace all Palestinians from the West Bank, all done with the existential threat of the use of nuclear force by both Israel and the US, does it not make sense that an Arab / Islamic State might feel compelled to defend itself against such a formidable and threatening opponent >
Given Israel's continued aggressive behavior and their unrelenting march to displace all Palestinians from the West Bank, all done with the existential threat of the use of nuclear force by both Israel and the US, does it not make sense that an Arab / Islamic State might feel compelled to defend itself against such a formidable and threatening opponent >
15
Newsfront from an alternate universe:
- more nuclear weapons in the ME is a good thing!
- threats of US and Israel destruction, just kidding!
- Creation of Israel in Palestine, oops we meant Poughkeepsie!
Does it not make sense> It does not make sense!
- more nuclear weapons in the ME is a good thing!
- threats of US and Israel destruction, just kidding!
- Creation of Israel in Palestine, oops we meant Poughkeepsie!
Does it not make sense> It does not make sense!
Well, then, I guess DOES it makes sense for all the Arab / Muslim peoples of the Middle East to simply accept living under the permanent threat of nuclear annihilation at the hands, and whim, of Israel and the US !!! Iran SHOULD allow Israel to be the only nation in the region to possess nuclear weapons, backed by the full force of the US Military.
No, having more nuclear weapons anywhere is never a good thing. But, is there any chance that Israel would give up their nuclear weapons in the name of Peace ? I think not. Israel is not even capable of acknowledging the existence of their nuclear arsenal. It remains the Big Secret that everyone already knows to be true.
Attack by drones, nuclear weapons, from a secret remote location, where the attacker does not even have to show his face as he wreaks death and destruction on the enemy, and on the innocents who are caught in the cross-fire. Oh well. Simply more collateral damage !!! Given this prevailing attitude, is it any surprise that the Muslim World is so angry at the West ?
I think it is YOU who is from an alternate universe if you think that the current gross imbalance of military power in the Middle East is sustainable, and if you think that Peace in the Middle East can be achieved when there remains the overwhelming, assymmetric threat of nuclear annihilation by Israel and the US.
No, having more nuclear weapons anywhere is never a good thing. But, is there any chance that Israel would give up their nuclear weapons in the name of Peace ? I think not. Israel is not even capable of acknowledging the existence of their nuclear arsenal. It remains the Big Secret that everyone already knows to be true.
Attack by drones, nuclear weapons, from a secret remote location, where the attacker does not even have to show his face as he wreaks death and destruction on the enemy, and on the innocents who are caught in the cross-fire. Oh well. Simply more collateral damage !!! Given this prevailing attitude, is it any surprise that the Muslim World is so angry at the West ?
I think it is YOU who is from an alternate universe if you think that the current gross imbalance of military power in the Middle East is sustainable, and if you think that Peace in the Middle East can be achieved when there remains the overwhelming, assymmetric threat of nuclear annihilation by Israel and the US.
Bibi came to the UN and said "trust me" on Iran's nuclear potential.
His own intelligence services said quietly "don't trust him".
Bibi has come to the US and said "trust me it's not partisan" when US policy does not permit invitations to heads of state during their elections.
US foreign policy experts say quietly to themselves, "don't trust him, he knows better".
Bibi Netanyahu cannot be trusted. And now should not be trusted.
He did this to himself. Israel and the world deserves better. If Bibi is not removed soon, the only "trusting" friends Israel will have in the US are right wing zealots. And we know their interest lies in the end times, not a vibrant Jewish state in the middle east.
Israelis deserve better and are entitled to a trustworthy Prime Minister.
His own intelligence services said quietly "don't trust him".
Bibi has come to the US and said "trust me it's not partisan" when US policy does not permit invitations to heads of state during their elections.
US foreign policy experts say quietly to themselves, "don't trust him, he knows better".
Bibi Netanyahu cannot be trusted. And now should not be trusted.
He did this to himself. Israel and the world deserves better. If Bibi is not removed soon, the only "trusting" friends Israel will have in the US are right wing zealots. And we know their interest lies in the end times, not a vibrant Jewish state in the middle east.
Israelis deserve better and are entitled to a trustworthy Prime Minister.
16
It is very disrespectful of Netanyahu not to allow US president space to pursue foreign policy and diplomacy that is very beneficial for the US and the rest of the World. And would rather snub his nose at the US president and the very country that gave Israel everything it has. So much for gratitude and respect to the very nation that laid it's foundation and supported unconditionally throughout it's very existence.
A nuclear free or a nuclear limited or contained Iran, aligned with the US is not only beneficial in terms of making the world a better place to live in, but also in terms of enhancing and improving US position globally in terms of economics and influence.
A nuclear free or a nuclear limited or contained Iran, aligned with the US is not only beneficial in terms of making the world a better place to live in, but also in terms of enhancing and improving US position globally in terms of economics and influence.
10
Bibi must go!!!!! He alone has put Israeli- US relationship at an historic low. His thuggish demeanor and heavy hand in the Gaza has isolated and vilified Israel on the world stage. Yes Israel is a strategic ally in the Middle East but its policies must not dictate US policies. After 14 years of warfare, the US has little to show for it and it is the Obama's administration new tact of diplomacy that may pave the way to a more stable Middle East. Iran, for better or worse, is becoming a major player in the Middle East and may be a key element in Iraq's stability and in the battle against Isil. War mongering and saber rattling do not work in the volatile Middle East; Israel must be a key ally in the Middle East and not a liability; under Netanyahu, his policies have become just that to the Obama administration.
15
Israel has been a liability to US since its creation.
3
I thought it was an interesting if not compeling speech. I had expected him to talk more specifically about ISIS, but it was interesting that he pointed out all the past disagreements with Israel and American presidents. He seemed to be saying the United States cannot rely on Israel during wartime to make decisions on the country's b ehalf that are consistent with our own strategies and policy. So far, though, I'm with The American Reporter online daily and its headline, NETANYAHU, GO HOME! - "Americans don't want your advice on how to negotiate with Iran, which you never have, or how to engage with ISIS, which you never will."
12
Like others I suspect the whole Iran issue is simply a diversion of the world community away from Netanyahu & Co's program of colonizing and annexing the West Bank. We must not be diverted.
17
In which case, it's amazing that Bibi convinced Iran to build its nuke facilities to maintain the diversions and distractions away from the REAL agenda: the West Bank. Smart guys, those Israelis.
3
The Republicans and Mr Boehner seem to have three choices: accept the on-going negotiations, let Iran build a bomb without negotiations or go to war with Iran to stop them. Sanctions will never stop the Iranians anymore than they stopped North Korea - we can punish them, but we will not stop them. Mr Boehner should be forced to bring that vote to the floor of the House of Representatives and allow the country to see where the Republicans stand.
3
Mr. Netanyahu's planned address to Congress is yet another example of politics playing itself out. Over analysis or criticism is a waste of time and fails to see the bigger picture.
In the current political climate, and maybe political climates for decades, each party, and the President, will be ever more creative in methods to out maneuver the other party. President Obama skillfully did so when he issued his executive order about immigration.
I have told my Republican friends to get over it. The President got you on this one . Make the best of it. Using it as a reason by Congressional Republicans. to hold up DHS funding is a disgrace and makes a mockery of us to the outside world.
Similarly, when it comes to Mr. Netanyahu's speech to Congress, I tell my Democratic friends to get over it. Speaker Boehner got one up one you. Get over it. Boycotting the speech by Congressional Democrats is a disgrace and makes a mockery of us to the outside world.
Those who accept one of these actions because they support it, and who criticize the other are simply not being intellectually honest.
In the current political climate, and maybe political climates for decades, each party, and the President, will be ever more creative in methods to out maneuver the other party. President Obama skillfully did so when he issued his executive order about immigration.
I have told my Republican friends to get over it. The President got you on this one . Make the best of it. Using it as a reason by Congressional Republicans. to hold up DHS funding is a disgrace and makes a mockery of us to the outside world.
Similarly, when it comes to Mr. Netanyahu's speech to Congress, I tell my Democratic friends to get over it. Speaker Boehner got one up one you. Get over it. Boycotting the speech by Congressional Democrats is a disgrace and makes a mockery of us to the outside world.
Those who accept one of these actions because they support it, and who criticize the other are simply not being intellectually honest.
1
The two elephants in the room: Israel has 200 nuclear weapons , Iran has zero. "But they want to annililate us...." Israel is forever crying wolf.
24
Yes, obviously they just made that up. Iran's saying that explicitly many times is completely irrelevant.
1
Pure hyperbole.
No one knows if Israel even has nuclear weapons no less how many they might have.
It could be the biggest bluff or deception in the history of warfare.
No one knows if Israel even has nuclear weapons no less how many they might have.
It could be the biggest bluff or deception in the history of warfare.
@Thom McCann: If so (and it's completely unlikely) it would result from the fact that Israel is not a signatory to any nuclear treaties. Why do you suppose that is?
Netanyahu is trying to get the US Congress, controlled by the GOP to enact harsh new sanctions against Iran while nuclear negotiations are ongoing. He knows he has willing conspirators in the GOP because their official party strategy that they voted unanimously for on January 20, 2009 is to thwart President Obama at every step. Bibi knows if he can get Congress to stick their thumb in Iran's eye Iran will withdraw from the talks. Where I am from we call this a back stabber.
5
The whole world knows Netanyahu's views on Iran. An address to House Republicans will do nothing to enlighten us further on those views. This is clearly a slap in the President's face from Boehner and company for purely domestic political purposes. Every Jew in Congress is a Democrat, with one exception. Every Democrat, and particularly every Jewish Democrat, should boycott this unprecedented political scam by Boehner and the Congressional GOP. If Democrats attend this "joint session" and sit through this speech, they are truly spineless, tools of AIPAC and the likes of Sheldon Adelson (who will no doubt be in the visitors' gallery).
16
Instead of bashing Netanyahu and Israel, our 70 year partners for peace in the Middle East, take a look at the timeline.
Obama's disdain for Netanyahu began when the Israeli Prime Minister endorsed Mitt Romney in 2012. Those of us here in Washington who've seen how the Obama WH handles people who aren't blindly loyal to and disagree with Obama (including discarded US military leaders, cabinet appointees and the like) know the lengths the Obama WH employ to silence dissent.
In this case the Obama WH wants its delusional legacy of converting Iran into a US ally--an Americanized, Islamic version of Israel. Netanyahu sees the ignorance in Obama's plan and the threat Iran poses. Obama doesn't. All he sees is an Israeli leader who didn't vote Obama for Prom Queen in 2012. And that is what drives the tensions between these two nations.
Obama's disdain for Netanyahu began when the Israeli Prime Minister endorsed Mitt Romney in 2012. Those of us here in Washington who've seen how the Obama WH handles people who aren't blindly loyal to and disagree with Obama (including discarded US military leaders, cabinet appointees and the like) know the lengths the Obama WH employ to silence dissent.
In this case the Obama WH wants its delusional legacy of converting Iran into a US ally--an Americanized, Islamic version of Israel. Netanyahu sees the ignorance in Obama's plan and the threat Iran poses. Obama doesn't. All he sees is an Israeli leader who didn't vote Obama for Prom Queen in 2012. And that is what drives the tensions between these two nations.
10
Gee, I didn't see when Obama publicly supported Cameron's opponent for Britain's Prime Minister. I also missed Obama's support for Bib's opponent during the last Israeli elections. Get my drift? Bibi had no right to inject himself into our presidential elections. He backed the wrong horse and you expect Obama to treat him as a personal friend? You back a losing candidate, prepare to be given a cold shoulder by the winner.
Really? How about the fact that Netanyahu is an extreme right wing politician to begin with, who dissed our Vice President by announcing more stolen land and Israeli settlements on them the day VP Biden arrived in Israel, and who also dissed our President on national TV while a guest in our country, and who recently dissed the French Prime Minister by attending a march he was requested NOT to attend and then went on to publicly encourage Jewish French citizens to immigrate to Israel? That's just for starters.
Perhaps if Israeli voters choose Herzog instead in a few weeks he'll realize his arrogance is no longer tolerated by a majority, even in his own country.
Perhaps if Israeli voters choose Herzog instead in a few weeks he'll realize his arrogance is no longer tolerated by a majority, even in his own country.
1
It was a breach of protocol for the Israeli PM to endorse a US presidential candidate especially against a sitting President. Bibi made his bet and he lost so now he's stuck with cloutless Boehner. Bibi's false 'warnings' in 2011 should be disregarded now? he was completely wrong before but we should believe him now with his conniving back stabbing deal? He was not to be believed before and he's not to be trusted now. Bibi is trying to get the complicit GOP to impose strict new sanctions against Iran to force them to back away from the negotiating table. Dirty, double crossing back stabbing means to his end, War.
1
I don't understand the fixation our politicians have for Israel.
We give them money and unconditional support. In return? They sabotage every peace effort we attempt.
It is time for the US and Israel to part ways. I wish them well- but their problems are not ours and they create too many foreign-policy headaches for our nation.
We give them money and unconditional support. In return? They sabotage every peace effort we attempt.
It is time for the US and Israel to part ways. I wish them well- but their problems are not ours and they create too many foreign-policy headaches for our nation.
20
Mr. Netanyahu,
Please know that those Congressional Representatives not in attendance tomorrow do not intend disrespect to Israel but rather respect for the United States Congress not being used as a tool by the Speaker of the House.
You can't have it both ways Prime Minister to proceed in this way. This was 'intended' as a power play, the consequences of which counter the friendship between the United States and Israel.
Please know that those Congressional Representatives not in attendance tomorrow do not intend disrespect to Israel but rather respect for the United States Congress not being used as a tool by the Speaker of the House.
You can't have it both ways Prime Minister to proceed in this way. This was 'intended' as a power play, the consequences of which counter the friendship between the United States and Israel.
16
No show Dems may not be showing disrespect, but when we finally get to see the agreement, it will show who is responsible for it.
1
Is there not a single member of Congress who has the chutzpah to question Bibi about HIS country's nuclear arsenal or about why he'd have us believe that Israel is defenseless against the "threat" from Tehran?
28
This is specious: Israel does not want to use nuclear weapons. The deterrent effect of Israel's bombs is reduced if Iran had the bomb too. One would also have to think that more nuclear weapons in the world is a good thing.
1
So you have a nuclear war in mind? I am pretty sure Netanyahu does not.
As it happens, I have no objection to Israel having a nuclear arsenal. It is, however, entirely disingenuous for a country with nukes to be complaining about another country's attempts to develop them (the same goes for the U.S., by the way). If Iran had the bomb there is no reason to believe that war would be inevitable- it was the principle of mutually-assured destruction that kept this country and the former U.S.S.R. from coming to blows during their 50 years of mutual antipathy. If you want to worry about nukes, worry about ISIS. Heaven forfend that those bloodthirsty, apocalyptic savages somehow acquire a nuclear weapon.
If Iran does achieve nuclear equality wih Israel, will the two nations achieve a situation comparable the position assumed by the Soviets and the U.S. from the Fifties on? We called it Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) and it cast the possibility of lauching nuclear weapons as too unthinkable to appeal to anyone with the slightest concern for the survival of his/her country and to discard the insanity of a first strike. Long live Israel and my beloved country, the USA.
It is GALLING to hear Netanyahu say that he means no disrespect for the President by barging in to US politics when his presence at this time is so strongly and explicitly unwanted by the President. Actions speak louder than words, and Bibi's deliberate actions contradict his words so starkly that his words sound like flat-out lies.
This is the same man that showed up in Paris for the Charlie Hebdo demonstrations, even though he was explcilty disinvited by the French Prime Minister. This is the same man who insultingly disrespected US diplomacy by kicking off a new phase of land-grabbing Jewish settlements in Israel even as Joe Biden visited Jerusalem.
Netanyahu is not just disrespectful, but he is rude, mannerless, like an obnoxious clod crashing a sophsiticated social function, invitations be damned. He is the most unprofessional of diplomats. And he is like a gangster, brutish, always ready to use force to get his way.
And for what?? Everyone already knows what he's going to say. Not only that, but his appearance will have ZERO effect on the President's current Iran strategy.
This is a sideshow in the Republican circus. When Bibi leaves, he'll quickly be forgotten, and we can turn out attention back to the main event, "The Thrilling Act of Government Shutdown".
This is the same man that showed up in Paris for the Charlie Hebdo demonstrations, even though he was explcilty disinvited by the French Prime Minister. This is the same man who insultingly disrespected US diplomacy by kicking off a new phase of land-grabbing Jewish settlements in Israel even as Joe Biden visited Jerusalem.
Netanyahu is not just disrespectful, but he is rude, mannerless, like an obnoxious clod crashing a sophsiticated social function, invitations be damned. He is the most unprofessional of diplomats. And he is like a gangster, brutish, always ready to use force to get his way.
And for what?? Everyone already knows what he's going to say. Not only that, but his appearance will have ZERO effect on the President's current Iran strategy.
This is a sideshow in the Republican circus. When Bibi leaves, he'll quickly be forgotten, and we can turn out attention back to the main event, "The Thrilling Act of Government Shutdown".
16
If it's a sideshow, chill and change the channel.
Everyone really knows that the use of nuclear weapons will never happen because whoever uses one would be signing their own death warrant as they would very shortly be completely destroyed by nuclear weapons themselves.
Unless the nation of Iran wants to commit suicide they would never use one even if they had one.
Why is it that Israel can have nuclear weapons but Iran cannot? And, as a nation in possession of thousands of nuclear weapons, how can the United States say Iran cannot have them?
Unless the nation of Iran wants to commit suicide they would never use one even if they had one.
Why is it that Israel can have nuclear weapons but Iran cannot? And, as a nation in possession of thousands of nuclear weapons, how can the United States say Iran cannot have them?
14
"And, as a nation in possession of thousands of nuclear weapons, how can the United States say Iran cannot have them?"
Is that a sufficient moral argument for any other country to have nuclear weapons? Are you really arguing for nuclear weapons for all?
Has Iran called for the destruction of Israel and the US? Maybe that's should be the question that stands out.
Is that a sufficient moral argument for any other country to have nuclear weapons? Are you really arguing for nuclear weapons for all?
Has Iran called for the destruction of Israel and the US? Maybe that's should be the question that stands out.
Apples and oranges. Iran is a terrorist nation intent on regional hegemony, aggression and murder. See Hezbollah in Lebanon, Iran in Syria, Iran in Yemen, Iran in Argentina and Iran in Iraq. They will likely use a nuclear weapon given their history of murder and aggression. Israel's weapons are for self-defense.
"Why is it that Israel can have nuclear weapons but Iran cannot?"
Easy one.
Spanish Prime Minister José María Aznar disclosed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had warned him that Israel was a "cancer" and "must be burned to the ground and made to disappear from the face of the Earth" (Israel Hayom, May 18; Haaretz.com, May 16).
Several days later, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Hassan Firouzabadi declared: "The Iranian nation is standing for its cause that is the full annihilation of Israel." (Fars News Agency, May 20, 2012).
Israel has never threatened to annihilate any of its "neighbors."
Easy one.
Spanish Prime Minister José María Aznar disclosed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had warned him that Israel was a "cancer" and "must be burned to the ground and made to disappear from the face of the Earth" (Israel Hayom, May 18; Haaretz.com, May 16).
Several days later, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Hassan Firouzabadi declared: "The Iranian nation is standing for its cause that is the full annihilation of Israel." (Fars News Agency, May 20, 2012).
Israel has never threatened to annihilate any of its "neighbors."
Netanyahu wants to tell us about the dangers of a nuclear Iran. I'd like to know what they told the Bush Administration about conducting a ground war in Afghanistan and especially in Iraq. They weren't very public then. They didn't say to the Bush Administration, "Stay out of Iraq, it would be a mistake."
17
Boehner has allowed himself to put the US in the middle because of his and Netanyahu's political games. This potential treason in my opinion. It's all about Bibi's re-election campaign. The Democrats should be calling for censure at the very least. Boehner has engaged in diplomacy politics that pose a threat to the way we are perceived around the world. Republicans love to play these games at the expense of US citizens in harms way. This is another stupid move that will be used by terrorists to justify their behavior and it gives them a sad sliver of credibility.
16
In fact, this episode represents gross interference by Boehner in Israeli politics coming as it does just before the Israeli election. The republicans certainly do love electoral circuses.
8
Disrespect? Now he says this. Maybe Mr. Netanyahu needs to do the backstroke a bit because, just because he may have fallen into a trap that Mr. Boehner has engineered to castigate the President. If the GOP was my friend, I would change my personality. The GOP beats a war drum and apparently so does Mr. Netanyahu. After all it is profitable.
7
Unless more war drums start beating, Iran is moving full-speed ahead. Denial and avoidance by USA solves nothing.
1
I think this will do more harm and turn American opinions against Israel. I think it should be discussed loudly, when the next bundle of aid is requested. Mr. Netanyahu is a longtime diplomat, he knows the rules and chose to ignore them.
11
And look where "observing the rules" has got America. We observe them, the terrorists and terrorist-sponsoring states don't. Relying on "process" instead of results is defeatist.
1
I am thinking about all the energy and money the world has expended over 60 years as a result of a mistake made in 1948. I'm think of how much better use could have been made of all those resources.
Maybe Israel's leadership should be aware of my thoughts.
Maybe Israel's leadership should be aware of my thoughts.
17
Believe me, they are. That is why they are concerned about their security.
3
How is it that our Ambassador to the UN could publicly say these words today?: "There will never be a sunset on America’s commitment to Israel’s security. Never."
Never is an awfully long time. Is it really so outrageous for us to imagine situations decades from now when our commitment to Israel's security must take a far back seat to other -- possibly competing -- national security interests of the United States?
Never is an awfully long time. Is it really so outrageous for us to imagine situations decades from now when our commitment to Israel's security must take a far back seat to other -- possibly competing -- national security interests of the United States?
19
As the saying goes: The road to Hell is paved with good intentions.
1
It is absolutely despicable that Netanyahu- along with Boehner and the GOP- is working to derail and sabotage President Obama's peaceful attempt at resolving the nuclear issue with Iran.
Benjamin Netanyahu is not an elected member of the United States government. He needs to butt out of our internal policy decisions. John Boehner is so consumed with hatred for our President that he wilfully skirts the line of treason. Both of their actions against our President sicken me.
Benjamin Netanyahu is not an elected member of the United States government. He needs to butt out of our internal policy decisions. John Boehner is so consumed with hatred for our President that he wilfully skirts the line of treason. Both of their actions against our President sicken me.
15
I don't understand the fixation that our political system (both parties) has for Israel.
As far as I can tell Israel is just a big foreign policy head-ache for our country.
We send billion there- and to Egypt and other neighboring countries- to keep a peace that no one there wants.
I wish that Israel and the US could just part ways. I am tired of hearing about them. I am tired of them spying on the US. I am tried of them disrespecting us. I am tired of them sabotaging every effort we make in regards to achieving their peace.
Please Israel- move on. I wish you luck.
As far as I can tell Israel is just a big foreign policy head-ache for our country.
We send billion there- and to Egypt and other neighboring countries- to keep a peace that no one there wants.
I wish that Israel and the US could just part ways. I am tired of hearing about them. I am tired of them spying on the US. I am tried of them disrespecting us. I am tired of them sabotaging every effort we make in regards to achieving their peace.
Please Israel- move on. I wish you luck.
29
Imagine President Obama making a speech to the members of The Knesset, uninvited by the Israeli head of State, in an election year and under strained circumstances as appears the case now. Netanyahu continues the grand standing from his last visit to Congress, May 2011. Then, during the election season, I thought he was demeaning and disrespectful to President Obama and the American people.
The Prime Minister’s continuous lack of humility, egocentricity and misreading context continues to be his style. Not only am I not surprised that he is having trouble with President Obama, I see too why he is not a vehicle for advancing peace in his region. How is Israel to ever find peace and stability if all of her neighboring countries remain enemies? To have no friends apart from the United States; this makes no sense.
The United States has been nothing but a die-hard friend of Israel; PM Netanyahu’s shenanigans adds nothing, it is a hootenanny filled with bad moves and poor judgment that is holding back much needed progress. Who is advising him?
We actually do not have all the time in the world to resolve the pressing issues in the Middle East. In the United States our hands are full – domestically and internationally – we do not need any more stresses; Netanyahu does not seem to get this fact.
What is distressing to me is that jockeying behavior only puts the Israelis in jeopardy. PM Netanyahu is on the wrong side here, he should have respectfully declined the invitation.
The Prime Minister’s continuous lack of humility, egocentricity and misreading context continues to be his style. Not only am I not surprised that he is having trouble with President Obama, I see too why he is not a vehicle for advancing peace in his region. How is Israel to ever find peace and stability if all of her neighboring countries remain enemies? To have no friends apart from the United States; this makes no sense.
The United States has been nothing but a die-hard friend of Israel; PM Netanyahu’s shenanigans adds nothing, it is a hootenanny filled with bad moves and poor judgment that is holding back much needed progress. Who is advising him?
We actually do not have all the time in the world to resolve the pressing issues in the Middle East. In the United States our hands are full – domestically and internationally – we do not need any more stresses; Netanyahu does not seem to get this fact.
What is distressing to me is that jockeying behavior only puts the Israelis in jeopardy. PM Netanyahu is on the wrong side here, he should have respectfully declined the invitation.
10
Well, after all the hot air and rhetoric of the past few weeks, I'm glad to see everything is back to abnormal between the Obama administration and Bibi Netanyahu. All it took was John Kerry playing good cop to Susan Rice's bad cop. After the Prime Minister gives his speech to the Republicans in the U.S. Congress, and wins reelection in Israel, I'm confident we can return to the same set of dysfunctional relationship as before between all the parties involved in this mess: President Obama, PM Netanyahu, and our most recent 'do-nothing' Congress. Where are all the real leaders in the free world?
2
Watching Kevin Spacey!
Imagine if Venezuela was in Iran's position, with just a 4-month breakout period standing between them and a nuclear weapon. We'd be freaking out!, esp. considering how much we freak out about their drug export business, esp. the narco's coke-filled submarines. A dirty bomb is far smaller than a boatload of cocaine.
I saw this before, as a teen on the Jersey Shore in October 1962. It was no joke.
I saw this before, as a teen on the Jersey Shore in October 1962. It was no joke.
5
Netanyahu claims he "never meant to inject partisan politics into the relationship."
I wouldn't want to be standing next to him when he said that for fear that a great big bolt of lightning might strike him down for telling such a whopper of a lie.
This arrangement was put together by Ron Dermer, Israel's ambassador to the US, who is from the US and used to work in Republican politics here. As ambassador, Dermer has been working with Republicans to lobby against President Obama's policies. Netanyahu knew exactly what he was doing.
I don't hold Netanyahu's judgment in high regard, either. He was wildly wrong in his predictions about what would happen if we invaded Iraq and toppled Saddam Hussein's regime. None of his predictions came true. In fact, toppling Iraq created a power vacuum which has emboldened Iran. Thanks a lot, Bibi.
I support Israel, the country, and believe the US should continue to stand ready to help them. However, I do not support Netanyahu the current political leader of Israel, who lacks good judgment and has conducted himself poorly.
I wouldn't want to be standing next to him when he said that for fear that a great big bolt of lightning might strike him down for telling such a whopper of a lie.
This arrangement was put together by Ron Dermer, Israel's ambassador to the US, who is from the US and used to work in Republican politics here. As ambassador, Dermer has been working with Republicans to lobby against President Obama's policies. Netanyahu knew exactly what he was doing.
I don't hold Netanyahu's judgment in high regard, either. He was wildly wrong in his predictions about what would happen if we invaded Iraq and toppled Saddam Hussein's regime. None of his predictions came true. In fact, toppling Iraq created a power vacuum which has emboldened Iran. Thanks a lot, Bibi.
I support Israel, the country, and believe the US should continue to stand ready to help them. However, I do not support Netanyahu the current political leader of Israel, who lacks good judgment and has conducted himself poorly.
384
There have always been elements of partisan politics in the relationship; what Netanyahu has done is inject poison into it.
4
"Bibi" doesnt' really care if you support him...it is the Evangelical Boys in our Congress that he is courting.
Yes, most Americans support Israel, and we are ready to support them. So why can't we utter two words: "Israeli Nukes".
There is only one nuclear-armed nation in the Middle East, and it is belligerent, expansionist and full of powerful religious fanatics. It's not hard to understand why it's neighbors would want to develop the ultimate in defensive deterrents. As North Korea has shown, nuclear nations do not get invaded. As Iraq shows, non-nuclear ones do. This lesson of history is not lost on Iran.
26
Tragically, there has sometimes been a shortage of "disrespectful" Jews around at times when they were most needed.
Luckily, there is one now who is trying to do his best to avert disaster for Israel.
Luckily, there is one now who is trying to do his best to avert disaster for Israel.
8
Netanyahu IS the disaster for Israel.
12
Netanyahu represents the greatest threat to Israel as George W Bush represented the greatest threat to the United States. Absolutely no difference. America is a safer place without Bush. Israel will become safer once Bibi is thrown out of office.
14
The disaster in my eyes is the loss of the respect of the American people like me, who have always been sympathetic to the Israeli people. I will think long and hard before I give unconsidered support to the nation of Israel.
I may not like all that my President has done or will do in the future, but I know he would never be so low class as Mr. Netanyahu or Mr Boehner either for that matter has been in this instance.
And maybe the 30 Billion dollars given to Israel in the form of aid spent on American goods, namely war machinery, could be much better spent at home.
I may not like all that my President has done or will do in the future, but I know he would never be so low class as Mr. Netanyahu or Mr Boehner either for that matter has been in this instance.
And maybe the 30 Billion dollars given to Israel in the form of aid spent on American goods, namely war machinery, could be much better spent at home.
3
No disrespect? But he failed to inform the President that he was going to address the Republican Congress two weeks before the Israeli election.
He is so partisan he would clearly fit right in in our Congress!
He is so partisan he would clearly fit right in in our Congress!
13
The moment Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu went behind President Obama's back and accepted a Republican offer to address Congress he showed both "disrespect" for Mr. Obama and made support for Israel into a "partisan issue." Mr. Netanyahu is a cunning, even, slippery, politician who has had a very tense relationship with Mr. Obama over the years. Mr. Netanyahu invited Mitt Romney to visit Israel and tacitly endorsed him for President in 2012. As an ultra-right-wing hawk, Mr Netanyahu has always been more comfortable with neocon Republicans who, like him, would like nothing more than for the U.S. attack Iran. Despite the words, Mr. Netayanhu's behaviors speak otherwise whether it comes to peace with the Palestinians or with Iran. He has been a consistent disruptive force for all of President Obama's attempts to forge peace in the Middle East, and House Speaker John Boehner has disgraced his office by inviting him to address Congress at the exact time when the Obama Administration is in delicate negotiations with Iran to roll back their nuclear program.
23
Where would the GOP, with its large congressional majority, be without stunts?
15
To go over the head of the US President, any President, to speak to Congress is insulting to America. Once again Israel is pulling a fast one that will cost them dearly.
27
Bibi is trying to get the GOP to stick a thumb in Iran's eye by imposing strict new sanctions against Iran while the nuclear negotiations are ongoing. Knowing full well it will cause Iran to withdraw from the negotiations. He's a conniving, back stabbing manipulator and frankly I am glad that President Obama has the character to recognize a wolf in sheep's clothing when he sees one.
1
Maybe Congress was feeling lonely since Obama only speaks to them once a year?
why isn't Israel worried more about ISIS?
5
Because ISIS is afraid of Israel and about the only ones they actual fear.
3
I also find that interesting. Israel may need to work with Iran in the future to help quell the violence spurred by the emergence of ISIS. Israel should concentrate more on building bridges with their neighbors. Instead it is making its best ally wary of support.
They are, and they are also aware that hesitation on our part probably strengthened ISIS...hence the speech.
1
It is boldface lines like this that adds to the already low reputation of politicians.
5
Ha'Aretz today tells us that Netanyanu's speech is not really about Iran or even the American role. Both Democrats and Republicans stand firm in announcing there will never be a nuclear weapon possessing Iran. Bibi is here to solidify his right wing reactionary base for the upcoming election where 33% is a solid victory. Even Israel has its low information voters.
We were lucky to reject the man from Bain Capital in our Presidential election hopefully Israel will do the same.
We were lucky to reject the man from Bain Capital in our Presidential election hopefully Israel will do the same.
9
So it is news that there is partisan politics in Israel, too? The modus operandi these days seems to be to demonize anyone with whom you disagree. Maybe we should get our information from first sources. How about listening directly to Netanyahu's speech instead of to those who tell you what you should think about it?
3
Deborah
Bibi is a politician and has a proven record of spreading falsehoods. That being the case even Mossad tells us their version of the truth seems of little importance to the Israeli PM. I would have more confidence if the Israeli President came because he is above politics and speaks for all the Israeli people.
Bibi is a politician and has a proven record of spreading falsehoods. That being the case even Mossad tells us their version of the truth seems of little importance to the Israeli PM. I would have more confidence if the Israeli President came because he is above politics and speaks for all the Israeli people.
Netanyahu should express his thanks to the Obama administration, the Democrat boycotters, the NYT, the Washington Post, and the rest of the media for all of their protestations. It has ensured that this speech will go down as one of the most heard, and reported, speeches in years.
5
How much does the US give to Israel each year? Is this Netanyahu's way of saying Israel does not need American money?
17
Unless the Prime Minister of Israel provides an alternative to what he claims the US is trying to negotiate with Iran, his speech will be seen for what it is: a political instrument meant to assist the Republicans to undermine the President of the United States and the Democrats as well as one used by the Israeli leader to bolster his own campaign for a third term.
15
Will John Boehner be extending his hand and inviting Putin to address congress next so that he can rally our government and explain that he wishes only for peace, maybe after that we can invite the next President of Nigeria. Why should Boehner stop at Israel is my point now that Congress has decided they are the real and only government? How constitutional of them.
14
it seems to me that if you have to mention the disrespect it is enough of a big deal that you shouldn't be doing the speech before congress.
18
Israel has 400+ nuclear weapons.
The sad reality is that numerous foreign nations have developed in the past, (or still now possess) nuclear weapons of mass destruction, including Russia, China, England, Israel, India, Pakistan, France, Canada, Brazil, North Korea, South Africa, Kazakhstan, and very possibly Taiwan and Iran.
Should we allow the leaders of each of these current or former nuclear proliferation states to visit our Congress, and make their own, one sided political points to the American people regarding their fears, justifications and reasons for having such weapons (to the exclusion of their neighbors), in an emotional appeal for our further military support and tax dollars?
It is inexcusable for the the John Boehner and current Tea Party radicals of the GOP to have created this idiotic situation where a foreign state leader is being listened to above the advice of our OWN government, in a situation blatantly designed to jeopardize an ongoing diplomatic effort to finally bring Iran's rogue nuclear program under the proliferation inspection protocols of the international community.
Should Iran pull out of US brokered non-proliferation negotiations as a result of Netanyahu's one sided speech to Congress, then John Boehner should be held personally responsible and duly prosecuted under the Logan Act of 1799, which specifically prohibits United States citizens without authority from interfering in relations between the United States and foreign governments.
The sad reality is that numerous foreign nations have developed in the past, (or still now possess) nuclear weapons of mass destruction, including Russia, China, England, Israel, India, Pakistan, France, Canada, Brazil, North Korea, South Africa, Kazakhstan, and very possibly Taiwan and Iran.
Should we allow the leaders of each of these current or former nuclear proliferation states to visit our Congress, and make their own, one sided political points to the American people regarding their fears, justifications and reasons for having such weapons (to the exclusion of their neighbors), in an emotional appeal for our further military support and tax dollars?
It is inexcusable for the the John Boehner and current Tea Party radicals of the GOP to have created this idiotic situation where a foreign state leader is being listened to above the advice of our OWN government, in a situation blatantly designed to jeopardize an ongoing diplomatic effort to finally bring Iran's rogue nuclear program under the proliferation inspection protocols of the international community.
Should Iran pull out of US brokered non-proliferation negotiations as a result of Netanyahu's one sided speech to Congress, then John Boehner should be held personally responsible and duly prosecuted under the Logan Act of 1799, which specifically prohibits United States citizens without authority from interfering in relations between the United States and foreign governments.
27
"he was grateful to Mr. Obama and the United States for their support over the years and never meant to inject partisan politics into the relationship."
A blatantly dishonest statement from a blatantly dishonest politician. This man has no shame. For most of us who have been life-long supporters of Israel, Mr. Netanyahu is one of the greatest dangers to our continued support and ongoing partnership.
A blatantly dishonest statement from a blatantly dishonest politician. This man has no shame. For most of us who have been life-long supporters of Israel, Mr. Netanyahu is one of the greatest dangers to our continued support and ongoing partnership.
36
I'm fair minded, I'll give Bibi the benefit of doubt he means no disrespect for president Barack Obama. Netanyahu has history of undermining Obama (2012 election). The USA has previously given much due support for our alliance with Isreal. That supportive alliance is slowly souring, not simply for any one particular reason. Allow me to elaborate further, bombing innocent Palestine women & children, undermining Obama in 2012 election, Boehner & Bibi's divisive and secretive congressional speech arraignment, Netanyahu's strong forceful support for Iraq war, now it seems Netanyahu is trying to push toward another unnecessary long drawn out war with Iran. I think people are getting tired of Isreal, when instead they should be getting tired of Benjamin Netanyahu.
1
He knows exactly what he's doing and what his visit means. He cares nothing about the President and will do and say whatever he wants without accountability in this country; his job is to enflame the pro-Israel camp in the GOP to further his own radical agenda.
17
What chutzpah from Netanyahu. He just wants to speak out, not mentioning of course that he wants to change the course the president is proposing. The warmongering Netanyahu and the Republicans in Congress prefer that we get involved in another war in the middle East. Just what will Israel be contributing to the war effort? Money? No. Troops? No again. Efforts to bring to Israel to defuse the situation there? No yet again. Instead they'll be building more settlements in the occupied territory, comfortable that they'll have "protection" from the USA from our soldiers, money, aircraft and guns. Meanwhile our own country and the infrastructure crumbles. This is insanity.
25
If he regretted it, he would not have done it. You can't regret doing something you haven't done yet. I guess it was good of him to pretend he regretted it
11
Let the leader of the ONLY true ally and friend of America in the entire Middle East speak about a common threat to both. This is no insult, but co-operation against a common enemy. The threat is not Israel, but Iran.
3
"Let the leader of the ONLY true ally and friend of America in the entire Middle East speak about a common threat to both."
Before the ill-conceived creation of Israel, America had no enemies in the Middle East.
Before the ill-conceived creation of Israel, America had no enemies in the Middle East.
13
In 2011 at the US Congress Bibi made his 'dire warnings' about the "existential threat Iran posed against Israel"(remember the cartoon bomb?) All his 'warnings' have proven to be wrong. His fear tactics didn't work and now we have hindsight to see that he was wrong. He is trying to get congress to work against the US President and he is wrong.
7
Iran is no threat to the US.
The US has no true ally in the Middle East. Israel likes US support- that doesn't mean Israel is an ally to the US.
If you give someone unconditional support, for decades, they might say that they like you- but they might just like your support. And the proof? Whenever they can Israel disparages our peace attempts.
It is time for the US and Israel to part ways. Good luck to you and your nation!
The US has no true ally in the Middle East. Israel likes US support- that doesn't mean Israel is an ally to the US.
If you give someone unconditional support, for decades, they might say that they like you- but they might just like your support. And the proof? Whenever they can Israel disparages our peace attempts.
It is time for the US and Israel to part ways. Good luck to you and your nation!
5
Even if no disrespect was intended, but now Mr Netanyahu knows that it is a disrespect but he still wants to go through it, and not correct it. That says a lot about the intentions. Only an Israeli PM can come to our soil and show dis-respect to our President, it says a lot about the arrogance and political clout of Israeli backers in USA. It hurts both countries. This special relationship badly needs to be reverted to normal relations.
15
Binyamin is only coming here for one reason: To attain as much spotlight as possible for March 17, Israeli elections. We can't fault him for this. Many issues that are dear to us Americans are becoming politicized and this is no different.
2
were do we -- or anyone -- get off telling a sovereign nation that they can't have nuclear capacity? we have it. Israel has it.
10
Just like no disrespect is intended whenever one of our diplomats shows up in Israel welcomed by an announcement of 1000s of new settlement units being approved.
25
Obama is actively working against the state of Israel, when
all the objective evidence proves otherwise.
The United States considers Israel to be a friend and ally, and maintains close economic, military and diplomatic ties.
Israel does have existential threats from neighboring
countries but, militarily, Israel is overwhelmingly formidable.
And all those enemy countries know it. Any country attempting
to launch nuclear weapons against Israel is in danger
of annihilation.
Israel has the ability to render large portions of Iran, or
any other enemy country, uninhabitable for ages to come, because its military possesses atomic weapons and the means to deliver them.
Israel also has a significant intelligence apparatus, which theoretically gives them time-sensitive insight into Iranian military capabilities and motives.
Furthermore, Israel has a proven cyber warfare capability against the Iranian nuclear effort. (Stuxnet virus)
Given the argument just laid out, Netanyahu's speech is a political stunt to get him re-elected. And Boehner is his collaborator whose aim is to besmirch President Obama.