Netanyahu wants to deal with Iran the same way he deals with the Palestinian conflict, with more powerful threats aiming for surrender. Not going to happen. Years of failure of this tactic is immaterial as long as the fear-mongering of Israeli's (and the rest of us) works. This is how terrorism,Hamas, Hezbollah, Iranian, Palestinian, works hand in hand with Netanyahu.
2
To analyze this dispute between Netanyahu and the Ambassador, we need to look beyond the rhetoric and get to the facts. Netanyahu claims Iran is not abiding by its IAEA commitments, while the Ambassador claims it is:
"Iran has dutifully stood by every commitment — as the International Atomic Energy Agency has reported."
Only one can be right: If Netanyahu, he has made a powerful argument for increased scrutiny of Iran; if the Ambassador, he has exposed Netanyahu as being alarmist, as some have argued.
So what are the facts? Here are quotes from the Report of the Director General of the IAEA from last month, derestricted March 4, after Netanyahu's speech:
"Contrary to the relevant resolutions of the Board of Governors and the Security Council, Iran has not suspended all of its enrichment related activities in the declared facilities."
"Contrary to the relevant resolutions of the Board of Governors and the Security Council, Iran has not suspended work on all heavy water related projects."
"Iran is conducting a number of activities ... which are in contravention of its obligations to suspend all enrichment related activities and heavy water related projects, notwithstanding that the facilities are under Agency safeguards."
"Iran has not provided any explanations that enable the Agency to clarify the two outstanding practical measures, nor has it proposed any new practical measures in the next step of the Framework for Cooperation."
Netanyahu clearly wins this debate.
"Iran has dutifully stood by every commitment — as the International Atomic Energy Agency has reported."
Only one can be right: If Netanyahu, he has made a powerful argument for increased scrutiny of Iran; if the Ambassador, he has exposed Netanyahu as being alarmist, as some have argued.
So what are the facts? Here are quotes from the Report of the Director General of the IAEA from last month, derestricted March 4, after Netanyahu's speech:
"Contrary to the relevant resolutions of the Board of Governors and the Security Council, Iran has not suspended all of its enrichment related activities in the declared facilities."
"Contrary to the relevant resolutions of the Board of Governors and the Security Council, Iran has not suspended work on all heavy water related projects."
"Iran is conducting a number of activities ... which are in contravention of its obligations to suspend all enrichment related activities and heavy water related projects, notwithstanding that the facilities are under Agency safeguards."
"Iran has not provided any explanations that enable the Agency to clarify the two outstanding practical measures, nor has it proposed any new practical measures in the next step of the Framework for Cooperation."
Netanyahu clearly wins this debate.
4
Sadly the Republicans can not stoop low enough in their fight to discredit the President. Having Netanyahu come in with disclosures eerily similar to those which led up to the war in Iraq is quite disturbing. Taking negotiations off the table leaves only war to bring down these perceived threats from Iran. In that event it is likely to polarize the middle east with most countries against Israel. If the Republicans are truly concerned about the National Debt they should be complaining about the several trillion spent on the Iraq/Afghanistan wars. They should also be more concerned about the over 6500+ dead American Soldiers and the 40,000+ who were maimed. Instead they are focused on the four Americans who died at Benghazi. Funding a war against Iran is likely to make all of these numbers pale in comparison. Yes, American arms manufacturers would profit. Makes one wonder what the Republican Party is truly thinking about these days.
7
Mr. Netanyahu took pride in speaking before Congress because America is truly an 'exceptional' country. It earned that distinction by expending blood and treasure to serve a higher good. It will do so again to defend Israel when or if the time comes. Because we face every challenge together, as one nation, regardless of political differences. But now there are those who are forcing dangerous perceptions of patriotism into our political discourse, regardless of the damage it does to our form of governance.
It's amazing that Republican leaders cannot see the long-term implications of their invitation. Without doubt, they have shown their preference for the opinions of another nation's leader over their own. Where is their respect for our form of government? What they have done has undermined and weakened, perhaps forever, the authority of our executive branch. But this seems to be a continuation of their 6 years of mocking and resisting the very first minority president in this nation's history.
They have less than two years to try to undo what they have done for our nation's sake. I doubt that history will treat them kindly if they don't at least try.
It's amazing that Republican leaders cannot see the long-term implications of their invitation. Without doubt, they have shown their preference for the opinions of another nation's leader over their own. Where is their respect for our form of government? What they have done has undermined and weakened, perhaps forever, the authority of our executive branch. But this seems to be a continuation of their 6 years of mocking and resisting the very first minority president in this nation's history.
They have less than two years to try to undo what they have done for our nation's sake. I doubt that history will treat them kindly if they don't at least try.
4
9/11 Reality - Israel, Friend or Foe: A TLB Special Show with Ryan Dawson ~ Article by Ariyana Love. See article and hear show here: http://www.thelibertybeacon.com/?p=34062
Iran is an oil rich country. They don't need or want nuclear power. They're a rogue nation and never should have been allowed to proceed to this point. Saying that it's only fair because Israel has nuclear weapons is beyond absurd. Israel is the antipathy of imperialism and has clearly shown that it's goal is merely survival.
4
First, the reason Iran is running centrifuges can only mean it is manufacturing weapons grade fuel - not fuel for nuclear power plants. Power plants use fuel rods require concentrations far, far below those required for weapons. Canada's Candu reactors for nuclear power utilize uranium whose concentrations done need centrifuges at all. Iran's "nuclear energy" program has always been a sham.
Second, the only reason Israel's predictions for Iran's nuclear weapons capability have been wrong is because Israel has taken it upon themselves to destroy key parts of Iran's nuclear infrastructure. Now that manufacturing facilities are buried in mountains, the Israelis can't bomb the plants anymore as they previously did. And don't forget the internet virus Israel sent to disable Iran's centrifuges. Israel proactive intervention is the reason that Israel's predictions haven't come true.
The difference now is that Israel can no longer stop, or even effectively slow down Iran's march to weapons grade enrichment. It's very sad that at this precise time, the USA is pushing hard to provide Iran with an "agreement" to stand behind while they finish the job.
If Iran doesn't intend to continue it's pursuit of nuclear weapons, then why does it want it's right to have so many (any) centrifuges after the agreement.
Second, the only reason Israel's predictions for Iran's nuclear weapons capability have been wrong is because Israel has taken it upon themselves to destroy key parts of Iran's nuclear infrastructure. Now that manufacturing facilities are buried in mountains, the Israelis can't bomb the plants anymore as they previously did. And don't forget the internet virus Israel sent to disable Iran's centrifuges. Israel proactive intervention is the reason that Israel's predictions haven't come true.
The difference now is that Israel can no longer stop, or even effectively slow down Iran's march to weapons grade enrichment. It's very sad that at this precise time, the USA is pushing hard to provide Iran with an "agreement" to stand behind while they finish the job.
If Iran doesn't intend to continue it's pursuit of nuclear weapons, then why does it want it's right to have so many (any) centrifuges after the agreement.
4
B. Smith: nuclear expert who should be advising the P5+1's top-notch team of nuclear scientists .......or maybe not.
1
Israeli aggressions? You mean building homes on land legitimately won after being attacked? No mention of Iranian aggression in Lebanon,Syria,Iraq,Yemen etc. this article is quite absurd ,and a dangerous narrative.
Every reader should look up 1979, the Islamic Revolution of Iran.
Every reader should look up 1979, the Islamic Revolution of Iran.
2
1) Technically Israel attacked first (pre-emptively).
2) After WW2 the world legislated against any "winning of land" in war
3) Iran is actively helping to fight ISIL, alongside the USA. Israel is making pals with the Saudis who fund ISIL.
4) Every reader should look up the background to the Islamic Revolution.
2) After WW2 the world legislated against any "winning of land" in war
3) Iran is actively helping to fight ISIL, alongside the USA. Israel is making pals with the Saudis who fund ISIL.
4) Every reader should look up the background to the Islamic Revolution.
3
Look who's talking. A representative of an illegitimate, unelected bunch of religious-fanatic rulers.
What they should be discussing are the terms of the departure of Iran's illegal criminal government.
It's like the ayatola is Don Corleone, their illegitimate selected president is Clemenza, and this guy is Tom Hagen.
And what's with the costumes and headgear?
(I do understand that this bunch of illegitimate rulers deposed another bunch of illegitimate rulers but that fact does no confer any legitimacy whatsoever upon the present bunch of illegitimate unelected rulers. I use the word "rulers" instead of "leaders" because the word "leader" implies some sort of legitimacy in the selection process. Over here what you have is selection by gun. Hence the use of the world "rulers".)
What they should be discussing are the terms of the departure of Iran's illegal criminal government.
It's like the ayatola is Don Corleone, their illegitimate selected president is Clemenza, and this guy is Tom Hagen.
And what's with the costumes and headgear?
(I do understand that this bunch of illegitimate rulers deposed another bunch of illegitimate rulers but that fact does no confer any legitimacy whatsoever upon the present bunch of illegitimate unelected rulers. I use the word "rulers" instead of "leaders" because the word "leader" implies some sort of legitimacy in the selection process. Over here what you have is selection by gun. Hence the use of the world "rulers".)
3
Hmmm .... do I detect a sense of panic? ..... a fear that truth may overcome deception?
1
Naysayers refuse to realise that Iran has a young population, 60% of which are under the age of 30. They are educated and politically active. Moreover they want to live in peace like their peers in the West. They are Iran's future, not the present establishment!
No doubt Netanyahu's fear of a nuclear Iran to pose a threat to Israel and the rest of the world is grossly exaggerated!
No doubt Netanyahu's fear of a nuclear Iran to pose a threat to Israel and the rest of the world is grossly exaggerated!
11
While heaps, not grains, of salt must apply here, this column makes a lot more sense than did this week's Washington speech by the Israeli prime minister.
And the US Congress is not disrespecting its function, and the people it is supposed to represent, by mindlessly fawning all over these remarks of the Iranian ambassador.
And the US Congress is not disrespecting its function, and the people it is supposed to represent, by mindlessly fawning all over these remarks of the Iranian ambassador.
2
The Mr Netanyahu's speech was an electoral one, backed by Republicans, which are in electoral campaign also, both united from their hate for the Mr Obama's Presidency.
Mr Netanyahu didn't bring any serious motivation why USA should change its Iranian politics, but only his hate and fear toward Iran.
Iran is an important Middle East player, that's why the ruling American Government is dedicating them so much time and dealings.
My believe is that Iran is not prepared to build a nuclear weapon, but they need nuclear energy for their new power stations.
From a different and hypothetical stand point, if Iran would be allowed to be a nuclear power State, as Israel is, it would be a deterrent toward the arrogant and aggressive Israeli politics in the Middle East. and namely against the oppressed and humiliated Palestinians.
In this hypothetical case, Iran would not be so mad to really trow a nuclear weapon on Israel, because they are so near that it would be as trowing the weapon on its own head.
Mr Netanyahu didn't bring any serious motivation why USA should change its Iranian politics, but only his hate and fear toward Iran.
Iran is an important Middle East player, that's why the ruling American Government is dedicating them so much time and dealings.
My believe is that Iran is not prepared to build a nuclear weapon, but they need nuclear energy for their new power stations.
From a different and hypothetical stand point, if Iran would be allowed to be a nuclear power State, as Israel is, it would be a deterrent toward the arrogant and aggressive Israeli politics in the Middle East. and namely against the oppressed and humiliated Palestinians.
In this hypothetical case, Iran would not be so mad to really trow a nuclear weapon on Israel, because they are so near that it would be as trowing the weapon on its own head.
5
Good points, based on facts.
Unfortunately, far too many Israel-firster Jews, primarily in the USA, along with their venal co-conspirators among USA politicians and neo-conservative Administration figures, regardless of USA Administration, support the despicable war-mongering of people such as Mr. Netanyahu. This latest caper, that combines the abysmal current USA Congress, primarily the Republicans in the House of Representatives, with an Israeli politician who represents the worst of Israeli politics, is the latest in over-the-top shameless false propaganda.
The Iranian government can and should do whatever it wants with regard to weaponry. The USA government, needless to say, has long had nuclear weapons, is the only country to have used them on a population, two in fact in Japan, causing unnecessary and unimaginable devastation on civilian populations. It also has a vast arsenal of such weapons, available for use and targeted at a moment's notice.
Israel inveigled from the French government in mid 20th century a nuclear reactor purportedly for "scientific" use, that served as the base for Israel's development of its vast arsenal of nuclear weapons. Israel has also repeatedly attacked neighboring countries at will, destroying infrastructure while doing so, even at variance with the wishes of USA Administrations.
The Iranian government has no such weapons and repeatedly states that it does not intend to develop any.
Unfortunately, far too many Israel-firster Jews, primarily in the USA, along with their venal co-conspirators among USA politicians and neo-conservative Administration figures, regardless of USA Administration, support the despicable war-mongering of people such as Mr. Netanyahu. This latest caper, that combines the abysmal current USA Congress, primarily the Republicans in the House of Representatives, with an Israeli politician who represents the worst of Israeli politics, is the latest in over-the-top shameless false propaganda.
The Iranian government can and should do whatever it wants with regard to weaponry. The USA government, needless to say, has long had nuclear weapons, is the only country to have used them on a population, two in fact in Japan, causing unnecessary and unimaginable devastation on civilian populations. It also has a vast arsenal of such weapons, available for use and targeted at a moment's notice.
Israel inveigled from the French government in mid 20th century a nuclear reactor purportedly for "scientific" use, that served as the base for Israel's development of its vast arsenal of nuclear weapons. Israel has also repeatedly attacked neighboring countries at will, destroying infrastructure while doing so, even at variance with the wishes of USA Administrations.
The Iranian government has no such weapons and repeatedly states that it does not intend to develop any.
7
Citing the use of nuclear weapons by the U.S. at the end of a brutal war (arguably saving far more lives than taking) and the very beginning of the nuclear age is as disengenuous, misleading and irrelevant as today's republicans claiming to be the heirs of Lincoln based on a simple name. Two-, and even one-dimensional references are certainly not helpful to this discussion.
I would add that Israel has had only one nuclear plant inspection, during the Kennedy years. The IAEA was not allowed in, only an all-American team. The inspection team was shown a bogus control room built over the real control room and the real parts of Dimona were off-limits for "safety reasons". These kinds of deceptions continue today.
3
Fist of all the Mr Netanyahu's speech was an electoral one, backed by the usual extremist Republicans, which are in electoral campaign also, both united from their hate for Mr Obama's Presidency.
Mr Netanyahu didn't bring any serious motivation why USA should change its Iranian politics, but only his hate and fear toward Iran.
Iran is an important Middle East player, that's why the American Government is dedicating them so much time and dealings.
My believe is that Iran is not prepared to build a nuclear weapon, but they need nuclear energy for their new power stations.
From a different and hypothetical stand point, if Iran would be allowed to be a nuclear power State, as Israel is, it would be a deterrent toward the arrogant and aggressive Israeli politics in the Middle East. and namely against the oppressed and humiliated Palestinians.
In this hypothetical case, Iran would not be so mad to really trow a nuclear weapon on Israel, because they are so near that it would be as trowing the weapon on its own head.
Mr Netanyahu didn't bring any serious motivation why USA should change its Iranian politics, but only his hate and fear toward Iran.
Iran is an important Middle East player, that's why the American Government is dedicating them so much time and dealings.
My believe is that Iran is not prepared to build a nuclear weapon, but they need nuclear energy for their new power stations.
From a different and hypothetical stand point, if Iran would be allowed to be a nuclear power State, as Israel is, it would be a deterrent toward the arrogant and aggressive Israeli politics in the Middle East. and namely against the oppressed and humiliated Palestinians.
In this hypothetical case, Iran would not be so mad to really trow a nuclear weapon on Israel, because they are so near that it would be as trowing the weapon on its own head.
3
My only disagreement is with the assertion that the Palestinian situation is the "real ticking bomb" in the areas. Well, maybe it's true that other ticking bombs have already exploded. But much language in the media, whether originating there or in the pettifogging language of "diplomats" reduces "the Middle East" to that little patch of land between the Red Sea and the River Jordan, inhabited by Jews and Palestinians and a few Druze, that's only watched from afar by Jordanians, Syrians, Lebanese, Iraqis, Saudis, Kuwaitis, Emiratese, Bahrainis, Qataris, Omanis, Turks, Iranians, Kurdistanis and maybe a few I've overlooked (the Sinai and the eastern side of the Suez) also put Egypt into the real Middle East.
Question: is the common use of "Middle East" as in "the Middle East problem" merely a euphemism to avoid saying "the Jew-Arab problem" or "the Israeli-Arab problem" (although the Arab citizens of Israel aren't really a problem for the Arabs outside Israel.
Oh, for plain talking in international relations! Will it ever be heard?
Question: is the common use of "Middle East" as in "the Middle East problem" merely a euphemism to avoid saying "the Jew-Arab problem" or "the Israeli-Arab problem" (although the Arab citizens of Israel aren't really a problem for the Arabs outside Israel.
Oh, for plain talking in international relations! Will it ever be heard?
1
Who listens to what Iran genuinely says. What matters to the West is what Israel falsely propagates.
7
Mr Netanyahu's concerns are legitimate and foresighted. The Iranian Ambassador does not and will not mention the statements made by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad about Israel. Mr Netanyahu has taken the risk to make this speech keeping his country's interest above his political career knowing well that he may be voted out of power. Iran if armed with nuclear weapons will not just be a threat to Israel but also to all its Sunni neighbors.
7
Being an Indian i can proudly say that we have a solid civilization connect with Iran, India always has geographical boundary with Iran until Pakistan created recently, for thousands of years. Iran mostly get the negative publicity in the western media, through its news, Hollywood movies(eg. 300), the views about Iran mostly get distorted.
The Iranian revolution put a deep psychological impact on the Americans which is mostly negative, but we human beings like to give priority on our version of our story, may be Iranians have their legitimate complaints against the Americans for supporting oppressive regime to gain the Iranian oil and gas. Those things we discount and make others demon which in reality they are not. Remember India's own relationship with America was not good in the last leg of 20th century. I myself used to hate America for their hegemonic attitude, but things changed and for better, now India have one of the best relationship with America.
We have two option, one to restrict ourselves in our own world view and think others as bad, or we can have dialogue and understand their legitimate concerns and that way we can make this world a better place to live. Let a better consciousness prevails around the world, we are the same people only divided in region, country and religions, otherwise our needs are basically same. Only when we don't communicate with others, we start bombarding our minds with all kind of conspiracy.
The Iranian revolution put a deep psychological impact on the Americans which is mostly negative, but we human beings like to give priority on our version of our story, may be Iranians have their legitimate complaints against the Americans for supporting oppressive regime to gain the Iranian oil and gas. Those things we discount and make others demon which in reality they are not. Remember India's own relationship with America was not good in the last leg of 20th century. I myself used to hate America for their hegemonic attitude, but things changed and for better, now India have one of the best relationship with America.
We have two option, one to restrict ourselves in our own world view and think others as bad, or we can have dialogue and understand their legitimate concerns and that way we can make this world a better place to live. Let a better consciousness prevails around the world, we are the same people only divided in region, country and religions, otherwise our needs are basically same. Only when we don't communicate with others, we start bombarding our minds with all kind of conspiracy.
4
The pent-up rage toward a fellow democracy, Israel, is astonishing to see. Many of these comments are truly shocking.
I'm no fan of the GOP or of the Likud Party, I personally hope a more progressive party is elected in Israel just as I hope the GOP loses seats in 2016.
But there's some real viciousness in many of the comments I've read so far. Bibi and Boehner were out of line in my opinion, but, the fears of a nuclear arms race in the Middle East are no laughing matter.
And, the Iranian ambassador's claims about the peaceful nature of Iran are disingenuous, especially considering the fact that Iranian soldiers as well as Iranian proxy militias are active in Syria, in Iraq, and the threats against Israel are constant, the disrespect toward Jews are explicit. Refusal to recognize the state of Israel and constantly working to demonize her and threaten the existence of the state is fueling Israeli fears.
All of you who are so upset - go look at a map. Israel is about the size of Rhode Island. Yet, I read today that Israel is guilty of "massive" land grabs, worse than Putin even.
That's absurd, it's prejudiced, and it scares me that in the fact of tremendous extremism and sectarian violence and oppression, truly zero regard for human rights throughout so much of the world, Israel has become the scapegoat.
I'm no fan of the GOP or of the Likud Party, I personally hope a more progressive party is elected in Israel just as I hope the GOP loses seats in 2016.
But there's some real viciousness in many of the comments I've read so far. Bibi and Boehner were out of line in my opinion, but, the fears of a nuclear arms race in the Middle East are no laughing matter.
And, the Iranian ambassador's claims about the peaceful nature of Iran are disingenuous, especially considering the fact that Iranian soldiers as well as Iranian proxy militias are active in Syria, in Iraq, and the threats against Israel are constant, the disrespect toward Jews are explicit. Refusal to recognize the state of Israel and constantly working to demonize her and threaten the existence of the state is fueling Israeli fears.
All of you who are so upset - go look at a map. Israel is about the size of Rhode Island. Yet, I read today that Israel is guilty of "massive" land grabs, worse than Putin even.
That's absurd, it's prejudiced, and it scares me that in the fact of tremendous extremism and sectarian violence and oppression, truly zero regard for human rights throughout so much of the world, Israel has become the scapegoat.
6
" The pent-up rage toward a fellow democracy, Israel,.."
Israel is more accurately a theocracy.
Israel is more accurately a theocracy.
4
The truth is not likely to lie on either extreme ends of this issue. The ambassador, while making a seemingly rational argument on behalf of Iran, comes across as disingenuous; the way a scheming party would ("see? I meant no harm!"). Cynical me thinks that, based on reading about Iran --and bringing up Palestine -- , it would be very naive to accept their position at face value.
On the other end, you have Bibi, who rubs people the wrong way (in the host country no less) by his actions in the past week. Israel does not hold the moral high ground with the Palestinian issue and settlements. Who to listen to?
On the other end, you have Bibi, who rubs people the wrong way (in the host country no less) by his actions in the past week. Israel does not hold the moral high ground with the Palestinian issue and settlements. Who to listen to?
1
All that Ambassador Koshroo really has to point out is that Iran buys advanced weapons from China while Israel sells advanced weapons to China---their number one client.
Prime Minster Netanyahu, arming a country that in turn arms your "existential threat" country is not a wise business practice.
Prime Minster Netanyahu, arming a country that in turn arms your "existential threat" country is not a wise business practice.
3
",,,,,,, In an interview with the BBC in 1997, he accused Iran of secretly “building a formidable arsenal of ballistic missiles,” predicting that eventually Manhattan would be within range."
.....................
Bibi has amassed a formidable ballistic arsenal as well..It's called: A hateful Special Interest Group called the GOP : a fanatical fear mongering/ right wing of Congress, using terrorism as military/industrial propaganda bludgeon, which Bibi wore like a ballerina's tutu, to hurl his insults and assignations against our president. Bibi does not seem to comprehend our country's right to have a border that does not include Israel as one of its states.
Bibi's special interests were so clear that even his tie told the truth, tacking so far to the Right that Fashion consultant, John Boehner, ( Stylist to 'fear for hire' foreign indignitaries) had to adjust it, pre-pulpit.
If Netanyahu is so eager to thumb his nose at our President and the 'other' half of our congressional body, to lecture us all as ignorant children in Halls OUR taxes paid for, to represent 'his' special interests, furthering agendas such as Sheldon Adelson's, to use our Congress as a political costume and to behave as if his annual $3 billion allowance ( & the best war machinery in the world ) is his 'birthright'.....then no wonder Israel wants a new Prime Minister. We do.
Are ordinary Americans welcome to come make assignations before Israel's parliament?
Such a sermon I could give!
.....................
Bibi has amassed a formidable ballistic arsenal as well..It's called: A hateful Special Interest Group called the GOP : a fanatical fear mongering/ right wing of Congress, using terrorism as military/industrial propaganda bludgeon, which Bibi wore like a ballerina's tutu, to hurl his insults and assignations against our president. Bibi does not seem to comprehend our country's right to have a border that does not include Israel as one of its states.
Bibi's special interests were so clear that even his tie told the truth, tacking so far to the Right that Fashion consultant, John Boehner, ( Stylist to 'fear for hire' foreign indignitaries) had to adjust it, pre-pulpit.
If Netanyahu is so eager to thumb his nose at our President and the 'other' half of our congressional body, to lecture us all as ignorant children in Halls OUR taxes paid for, to represent 'his' special interests, furthering agendas such as Sheldon Adelson's, to use our Congress as a political costume and to behave as if his annual $3 billion allowance ( & the best war machinery in the world ) is his 'birthright'.....then no wonder Israel wants a new Prime Minister. We do.
Are ordinary Americans welcome to come make assignations before Israel's parliament?
Such a sermon I could give!
5
I see to recall that Iran did invade Iraq, and the former Iranian president did indicate he would like to eliminate Israel and banish all the Jews to the sea, and that the IAEA has never succeeded in getting Iran to agree to a comprehensive nuclear inspection regime, including all the hidden facilities buried deep underground. In these conditions it is completely unsurprising that on-one trusts Iran - furthermore why Iran needs nuclear power for power generation when it has untold reserves of natural gas is an interesting analytical issue.
None of this however justifies a nuclear-armed Netanyahu leveraging Israeli interests into the US foreign policy determination process, nor does it have any bearing on the rights and wrongs of the Israel-Palestine situation which needs resolution on its own terms distinct from anything to do with Iran and its nuclear ambitions.
None of this however justifies a nuclear-armed Netanyahu leveraging Israeli interests into the US foreign policy determination process, nor does it have any bearing on the rights and wrongs of the Israel-Palestine situation which needs resolution on its own terms distinct from anything to do with Iran and its nuclear ambitions.
1
Good advice Bibi. Learn how to be a good neighbor. Don't invite your friends to camp on your neighbors lawn. Stop stealing your neighbors water to put in your drinks and swimming pools. That is just rude. It is hardly surprising that they sometimes chuck rocks over your wall.
******************
6 Hosting tips for Bibi: don’t urge people to move in if you think your neighborhood is extremely dangerous
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2015/03/6-hosting-tips-for-bibi-dont-urge-peo...
******************
6 Hosting tips for Bibi: don’t urge people to move in if you think your neighborhood is extremely dangerous
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2015/03/6-hosting-tips-for-bibi-dont-urge-peo...
5
Iran is sitting on the second largest oil reserves in the world. Why would anybody not dream of creating some kind of instability and justify intervention?
2
Of course Iran wants to develop nuclear weapons. Of course we shouldn't trust them. The question is how do we strike a deal where we can have our eyes and ears supervising? This will require negotiation.
2
"Of course" ....I'd say propaganda way off course.
The more I listen to the rabid war-monger Netanyahu - who was the most vocal supporter of the US attack on Iraq to the obvious benefit of Iran - it is obvious Israel is in very poor hands at present.
I will always support Israelis as they no more are to blame for Netanyahu as Americans were to blame for Bush.
These sociopaths were thrust upon gentler peoples through monied interests benefiting from such.
Netanyahu has been wrong for years, right along with the Republicans who cheered him as they should have cheered their own President.
It is despicable that a group of people who earned 18% of the nation's vote (after voter suppression and gerrymandering) purport to speak for the typical American.
The typical American is outraged that a right wing foreign leader is invited to Congress outside of Presidential protocol - risking the entire US-Israeli relationship for the sake of an election in coming weeks.
If the citizens of Israel are paying attention, they would ride Netanyahu out of office in tar and feathers for the self-serving undermining of US-Israeli interests for generations he committed.
I will always support Israelis as they no more are to blame for Netanyahu as Americans were to blame for Bush.
These sociopaths were thrust upon gentler peoples through monied interests benefiting from such.
Netanyahu has been wrong for years, right along with the Republicans who cheered him as they should have cheered their own President.
It is despicable that a group of people who earned 18% of the nation's vote (after voter suppression and gerrymandering) purport to speak for the typical American.
The typical American is outraged that a right wing foreign leader is invited to Congress outside of Presidential protocol - risking the entire US-Israeli relationship for the sake of an election in coming weeks.
If the citizens of Israel are paying attention, they would ride Netanyahu out of office in tar and feathers for the self-serving undermining of US-Israeli interests for generations he committed.
5
Iran's Ambassador helps us keep our eyes on the ball. While Netanyahu tries to divert world attention toward Iran and away from his colonization/annexation program for the West Bank, the Ambassador correctly brings us back to the main problem; Israel's human rights abuse and violations of international law in the State of Palestine.
2
Previously, Mr. Netanyahu's false alarms and intentional, self-serving deceptions helped to justify a cabal of Republican wild-eyed war-mongers to attack Iraq and cause the US irreparable damage in the Middle East and enormous loss of life and treasure. Can this new group of Republican crazies in Congress lead the USA to another foolish escapade, this time against Iran? Mr. Netanyahu's lies must be exposed, as the Iranian Ambassador has started to do so well.
2
How many centrifuges does Israel have? How many nukes? How many ballistic missiles? How many submarines with nuclear tipped cruise missiles offshore from Iran?
Its Samson Option includes nuking European capitals.
As Iran is under constant threat and aggression (blowing up physicists is terrorism, Stuxnet is terrorism) from the world's two most aggressive and bloodthirsty nations it would be eminently sensible to develop nuclear weapons asap. For those familiar with the Manhattan Project 24/7 is the way to go.
Perhaps with a nuclear Iran there might even be a slight restraint to bombing and artillery barrages on densely populated civilian areas.
Its Samson Option includes nuking European capitals.
As Iran is under constant threat and aggression (blowing up physicists is terrorism, Stuxnet is terrorism) from the world's two most aggressive and bloodthirsty nations it would be eminently sensible to develop nuclear weapons asap. For those familiar with the Manhattan Project 24/7 is the way to go.
Perhaps with a nuclear Iran there might even be a slight restraint to bombing and artillery barrages on densely populated civilian areas.
3
I realize the Bible is of no importance to most of the people we hear. But it is of great and grave importance to our very existence from beginning to end. It clearly states the fact that any Nation that blesses Israel....WILL be blessed. We have done so all these years...until now! We are faltering. That prophecy is true...as has been others that were foretold in the Bible. Israel is the pivotal point. We will either descend or ascend according to our treatment of Israel.
Don't blame a man that has the guts to stand up and fight for his country's
existence. Wish we had some like him here in America!
Don't blame a man that has the guts to stand up and fight for his country's
existence. Wish we had some like him here in America!
2
If we start managing this planet based on religious faiths (far too many) we are doomed.
1
You've all apparently forgotten the Iran hostage crisis. Well, some of us haven't. Horrible regime and you want to get in bed with it.
2
You've apparently forgotten what caused the Iranian Revolution. Given what the West did to Iran, the US was lucky to get the hostages back alive.
2
Let us put the remarks of the Ambassador in context. Iran is a country which:
• stones to death women accused of adultery,
• hangs homosexuals,
• persecutes Bahai's,
• oppresses Kurds,
• abuses Sunni Muslims,
• funds Hezbollah,
• funds Hamas,
• supports Assad,
• brutally quashes political opposition,
• murders Jews in distant Argentina,
• and persistently calls for the annihilation of Israel.
The Ambassador’s remarks omitted to mention the attempted assassination of his counterpart, the Saudi Ambassador to Washington.
How can anyone trust Iran?
• stones to death women accused of adultery,
• hangs homosexuals,
• persecutes Bahai's,
• oppresses Kurds,
• abuses Sunni Muslims,
• funds Hezbollah,
• funds Hamas,
• supports Assad,
• brutally quashes political opposition,
• murders Jews in distant Argentina,
• and persistently calls for the annihilation of Israel.
The Ambassador’s remarks omitted to mention the attempted assassination of his counterpart, the Saudi Ambassador to Washington.
How can anyone trust Iran?
5
Let's put Netanyahu's remarks in context.
Ooops sorry not enough room within the NYT comments limits.
How can anyone trust a person known for human rights abuse and suspected of war crimes.
Ooops sorry not enough room within the NYT comments limits.
How can anyone trust a person known for human rights abuse and suspected of war crimes.
1
Mr Netanyahu diverted the commentary to the topic of Iran. Many Congress leaders, even most of the ones who boycotted his speech, or objected to it, would agree that for us to trust Iran's nuclear aims would be folly. He therefore preached to the choir here, and easily got us arguing over his facts, his logic, his bellicosity, his undiplomatic effrontery and disrespect for Obama. Of course no one raised the charges of Israeli war crimes in its last incursion into Gaza. Not many in the media or our leaders questioned him about Israel's persecution of the Palestinians. As political speeches go, the Israeli's went over like a high school valedictorian's it was so uninspiring. But it brilliantly got most American discussing Iran's weapons, which Israel will and can do nothing about, instead of talking about the Israeli oppression of the Palestinians which Israel can do something about.
2
Absolutely. Netanyahu is both smart and devious. His objective has been and continues to be the diversion of public attention away from the Palestinian issue. While everyone fusses over Iran he step by step unrolls his program for the colonization and annexation of the West Bank.
1
I am disappointed that our administration employed unsavory tactics to undermine whatever positive value hearing from the PM might have had. Why in the world would our secretary of state blame Israel for the second invasion of Iraq? It was the CIA holdover from the Clinton administration who said it was a slam dunk that Iraq had WMDs. Blaming Israel for W's war was akin to the nasty things people say about Jewish people. He even seemed uncomfortable in saying what he did. The SOS did not dream this attack up. The marching orders came straight from the White House. The President lessened himself and his office. And, then there was the threat by the White House that the PM would reveal secret details of the deal. It did not happen, but why was anything secret? Iran is according to them our sworn enemy and it knows the deal. So, why a secret? Be cause it is , in fact, a bad deal? Israel politics will be whatever, but we ended up looking bad.
3
Ambassador Khoshroo should kiss the ground that he walks on that the NYT and our First Amendment allow him to offer his opinion on the Netanyahu speech without fear of retribution. I would ask the Ambassador if the same courtesy could be afforded to the representative of US interests in Teheran (since there hasn't been an American ambassador to Iran for ca. 35 years) to offer a position of the nuclear issue contrary to that of Ayatollah Khamenei et al. The ambassador surely knows what the answer to this question is.
The breath-taking naivete of the world community to this rhetoric (witness the recent war games in the Persian Gulf with "a mock US aircraft carrier" as the target) plus the conveniently ignored support of Hamas, Hezbollah, et al. tell us all that we need to know about the present regime in Teheran.
The breath-taking naivete of the world community to this rhetoric (witness the recent war games in the Persian Gulf with "a mock US aircraft carrier" as the target) plus the conveniently ignored support of Hamas, Hezbollah, et al. tell us all that we need to know about the present regime in Teheran.
4
Great, now the NYT has given the representative of Terrorist State Iran a soapbox to stand on, while forgetting that Iran HUD its nuclear program for years. I guess war is inevitable, thanks to Obama giving us peace in our time. Many nations that have peaceful nuclear power do not enrich uranium, rather than have us turn Teheren into a lake of fire perhaps Iran should cone clean and permit inspections and renounce terrorism. Obama may be a weak President, but he's retiring soon and you can bet our next President will be resolute.
3
Martin Van Creveld, a prominent professor of military history at the prestigious Hebrew University in Jerusalem, told a Dutch magazine the following in 2002: “We possess several hundred atomic warheads and rockets and can launch them at targets in all directions, perhaps even at Rome. Most European capitals are targets for our air force.” He went on to say “Our armed forces, however, are not the thirtieth strongest in the world, but rather the second or third. We have the capability to take the world down with us. And I can assure you that that will happen before Israel goes under.” (The original interview appeared in the Dutch weekly magazine:Elsevier, 2002, no. 17, p. 52-53, April 27th, 2002).
4
This man is a criminal and should suffer the harshest of punishments.
It really saddens me to see a respected newspaper engage in such a misinformation campaign. Netanyahu may well be a skilled politician with his own agenda, but it is the ambassador of Iran that is clearly creating a smoke screen, deviating the subject in hand, to give way to anti-Semitic, anti-Israel (not surprisingly) and anti-civilization claims. I'm also amazed at the number of readers who promptly accepted his invitation to simply deny known facts.
3
It is almost unbelievable the number of people in the United States and in Israel who have forgotton Osama bin Laden's first video after the World Trade Center's 9/11 nightmare. To paraphrase..."We did this in retaliation for the United State's support of Israel in their continued assault on the Palestinians"
I used to think of Cheney and Bush as the Fathers of Contemporary Global Terrorism. It should be, of course, Netanyahu, Cheney and Bush as the Fathers of Contemporary Global Terrorism. (John Boehner is forever a wannabe sniveling in the background).
I used to think of Cheney and Bush as the Fathers of Contemporary Global Terrorism. It should be, of course, Netanyahu, Cheney and Bush as the Fathers of Contemporary Global Terrorism. (John Boehner is forever a wannabe sniveling in the background).
3
looking for a different point of view from anyone in a leadership position in Iran would be like looking to Putin to explain why what is going on in Ukraine is all Ukraines fault. Only a very confused person would believe that Iran plans to follow any treaty they agree to. You don't have to be a republican or jewish to not trust Iran. For more details on why this deal will never work out, everyone should read the following.... http://www.the-american-interest.com/2015/03/04/the-prime-ministers-speech/
2
It is shameful to see how member of congress were tripping over themselves to show their support for Mr. Netanyahu who has lost credibility in the eye of the world public opinion many years ago. I don’t blame Netanyahu for doing what he can including lying, exaggerating, misinforming to get what he wants for his nation but it sad and disgraceful to see members of congress who are supposed to defend the America’s national interest so publicly throw themselves at another countries politician. Israel and Netanyahu pushed us to go to war with Iraq and we all saw the consequence of their actions. He knows Americans have short memories so he is back again for another round of warmongering. He will continue doing this since it is not their soldiers’ precious lives which will be lost or the politicians’ sons who support him. It is American servicemen and their families who have to pay the cost. From the Iranians’ perspective, Netanyahu’s speech will only confirm their government’s rhetoric that Israel is the biggest enemy of not only Iran but all of the Middle Eastern nations and it is the main source of conflict in the Middle East. Secondly, it will harden the position of those who were against any rapprochement with the west.
2
Following photo copy of the Mosad report is published in The Guardian " is quite revealing.
"Even though Iran has accumulated enough 5% enriched Uranium for several bombs and enriched some of it to 20% it does not appear ready to enrich it higher levels. It is allocating some of it to produce nuclear fuel for the TRR and the amount of 20% is therefore not increasing".
http://www.theguardian.com/…/feb/23/leaked-spy-cables-netan…...
Also aggressive Netanyahu back in the early 2000s was horribly mistaken saying "There is no question whatsoever that Saddam is seeking, is working, is advancing towards to the development of nuclear weapons," "Once Saddam has nuclear weapons, the terror network will have nuclear weapons."
Netanyahu was wrong as usual— Saddam was not building a nuclear. He also made a terrible misjudgment saying "If you take out Saddam, Saddam's regime, I guarantee you that it will have enormous positive reverberations on the region...". Saddam gone but replacement ISIS is making him look an angel in contrast.
Netanyahu and his extreme right wing supporters bring disrespect and danger to Israelis and indeed Jews elsewhere. Until the sensible voices win the ensuing Israeli elections this danger will continue to exist.
Without peace in Israel neighborhood then there would be peace across the region. Unspeakable evil called ISIS will be too happy to continually draw oxygen from hatred fueled by the intransigence of Netanyahu type of extremists.
"Even though Iran has accumulated enough 5% enriched Uranium for several bombs and enriched some of it to 20% it does not appear ready to enrich it higher levels. It is allocating some of it to produce nuclear fuel for the TRR and the amount of 20% is therefore not increasing".
http://www.theguardian.com/…/feb/23/leaked-spy-cables-netan…...
Also aggressive Netanyahu back in the early 2000s was horribly mistaken saying "There is no question whatsoever that Saddam is seeking, is working, is advancing towards to the development of nuclear weapons," "Once Saddam has nuclear weapons, the terror network will have nuclear weapons."
Netanyahu was wrong as usual— Saddam was not building a nuclear. He also made a terrible misjudgment saying "If you take out Saddam, Saddam's regime, I guarantee you that it will have enormous positive reverberations on the region...". Saddam gone but replacement ISIS is making him look an angel in contrast.
Netanyahu and his extreme right wing supporters bring disrespect and danger to Israelis and indeed Jews elsewhere. Until the sensible voices win the ensuing Israeli elections this danger will continue to exist.
Without peace in Israel neighborhood then there would be peace across the region. Unspeakable evil called ISIS will be too happy to continually draw oxygen from hatred fueled by the intransigence of Netanyahu type of extremists.
4
How could the NYT and, at least by the comments, the readers of the NYT and the Democratic party allow the President, and his petulance, to become anti Israel. This is a diminished President, yes he does have the responsibility for foreign policy, but without Netanyahu's speech we the American people would have been delivered a deal with Iran without any debate. Of course the President would have spin-ed the deal as wonderful and NYT would hailed it as historical. Thank you Natanyahu for making this issue debated by our congress and the people they represent.
4
The last resort of all right leaning politicians, war ... let's hope that as time advances, the human tendency to aggression is bred out of the species.
2
Please Speaker B, equal time for the IRANIAN President to speak to Congress!!! It would be the only fair and balanced thing to do.
3
Credit is due the NYT for allowing us to read "the other side of the story."
This is a privilege that has been denied to us during previous hysterias.
Few Americans realized how absolutely distorted news reports about the Soviet Union were, filtered through the CIA's Operation Mockinbird, the "mighty Wurlitzer" of propaganda.
When Warpresident Bush and his fellow Neocons were whipping us into a frenzy about the "mushroom cloud" we were about to experience, I always wondered why reporters didn't simply call up Saddam Hussein and get the other side of the story. Even during his show trial and execution, Saddam was never questioned or allowed to reveal how trumped up that phony war really was.
Netanyahu's hubris is so great that he thinks he can keep playing the same card that sent us to Iraq. He has no idea how jaded the American population has become to these cheap tricks. We can't even summon up a good laugh when we think about Warpresident Bush's condescending explanation about how democracies don't invade other countries after this so-called "democracy" invaded another country.
While I have no affection for Iran, I do recognize that the culture there descended from thousands of years of civilization and should not be idly bombed as we did with Iraq.
Because Neville Chamberlain bargained with Hitler, we should NEVER negotiate with another country. Yet, Neocons worship Lord Ronald Reagan, who negotiated the end of the Cold War.
This is a privilege that has been denied to us during previous hysterias.
Few Americans realized how absolutely distorted news reports about the Soviet Union were, filtered through the CIA's Operation Mockinbird, the "mighty Wurlitzer" of propaganda.
When Warpresident Bush and his fellow Neocons were whipping us into a frenzy about the "mushroom cloud" we were about to experience, I always wondered why reporters didn't simply call up Saddam Hussein and get the other side of the story. Even during his show trial and execution, Saddam was never questioned or allowed to reveal how trumped up that phony war really was.
Netanyahu's hubris is so great that he thinks he can keep playing the same card that sent us to Iraq. He has no idea how jaded the American population has become to these cheap tricks. We can't even summon up a good laugh when we think about Warpresident Bush's condescending explanation about how democracies don't invade other countries after this so-called "democracy" invaded another country.
While I have no affection for Iran, I do recognize that the culture there descended from thousands of years of civilization and should not be idly bombed as we did with Iraq.
Because Neville Chamberlain bargained with Hitler, we should NEVER negotiate with another country. Yet, Neocons worship Lord Ronald Reagan, who negotiated the end of the Cold War.
3
He was wrong about toppling Saddam; he said it would improve the situation vis a vis Iran. Completely 180 degrees wrong.
He said at that time we need to stop Iran's nuclear program or there would be disaster soon; it's ten+ years later and he's still predicting that soon disaster.
And he hasn't mentioned any coherent plan to actually stop the nuclear development; there are only two plans right now, the carrot and the stick, and the stick won't work because Iran isn't in the vulnerable situation where somebody could drop a bomb or a dozen bombs and put them out of the nuke business.
If any of the above does NOT say ignore Netanyahu, I don't see what it is.
He said at that time we need to stop Iran's nuclear program or there would be disaster soon; it's ten+ years later and he's still predicting that soon disaster.
And he hasn't mentioned any coherent plan to actually stop the nuclear development; there are only two plans right now, the carrot and the stick, and the stick won't work because Iran isn't in the vulnerable situation where somebody could drop a bomb or a dozen bombs and put them out of the nuke business.
If any of the above does NOT say ignore Netanyahu, I don't see what it is.
1
Excellent review of Mr. Netanyahu's disingenuousness.
Is his disingenuousness the issue? Only to the extent that it demonstrates that the interests of the United States are not always the same as Israel's.......that sometimes Israel tells lies to it ally.......that Israel has and will act against the United States and the interests of the United States.........that the United States should be very cautious in its support of Israel.............................
Iran will get the bomb - just as North Korea got the bomb. ................ Netanyahu would be well advised to attenuate Iran's reasons for ever using it. Thanks to the NYT for allowing Khoshroo's response.
Is his disingenuousness the issue? Only to the extent that it demonstrates that the interests of the United States are not always the same as Israel's.......that sometimes Israel tells lies to it ally.......that Israel has and will act against the United States and the interests of the United States.........that the United States should be very cautious in its support of Israel.............................
Iran will get the bomb - just as North Korea got the bomb. ................ Netanyahu would be well advised to attenuate Iran's reasons for ever using it. Thanks to the NYT for allowing Khoshroo's response.
3
Mr. Ambassador, please do not be too discouraged by all the cheering you saw yesterday at the speech. Unfortunately, our politicians have become a bunch of self-serving sycophants, who were their seeing who could applaud the loudest, because whomever does so gets the biggest checks from AIPAC. If it wasn't for their money, they wouldn't be in office. The American people (at least I hope most of us), on the other hand, can see past Netanyahu's skewed motivations, paranoia and lies. Thank you for this piece shedding light on the opposing point of view.
2
Sanctions don't work. Sanctions alone will not change Iran's or any other country's behavior. At best, sanctions can bring them to the negotiating table. That is what has happened. Now, let us and them negotiate! Mr. Netanyahu's cynical karping does not help the situation. Fortunately, he is not at the negotiations, so his karping won't hurt too much either.
It's cynical to suggest that Bibi's conviction that something must be done about Iran is merely a sideshow to distract from the Israel-Palestine conflict. While to the rest of the world it may seem that life in Israel is defined solely by the Palestinian issue, I can assure you that the matter is different for Israelis. Netanyahu's concern for the Iranian issue is sincere and not a mere a slight of hand. Furthermore, although the election of Hassan Rouhani accompanied a radical shift in US policy that opened up the possibility of negotiations, before that, the actions of the US certainly indicated that the country perceived Iran's nuclear aspirations as a threat. Despite whatever leaked Mossad documents indicate that Iran is “not performing the activity necessary to produce weapons,” let's not forget Flame and Stuxnet, and that over the course of the past four or five years -- under the helm of our current president no less! - Iran's nuclear program was deemed a significant enough threat that the US and Israel employed cyber weapons of unprecedented sophistication in order to hinder its progress.
Bibi's rhetoric may be alarmist in the face of the apparent diplomatic opportunities presented to Obama. But it may in fact be that Bibi is acting with foresight, and attempting to ensure that Western countries are not bound to obligations that might put the West in an uncomfortable position if Iran's next president is more like Ahmadinejad than Rouhani.
Bibi's rhetoric may be alarmist in the face of the apparent diplomatic opportunities presented to Obama. But it may in fact be that Bibi is acting with foresight, and attempting to ensure that Western countries are not bound to obligations that might put the West in an uncomfortable position if Iran's next president is more like Ahmadinejad than Rouhani.
3
I believe the side that signs and implements a treaty to stop developing nuclear weapons. Period, Who cares what anyone says where, what and when!
There is a much bigger deception - Israel has the bomb, actually it has many. Our belief that some countries can have the bomb and others should not is based on another belief - that western countries are reasonable and eastern countries are not , when it comes to mass murder.
Is this true? Not at all. The only difference between western countries and eastern countries is that the westerners largely avoided killing their own after the second world war (but think of 3 million dead Vietnamese, about a million Iraqis and Afghans) while easterners have shown no such qualms yet (think Iran-Iraq war, Darfur etc etc). There is no reason to be confident that Israel will be more responsible with nuclear weapons than Iran will be.
Is this true? Not at all. The only difference between western countries and eastern countries is that the westerners largely avoided killing their own after the second world war (but think of 3 million dead Vietnamese, about a million Iraqis and Afghans) while easterners have shown no such qualms yet (think Iran-Iraq war, Darfur etc etc). There is no reason to be confident that Israel will be more responsible with nuclear weapons than Iran will be.
2
Am I dreaming? Iran sponsors terrorist attacks in half of the world and the NYT allows one of them to write pure taqiyya?
Oh my God!
Oh my God!
2
Netayahu is right. He laid out the dirty, and deceptive deeds that the Iranians have committed over the past 50 years. They hate Isreal, and the Hate the United States. They cannot be trusted. Let them build a bomb, and they will most certainly use it. Anyone who thinks otherwise is a fool.
3
The most important deception of all is that there is a possibility that either the USA or Israel or anyone can stop Iran from getting the bomb. We could not even stop the completely dysfunctional, disaster area, run by lunatics country of North Korea from getting the bomb! And besides all that has to happen for them to the get a nuke in a day is for either Russia, China or nutty North Korea to give them one or two, or slip them plutonium and the proper blue prints and design to make one.
7
In a hypothetical alternate universe, Mr. Netanyahu is trying to get Mr. Obama to fix the barn door for him, on the grounds that the horses have all escaped already. Because he took the lumber from the barn door to build a picnic table.
2
Because western powers have the ultimate power of nuclear weapons, they have been able to intervene at will in the Middle East. It is about time a Middle East power, such as Iran, gains a seat at the nuclear table. Only then will the Middle East begin to develop free of the arbitrary meddling of the West.
7
I don't know what the next step should be, but the only thing I demand is that before we cause the death of close to a million people in the entire Middle East- is that the intelligence we use to justify an attack be legitimate and the threat be real and imminent.
4
Unfortunately we have "caused the death" of well over a million people in the Middle East already.
Millions more crippled ,displaced , homeless , orphaned & whole countries contaminated with Depleted Uranium.
Millions more crippled ,displaced , homeless , orphaned & whole countries contaminated with Depleted Uranium.
1
Ever since the Israeli military's unprovoked deadly attack in international waters on the United States naval ship USS LIBERTY during the 6 day war in 1967, many Americans have become extremely wary of the State of Israel's Machiavellian foreign policy, currently epitomized by Mr. Netanyahu. He seems determined to drag our young service men and women into a war with Iran. The recent anti-Iran propaganda spewing out of his mouth to sycophants in the U.S. Congress is sickening. I am pleased that the New York Times interviewed Iran's Ambassador to the United Nations, Gholamali Khoshroo to hear his point of view on this subject. Ambassador Khoshroo, by the way, received his Masters degree from George Mason University. The Times should also interview Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Zari, another Iranian educated in the United States. He received his Masters and PhD degrees from the University of Denver. The Iranians are a well-educated nation with an incredibly rich history. I think American soldiers who are going to be sent to die for Mr. Netanyahu's war would like to hear the true, unadulterated facts about Iran before they decide to sacrifice their lives for the State of Israel.
13
Remember the Liberty!
1
Yes, Israel's deadly war on the US since sinking one ship under confused circumstances in the middle of a war in 1967. Good catch there, most people wouldn't have noticed it going on.
1
Dermot would do well to contextually include in his jaundiced narrative the fact that in the intervening years since June 1967 -- when Israel was without question in a war for its survival when it accidentally attacked the Liberty -- the US military brought down an Iranian civilian airliner, with far less justification, and of course mistakenly killed many "friendlies" including its own in miltary action in Iraq, Afghanistan.
Beyond that, Dermot's tired meme that Israel will draw American boys into war is belied by every fact there is: that israel has never asked that one drop of U.S. blood be shed in its defense and never will, since it defends its own, that Israel explictly sought the U.S.'s O.K. to take out Iran's nuclear weapons capability while it still could, should diplomacy fail, and was rebuffed by Obama, and that the reverse of the meme is true, if anything: that Israeli boys' blood spilled during intense warfare fought using U.S. military materiel bought by Israel with the aid supplied it from the U.S., which military operations enjoy close Israel/U.S. military collaboration, actively informs the U.S. military as to what works and what doesn't, and goes to save our servicemen's and women's lives. As to the academic pedigrees cited by Dermot, he might better boast about the Iranian regime's mouthpieces bona fides to the many Iranian students still in dungeons for daring to try to exercise free speech as part of their college experience in their homeland.
Beyond that, Dermot's tired meme that Israel will draw American boys into war is belied by every fact there is: that israel has never asked that one drop of U.S. blood be shed in its defense and never will, since it defends its own, that Israel explictly sought the U.S.'s O.K. to take out Iran's nuclear weapons capability while it still could, should diplomacy fail, and was rebuffed by Obama, and that the reverse of the meme is true, if anything: that Israeli boys' blood spilled during intense warfare fought using U.S. military materiel bought by Israel with the aid supplied it from the U.S., which military operations enjoy close Israel/U.S. military collaboration, actively informs the U.S. military as to what works and what doesn't, and goes to save our servicemen's and women's lives. As to the academic pedigrees cited by Dermot, he might better boast about the Iranian regime's mouthpieces bona fides to the many Iranian students still in dungeons for daring to try to exercise free speech as part of their college experience in their homeland.
2
I agree wholeheartedly with Ambassador Khoshroo. Thanks for writing this article for readers to be exposed to a more balanced perspective.
10
The Iranian response is as unsatisfactory as Netanyahu's speech. Neither Israel nor Iran has a valid national interest in attacking the other. Indeed, until the Iranian revolution, the two countries had good relations.
If Iran wanted to alleviate the world's concerns about nuclear proliferation, it would dial back the incessant hostile rhetoric directed as Israel and others. Iran's expressed hostility toward Israel is what motivates and justifies Israel's fears. Iran already backs up its rhetoric with material support for the terrorist groups that attack Israel. What would it do with nuclear weapons to threaten a nation so severely vulnerable to just a few bombs as is Israel?
In contrast, Israel has no beef with Iran, other than to be wary of the Iranian military threat. Any claim that Iran needs to defend itself from Israel is absurd. Any suggestion that the real issue is ISIS or the plight of the Palestinians is a diversion.
Let's deal with the reality: Israel is not the real target of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Under current leadership, Iran has ambitions to establish hegemony over the Persian Gulf and surrounding Arab nations, to empower Shiites everywhere at the expense of Sunnis, and to bask in the glory of nuclear status. The last thing the world needs is another Persian Empire, this time with nuclear weapons.
If Iran wanted to alleviate the world's concerns about nuclear proliferation, it would dial back the incessant hostile rhetoric directed as Israel and others. Iran's expressed hostility toward Israel is what motivates and justifies Israel's fears. Iran already backs up its rhetoric with material support for the terrorist groups that attack Israel. What would it do with nuclear weapons to threaten a nation so severely vulnerable to just a few bombs as is Israel?
In contrast, Israel has no beef with Iran, other than to be wary of the Iranian military threat. Any claim that Iran needs to defend itself from Israel is absurd. Any suggestion that the real issue is ISIS or the plight of the Palestinians is a diversion.
Let's deal with the reality: Israel is not the real target of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Under current leadership, Iran has ambitions to establish hegemony over the Persian Gulf and surrounding Arab nations, to empower Shiites everywhere at the expense of Sunnis, and to bask in the glory of nuclear status. The last thing the world needs is another Persian Empire, this time with nuclear weapons.
4
Iran can get a couple or more nuclear devices for cash from Pakistan and/or North Korea. They can come up with their own AQ Khan and disavow any responsibility for any of this. Pakistan and North Korea are starved for cash and are renegade states capable of pretty much anything.
So bringing Iran into a negotiated agreement makes their nuclear program more open and verifiable. Will they cheat? My bet would be yes, most countries who are developing nuclear weaponry are not being run by Mahatma Gandhis, they are being run by headstrong individuals who will "do whatever it takes" to further their interests - like Mr. Obama and Mr. Netanyahu, just less stylish and less sophisticated. But whatever it is, it is a better option than blocking every avenue except the blackmarket in these weapons.
At the end of the day, Iran will have to open up and become a democracy, it is inevitable. A sensible deal, well-managed, will hasten that change. No deal or pushing too hard will only strengthen the hands of the incompetent theocrats and nutters who will waste another couple of decades and who knows how many more lives before getting thrown out and replaced with democrats.
The present madness must end. The existential crises must end. Peace must reign, however clumsily or imperfectly.
So bringing Iran into a negotiated agreement makes their nuclear program more open and verifiable. Will they cheat? My bet would be yes, most countries who are developing nuclear weaponry are not being run by Mahatma Gandhis, they are being run by headstrong individuals who will "do whatever it takes" to further their interests - like Mr. Obama and Mr. Netanyahu, just less stylish and less sophisticated. But whatever it is, it is a better option than blocking every avenue except the blackmarket in these weapons.
At the end of the day, Iran will have to open up and become a democracy, it is inevitable. A sensible deal, well-managed, will hasten that change. No deal or pushing too hard will only strengthen the hands of the incompetent theocrats and nutters who will waste another couple of decades and who knows how many more lives before getting thrown out and replaced with democrats.
The present madness must end. The existential crises must end. Peace must reign, however clumsily or imperfectly.
24
Sounds good!
3
The real Netanyahu deception was his attempt to focus on Iran and its nuclear research programs as a threat to international security. So he deflected the attention of Congress and most of the media away from the real threat to international security, and the outbreak of terrorist use of nuclear weapons: the wretched conditions Israel imposes on the Palestinians in an attempt to force them to accept terms unacceptable to any Israeli government if the two positions were reversed. Iran poses as the defender of the Palestinians. And if the Palestinians did not need a defender, as they presently do, the main threat to Israel and international security would lose the main thing that keeps the threat alive and more likely to come true. Netanyahu's speech deflected attention from the real thing that he needed to address, the plight of the Palestinians. A few of us were not fooled.
8
Seems that the it's the Palestinians who are lobbing their rockets into Isreal. How do you explain that?
3
Israel has a special place in US. Mr.Netanyahu simply afraid that Israel may loose that special status if the agreement is signed and if Iran adheres to the agreement. Why should there be any special status for Israel if there is no threat from its neighbors? It is to the advantage of Iran to agree to the terms of the west and form a basis for a peaceful coexistence in middle east.
5
The Iranian ambassador does not deny his country's intent to acquire nuclear weapons capability.
He criticizes Netanyahu for trying to save Israel from an apocalyptic, messianic regime that has repeatedly called for Israel's destruction.
He calls the situations in Iraq and Syria "great issues". I see no protest in the Islamic world about the 200k people killed in Syria and unknown numbers in Iraq.
These are "great issues" for him because events there stand to impede Iran's ruthless, hegemonic attempts to conquer the Middle East.
It is ludicrous to hear the representative of a nation of 70+ million whining about Israel and it's alleged misdeeds when his own country's playbook is replete with every imaginable act of terror & support for terror.
He criticizes Netanyahu for trying to save Israel from an apocalyptic, messianic regime that has repeatedly called for Israel's destruction.
He calls the situations in Iraq and Syria "great issues". I see no protest in the Islamic world about the 200k people killed in Syria and unknown numbers in Iraq.
These are "great issues" for him because events there stand to impede Iran's ruthless, hegemonic attempts to conquer the Middle East.
It is ludicrous to hear the representative of a nation of 70+ million whining about Israel and it's alleged misdeeds when his own country's playbook is replete with every imaginable act of terror & support for terror.
11
Israel' nuclear warhead Total: 350+
Iran's nuclear warhead Total: 0
Israel has nothing to fear from Iran even if it had the bomb. The good old USA, thanks to AIPAC. would wipe Iran off the map if it attacked Israel with a nuke. Therefore why does Israel need or be allowed to have nuclear weapons? Is it to threaten America and not just the Arab world?
Who helped Israel obtain it's nuclear weapons capability?
Iran's nuclear warhead Total: 0
Israel has nothing to fear from Iran even if it had the bomb. The good old USA, thanks to AIPAC. would wipe Iran off the map if it attacked Israel with a nuke. Therefore why does Israel need or be allowed to have nuclear weapons? Is it to threaten America and not just the Arab world?
Who helped Israel obtain it's nuclear weapons capability?
9
Well, the US would like to NOT be put in the position of wiping Iran off the map if it attacked Israel with a nuke. That's a pretty valid position.
1
This editorial was in fact beaten to the punch by Jon Stewart. He showed a clip if Netanyahu telling Congress in 1996 that Iran was just around the corner from having the A Bomb. He also showed the communication from intel that of course was opposite what he was saying.
No question but it is tough for Israel to exist in an area with a lot of hostility. BUT Israel keeps poking the bee nest by continually building settlements and in general hemming in Gaza.
No question but it is tough for Israel to exist in an area with a lot of hostility. BUT Israel keeps poking the bee nest by continually building settlements and in general hemming in Gaza.
17
Netanyahu's lies border on pathological.
Because of his actions, right now, I'm 100% on the side of the Iranians and the Palestinians.
Netanyahu is political poison. Perhaps the Israeli's will realize this in the upcoming elections and toss this pariah out on his ear.
Because of his actions, right now, I'm 100% on the side of the Iranians and the Palestinians.
Netanyahu is political poison. Perhaps the Israeli's will realize this in the upcoming elections and toss this pariah out on his ear.
12
Iran is sitting on the second largest oil reserves in the world (excluding Canada's unconventional sources of oil), so why would they need nuclear energy, other than for weapons?
8
The ambassador's claims that Iran has "stood by every commitment, as reported by the IAEA" are utterly ridiculous. In 2005, the IAEA declared that Iran's "many failures and breaches of its obligations constitute non-compliance" under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, deplored Iran's continuing defiance of IAEA directives, and claimed that Iran's "history of concealment" had led to an "absence of confidence that Iran’s nuclear programme is exclusively for peaceful purposes." (IAEA GOV/2005/77). They went on to refer Iran to the UN Security Council, whose resolutions Iran also continues to defy. Iran's various instances of deception, concealment, and bad-faith are well documented by the IAEA, which is certainly not a body which rashly criticizes its member states. It is remarkably cynical that the ambassador would try to enlist the Agency's support.
7
“The Zionist regime will soon be destroyed, and this generation will be witness to its destruction” said Hojatoleslam Ali Shirazi, Supreme Leader’s representative in the Revolutionary Guards. I guess he was kidding...
22
This op-ed by the Ambassador is factual and irrefutable. What saddens me most is that not even one of the three US "news" channels gave coverage to these salient points made by the Ambassador.
6
The politics of this seem the least of our concerns. As part of these negotiations with Iran, why are we not focusing on Iran’s proxy terrorist armies that are currently destabilizing the entire region? It’s like saying to someone who has already shot you four times in the gut that we might not shoot back if they promise not to shoot you in the head.
We are not negotiating with a peaceful regime that simply wants nuclear energy as an alternative to energy from oil. Iran is not Switzerland. The current Iranian regime is obviously a menace to the region and to the world if you listen to what they say and watch what they do. Their proxies are on our own list of terrorist organizations. The regime’s rhetoric is unambiguous; their threats to Israel and the region are obviously not bluster, given the significant interference they already engage in throughout the Middle East. Why would we choose to ignore the current behavior of this dangerous regime, assume that it would honor some deal with the West, and focus only on their acquisition of nuclear capabilities? The sanctions are working; the economy is being crushed; the regime can’t access foreign banks; the credibility of the regime is being challenged at home; and they’re less able to fund their proxies. These negotiations are Kabuki Theater. Why not squeeze them harder and stop pretending that they don’t mean what they say.
We are not negotiating with a peaceful regime that simply wants nuclear energy as an alternative to energy from oil. Iran is not Switzerland. The current Iranian regime is obviously a menace to the region and to the world if you listen to what they say and watch what they do. Their proxies are on our own list of terrorist organizations. The regime’s rhetoric is unambiguous; their threats to Israel and the region are obviously not bluster, given the significant interference they already engage in throughout the Middle East. Why would we choose to ignore the current behavior of this dangerous regime, assume that it would honor some deal with the West, and focus only on their acquisition of nuclear capabilities? The sanctions are working; the economy is being crushed; the regime can’t access foreign banks; the credibility of the regime is being challenged at home; and they’re less able to fund their proxies. These negotiations are Kabuki Theater. Why not squeeze them harder and stop pretending that they don’t mean what they say.
7
Israel has a lot to fear from Iran notwithstanding Mr. Khoshroo's rebuttal. What he say just isn't true. Iran's professed and published intent is the destruction of Israel and the Jewish people in no uncertain terms. Iran is also the exporter of terror in that part of the world and it is sitting on some the largest deposits of oil in the world which allows it to export it's terror. Look at the number of attack missiles it has give to Hezbollah. They certainly aren't for defense. Combine that with their professed hatred for Israel and everything Mr. Netanyahu says it true. It's appropriate that today is Purim and present day Iran has never changed its colors from the Persia of 2000 years ago.
9
Netanyahu is a dangerous radical who would like to provoke a nuclear war with Iran. In fact, he's much more radical and dangerous than any Iranian leader because Netanyahu could convince American leaders to stupidly destroy our own country for Israel's benefit.
8
"Mr. Netanyahu seems to be in a state of panic at the prospect of losing this tool with which to attack Iran"
Indeed. Aside from a total ban, which is not likely, mutually assured nuclear destruction is the only way in which the nuclear option is removed from both sides of the table. I personally believe that while many world leaders have publicly decried Iran's nuclear ambitions – its the politcally correct thing to do – in private most would admit it is the most effective method of applying the nuclear brakes to the region (Pakistan notwithstanding.)
Indeed. Aside from a total ban, which is not likely, mutually assured nuclear destruction is the only way in which the nuclear option is removed from both sides of the table. I personally believe that while many world leaders have publicly decried Iran's nuclear ambitions – its the politcally correct thing to do – in private most would admit it is the most effective method of applying the nuclear brakes to the region (Pakistan notwithstanding.)
4
This was a well-done piece of counter-propaganda with many truths. However, before we hold hands with Mr. Khoshroo and sing Kumbaya, carefully examine his statement that "Iran, that has not invaded another country since America became a sovereign nation." Iranian-controlled terrorist groups are fighting in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, etc. Whether these actions should be linked to the current nuclear negotiations is a matter of debate; Iran's sponsorship of terror is not.
8
It is certainly true that Israel has committed some bad acts. Their government treats the Palestinians and their cause poorly. They already have nuclear capability but will do anything to prevent any other state in the Middle East from having same. The difference is that I have not heard Netanyahu or any other Israeli politician claim that Iran must be wiped from the face of the Earth -- entirely destroyed. They don't say the same about Palestinians, either, although Hamas certainly says it about Israel. When faced with the existential reality of potential destruction what is one to do? Given the small size of Israel, the tragic history of anti-Semitism and the dedication of their neighbors to its destruction, they must do everything to prevent the region from falling into a strategy of Mutually Assured Destruction. That will not work in this case.
For me, the only realistic path for Israel in the long term is to make some sort of agreement with the Palestinians and the establishment of an independent Palistinian state. That would remove a major excuse for the hatred and avowed aim of destruction from the governments of their neighbors. It can work. One does not hear such invective from Egypt and Jordan, countries that have made accomidations with Israel.
For me, the only realistic path for Israel in the long term is to make some sort of agreement with the Palestinians and the establishment of an independent Palistinian state. That would remove a major excuse for the hatred and avowed aim of destruction from the governments of their neighbors. It can work. One does not hear such invective from Egypt and Jordan, countries that have made accomidations with Israel.
6
I imagine the ambassador would be more successful in winning supporters for his argument if he could convince us all that Iran will urgently pursue solar and wind power, instead of nuclear. It is hard to believe that Iran has only peaceful intentions for the development of electricity alone.
4
Netanyahu may be campaigning in the US for his election. The US press has granted him publicity and without his spending a dime.
5
All good arguments Mr. Ambassador, but it would be better if you could indicate the actual need for nuclear technology? Certainly your country could agree to let a Western consortium operate a few nuclear power plants for you -- taking away the West's concerns, and giving your country to cheap energy. Why is that not a solution? That's what I would like to understand. Without an comprehensive answer, why would we take your country's promises at face value?
5
"why would we take your country's promises at face value?"
A good question. America/Israel, would you like to answer that as well?
A good question. America/Israel, would you like to answer that as well?
6
While Iran has a lot to answer for re Hezbollah, Hamas, etc... your suggestion expects a sovereign nation, not defeated in a war here, to take a childlike response to demands from our nations and be docile and subservient to our fears and insecurities. "Why is that not a solution?" - would ANY country in the world accept such terms in peacetime?
5
Well I see a lot of people here asking why Iran with such a huge energy reserve is seeking nuclear power and if so, why they look for 190000 centrifuges.
To answer this legitimate question, first of all we should know that Iran and its people, look at the nuclear achievements as a national pride that they have reached a level much farther than their neighbors. One of the reasons that with these tough sanctions, still Iranians support the nuclear energy program is the this notion of national pride and dignity.
Regarding the energy reserves, well every country should diversify its energy mix. Said that, the high domestic power consumption of Iran and the proven fact that Nuclear has less emissions and much cheaper than renewable, it is reasonable for Iran to go for nuclear power.
Iran has the biggest gas reserves of the world yet a Net IMPORTER, why, because already the consumption is very high! So it totally makes scene to seek nuclear energy.
Last but not least, Regarding the 190,000 centrifuges, it is the required number to produce enough enriched uranium to feed the Bushehr-1 civilian reactor and given the fact that the current agreement with Russia to supply this reactor expires in 2021, Iran aims to produce the required fuel domestically. that is the reason that Iranians announced this 190000 number.
To answer this legitimate question, first of all we should know that Iran and its people, look at the nuclear achievements as a national pride that they have reached a level much farther than their neighbors. One of the reasons that with these tough sanctions, still Iranians support the nuclear energy program is the this notion of national pride and dignity.
Regarding the energy reserves, well every country should diversify its energy mix. Said that, the high domestic power consumption of Iran and the proven fact that Nuclear has less emissions and much cheaper than renewable, it is reasonable for Iran to go for nuclear power.
Iran has the biggest gas reserves of the world yet a Net IMPORTER, why, because already the consumption is very high! So it totally makes scene to seek nuclear energy.
Last but not least, Regarding the 190,000 centrifuges, it is the required number to produce enough enriched uranium to feed the Bushehr-1 civilian reactor and given the fact that the current agreement with Russia to supply this reactor expires in 2021, Iran aims to produce the required fuel domestically. that is the reason that Iranians announced this 190000 number.
18
The surest way to prevent Iran using nuclear weapons on Israel is for Israel to keep its substantial Palestinian Arab citizens and the Palestinian West Bank. The Arab and Muslim Middle East nations have been using the Palestinian issue to a great advantage to hide their own violation of human rights. Iranian attacks would kill Israeli non Jewish population as well as the Jewish one. Iran would be the pariah and I certainly don't believe that Iran wants to be in that position.
1
He know Americans are suckers for the boogie man treatment. They never grew up. I loved the itemized list a FOX watcher gave me over why we should invade Iraq. Many still do not want to admit the mistake and don't care. They want war and bombing Iran would make them happy. Don't forget, we could have won in Vietnam except for the naysayers.
4
Well said. We rarely see this problem presented from any point of view other than the Israelis and the war mongers in Congress. If the Congress really wants a reasoned presentation of the problem in the ME, they should invite Ambassador Khoshroo to address them. Of course that isn't what this is about, so that will never happen. In the absence of a rational approach by the Congress, we should all be grateful that we have a President that can and will resist the constant drum beat of war from the right.
4
Netanyahu, good Tea-party Republican that he is, doesn't care about what's true or logical. He just wants his way, and his way is an attack and war against Iran and an external regime change. Yesterday he approved of the despicable, tyrannical, fascist reign of the bloody Shah in Iran before he was overthrown. And Bibi told Congress in 2002 that Iraq had or was getting Atomic weapons of Mass destruction and we needed to go in there--that fiasco that's hurt all of us. Tea-party Bibi wants American peace efforts and our President to fail. He's no friend of the US, as American Jews, Christians, and Moslems know.
5
Rob-
The "despicable, tyrannical, fascist," bloodthirsty Shah was not intent on killing Jews, Americans and infidels. The despicable, tyrannical, Islamo-fascist, bloodthirsty current Iranian regime is intent on the demise of Western civilization. (It's part of their religion.) Big difference.
The "despicable, tyrannical, fascist," bloodthirsty Shah was not intent on killing Jews, Americans and infidels. The despicable, tyrannical, Islamo-fascist, bloodthirsty current Iranian regime is intent on the demise of Western civilization. (It's part of their religion.) Big difference.
4
Personally, I think Iran, or any other nation for that matter, is crazy to build nuclear reactors for any purpose. Nuclear reactors can and do melt down with alarming frequency, and the bi-products of fission routinely escape containment. Those relying on nuclear energy for security are contributing to the long-term poisoning of the world and foisting the risks, costs, and clean-up responsibilities to their less fortunate and disenfranchised citizens. It's a shameful industry.
8
Maybe if Iran recognized Israel's rights as a nation and Jews as a people, Bibi would shut up and Israel's policy towards the Palestinians would soften.
Then again, that would be too easy and take away some powerful men's reason to exist.
Then again, that would be too easy and take away some powerful men's reason to exist.
5
The reality is that Iranian hard liners want this deal to fail as much as Prime Minister Netanyahu. They can then tell the more moderate Hassan Rouhani that he failed and go back to the bomb program.
That will only leave war as the solution.
The hard-liners on both sides seem to only understand force and, inevitably war.
And like Bush-Cheney, the hard liners in this country who would take us to war will never go themselves nor send their children. It will be children others to die.
Remember yellow-cake and the "smoking gun will be a mushroom cloud" for war in Iraq?
That will only leave war as the solution.
The hard-liners on both sides seem to only understand force and, inevitably war.
And like Bush-Cheney, the hard liners in this country who would take us to war will never go themselves nor send their children. It will be children others to die.
Remember yellow-cake and the "smoking gun will be a mushroom cloud" for war in Iraq?
6
Netanyahu expressed valid concerns about the large nuclear infrastructure Iran will maintain, along with the likelihood of a sunset clause that will remove limits on Iran's nuclear production after only 10 years. He also stated that a third option to the present agreement or war is to negotiate a better deal, especially in light of Iran's current economic weakness from sanctions and depressed oil prices. He made these points within the context of Iran's threats against Israel, as well as being a bad actor on the stage of worldwide terrorism.
This is hardly hype and warmongering and are legitimate questions that need to be answered, regardless of one's feelings towards Netanyahu and Israel. Iran is no paragon of virtue and a bad deal for the sake of a deal benefits no one but Iran.
This is hardly hype and warmongering and are legitimate questions that need to be answered, regardless of one's feelings towards Netanyahu and Israel. Iran is no paragon of virtue and a bad deal for the sake of a deal benefits no one but Iran.
16
Question: If can cheat while undergoing inspections, how much more nuclear capability would they build if there is no deal? I agree, though, that they should stop propagandizing a desire to destroy Israel. As an aside, I didn't know Hamas was Shia and supported by Iran. I thought Hamas was Wahabbi Sunni and clandestinely supported by many of the Saudi royals.
1
Incredulous that the NYT would provide a platform for someone who originates from a country that sponsors terrorism, is responsible for the death of Americans and who could not assert his views in his own country, if they were in opposition to the current regime. A country that arrests young men and women for merely dancing to Western music. An opprobrium of cosmic proportions.
8
I would first off say I don't know all the facts but it appears to me there is little difference between Netanyahu's invasion and 750,000 squatters squatting in Paesinian territories and Saddam Hussein invasion of Kuwait and Putin's invasion of the Ukraine except world reaction. I would like some help in understanding why the world does not invade Israel or at least issue sanctions because of these cross border transgressions. I can not imagine Hussein or Putin speaking before Congress. Why was he given this privilege?
5
Let me help you. Read a bit of the history of the region. The initial creation of Israel. What the Arabs did right afterwards and repeatedly from Israel's inception on. What the Palestinians did when Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza. Throw in the history of the Jews and the world's treatment of them even to this day (see Europe et al.) and the picture of "why someone doesn't invade Israel"? will become a bit clearer. Then head over to what happened to all the armies that already have invaded (or tried to at least) and the picture gets even clearer.
As to why Bibi was allowed to speak (for the 3rd time I might add) as opposed to Putin or Saddam well... Where to even begin on that one and I don't personally even agree with the Obama snub or the way he did this. And Boehner's obviously a fool but still... Israel has a slightly different historical relationship with the U.S., no?
As to why Bibi was allowed to speak (for the 3rd time I might add) as opposed to Putin or Saddam well... Where to even begin on that one and I don't personally even agree with the Obama snub or the way he did this. And Boehner's obviously a fool but still... Israel has a slightly different historical relationship with the U.S., no?
5
Excellent article. Very persuasive, and a true eye opener about Netanyahu's duplicity and incessant warmongering. It should be required reading for every member of Congress, who should then address all the major points raised in this essay.
6
Many thanks to the author for documenting Netanyahu's long-standing disregard of facts. In this, Netanyahu is like his Republican admirers in Congress, who seem to live in the same parallel universe as Bibi does, one in which knowns (like global warming) have a purely fictional status.
At some point, reality strikes back, and, judging by the comments readers posted on Netanyahu's speech, that seems to be what happened yesterday. Readers from all over the country, Republicans and Democrats, alike, vented their aggravation at seeing the spectacle of a foreign leader seemingly asserting that our nation does not have the right to conduct an independent foreign policy. The veiled insult to the President and the Constitution was also a cause for dismay, and here Netanyahu's problem was also that he chose to ignore facts: the President is not a prime minister like Netanyahu; he is, as the Founding Fathers intended, a constitutional monarch who is as much a symbol of our nation as the flag. And the Constitution puts foreign affairs squarely in the President's domain.
Netanyahu's policy is based on the assumption that he can fool all the people all the time. Someone said that couldn't be done. What was his name?
At some point, reality strikes back, and, judging by the comments readers posted on Netanyahu's speech, that seems to be what happened yesterday. Readers from all over the country, Republicans and Democrats, alike, vented their aggravation at seeing the spectacle of a foreign leader seemingly asserting that our nation does not have the right to conduct an independent foreign policy. The veiled insult to the President and the Constitution was also a cause for dismay, and here Netanyahu's problem was also that he chose to ignore facts: the President is not a prime minister like Netanyahu; he is, as the Founding Fathers intended, a constitutional monarch who is as much a symbol of our nation as the flag. And the Constitution puts foreign affairs squarely in the President's domain.
Netanyahu's policy is based on the assumption that he can fool all the people all the time. Someone said that couldn't be done. What was his name?
5
This statement is so full of lies, distortions, misrepresentations and omissions . . . it isn't even believable enough to rise to the level of propaganda.
I'm ashamed the NYTimes, the top newspaper in the US -- whose State Department categorizes just 4 nations as terrorist states, Iran at the top of that short list -- gave space to this mealy-mouthed tripe.
Ashamed, too, for the world to see this published here. But not surprised.
I'm ashamed the NYTimes, the top newspaper in the US -- whose State Department categorizes just 4 nations as terrorist states, Iran at the top of that short list -- gave space to this mealy-mouthed tripe.
Ashamed, too, for the world to see this published here. But not surprised.
8
Of course "...predictions about how close Iran was to acquiring a nuclear bomb have proved baseless."
That's because sanctions have slowed the Iran program siginificantly.
I'd love for this Iranian governmental official to tell us why his country is currently blocking full inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), or why Iran builds supposedly "peaceful" nuclear facilities underground. Talk about deceptions.
That's because sanctions have slowed the Iran program siginificantly.
I'd love for this Iranian governmental official to tell us why his country is currently blocking full inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), or why Iran builds supposedly "peaceful" nuclear facilities underground. Talk about deceptions.
6
A clear, simple, eminently reasonable solution is available To Iran:
Shut down, dismantle, and sell off all uranium enrichment facilities. Iran's economy will then prosper as sanctions are lifted. Use part of this prosperity to purchase from abroad whatever isotopes Iran needs for medical and research purposes.
Mr. Ambassador, uranium enrichment is clearly a burden, not an asset, to Iran. If you won't give it up, tell us why.
Shut down, dismantle, and sell off all uranium enrichment facilities. Iran's economy will then prosper as sanctions are lifted. Use part of this prosperity to purchase from abroad whatever isotopes Iran needs for medical and research purposes.
Mr. Ambassador, uranium enrichment is clearly a burden, not an asset, to Iran. If you won't give it up, tell us why.
3
Nowhere in this article does the author mention Iran's open hatred for Israel, and its repeated call to destroy Israel. There's two things you can do with this: you can, like this author, go into denial and pretend this open hatred doesn't exist, or you can, after countless violent acts of hatred over the past several decades, take it seriously and call it at face value. Whether Netanyahu is correct with Iran's weapons capabilities is in the end irrelevant here, what is relevant is that he, and the Israelis who voted for him, do take Iran's hatred and open support of terrorism, seriously.
5
i suppose if Israel doesnt keep the fear up
there would be a reduction in the defense dollars we send them.
History can turn on a dime and often its just this simple
there would be a reduction in the defense dollars we send them.
History can turn on a dime and often its just this simple
2
Foundation for Middle East Peace president Matt Duss points out there's a hole in Netanyahu's logic: "Iran is run by crazy suicidal apocalyptic mullahs who will crack under greater economic pressure."
1
Could Mr. Natanyahu's long struggle with Iran and more recently with our President (Nobel Peace Prize 2009), reveal a hunger for power and control toward the Middle East? His ambitions were evident in his recent appearance before the House and Senate of the most powerful Nation in the world- forcefully supporting him and Israel in their chamber. Quite a feat.
No Muslim Nation in the Middle East would risk a nuclear war that might harm the Palestinian people. Bearing that context in mind, Mr. Natanyahu's fear of threats against Israel are motivated in another more personal direction. Israel is not in danger. It is ironic, but the people under Israel's occupation and Natanyahu's ruthless destruction, protect Israel from any threats of annihilation. Simply stated, Palestinians keep the Israeli population safe from attack.
Furthermore, It is folly for the United States to sacrifice the opportunity to cultivate friendlier relationships in the region for the sake of emotional ties to a leader with a disruptive hunger for power and control. American lives and America's safety and security are our major responsibility. Not allegiance to another leader or another ally whose objectives are in question.
No Muslim Nation in the Middle East would risk a nuclear war that might harm the Palestinian people. Bearing that context in mind, Mr. Natanyahu's fear of threats against Israel are motivated in another more personal direction. Israel is not in danger. It is ironic, but the people under Israel's occupation and Natanyahu's ruthless destruction, protect Israel from any threats of annihilation. Simply stated, Palestinians keep the Israeli population safe from attack.
Furthermore, It is folly for the United States to sacrifice the opportunity to cultivate friendlier relationships in the region for the sake of emotional ties to a leader with a disruptive hunger for power and control. American lives and America's safety and security are our major responsibility. Not allegiance to another leader or another ally whose objectives are in question.
2
All credit to the Palestinian leadership that quietly and confidently works though established diplomatic and legal channels to achieve their rights and a confirmation of the State of Palestine. The work steadfastly in the background while Netanyahu goes nuts in the foreground, violating both diplomacy and the law.
3
You have presented a reasoned view. That is something one would expect from an adult. As an American voter I found the rhetoric spouted from the rostrum of the House Chambers condescending, offensive and a cheap, childish political stunt which I remember at the polls.
7
I don't think all Americans are familiar with the financial relationship between the US AND Israel and public opinion should be based on facts. The US does not subsidize Israel. Compared to aid given towards defense in Europe and Japan, the aid to Israel is much less. 2.8 billion a year for military aid is given to Israel, of which 70 percent is required to go towards purchase of American defense equipment. There is another benefit to the US in this arrangement besides Israel putting the money back into US companies, and that is that Israel tests out American weaponry and also no US soldiers need to be stationed in the area as they are in other parts of the world due to Israel's presence. Any other money that goes from the US to Israel is in the form of loans, which Israel repays, on time, with interest.
2
Is the debate enriched or degraded by Netanyahus direct communication with congress?
Not long ago we had testimony to the senate that NSA spying on milllions of ordinary citizens was not happening. This was not corrected by the adminstration. Weeks later direct communication between Snowden and the people including via the media showed this was not true. We also heard directly from Jonathan Gruber in video about his thoughts and planning of the basis of the ACA.
In Mr. Netanyahu's case leaking of sensitive information should NOT be a concern. President Obama himself, shortly after the speech acknowledged he saw nothing new in the speech, and any leak would be something new.
I was glad to be able to listen in real time to Mr. Netanyahu's speech and feel transparency in government is a good thing when it does not compromise secret information.
Now Mr. Netanyahu's claims will be put under the microscope as will some of the President's. Aren't the American people the winners in this case?
By making a speech to Congress, Mr. Netanyahu was able to bypass potentially biased media editing and relay his words in their entirety directly to the American people and congress. Because we have a free press they will be subjected to considerable public scrutiny as in part has been demonstrated by this article. Under scrutiny the truth tends to prevail.
Not long ago we had testimony to the senate that NSA spying on milllions of ordinary citizens was not happening. This was not corrected by the adminstration. Weeks later direct communication between Snowden and the people including via the media showed this was not true. We also heard directly from Jonathan Gruber in video about his thoughts and planning of the basis of the ACA.
In Mr. Netanyahu's case leaking of sensitive information should NOT be a concern. President Obama himself, shortly after the speech acknowledged he saw nothing new in the speech, and any leak would be something new.
I was glad to be able to listen in real time to Mr. Netanyahu's speech and feel transparency in government is a good thing when it does not compromise secret information.
Now Mr. Netanyahu's claims will be put under the microscope as will some of the President's. Aren't the American people the winners in this case?
By making a speech to Congress, Mr. Netanyahu was able to bypass potentially biased media editing and relay his words in their entirety directly to the American people and congress. Because we have a free press they will be subjected to considerable public scrutiny as in part has been demonstrated by this article. Under scrutiny the truth tends to prevail.
2
Yes yes and the tooth fairy really does exist.
If it's all so peaceful why the centrifuges in ever increasing numbers.
Somewhat disingenuous to claim they've never invaded a neighbor when they have proxy fighters all over the region who are all tried and true terrorists.
Completely disingenuous to accuse Israel of cross boarder incursions - um, a response to ALL of their neighbors stating and pursuing the desire to wipe Israel off the map. It's not like they're annexing Crimea or anything.
What about the whole "death to America" thing complete with national holiday. You don't see too much of that in Israel.
I think Persians are an incredible people and I miss them on the world stage as integrated world citizens but here's the problem- Netanyahu is unequivocally correct about one thing: the world cannot allow the marriage of radical Islam and nuclear weapons. Period. Bibi's critics say he is looking for regime change in Iran and that is just unrealistic but it seems to me what we are doing with this agreement is HOPING for regime change before the ten years of monitoring ends. Not sure hoping for regime change is a plan. And if that hope doesn't bloom into reality we have a big problem.
If it's all so peaceful why the centrifuges in ever increasing numbers.
Somewhat disingenuous to claim they've never invaded a neighbor when they have proxy fighters all over the region who are all tried and true terrorists.
Completely disingenuous to accuse Israel of cross boarder incursions - um, a response to ALL of their neighbors stating and pursuing the desire to wipe Israel off the map. It's not like they're annexing Crimea or anything.
What about the whole "death to America" thing complete with national holiday. You don't see too much of that in Israel.
I think Persians are an incredible people and I miss them on the world stage as integrated world citizens but here's the problem- Netanyahu is unequivocally correct about one thing: the world cannot allow the marriage of radical Islam and nuclear weapons. Period. Bibi's critics say he is looking for regime change in Iran and that is just unrealistic but it seems to me what we are doing with this agreement is HOPING for regime change before the ten years of monitoring ends. Not sure hoping for regime change is a plan. And if that hope doesn't bloom into reality we have a big problem.
7
Mr.Khoshroo's rebuttal to Bibi's speech was expected.He can resolve the problem with Israel's concern with Iran's nuclear capability by signing a Peace Treaty with Israel as Egypt did.This does not mean they should build the bomb, but it will open an accord between the two countries that will result in the betterment for the entire Middle East, & a State for the Plantains.
2
Mr. Netanyahu’s address is very misleading as he is improperly trying to deal with his biggest problem when it comes to Iran by hiding behind the weapons of mass destruction rhetoric. Israel’s problems with regards to Iran are not military but economic. Iran if allowed to be competitive in the world markets has a better educated group than most nations and as a result their next generation will not be focused on a religion based economy but a world competitive economy and when that happens they will be the most powerful nation in that part of this very dysfunctional world. Israel will then not be able to claim to be the only productive economy there and as a result will no longer have the rights to attempt to control all of their neighbors. If Netanyahu had more real knowledge he would be trying to help that economy grow where the two of them will dominate that part of this world, economically speaking that is. Economically linked cultures always work out better than politically linked ones. Oh, one more thing. That statement made by so many in the American press that the Iranians are trying to influence the political structures of so many other nations is very hypocritical. How many economically stronger nations do not have their CIAs involved in a greater number of other nations?
25
Israel and Iran enjoyed a productive, mutually-beneficial economically-linked culture, just as you advocate, until the Iranian revolution shifted that nation's policies toward hatred of Israel and the United States. Everyone has been the loser as a result, except the beneficiaries of corruption in Iran's leadership and the Revolutionary Guards.
1
are you serious? it's not israel that's refusing to have relations with iran!
"control all of their neighbors"? what are you talking about? who does israel attempt to control besides the palestinians?
you argue that israel should pursue economic links with iran (and i guess with others in the middle east, also).
well, guess what? that's exactly what they do.
you may recall that israel and iran had a pretty good relationship, up until the iranian revolution—when the iranians severed all contact.
or turkey: for years, a fantastic relationship of trade, tourism and even military cooperation, although in the last several years ergdogan's increasingly islamist agenda has largely ruined it.
israel also pursues economic development with the palestinians in an effort to advance co-existence. most israelis don't want to control palestinians—they want a situation where they don't have to.
it's pretty hard to have economic ties with countries that refuse to even recognize your right to exist, which is still the case for almost all countries in the middle east (except egypt, jordan, and turkey).
israel has a lot to offer the region economically. so i have to wonder, why aren't you pushing for iran and others to recognize israel's right to exist and normalize relations?
"control all of their neighbors"? what are you talking about? who does israel attempt to control besides the palestinians?
you argue that israel should pursue economic links with iran (and i guess with others in the middle east, also).
well, guess what? that's exactly what they do.
you may recall that israel and iran had a pretty good relationship, up until the iranian revolution—when the iranians severed all contact.
or turkey: for years, a fantastic relationship of trade, tourism and even military cooperation, although in the last several years ergdogan's increasingly islamist agenda has largely ruined it.
israel also pursues economic development with the palestinians in an effort to advance co-existence. most israelis don't want to control palestinians—they want a situation where they don't have to.
it's pretty hard to have economic ties with countries that refuse to even recognize your right to exist, which is still the case for almost all countries in the middle east (except egypt, jordan, and turkey).
israel has a lot to offer the region economically. so i have to wonder, why aren't you pushing for iran and others to recognize israel's right to exist and normalize relations?
2
Perhaps Israel can give up all its nuclear weapons, shut down its nuclear power plants and Iran can do the same.
Funny how Iran has not invaded any countries or started any wars, yet, Israel has started several, so who is the real aggressor in the Middle East?
Funny how Iran has not invaded any countries or started any wars, yet, Israel has started several, so who is the real aggressor in the Middle East?
4
The argument by Mr. Khoshroo, Iran's ambassador, does not address Netanyahu's main premise--Iran is dedicated, committed, and actively working to destroy the nation of Isreal. It an inescapable logic that U.S. policy should not make any deal that allows Iran to further any possible means to accomplish that goal. Yes, the troubling injustice Isreal inflicts upon the Palestinians people must be stopped...that does not undermine Netanyahu's main premise and conclusion.
3
In what way is Iran actually working to destroy Israel? Oh they talk the talk alright, to please the religious populace, but they never put their money where their mouth is. They fund Hezbollah but Hez has never accomplished any significant damage in Israel (a few kidnappings, a few minor rockets, that's it).
If you can actually name any way in which Iran has directly, militarily, sought to destroy Israel, I'd be amazed.
If you can actually name any way in which Iran has directly, militarily, sought to destroy Israel, I'd be amazed.
2
Dan, trivializing Hezbollah's murder of American servicemen, kidnapping and murdering 3 IDF soldiers on the Israeli side of the border in 2006, shooting 3900 rockets into Israel proper during that war with the sole intent of killing civilians, not soldiers, is flipping the truth on its head. And why spend billions on Hezbollah, if not with the goal of destroying Israel, including the Palestinians who happen to get hit, too? Abbas knows that, even Hamas knows that, but they cannot easily criticize the hand that provides money and rockets to them. They know they'd be sacrificed if Hezbollah declares war.
3
Dear Rosalie Lieberman,
I'm not trivializing it, it's just trivial. Hezbollah killed 241 Americans in 1983, while we were involved in Lebanon's civil war. This is nothing compared to the casualties we suffered in Afghanistan or Iraq, but just as with those wars, if we hadn't invaded the country it wouldn't have happened. Hezbollah has never, ever launched an attack on American soil.
Killing and murdering three soldiers is also a tiny thing, when two groups are at war. Three soldiers get killed about every hour in Syria, for certain, but we don't particularly care about that, so these three don't particularly matter either.
Likewise those 3,900 rockets killed a handful of people, which again is no big deal in the region. Israel is at war with Hezbollah, and vice versa, and Israel has invaded Lebanon and committed war crimes there. And none of this shows any indication whatsoever of Iran working to destroy Israel.
I'm not trivializing it, it's just trivial. Hezbollah killed 241 Americans in 1983, while we were involved in Lebanon's civil war. This is nothing compared to the casualties we suffered in Afghanistan or Iraq, but just as with those wars, if we hadn't invaded the country it wouldn't have happened. Hezbollah has never, ever launched an attack on American soil.
Killing and murdering three soldiers is also a tiny thing, when two groups are at war. Three soldiers get killed about every hour in Syria, for certain, but we don't particularly care about that, so these three don't particularly matter either.
Likewise those 3,900 rockets killed a handful of people, which again is no big deal in the region. Israel is at war with Hezbollah, and vice versa, and Israel has invaded Lebanon and committed war crimes there. And none of this shows any indication whatsoever of Iran working to destroy Israel.
5
One can almost imagine the congressional GOP rallying one last time before Netanyahu's speech with their leaders openly reminding its members that the more they fawn over the prime minister, the more likely they will peel away Jewish voters from the Democrats. Such is the obvious transparency of the GOP strategy in breaking with protocol and inviting Israel's leader to address congress without informing the White House just weeks before the Israeli election. The GOP, as always, has not put forth any alternative to Obama's negotiations while it bashes them, and even though they are still fluid. Here, in the GOP, we have a political party cynically playing politics with something so serious -- war/peace in the middle east and nuclear weapons - it boggles the mind. However, given Americans' responses in polls, it appears that the GOP has once again overestimated the stupidity of the US population. It's scare rhetoric probably works very well among people who never had a passport, rural red staters, i.e., the GOP base. But its hard to imagine the GOP's ham handed moves will convince many Jews to switch parties...
It was not so much the fear-mongering by Mr. Netanyahu that was distressing to listen as to watch the shameful spectacle put up by the US Congress in welcoming him. In an attempt to snub our president, they went out of their way to treat Netanyahu like a conquering hero. What did he conquere and why he deserved to be treated better than our presidents delivering the State of the Union addresses. Israel maintains a huge arsenal of nuclear and conventional weapons, and the state of Israel is a superpower in the Middle East, but Netanyahu continues to play the card of victim hood, invoking Moses and Elie Wiesel. Mr. Wiesel, supposedly an icon of human rights, has never found courage to raise his voice in support of the Palestinians subjugated by Israel.
Both Republicans and Mr. Netanyahu seems to be advancing their own agendas in the theater last night. Republicans who wanted to show they were more ardent supporters of Israel than Israelis themselves, and that their allegiance is to the Israeli prime minister more than their own president succeeded in doing so. However, they may not succeed in peeling the American Jews, most of whom are liberal, progressive and enlightened, away from their overwhelming support for the Democratic Party.
Both Republicans and Mr. Netanyahu seems to be advancing their own agendas in the theater last night. Republicans who wanted to show they were more ardent supporters of Israel than Israelis themselves, and that their allegiance is to the Israeli prime minister more than their own president succeeded in doing so. However, they may not succeed in peeling the American Jews, most of whom are liberal, progressive and enlightened, away from their overwhelming support for the Democratic Party.
4
Israel wants one thing and one thing only from the US. A war with Iran spending US blood and treasure for Israeli benefit. It's time for the US to start making US Middle East policy in Washington for the benefit of the US and not in Jerusalem for the benefit of Israel.
3
Israel has a stockpile of nuclear weapons, is not a signatory to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, and, as best as I can tell, its "nuclear program" is not subject to IAEA oversight and inspection.
Iran does not have nuclear weapons, is signatory to the nonproliferation treaty (under which it has a right to enrich uranium), and is subject to IAEA oversight.
Mr. Netanyahu decries a possible (as yet, nonexistent) agreement intended to assure that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons (which it has said it does not want) as a "bad deal." He does so on the basis that he does not trust Iran to keep its word, does not trust the IAEA, and does not trust the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany (the P5+1 parties negotiating a possible agreement with Iran). Part of his argument is that should Iran "cheat" and stealthily develop a nuclear weapon, this will incentivize Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt to develop their own nuclear programs. This, of course, raises the question as to why Israel's own nuclear program hasn't created that same incentive (though some may argue that it has for Iran).
So, if Mr. Netanyahu thinks that any P5+1 agreement with Iran is a "bad deal," how about this: Iran forswears the development of any nuclear weapon in a fully verifiable manner as soon as Israel decommissions its nuclear arsenal, signs the NNPT, and subjects its nuclear program to IAEA oversight?
Iran does not have nuclear weapons, is signatory to the nonproliferation treaty (under which it has a right to enrich uranium), and is subject to IAEA oversight.
Mr. Netanyahu decries a possible (as yet, nonexistent) agreement intended to assure that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons (which it has said it does not want) as a "bad deal." He does so on the basis that he does not trust Iran to keep its word, does not trust the IAEA, and does not trust the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany (the P5+1 parties negotiating a possible agreement with Iran). Part of his argument is that should Iran "cheat" and stealthily develop a nuclear weapon, this will incentivize Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt to develop their own nuclear programs. This, of course, raises the question as to why Israel's own nuclear program hasn't created that same incentive (though some may argue that it has for Iran).
So, if Mr. Netanyahu thinks that any P5+1 agreement with Iran is a "bad deal," how about this: Iran forswears the development of any nuclear weapon in a fully verifiable manner as soon as Israel decommissions its nuclear arsenal, signs the NNPT, and subjects its nuclear program to IAEA oversight?
5
There can never be a chance for peace in the Middle East until Bibi Netanyahu is replaced with a reasonable and fair-minded Israeli Prime Minister. Bibi doesn't seem to want peace; he seems to want the annihilation of Iran -- with no compromises whatever. Obama was right to ignore his exaggerated expressions of imminent danger from an Iranian nuclear attack. Israel can't keep expanding its settlements beyond it's legitimate boundaries and expect the United States to defend it's expansion, right or wrong. Netanyahu is a rabid ideologue, so the US should hope he loses his upcoming election.
5
Remember the hostages?
3
Remember the Iran-Contra scheme? It's a lot more recent. Oh and remember the Shah? Yeah Iran isn't the only bad guy here, from the history, we're the bad guy too, and so is Israel.
2
I've got to agree with the majority of this editorial. Unlike Mr. Netanyahu's speech, it is based on clear facts and logic. Mr. Netanyahu is basing his entire argument on drumming up fears and ignoring obvious realities. For example, he claimed in about '95 that Iran would have a nuclear bomb in '99. That's 16 years ago, and Iran is basically no closer to that today. He goes on about how dangerous it would be for Iran to have nuclear capability, and how they're bent on conquest, whereas in reality, Israel is the only Mideast nation to have nuclear missiles (60 to 85 of them with the last estimates although they prevent all inspections), and Israel has been invading countries while Iran has not.
In fact, one could switch all the terminology in Mr. Netanyahu's speech, replacing Israel with Iran and vice versa, and it would suddenly make a lot more sense.
I think what people should realize is that Mr. Netanyahu has built his entire political career on fear and war. He never really negotiates, always incites and increases conflicts, and never misses a chance to tell Israel how much he's protecting them. That without him, Israel would fall to hordes of demons or something. Thus his opinions can never be really trusted, because all he wants is eternal conflict so that he can stay in power for life.
So I'd like to thank Iran for being the rational nation in this situation, and I hope things can be resolved and Israel's nukes can be controlled.
In fact, one could switch all the terminology in Mr. Netanyahu's speech, replacing Israel with Iran and vice versa, and it would suddenly make a lot more sense.
I think what people should realize is that Mr. Netanyahu has built his entire political career on fear and war. He never really negotiates, always incites and increases conflicts, and never misses a chance to tell Israel how much he's protecting them. That without him, Israel would fall to hordes of demons or something. Thus his opinions can never be really trusted, because all he wants is eternal conflict so that he can stay in power for life.
So I'd like to thank Iran for being the rational nation in this situation, and I hope things can be resolved and Israel's nukes can be controlled.
67
Mr.Netanyahu seems to be trying to divert attention from the missteps that Israel is making in absorbing the Palestinian population. If it were any country other than Israel, the world would be in an uproar over their treatment of the Palestinians.
2
Didn't Iran blow up a Marine barracks and kill about 200 Marines? Didn't Iran take over the American Embassy and hold American personnel hostage during the Carter Presidency? Is the Shiia regime in supporting and sending in military troops to fight in the ISSIS movement? Is the Iran government still shouting death to America? Why are we so enamored with this Anti Western regime? Explain this to me please.
4
This is the same country who's president just a few years ago insisted that the holocaust never happened. Iran's leadership has no credibility whatsoever.
4
Netanyahu is a conservative—that is, a member of a fearful group that lies every time its members open their mouths. It's always been such. The only conservative hero is Reagan, and his legacy is a lie, underscored by corruption, scandal, and treason. The rest are historical villains.
There are definitely some valid points in the article, but an old saying applies here: "Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean someone isn't out to get you." If Mexico and Canada had continuously expressed their desire and intention to eradicate the U.S., we might be a bit tense, too.
4
Thank you Ambassador for your courteous reply.May I add... let's look at another outcome 10 years down the road with positive relations with Iran. A market of 78 million anxious for genuine American consumer goods; an infrastructure offering us development projects (that's if the Chinese haven't already finished the jobs)...and heh...even a good chance of friendship with a strong, pro- American partner in the ME...or we can just continue channeling McCann
1
i hate to say it, but iran's best argument against netanyahu's bombast is the iranian leadership in iraq in the war against isis. where is israel in that war?
israel's best argument would be: discontinue its west bank settlements and sincerely seek a two-state solution with the palestinians, instead of obstructing such a solution, in order to de-escalate tensions and animosity against israel.
israel's best argument would be: discontinue its west bank settlements and sincerely seek a two-state solution with the palestinians, instead of obstructing such a solution, in order to de-escalate tensions and animosity against israel.
4
I sure wish Bibi would stop running around screaming about the sky falling....then again...how else would he get re-elected....
2
The sanctions imposed against Iran because of the potential to build a nuclear bomb are such a ludicrous farce. One who looks at the situation objectively can only shake one's head in dismay at the lack of justice and fairness and the deplorable hypocrisy.
These global sanctions have been largely imposed by the US, which in total disregard for Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty still maintains a vast and ready arsenal of nuclear weapons. The US backs without any question Israel which has refused to sign the NPT and doesn't even acknowledge its own large arsenal of nuclear weapons which everybody knows they possess.
Any objective person realizes who the real criminals are in this situation. It is the US and Israel, that formidable and criminal "axis of evil" in the world. Who, after all, has been involved in some of the most criminal wars in the world over the last decade? The US in Iraq and Israel bombing Lebanon to smithereens. As the writer indicates, Iran (Persia) has not raised a hand to invade another nation in modern history (they needed to defend themselves against the attacks of Sadam Hussein).
This begs the question, why in all fairness, does the world go along with these sanctions imposed by the US to oblige its little ally in the Mid East? One would hope that Europe and other regions of the world would stop supporting such hypocrisy by the US and such criminal behavior by Israel. It is just a matter of being objective.
These global sanctions have been largely imposed by the US, which in total disregard for Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty still maintains a vast and ready arsenal of nuclear weapons. The US backs without any question Israel which has refused to sign the NPT and doesn't even acknowledge its own large arsenal of nuclear weapons which everybody knows they possess.
Any objective person realizes who the real criminals are in this situation. It is the US and Israel, that formidable and criminal "axis of evil" in the world. Who, after all, has been involved in some of the most criminal wars in the world over the last decade? The US in Iraq and Israel bombing Lebanon to smithereens. As the writer indicates, Iran (Persia) has not raised a hand to invade another nation in modern history (they needed to defend themselves against the attacks of Sadam Hussein).
This begs the question, why in all fairness, does the world go along with these sanctions imposed by the US to oblige its little ally in the Mid East? One would hope that Europe and other regions of the world would stop supporting such hypocrisy by the US and such criminal behavior by Israel. It is just a matter of being objective.
3
Ambassador Khoshroo:
Many readers are glad the NYT gives you space to respond to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
We welcome your challenges to Mr. Netanyahu's statements. We appreciate your citations from credible sources. I hope readers give your challenges and evidence their due.
You devote seven of twelve paragraphs to challenge Mr. Netanyahu as a messenger. Many of us already find him wanting as a messenger, as a leader, as an ally.
You devote two paragraphs to issues Mr. Netanyahu wishes to distract us from: Palestinians; Israel's own nuclear assets; Israel's own aggressions. Many already know these issues.
You note Iran has not invaded another country since the late 1800s. This too many of us do not know. But Iran, not unlike other countries, sponsors proxy aggressors (or defenders, as you will) outside its borders. Acknowledgement, justification, might be useful. Iran has been abused by the US. Iran would do well to assert why Iran wants peace going forward, under what conditions it offers peace.
But no one imagines Iran's nuclear program. You say what it is not for. You do not say what it is for. It is plausible, as for other countries, that Iran's nuclear program is peaceful, necessary. Iran would do well to make that case.
Netanyahu has other agendas. Others make that case (James Fallows, The Atlantic).
Iran can partner on Middle East issues. Expand on that case.
Israel does create problems. Offer and support solutions.
We want to hear more. Amb. Khoshroo? NYT?
Many readers are glad the NYT gives you space to respond to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
We welcome your challenges to Mr. Netanyahu's statements. We appreciate your citations from credible sources. I hope readers give your challenges and evidence their due.
You devote seven of twelve paragraphs to challenge Mr. Netanyahu as a messenger. Many of us already find him wanting as a messenger, as a leader, as an ally.
You devote two paragraphs to issues Mr. Netanyahu wishes to distract us from: Palestinians; Israel's own nuclear assets; Israel's own aggressions. Many already know these issues.
You note Iran has not invaded another country since the late 1800s. This too many of us do not know. But Iran, not unlike other countries, sponsors proxy aggressors (or defenders, as you will) outside its borders. Acknowledgement, justification, might be useful. Iran has been abused by the US. Iran would do well to assert why Iran wants peace going forward, under what conditions it offers peace.
But no one imagines Iran's nuclear program. You say what it is not for. You do not say what it is for. It is plausible, as for other countries, that Iran's nuclear program is peaceful, necessary. Iran would do well to make that case.
Netanyahu has other agendas. Others make that case (James Fallows, The Atlantic).
Iran can partner on Middle East issues. Expand on that case.
Israel does create problems. Offer and support solutions.
We want to hear more. Amb. Khoshroo? NYT?
4
"The paradox of the situation is that a government that has built a stockpile of nuclear weapons, rejected calls to establish a nuclear-weapons-free zone in the Middle East, made military incursions into neighboring states and flouted international law by keeping the lands of other nations under occupation, now makes such a big fuss over a country, Iran, that has not invaded another country since America became a sovereign nation."
This is spot on.
This is spot on.
1
Israelis who are voting in the upcoming election should look no further than the US Congress to see complete government dysfunction. The should look at the commonalities between Bibi and the Tea Party. If they want their country to be stuck in the same sort of political dysfunction, perpetual war and steerage by a few extremists, they should re-elect Bibi. Generally, the American people (other than a few on the right) are fed up with pouring money into the mideast. We are finally talking to Iran. As we have seen, blowing a country to smithereens as in Iraq, only chases away those who can leave (those who are educated and can govern) and leaves a bunch of extremists. If you want your country to be run by extremists, I give you ISIS. What happens in the west when a band of extremists takes over the government? Nothing. I give you Congress.
2
Bibi is wrong to approach this the way he has, Israel has much to answer for and Iran has much to answer for - both have committed wrongs, as has my own country. But, the best response is engagement with Iran to defuse the situation, maintain international scrutiny, and then some tit for tat regarding their acknowledgement of Israel's right to exist and Israel's humanely addressing the Palestinian question.
28
If Netanyahu manages to destroy the negotiations with Iran, then the whole system of international sanctions will come apart at the seams. Russia and China will fall all over themselves to be trading partners with Iran, and the EU will probably do likewise.
3
Shame on the U.S. Congress- kowtowing to a foreign leader like Netanyahu. He has always been a hawk on the Middle East affairs. He told us to invade Iraq. After trillions of dollars spent on a war and hundred of thousands of people- including thousands of Americans- lost, now he is telling us to play hardball with Iran and invade them if necessary.
Shame on the Speaker of the House of Shame, the Honorable John Boehner.
Shame on the Speaker of the House of Shame, the Honorable John Boehner.
3
Perhaps you are correct that Netanyahu has overstated his case. But the NYT opinion piece entirely misses the main point. Iran is already at war, funding and using its proxy terrorist organizations in the Middle East and Africa. Their leadership's entire philosophy, bolstered by religious fundamentalist intractability, is inimical to all decent and humane values. A word of warning- when you lie down with dogs, you wake up with fleas.
3
Imagine that you are the head of a small country within a few seconds flying time of a short/medium range missile. Your citizens have been the focus of terrorist actions including the bombing of schools and buses to rocket attacks for almost half a century. Your neighbor who has been consistently calling for your death and both arming and funding the terrorists mentioned above has a nuclear program in the works. They also have a delivery system in which to hit you with a nuclear weapon should they choose. What would you say and what would you do?
2
Funny, that's exactly Iran's situation. They're in range of Israel's nuclear missiles, Israel's been calling for their destruction, Israel could be seen as funding terrorists (bit of a stretch, sure), and Israel has attacked Iran and its proxies, as well as most of the neighboring states.
So if I was Iran, I'd say, get the heck off our back, and I'd work like crazy on getting nuclear missiles as a deterrent, before Israel unilaterally nukes Iran. I can only hope that with all the provocation, Iran continues to be fairly levelheaded in its actions.
Like recall when a batch of Americans on a spying mission (comm intercepts) were captured off the shores of Iran. They were all extremely well treated, given tailor made suits and gift baskets, and returned after some debriefing, not interrogation. We don't even act that civilized.
So if I was Iran, I'd say, get the heck off our back, and I'd work like crazy on getting nuclear missiles as a deterrent, before Israel unilaterally nukes Iran. I can only hope that with all the provocation, Iran continues to be fairly levelheaded in its actions.
Like recall when a batch of Americans on a spying mission (comm intercepts) were captured off the shores of Iran. They were all extremely well treated, given tailor made suits and gift baskets, and returned after some debriefing, not interrogation. We don't even act that civilized.
1
It is worth noting that this article is written by a man who represents a country that:
1)has a man on death row for converting to Christianity
2)Punishes gays by stoning
3)Officially recognizes the vote of a woman as one third that of a man. Making the vote of the minister of womans affairs less than that of her janitor.
4)Harbored Al Queda fugitives
5)Sent kuds force members to Argentina to kill jews and Germany to kill kurds.
Aside from this yes their is no reason why they should not join the community of nuclear weapon baring nations. As all his apologists point out Isreal has them and that state has terrorized Iran for decades.
1)has a man on death row for converting to Christianity
2)Punishes gays by stoning
3)Officially recognizes the vote of a woman as one third that of a man. Making the vote of the minister of womans affairs less than that of her janitor.
4)Harbored Al Queda fugitives
5)Sent kuds force members to Argentina to kill jews and Germany to kill kurds.
Aside from this yes their is no reason why they should not join the community of nuclear weapon baring nations. As all his apologists point out Isreal has them and that state has terrorized Iran for decades.
3
So when does this guy get to speak to Congress? Do they want to hear both sides of the issue or have the hallowed halls of Congress become yet another Republican echo chamber?
1
It is time for a new direction in politics and in life in general. It is time to finally live in peace and love, and not be swayed by the fear mongers in one way or another. To be swayed, would be to give up your personal power and authority to politicians and other power players who only think about themselves, even if it means walking all over you.
Have we already forgotten the Iraq WMD war lie from President Bush? The tremendous amount of currency printing after the 2008 financial crisis to save us from the bankers' greed and devastation, while an average American is still stuck living paycheck to paycheck while all the recovery gains have gone to the top 1% AGAIN? And all the fear mongering that was undertaken by the US Government to go into the Syrian civil war with the end of the world scenario back in 2010. Guess what? world continues to move on without more war making by the US and its allies in the name of keeping proactive peace through war.
Mr. Netanyahu is just another fear monger to add to the list with absolutely no truth or substance, but always full of trickery, cheating and misleading people through fear. Give no heed.
Have we already forgotten the Iraq WMD war lie from President Bush? The tremendous amount of currency printing after the 2008 financial crisis to save us from the bankers' greed and devastation, while an average American is still stuck living paycheck to paycheck while all the recovery gains have gone to the top 1% AGAIN? And all the fear mongering that was undertaken by the US Government to go into the Syrian civil war with the end of the world scenario back in 2010. Guess what? world continues to move on without more war making by the US and its allies in the name of keeping proactive peace through war.
Mr. Netanyahu is just another fear monger to add to the list with absolutely no truth or substance, but always full of trickery, cheating and misleading people through fear. Give no heed.
2
Bibi is doing what he always does when he does not get what HE wants. He says he would negotiate a tougher deal. His negotiation strategy, tho, is total capitulation of the person or country you are dealing with,. He repeated that yesterday in DC. That makes him look more like Putin than any democratic leader in the West.
In his speech he said there are other options and they do not involve war. When asked for specifics he has said Iran must agree to total dismantlement of nuclear facilities, stating "they have lots of oil. Whey to they need nuclear power." Now that is not a negotiation, it is a demand. Certainly one a proud nation like Iran would never agree to. So if Bibi says that is the alternative and it cannot succeed then the next choice IS war. He tried it with W during the iraq war with his request to overfly Iraq on the way to bomb Iran, but W wisely did not bitte, knowing full well the it would immediately take American troops in Iraq to war with Iran.
Bibi knows all this. He knows no one, not even the most evangelical southern christian repin DC is going to vote for war with Iran and the expenditure of American lives and treasure. They may bloviate about Israel for votes back home, but they will not vote for American blood in the deserts of Iran. So that leaves only the Israeli election in two weeks as a rational for all this faux rage….oh, and Boehner's need to distract the American people from the internal Republican food fight of the moment.
In his speech he said there are other options and they do not involve war. When asked for specifics he has said Iran must agree to total dismantlement of nuclear facilities, stating "they have lots of oil. Whey to they need nuclear power." Now that is not a negotiation, it is a demand. Certainly one a proud nation like Iran would never agree to. So if Bibi says that is the alternative and it cannot succeed then the next choice IS war. He tried it with W during the iraq war with his request to overfly Iraq on the way to bomb Iran, but W wisely did not bitte, knowing full well the it would immediately take American troops in Iraq to war with Iran.
Bibi knows all this. He knows no one, not even the most evangelical southern christian repin DC is going to vote for war with Iran and the expenditure of American lives and treasure. They may bloviate about Israel for votes back home, but they will not vote for American blood in the deserts of Iran. So that leaves only the Israeli election in two weeks as a rational for all this faux rage….oh, and Boehner's need to distract the American people from the internal Republican food fight of the moment.
2
People speaking negatively about Netanyahu are by association often speaking badly about Israel. When Israel is suddenly cast in a negative light, even if it is of Bibi’s own doing this time, the level of anxiety among most of the Jews around the world rises and logical thinking or self criticism become mostly irrelevant at that moment. If that anxiety reaches the panic button inside Israel and, judging from the past, the response has never been to try to bring a government who would ease that tension but rather to fight back by choosing a defender to lead the nation. If that scenario continues to take place during the next couple of weeks, unfortunately Netanyahu will be reelected.
1
Iran would destroy the Temple Mount, millions of Palestinians, and the capacity to occupy the now denuded landscape for millenia? Israel was the go-between back in the day of the Iran Contra Affair, when the Republican roots in the middle east were setting in during Reagan's errant reign. Is Israel now without influence itself here? Bibi cannot have a treaty, he'll have no excuse for retaining power.
1
Let's look at the situation realistically...Iran supports Assad in Syria who has the blood of millions on his hands; Iran supports Hezbollah and Hamas, both are Islamic extremist groups that are sworn to Israel's destruction; Iran is supporting Islamic fighters in Syria who are threatening the Golan heights; Iran's previous president swore to blow Israel off the map, and subsequent Iranian "leaders" have never disavowed that statement; Iran is a known worldwide sponsor of terrorism. Considering the reality of the neighborhood that Israel lives in, it doesn't seem unreasonable for the PM to address the issue to congress. Yes, it should have been done differently, but Obama and Kerry seem more concerned with getting their place in the history books then they do with honestly dealing with the threats that are faced by an ally. And by the way...The US deploys 160,000 soldiers in many countries around the world including Germany, Japan, Kuwait and South Korea. The US sells military hardware and technology to Saudi Arabia.The US has no troops in Israel and no US soldier has ever fought in an Arab/Israeli war.
3
Middle East According to NY Times:
1) OK to question neocons on evidence for Iraq war (better late than never).
2) Not ok to question POTUS on his negotiations with Iran.
3) OK to be in complete agreement with UN Amassador from Iran regarding the status of their nuclear weapons programs and desires.
1) OK to question neocons on evidence for Iraq war (better late than never).
2) Not ok to question POTUS on his negotiations with Iran.
3) OK to be in complete agreement with UN Amassador from Iran regarding the status of their nuclear weapons programs and desires.
4
I'm disgusted that Netanyahu used the House Chamber as a prop in his re-election campaign. I saw nothing but a stump speech, and nothing of substance. I'm even more disgusted with Republicans for allowing it.
2
We live in incredibly dangerous times, when most readers of this column, based on their comments, agree with an ambassador of an oppressive, aggressive and terrorist state, over a leader of a democratic country. This should not be surprising, as this has been a practice in "liberal" societies for centuries - find the easiest target and lob shallow arguments in their direction. Anti-Semitism is alive and well in all parts of the world, and unfortunately for Israel, their only recourse is a forceful response to every threat. The argument about Iran's nuclear ambitions, is absurd as an argument; the readers that simply believe that acquiring almost 200,000 centrifuges for unnecessary energy research is perfectly justifiable are shameful and ignorant. The lessons of North Korea have not been applied and learned from by the American public, since they feel they are far removed from the threat. This lesson would only become reality, when an American city is targeted by North Korea - hitting South Korea would be again looked upon as a minor blip on CNN.
I applaud NY Times for allowing the Op-Ed piece, but I'm disheartened by the readers for their interpretation of world affairs. Whether Iran comes into possession of Nuclear Arms in the next 10 years, or 50, the policy of detente would cease to exist shortly thereafter. Unfortunately, it would be too late to say I told you so.
I applaud NY Times for allowing the Op-Ed piece, but I'm disheartened by the readers for their interpretation of world affairs. Whether Iran comes into possession of Nuclear Arms in the next 10 years, or 50, the policy of detente would cease to exist shortly thereafter. Unfortunately, it would be too late to say I told you so.
29
Your scenario of American cities being targeted by some other nuclear power is just not realistic. Anyone targeting the US with nuclear weapons would be annihilated and they are well aware of it. The countries you mentioned might be run by fanatics, but they are not stupid.
Don't mistake good PR for good intentions. It's easy to be fooled by the veneer of civility. By the standards outlined here, if Charles Manson cleaned himself up and started speaking as if he belonged in Geneva instead of prison he'd be a great babysitter.
Trust is about actions, not words. What has Iran done to earn trust?
If Iran needs a nuclear program for their power needs, why don't they stop uranium processing and buy uranium from France?
Trust is about actions, not words. What has Iran done to earn trust?
If Iran needs a nuclear program for their power needs, why don't they stop uranium processing and buy uranium from France?
1
if Prime Minister Netanyahu is wrong then why are so many Arab enemies of Israel supporting him? Saudi-backed 'Al Arabiya' ran an extremely pro-Israel article by the Editor-in-Chief of its English website on Tuesday titled, “President Obama, listen to Netanyahu on Iran.”
See here http://english.alarabiya.net/en/views/news/middle-east/2015/03/03/Presid...
"It is extremely rare for any reasonable person to ever agree with anything Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says or does.
However, one must admit, Bibi did get it right, at least when it came to dealing with Iran.
The Israeli PM managed to hit the nail right on the head when he said that Middle Eastern countries are collapsing and that “terror organizations, mostly backed by Iran, are filling in the vacuum” during a recent ceremony held in Tel Aviv to thank outgoing IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz for his role during “challenging” times."
See here http://english.alarabiya.net/en/views/news/middle-east/2015/03/03/Presid...
"It is extremely rare for any reasonable person to ever agree with anything Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says or does.
However, one must admit, Bibi did get it right, at least when it came to dealing with Iran.
The Israeli PM managed to hit the nail right on the head when he said that Middle Eastern countries are collapsing and that “terror organizations, mostly backed by Iran, are filling in the vacuum” during a recent ceremony held in Tel Aviv to thank outgoing IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz for his role during “challenging” times."
1
It would serve the Congress well (and perhaps Iran and the US) if Mr. Boehner would invite the Iranian Ambassador to the US to address them, in the wake of the recent one-sided presentation beamed to the Israeli people and Congress. He does not need campaign funds to get a major boost to the current campaign in Israel. He has a habit of blocking attempts to seek diplomatic solutions, let alone a two-state answer to the Palestinian issues.
34
Why do people want to invite the Iranian Ambassador? Bebe is an elected premier/president of a democratic country why not invite his equivalent from the Iranian government? Oh forgot, yes the pm is elected in Iran but he answers to the Ayatollah not his public. Oppss, my bad.
I agree that a nuclear-armed Middle East is a dangerous Middle East. Perhaps as an offer of goodwill, Israel would also reduce their nuclear arsenal, or at least sign the NPT.
How about the nation-states of the Middle East recognize Israel and stop threatening it, then maybe the Israelis will have an incentive.
1
Key points to keep in mind.
1 Israel has since 1966 its own arsenal of nuclear weapons.
2 Israel is not a signer of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.
3 Israeli military ordered the USS Liberty be attacked on June 8, 1967, killing 34, wounding 171.
1 Israel has since 1966 its own arsenal of nuclear weapons.
2 Israel is not a signer of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.
3 Israeli military ordered the USS Liberty be attacked on June 8, 1967, killing 34, wounding 171.
3
March 3, 2015, is a day that should live in infamy. It was an insult to every American. This is OUR country. We make the decisions that are in OUR best interest. We listen to input from other countries, but we don't offer them a bully pulpit. Boehner and his Republican cohorts, for political circus, committed an act of treason by inviting Netanyahu to speak before our congress. It continues the pattern of abuse that began with the election of our first black President, in order to de-legitimize him as a usurper. At its foundation it is based on racial hatred of Obama. That is not playing the "race card", that is the truth. In our country's history, there has never been an insult to a standing President as egregious as allowing a foreigner to speak before our elected officials in such a manner.
Our support for Israel has directly and indirectly caused acts of terror, like 9/11, to be committed against this country and has drawn us into proxy wars on their behalf that have resulted in major loss of life and treasure. Netanyahu's speech, and Boehner's complicity, is a disrespectful insult to every American service member and their families. It was an abomination that should not be soon forgotten.
Our support for Israel has directly and indirectly caused acts of terror, like 9/11, to be committed against this country and has drawn us into proxy wars on their behalf that have resulted in major loss of life and treasure. Netanyahu's speech, and Boehner's complicity, is a disrespectful insult to every American service member and their families. It was an abomination that should not be soon forgotten.
1
Let's call Mr. Netanyahu's appearance what it is: "The Great Hypocrisy Speech". Or we could just follow the money and trace how many AIPAC dollars are going to Congress for them to shamelessly applaud a fraudulent speech.
Gholamali Khoshroo correctly argues that the crux of many problems in the Middle East stem from Israeli apartheid policies that is strangling Palestine. The false premises of equating ISIS with Iran, the claims that Iran can never be trusted are the words of a desperate man whose power hinges on fear-mongering.
Everyone should be very careful in trusting another allied country that manipulates US foreign policy to their own advantage. There is no winnable military option against Iran. The only course is negotiate, verify and remove the terrorist mantle that has been hung on Iran for decades.
Gholamali Khoshroo correctly argues that the crux of many problems in the Middle East stem from Israeli apartheid policies that is strangling Palestine. The false premises of equating ISIS with Iran, the claims that Iran can never be trusted are the words of a desperate man whose power hinges on fear-mongering.
Everyone should be very careful in trusting another allied country that manipulates US foreign policy to their own advantage. There is no winnable military option against Iran. The only course is negotiate, verify and remove the terrorist mantle that has been hung on Iran for decades.
1
Ambassador Khoshroo was doing pretty well until he said that Iran has not invaded another country since America became a country. Maybe not, but Iran has been one of the world's foremost state sponsors of terrorism over the last three decades. They have propped up the Assad regime in Syria, destabilized Lebanon, and sponsored terrorist acts across the world from Buenos Aires to Berlin.
Americans who fear a nuclear Iran do not fear a Persian expeditionary force, they fear the transfer of a nuclear weapon to a terrorist group. A single act of nuclear terrorism, in almost any major city in the world, would be the most disastrous, devastating, and destabilizing event in the history of civilization.
It is nearly inevitable, given American geopolitical needs in the Middle East, that Iran and the US will move closer together in the coming years. For a time, Iran and the US will resemble two kids at a wedding forced into doing a slow dance. It's awkward, they have little warmth for one another, and they would rather be elsewhere. But they will dance until the end of the song...and until it's over, the grandstanding opportunities for politicians on all sides will be numerous. This reasonable sounding article, Bibi's speech, Bohner, Obama, are nothing more than that.
Meanwhile--and barring some kind of unexpected incident, inevitably--the US and Iran will have a slow-motion rapprochement, no matter which politicians are in charge, whether it sounds nice or not. It's geopolitics.
Americans who fear a nuclear Iran do not fear a Persian expeditionary force, they fear the transfer of a nuclear weapon to a terrorist group. A single act of nuclear terrorism, in almost any major city in the world, would be the most disastrous, devastating, and destabilizing event in the history of civilization.
It is nearly inevitable, given American geopolitical needs in the Middle East, that Iran and the US will move closer together in the coming years. For a time, Iran and the US will resemble two kids at a wedding forced into doing a slow dance. It's awkward, they have little warmth for one another, and they would rather be elsewhere. But they will dance until the end of the song...and until it's over, the grandstanding opportunities for politicians on all sides will be numerous. This reasonable sounding article, Bibi's speech, Bohner, Obama, are nothing more than that.
Meanwhile--and barring some kind of unexpected incident, inevitably--the US and Iran will have a slow-motion rapprochement, no matter which politicians are in charge, whether it sounds nice or not. It's geopolitics.
1
Netanyahu is who he is and nothing is going to change him or the people who think that the status quo can go on forever. His claims about the Iranian intentions and progress in achieving those intentions reflect a level of certainty very much like Cheney's one percent rule, if the odds of something occurring which one does not want are one percent assume one hundred percent. The only solution that Netanyahu presents is to impose even more sanctions to squeeze Iran into desperation and to bomb the facilities in attack after attack to retard the progress of the facilities, all with the support of the United States. That's Netanyahu and the people who think that what they want is going to happen because God will make it so, and they will never find a viable solution to any of their problems because of it.
The problem for the United States that we can address is to find solutions in the real world. The Iranian regime is as extreme and radical as any but it likes power, which means it likes existing and seeks to continue to do so. They may encourage suicide bombers but none of them intends to use Iran as one. That's the basis upon which they can be engaged, they want to survive. That's why there is some room for diplomacy short of war.
The Congress has the duty to advise and consent when it comes to foreign policy and treaties, which means when it pulls a stunt like inviting Netanyahu to speak it undermines negotiations. Why? Do the Republicans want another war?
The problem for the United States that we can address is to find solutions in the real world. The Iranian regime is as extreme and radical as any but it likes power, which means it likes existing and seeks to continue to do so. They may encourage suicide bombers but none of them intends to use Iran as one. That's the basis upon which they can be engaged, they want to survive. That's why there is some room for diplomacy short of war.
The Congress has the duty to advise and consent when it comes to foreign policy and treaties, which means when it pulls a stunt like inviting Netanyahu to speak it undermines negotiations. Why? Do the Republicans want another war?
1
Thank God Mitt Romney's not President because him and Netanyahu are good friends--they worked as corporate advisers together. Romney would have us in another war already.
Both states, Israel and Iran, are oppressive to substantial minorities (perhaps even the majority) of people within the territories they control. Both find justification for this in religion. Yet neither's religion is the most problematic today in the Middle East. Each looks the epitome of enlightenment compared to ISIL. Each, if it freed all the people within its realm, treating them equally with its more favored citizens, would find itself with far more international respect. Each uses the threat of the other as an excuse for not doing that.
1
I agree with Mr. Khushroo that Iran is not a "danger to the world" or if it is, it can hardly even begin to compete with the US and Israel in the "danger to the world" category.
At the same time I do not buy the anti-Netanyahu hysteria. He is wrong and so is Mr. Boehner but it seems to me that they have to right to choose their words and their actions.
And lots of Americans believe this nonsense about Iran being a danger. How many Americans know the awful things which the US has done to Iran? The overthrow of a democratic government, the shooting down of a civilian Iran Air flight, the sanctions which have no doubt led to lots of Iranian children not getting the medicines they need.
I think Mr. Obama is going in the right direction and I hope he works out a reasonable agreement with Iran which will restore good relations.
At the same time I do not buy the anti-Netanyahu hysteria. He is wrong and so is Mr. Boehner but it seems to me that they have to right to choose their words and their actions.
And lots of Americans believe this nonsense about Iran being a danger. How many Americans know the awful things which the US has done to Iran? The overthrow of a democratic government, the shooting down of a civilian Iran Air flight, the sanctions which have no doubt led to lots of Iranian children not getting the medicines they need.
I think Mr. Obama is going in the right direction and I hope he works out a reasonable agreement with Iran which will restore good relations.
3
Mr. Khoshroo suggest Mr. Netanyahu is either simply paranoid about Iran or cynically determined, out of purely malicious intent, to concoct out of wholly fictious claims Iran seeks nuclear weaponry a pretext for attacking Iran or goading the US to undertake such an attack on Israel's behalf.
OK! Mr. Khoshroo must be right, and Israel should wager its very survival on Mr. Khoshroo's bona fides.
On the other hand, why does this article not begin with a firm denial that Iran seeks or has sought (and if it is purely past tense, explain how this is reflected in official policy) Israel's destruction, and has supported Hezbollah's terrorist attacks on Israel?
OK! Mr. Khoshroo must be right, and Israel should wager its very survival on Mr. Khoshroo's bona fides.
On the other hand, why does this article not begin with a firm denial that Iran seeks or has sought (and if it is purely past tense, explain how this is reflected in official policy) Israel's destruction, and has supported Hezbollah's terrorist attacks on Israel?
2
It's pretty scary that the timid people of a country with nukes want a leader like Netanyahu.
1
Is it a good idea to have religious nation-states? Non-religious governments seem more sustainable and more aligned with the factual realities of modern science and global interconnectedness.
Bibi called upon God to bless Israel and the US. He described both nations as "promised lands". It's not just the ayatollahs that cling to the belief that God is on their side. Peace, tolerance, and the spread of prosperity will come when religious swords are beaten into plowshares.
Bibi called upon God to bless Israel and the US. He described both nations as "promised lands". It's not just the ayatollahs that cling to the belief that God is on their side. Peace, tolerance, and the spread of prosperity will come when religious swords are beaten into plowshares.
2
Congratulations Mr. Netanyahu for making me, as an American Jew, more sympathetic on this issue to Iran than to Israel.
3
PLEASE MR. AMBASSADOR
If you want to put the Israelis in a hot spot, advise your leadership to become THE leader of a movement to create a WMD-free Middle East. Find the biggest public audience you can and come out with a proposed program that would eliminate nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons in ALL states in the ME.
If you want to put the Israelis in a hot spot, advise your leadership to become THE leader of a movement to create a WMD-free Middle East. Find the biggest public audience you can and come out with a proposed program that would eliminate nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons in ALL states in the ME.
1
I guess tomorrow we'll see a counterpoint op-ed from the Israeli ambassador. What? No?
Whatever this Iranian propagandist says, don't forget who has continually and vehemently advocated the liquidation of whom; which is the democracy and which is the brutal, medieval theocracy; and which is our friend and which is our avowed enemy.
Whatever this Iranian propagandist says, don't forget who has continually and vehemently advocated the liquidation of whom; which is the democracy and which is the brutal, medieval theocracy; and which is our friend and which is our avowed enemy.
2
As assistant secretary of state Wendy Sherman said, “We know that deception is part of the [Iranians'] DNA.” Unlike the US, the Iranians' morality permits lying to adversaries. It's hard to believe that he's repeating the old canard that Iran wants nuclear energy only for peaceful purposes. They have more flaring (uncaptured) natural gas than the supposed nuclear plants would generate. And why are they working so hard on intercontinental missiles, which have no purpose other than to deliver nuclear warheads? Believe one word of this at your peril.
2
Would you the agree that lying to the US public to muster support for imperial wars, as LBJ did in the Tompkins Bay 'incident' and Bush did with Iraqi 'WMDs', must the be in the US DNA?
I'm VERY proud of our President. I remember someone close to him once said that he is a man with no hatred. I'm sure he gets angry, and frankly I get angry at him sometimes when he doesn't seem more upset about things. However, to see him so aggressively undermined on the world stage yesterday and how he remained so composed and free of rancor or hatred, was superhuman. How does he do it? I'm just glad that he is the one with the larger responsibilities in the Middle East and not that hot-head that Israel sent us to embarrass our President.
2
Lets not forget that there is a whole defense industry that can make oodles of money if the war-threat is kept alive. And it wouldn't surprise me if they had a receptive audience in a good chunk of congress.
Israel and Iran play on the same show: one cuts the onions, the other one cries. Israel wants to remain the sole nuclear power in the region, and Iran wants to stand up to oil rich sunni nations. Israel is never going to be threatened by Iran, and if such threat ever materialized it would have been squashed long ago. As per Iran and their shia creed of permanent lies [taqya], they should never be trusted. If they were such foes to Israel, as they claim to be, the proxy buddies of Hezbollah would have helped the Gaza people during the latest Israeli military onslaught, last summer.
1
Literacy, education, are vital in gaining enlightenment boyo. It is so Obviously Naive of you Not to Learn more; like some v. Basic Facts before penning your two bits in this comment: The Palestinians in general; and the P.A. are Sunni, whose fellow Saudi Sunnis were Feasting on whole Camels whilst the Zionist IDF were bombing their sunni brethren across the border; and their other fellow Sunnis in Egypt closed their one route of getting at least Basic supplies; the Raffa tunnels. SHI'A people may be do "Taqya" but they do Not Be-head civilians & Charity workers, commit SUICIDE attacks upon unarmed abd defenceless people AND are the only ones to Actually FIGHT in Proper Combat against Israel. Whilst So many Arab states (ALL SUNNI) are preoccupied on banking their ill gotten & stolen Billions into Western bwnks! News, this is NOT; its there for Anyone keen to learn, unless you are Abs. IGNORANT
By its interventions in this century the United States has set the Middle East aflame. Hundreds of thousands are dead and millions displaced. Our military operations consisted of little more than the circular tactic of sending out patrols to hunt for the roadside bombs which would not have been there in our absence. We have angered and alienated the population of the area and created thousands of potential new terrorists who would like to strike the United States. And yet the authors and supporters of this catastrophe are calling for more of the same.
2
Netanyahu distracts us with his fabricated Iranian threat while he proceeds with the colonization and annexation of the State of Palestine. Like the common thief in the street that distracts you while he/she steals your wallet.
2
Perhaps it appears to Netanyahu that we Americans learned nothing from the lies and deceptions by Bush, Cheney, and all the rest, and that the same playbook will keep on working. Evidently, it still does with Republicans and some Democrats. It is as though a mathematical impossibility is in force here: 80% of the people are below the 50th percentile.
I personally was amazed to see a foreign leader smashing a major American foreign policy initiative and doing so half of the American Congress was in standing ovation. It was embarrassing to see American politicians gathering around Mr. Netanyahu and clapping as if they were fans while he was shaking hand with others. Mr. Netanyahu's attitude was obviously arrogant. How low politicians can go!
4
So slick of the Iranian ambassador to the UN to target all the ills of the Mideast - basically pinning all blame on Israel - yet neglect to mention Iran's cynical support of terror in the region by its proxies Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Assad regime.
If I were Israel I would be as worried as Netanyahu stated in his speech. The one thing the Islamic regime in Iran has proven time and time again is that they are skillful liars bent on hegemonic control over the region.
If I were Israel I would be as worried as Netanyahu stated in his speech. The one thing the Islamic regime in Iran has proven time and time again is that they are skillful liars bent on hegemonic control over the region.
4
Why Mr. Netanyahu did not speak about a solution for the two States at the US Congress?
Iran should build more wind and solar power plants to meet its energy needs, not to mention exploiting its fossil fuel reserves. Is nuclear power really a must have energy source for Iran? I doubt it. That leaves the question of Iran's ambitions for having a nuclear arsenal.
2
Now Everybody ... Just Close Your Eyes For Half A Century ...
Since waaay back in the 1950s, Israel has been very adept at stealing nuclear secrets and making nuclear weapons. The western world -- and, in particular, the U.S. and U.K. -- have turned a blind eye to Israel's nuclear program and have probably been a party to developing it all along the way.
"Officially," Israel has 80 deliverable nuclear warheads, although they've never admitted to having any at all -- secrecy increases the magnitude of their threat -- but they may well have double that number. Not to worry though, they have enough fissile material on hand to triple their capacity in a relatively short period of time.
On top of that, Israel's delivery system for nuclear warheads is excellent ... good enough to make Nevil Shute's "On the Beach" a reality.
However you measure their nuclear weapon capacity, Israel is in a class with Great Britain, France and China and their's exceeds the capacity of India and Pakistan by a long shot. North Korea? ... a tiny blip out in the mesosphere.
To top things off, Israel is not a party to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ratified the Comprehensive Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The NPT continues to define only the U.S., USSR (now the Russian Federation), U.K., France, and China as the legally recognized nuclear weapon states. I suppose that shows how much clout the NPT has.
http://www.johnstonsarchive.net/nuclear/nucstock-8.html
Since waaay back in the 1950s, Israel has been very adept at stealing nuclear secrets and making nuclear weapons. The western world -- and, in particular, the U.S. and U.K. -- have turned a blind eye to Israel's nuclear program and have probably been a party to developing it all along the way.
"Officially," Israel has 80 deliverable nuclear warheads, although they've never admitted to having any at all -- secrecy increases the magnitude of their threat -- but they may well have double that number. Not to worry though, they have enough fissile material on hand to triple their capacity in a relatively short period of time.
On top of that, Israel's delivery system for nuclear warheads is excellent ... good enough to make Nevil Shute's "On the Beach" a reality.
However you measure their nuclear weapon capacity, Israel is in a class with Great Britain, France and China and their's exceeds the capacity of India and Pakistan by a long shot. North Korea? ... a tiny blip out in the mesosphere.
To top things off, Israel is not a party to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ratified the Comprehensive Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The NPT continues to define only the U.S., USSR (now the Russian Federation), U.K., France, and China as the legally recognized nuclear weapon states. I suppose that shows how much clout the NPT has.
http://www.johnstonsarchive.net/nuclear/nucstock-8.html
3
THE biggest threats to Israel come from the internal factors rather than any external actors.
Bibi Netanyahu has been the main cause of instability in the region by denying the Rights of Palestinians, attacking its neighbors at will by claiming self-defence and needlessly igniting widespread and dangerous Anti-Semitism Globally.
Israel needs to conclude a Two-State Peace Deal with Palestine to survive as a "Jewish State" or continue the current Apartheid style treatment of the Palestinians and further inflame Anti-Israeli and Anti-Jewish sentiments worldwide.
AS for Iran's Nuclear file, sadly the IAEA General Director, Mr. Amano has politicized the process and has materially harmed the reputation of a vital UN Agency as a result.
I sincerely hope that Iran and P5+1 will conclude a "Balanced & Practical Deal" in March 2015 and that an investigation would be launched into the conduct of Mr. Amano and his team so to restore IAEA's prestige, credibility and neutrality
Bibi Netanyahu has been the main cause of instability in the region by denying the Rights of Palestinians, attacking its neighbors at will by claiming self-defence and needlessly igniting widespread and dangerous Anti-Semitism Globally.
Israel needs to conclude a Two-State Peace Deal with Palestine to survive as a "Jewish State" or continue the current Apartheid style treatment of the Palestinians and further inflame Anti-Israeli and Anti-Jewish sentiments worldwide.
AS for Iran's Nuclear file, sadly the IAEA General Director, Mr. Amano has politicized the process and has materially harmed the reputation of a vital UN Agency as a result.
I sincerely hope that Iran and P5+1 will conclude a "Balanced & Practical Deal" in March 2015 and that an investigation would be launched into the conduct of Mr. Amano and his team so to restore IAEA's prestige, credibility and neutrality
1
None of the GOTP Congress should call themselves patriots: they do not know the meaning of the word.
What Congress joyously welcomes a war monger against the strong objections of the vast majority of our citizens, who are tired and bankrupt after exiting the two longest wars in our history. The people have spoken: *we do not want this war!*
What Congress welcomes a foreign leader far more respectfully than they have ever welcomed our own twice elected President? Shame and Disgrace!
Congress says we have no money for our "lazy entitled Poor" - no healthcare, no safety net... and they are not entitled to such largesse. Yet, Israel is entitled to come demanding American lives and American planes, ships, even carriers possibly lost! Seriously? We will be unpaid mercenaries now? I guess our roads, bridges, sewers, and children in need of education will have to wait: after all, Bibi needs our resources - and our lives - to fight his war.
Which other nation would Israel dare insult with such self centered and imperious demands? What other nation would accept the insult? What other nation's Parliament or Congress would welcome such a high handed gesture so warmly? None! We really are an "exceptional nation" indeed.
What Congress joyously welcomes a war monger against the strong objections of the vast majority of our citizens, who are tired and bankrupt after exiting the two longest wars in our history. The people have spoken: *we do not want this war!*
What Congress welcomes a foreign leader far more respectfully than they have ever welcomed our own twice elected President? Shame and Disgrace!
Congress says we have no money for our "lazy entitled Poor" - no healthcare, no safety net... and they are not entitled to such largesse. Yet, Israel is entitled to come demanding American lives and American planes, ships, even carriers possibly lost! Seriously? We will be unpaid mercenaries now? I guess our roads, bridges, sewers, and children in need of education will have to wait: after all, Bibi needs our resources - and our lives - to fight his war.
Which other nation would Israel dare insult with such self centered and imperious demands? What other nation would accept the insult? What other nation's Parliament or Congress would welcome such a high handed gesture so warmly? None! We really are an "exceptional nation" indeed.
1
Israel and Iran hate each other. That much is clear. But like divorced parents who can't move on, they both insist on winning with public opinion that the other is to blame. They both have valid points and wild inaccuracies about the other. They both desire nothing more than to get someone to listen to their gripes, treats, fears and lies. What they both need is restraint. We will not tolerate aggression on either side toward the other. And whoever strikes ( forget about the tweets) first should know they have a new enemy in us.
1
Many years ago I visited your country, Mr. Khoshroo, and found the people of Iran, to be friendly and positive toward the U.S. Yet a few weeks after I departed, the U.S. embassy was taken over by "radicals" and our employees taken captive.
My point is that there are many faces of Iran. The one you project is that of the leadership. As such you omitted many details that make your statement even more deceptive and self-serving than Netanyahu's. Nowhere is there any mention, for example, of Iran's policy--publicly stated--to destroy Israel.
I like to take ambiguous issues to the extreme to see where they wind up, understanding that each nation postures in its own self-interest. If Bibi's statements are incorrect, then the worst case is that bargaining becomes more difficult. If your statements are incorrect, the worst case is millions of Jews (and Christians and Muslims) could die in a nuclear holocaust, and World War III will be underway.
Your nation is s sponsor of death and terror around the world. Who do we want to believe?
My point is that there are many faces of Iran. The one you project is that of the leadership. As such you omitted many details that make your statement even more deceptive and self-serving than Netanyahu's. Nowhere is there any mention, for example, of Iran's policy--publicly stated--to destroy Israel.
I like to take ambiguous issues to the extreme to see where they wind up, understanding that each nation postures in its own self-interest. If Bibi's statements are incorrect, then the worst case is that bargaining becomes more difficult. If your statements are incorrect, the worst case is millions of Jews (and Christians and Muslims) could die in a nuclear holocaust, and World War III will be underway.
Your nation is s sponsor of death and terror around the world. Who do we want to believe?
2
The writer sounds reasonable and the pro-Israel bias on the Iran issue is clear and destructive. However, to be fair can the ambassador explain his ex-president's despicable threats against Israel and Jews, or explain his country's abysmal human rights record ? His country does itself no favours ! though admittedly that is no reason for the US to bomb them...............
1
Iran has been funding terrorism throughout the Middle East. It's puppets in Lebanon, Hezbollah, which supports Syria's domination of the area, have for years assassinated Lebanese politicians pushing to pull free of Syrian behind the scenes domination. It also supports the Butcher Assad in Syria. Alarmist? There's very little at this point I would NOT believe about Iran.
2
"The violent extremism we see in Syria and Iraq is one, and to fight it effectively, we need to ease international tensions. We must all address the problem of the breeding grounds that are delivering fresh recruits to the terrorist cause."
So says the sponsor of Hezbollah, which along with the author's Iranian forces continues to amass along Israel's northern borders. So says the sponsor of Hamas, which fires Iranian rockets indiscriminately into Israel from the south. So says the state sponsor of Assad, which drops barrel bombs on its own people.
Only the NYT can print this with a straight face.
So says the sponsor of Hezbollah, which along with the author's Iranian forces continues to amass along Israel's northern borders. So says the sponsor of Hamas, which fires Iranian rockets indiscriminately into Israel from the south. So says the state sponsor of Assad, which drops barrel bombs on its own people.
Only the NYT can print this with a straight face.
3
"Israeli aggression and the occupation of Palestinian territories have always been of major propaganda value for extremist recruitment." This one line alone states a vital truth.
Even if we could erase past anti-Semitism, Israel creates fresh hostility, even hate, that is anti-Israelism, with its ever-increasing settlements and occupation, evictions of Palestinians from their homes and agricultural livelihood. From the first, from 1948, Israel acted ABUSIVELY in asserting its rights, distorted by its belief that God said the land belonged to the Jews forever. Of course God did not say anything, but somebody said that God said.
Even if we could erase past anti-Semitism, Israel creates fresh hostility, even hate, that is anti-Israelism, with its ever-increasing settlements and occupation, evictions of Palestinians from their homes and agricultural livelihood. From the first, from 1948, Israel acted ABUSIVELY in asserting its rights, distorted by its belief that God said the land belonged to the Jews forever. Of course God did not say anything, but somebody said that God said.
1
I wish the Times had an Op-Ed piece from someone whose bias is less obvious.
The U.S. has had a long history of misbehavior with respect to Iran, starting with Kermit Roosevelt, Jr's Operation Ajax, which aimed to orchestrate a coup d'état against Iran's prime minister, Mohammed Mosaddeq, and return Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran, to Iran's Sun Throne in August 1953.
With that history, is it hard to credit anything the Iranian Ambassador says. There has been a lot of well-justified hate for the U.S. in Iran.
The U.S. has had a long history of misbehavior with respect to Iran, starting with Kermit Roosevelt, Jr's Operation Ajax, which aimed to orchestrate a coup d'état against Iran's prime minister, Mohammed Mosaddeq, and return Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran, to Iran's Sun Throne in August 1953.
With that history, is it hard to credit anything the Iranian Ambassador says. There has been a lot of well-justified hate for the U.S. in Iran.
2
Ambassador Khoshroo: I find it odd that the Ambassador at once states that Iran has not invaded another country since America's founding, yet represents a country that calls for the annihilation of Israel. If Iran is so peacefu, Mr. Ambassador, will It stop calling for Israel's destruction?
4
The Times is at it's liberty to publish anything from anyone but one this topic why not publish Iranian Prime Minister's announcement (yesterday) that he would not agree to a ten year moratorium on anything. If the Times were really intrepid they might ask the ambassador why his govt hid Al Queida terrorists and sent the kuds force to blow up a synagogue in Argentina. Inquiring minds might like to know and all that.
2
I don't know if the "deal" the administration is working on is good or not. I haven't seen the details and I may not have the expertise to make such a decision, anyway. While I don't trust Iran, I don't trust Netanyahu either. He had no business interfering in American politics. It's going to cost him and Israel in the long term despite Israel being our ally.
2
When is Boehner going to invite Putin to speak to the Congress on the Ukraine? Surely he knows the Ukraine better than us. Obviously this won't happen because the interests of Russia and the US might not coincide. One of these days it will dawn on Americans that the interests of Israel and the US do not necessarily always coincide in every detail and that it is unwise to listen to an Israeli politician tell us how to conduct OUR foreign policy.
1
One needs to separate nuclear power from nuclear wapons to answer your question. Iran in a nation of nearly 80 million which seeks to become a modern industrial state. Without a complete nuclear cycle, Iran can be kept in a permanent state of technological underdevelopment. Iran had made clear that it intends to use oil sales to obtain the foreign exchange earnings to modernize, while shifting its own electricity production to nuclear power.
PS: Israel, Which refused to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, has a huge nuclear weapons stockplie, but no nuclear power plants.
PS: Israel, Which refused to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, has a huge nuclear weapons stockplie, but no nuclear power plants.
5
Mr Khoshroo,
Iran has one of the globe's largest natural gas reserves as well as oil. Why do you need nuclear energy?
Iran has one of the globe's largest natural gas reserves as well as oil. Why do you need nuclear energy?
4
Worth pointing out that however valid some ofMr. Khoshroo's points may be, there is one bald faced lie in this piece: Iran repeatedly invaded Iraqi territory during the Iran-Iraq War. Admittedly, most of the aggression in that instance was on the Iraqi side, but offensives were launched with violated Iraqi territory.
That being said, I tend to agree somewhat with his point that Mr. Netanyahu's shrill attempts to paint Iran into a global menace are somewhat repetitive, though the Iranians themselves don't do much on their own account to help matters.
That being said, I tend to agree somewhat with his point that Mr. Netanyahu's shrill attempts to paint Iran into a global menace are somewhat repetitive, though the Iranians themselves don't do much on their own account to help matters.
Netanyahu and Israel - a PM and a country that has built a stockpile of nuclear weapons, rejected calls to establish a nuclear-weapons-free zone in the Middle East, made military incursions into neighboring states and flouted international law by keeping the lands of other nations under occupation -- and this is the guy that our Congress stood and applauded like seals yesterday as he spit on our President, Secretary of State, State Department and intelligence agencies with his bellicose lies and know-it-all sideshow presentation.
4
Having to listen to this fellow and take him seriously is quite the price to pay for the US having a de facto military base in Israel.
I do believe that our media has been somewhat remiss in not publishing photographs of what Gaza has become. With these images the obfuscation
inspired rhetoric of Netanyahu becomes clearly what it is: a bully-boy's insistence on a commitment to an extremist state whose primary ideology is
"grab it and growl".
I do believe that our media has been somewhat remiss in not publishing photographs of what Gaza has become. With these images the obfuscation
inspired rhetoric of Netanyahu becomes clearly what it is: a bully-boy's insistence on a commitment to an extremist state whose primary ideology is
"grab it and growl".
4
If the NY Times told the whole story about the US involvement in the Middle East, we would see Netanyahu's Nuclear Deception.
Sanctions against Iran has little to do with WMD, but a power struggle between the Saudis and Iran to control the flow of energy from the ME. We cut Iran out of oil and gas pipelines to India and EU. We supported the hiring of terrorists and insurgents (who joined ISIS) to overthrow Assad to get a pipeline from Qatar through Syria to EU. We supported the hiring of terrorists (Taliban) to get a pipeline through Afghanistan.
If we can support Pakistan having N-weapon, there is little difference between Pakistan and Iran as a threat accepts Iran's threat to the Saudis.
Sanctions against Iran has little to do with WMD, but a power struggle between the Saudis and Iran to control the flow of energy from the ME. We cut Iran out of oil and gas pipelines to India and EU. We supported the hiring of terrorists and insurgents (who joined ISIS) to overthrow Assad to get a pipeline from Qatar through Syria to EU. We supported the hiring of terrorists (Taliban) to get a pipeline through Afghanistan.
If we can support Pakistan having N-weapon, there is little difference between Pakistan and Iran as a threat accepts Iran's threat to the Saudis.
1
Somewhere between your views and Netanyahu's lies the truth. Remember that you own President, Ahmadinejad, not so long ago called our President "The Great Devil." Your Ayatollahs are not just anti-Israel, they are and have been anti-American. We have no reason to believe that your version of the truth is a more compelling predictor of the future than Netanyahu's.
The point, however, is that Netanyahu's speech, whether true or false, was an insult to the office of the President of the United States. Regardless of the spin, that was the intent--to insult and damage a sitting President And not for Israel, but for Mr. Obama's adversaries in our own government. Netanyahu's speech was not for the purpose of arguing against the negotiatiions. It was for the purpose of embarrassing, discrediting and disabling our President.
So, does Iran lie to us, or does Netanyahu and Israel lie to us? Or does our own Congress and its Republican majority lie to us? It is clear to me that the greatest and most harmful deception here comes not from Iran or Israel, but from the immoral leadership in our own government. That deception is more heinous than anything a foreign leader can do.
The point, however, is that Netanyahu's speech, whether true or false, was an insult to the office of the President of the United States. Regardless of the spin, that was the intent--to insult and damage a sitting President And not for Israel, but for Mr. Obama's adversaries in our own government. Netanyahu's speech was not for the purpose of arguing against the negotiatiions. It was for the purpose of embarrassing, discrediting and disabling our President.
So, does Iran lie to us, or does Netanyahu and Israel lie to us? Or does our own Congress and its Republican majority lie to us? It is clear to me that the greatest and most harmful deception here comes not from Iran or Israel, but from the immoral leadership in our own government. That deception is more heinous than anything a foreign leader can do.
4
The author clearly demonstates that that there is zero evidence that Iran has a nuclear weapons program. Nonetheless, Netanyahu, who has built his entire career on crying "Wolf," regarding both Iran and Iraq, is treated as some kind of authority by the US Congress and media. More important, the US negotiiating position accepts the basic premise, if not the timetable, for Iran's intentions, the actual effect of which is to deny that country the right to a full nuclear fuel cycle for peaceful purposes. Obscurred in all the hysterics is the fact of Israel's own huge nuclear arsenal and its recently announced "secret alliance" with the Saudis to enable an air strike on Iran.
5
Mr. Ambassador:
If you have nothing to hide, why does your regime block inspectors from several of your key nuclear sites? Why has the IAEA complained about your non-compliance with their requests? Why has your government blocked any attempt to see what weapons you are constructing? And if your desire is only for peaceful use of atomic energy, why are you building intercontinental ballistic missiles? Your piece is mendacious and evasive.
If you have nothing to hide, why does your regime block inspectors from several of your key nuclear sites? Why has the IAEA complained about your non-compliance with their requests? Why has your government blocked any attempt to see what weapons you are constructing? And if your desire is only for peaceful use of atomic energy, why are you building intercontinental ballistic missiles? Your piece is mendacious and evasive.
4
"Israel’s prime minister appears to be a person who thrives on chaos and conflict." The same could be said of Congressional Republicans, whose only agenda is to poison the political atmosphere at home and sow discord in the Middle East. There are never enough enemies for right-wingers like them. The enemy of our enemy is our enemy, Netanyahu says. We must not make agreements with our enemy, he says. Just like he refuses to make peace with Palestine, he will never make peace with Iran or any other neighbor, evidently. Under Netanyahu Israel will be always be a paranoid, pariah nation surrounded by enemies.
Here in the US the right-wing thrives in a similar vein. It pumps up their excitement, not to mention their buddies' business profits. Enemies are gravy trains for manufacturers of missiles and bombs and tanks and warplanes. Enemies are million dollar bonuses for makers of warheads, aircraft carriers, and nuclear submarines. Enemies are no-bid contracts and free-for-alls for war profiteers like those who got us into the war in Iraq, wasted three trillion taxpayer dollars, and who created ISIS, a whole new enemy to fight.
Rational people in the US and Israel should vote against people like Netanyahu. Like addicts who can't bear ordinary life, the prospect of peace leaves them just craving to shoot themselves up with more enemies.
Here in the US the right-wing thrives in a similar vein. It pumps up their excitement, not to mention their buddies' business profits. Enemies are gravy trains for manufacturers of missiles and bombs and tanks and warplanes. Enemies are million dollar bonuses for makers of warheads, aircraft carriers, and nuclear submarines. Enemies are no-bid contracts and free-for-alls for war profiteers like those who got us into the war in Iraq, wasted three trillion taxpayer dollars, and who created ISIS, a whole new enemy to fight.
Rational people in the US and Israel should vote against people like Netanyahu. Like addicts who can't bear ordinary life, the prospect of peace leaves them just craving to shoot themselves up with more enemies.
2
If Iran is as forthright as you say then we should believe their consistent message about the destruction of Israel--with that in mind Mr. Netanyahu's "panic" and his dire warnings are wholly comprehensible, justifiable and vital.
2
The consistent message may be that Israel should never had been created and that one day the "zionist entity" will no longer exist on the map. HOWEVER the government of Iran has never threatened a military attack on Israel.
On the other side, the government of Israel HAS threatened Iran with a military attack and continues to do so today.
On the other side, the government of Israel HAS threatened Iran with a military attack and continues to do so today.
2
As long as Israel continues to use their bully big brother, the U.S., how will they ever be able to settle into some kind of coexistance with the region they live in? Netanyahu is offering the U.S. nothing but more war in a region we are weary of being involved in. He also seems to forget the one lesson nuclear weapons have taught us, that once a nation gets them, the first thing they learn is they cannot use them. If Iran would get nuclear weapons, they know Israel has a huge advantage, and they would be in the same situation that kept the U.S. and U.S.S.R. at cold peace for all these years, mutually assured destruction. That is also assuming you believe Netanyahu's rhetoric that Iran's main goal is the destruction of Israel. I suspect Irans goal is the survival of Iran, not the destruction of Israel, however, if I were the Iranians I would be afraid of Netanyahu and his nukes. If the Netanyahu government is so fearful of a nuclear Iran, then let them do something about it on their own. It wasn't that long ago that the threat of nuclear weapons was used to influence us, and the resulting invasion of Iraq was perhaps the biggest foreign policy disaster in U.S. history and whose effects will last for generations. Perhaps it's time to let Israel stand on its own like they once did.
1
This op-ed piece says what it has to say and says it well--none of it, however, reassuring to those who have worked the issues of nuclear proliferation. The only three countries to initially pursue, but then abandon, nuclear weapons programs are Argentina, Brazil, and South Africa. The international community grants every country the right to civilian nuclear power but requires that it abjure military abuses of, or diversions from, its civilian nuclear power facilities. Yet no technical means exist to prevent abuse or diversion. So the resolution of concerns must be political arrangements, which cannot themselves ensure compliance. The international community must not only arrange for inspections and the like to deter and detect abuse or diversion, but also decide in advance how to decisively and immediately respond to treaty violations. In considering whether Iran means to pursue only the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, compare it to Argentina, Brazil, and South Africa, and do not forget to consider its development of medium- and long-range missiles.
2
Israel, USA, Iran and all other UN members have "the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense" says the the UN Charter.
Unfortunately, today, the world is such that only weapons of mass destruction guarantee the safe borders of any nation; North Korea is safe Iraq was not.
It is also sad but true that Israel and the US are the ones attacking other countries in the Middle East, not Iran.
Unfortunately, today, the world is such that only weapons of mass destruction guarantee the safe borders of any nation; North Korea is safe Iraq was not.
It is also sad but true that Israel and the US are the ones attacking other countries in the Middle East, not Iran.
1
Once a yahoo, always a yahoo....Bibi is a fear-monger's ultimate fear-monger. His one and only platform is fear and he does everything in his power to push the fear button. Shame on Congress for playing to his game.
Bibi knows full well that Iran isn't going to build a nuclear weapon. But, he uses his rhetoric in hopes that economic sanctions will continue, hopefully even increased. Additionally, by focusing attention against Iran, he deflects attention from the issues between Israel and the Palestinians so Israel itself doesn't have to dismantle its own aggression of continued expansion into and abuse of Palestinian territories.
It is pathetic that Congressional leaders cannot -- or more likely refuse to -- see through his ruse. I'm glad that Pres Obama apparently does.
Bibi knows full well that Iran isn't going to build a nuclear weapon. But, he uses his rhetoric in hopes that economic sanctions will continue, hopefully even increased. Additionally, by focusing attention against Iran, he deflects attention from the issues between Israel and the Palestinians so Israel itself doesn't have to dismantle its own aggression of continued expansion into and abuse of Palestinian territories.
It is pathetic that Congressional leaders cannot -- or more likely refuse to -- see through his ruse. I'm glad that Pres Obama apparently does.
60
I would tend to be fearful if a neighbor constantly threatened to kill me...no matter what weapon he chose.
2
Iran hasn't invaded another country since the US became a nation? Well, there was that skirmish with Iraq; I guess we'll overlook that. Then there is the Iranian-backed occupation of Lebanon: you forgot that one too. Oh yeah, Iranian backed terrorists are also roaming in Syria. Technically even the invasion of the US embassy in Iran itself was an invasion: another you overlooked. All that is without looking anything up.
The bold-faced lies in this piece prove Netanyahu speaks the truth: Iran is a nation that has no shame lying, no matter how large the lie. Shame on the NYT for allowing such an over-the-top distortion into print. About the only part that is useful is the illustration how Iran (and other Arab countries) try to use Israel as a smokescreen to hide their own misdeeds.
The bold-faced lies in this piece prove Netanyahu speaks the truth: Iran is a nation that has no shame lying, no matter how large the lie. Shame on the NYT for allowing such an over-the-top distortion into print. About the only part that is useful is the illustration how Iran (and other Arab countries) try to use Israel as a smokescreen to hide their own misdeeds.
3
Ambassador Khoshroo conveniently omits the fact that Iran has already been at a non-nuclear war with Israel for years through his country's surrogates Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. And how does the esteemed Ambassador explain that Iranian backed rebels just overthrew the Western friendly government of Yemen and replaced it with a puppet Iranian friendly regieme? You're not fooling anyone because what Iran really wants is to be an empire worthy of Xerxes again.
2
This event, obviously a political one, is dangerous for the United States in many ways. Perhaps the greatest danger arises from Netanyahu jeopardizing our long-standing bipartisan approach to foreign policy.
I strongly object to nuclear proliferation wherever it occurs but I object even more to any foreign intervention in the development of our policies especially when our citizens can be put in harm's way as a result.
We should not have provided Israel with the most powerful rostrum in the world to promote its positions.
I strongly object to nuclear proliferation wherever it occurs but I object even more to any foreign intervention in the development of our policies especially when our citizens can be put in harm's way as a result.
We should not have provided Israel with the most powerful rostrum in the world to promote its positions.
1
"Iran, that has not invaded another country since America became a sovereign nation."
Well, except when you invaded our embassy, US sovereign territory, which you still occupy.
Well, except when you invaded our embassy, US sovereign territory, which you still occupy.
1
Benjamin Netanyahu himself is as great a danger to world peace AND peace in the middle east as any illusory threats he continues to ballyhoo. Get rid of him, Israel. If not now, when?
2
What people like Netanyahu fail to realize is that they have been feeding the people of Israel a distorted view of the world outside their own borders. It has become a nation so inward looking that China seems liberal by comparison. The nation of Iran has been a major part of the Middle East - both culturally, linguistically and economically - for a very long time. It has deep connections with people that live all across the Middle East and even all the way to India. The Israeli far right that is in power today has no historical perspective and judging by their leaders remarks, no accurate intelligence either. Or even just intelligence. Israel's behavior is losing it friends in Europe and now in the US as well... this is not the kind of behavior that will lead anywhere good.
2
If we lived in Bibi's neighborhood, we'd be anxious, too. Appeasement doesn't have such a great track record.
1
A statement that there no evidence presented of something is not the same as a denial. I'm sure he knows the difference. Nor has he denied anything that Netanyahu has said about Netanyahu's charges about Iran's connections to the Houthis, Hizbollah and Hamas or Iran's intentions regarding Israel.
We shouldn't make a deal or not because Mr. Netanyahu says so, but, that doesn't mean he's wrong, and we have to consider Iran's policies and actions at large. I do not understand how we can trust them or Russia, for that matter, in playing fair with any deal once done. And, will we back off challenging them in other matters, like the Ukraine or Yemen, so that they will keep their end of the bargain on the nuclear deal? It seems that this is how we managed to solidify Assad's position in Syrian. He agree on chemical weapons and poof, no more red lines from us.
I can't know for sure, but I expect that some time after a deal is done, we will read that the Iranian translation is slightly different than the English one and that no one had bothered to check. And, without doubt, our two prominent political parties will differ dramatically about the value of any agreement based on their 2016 ambitions regardless of its actual merits.
We shouldn't make a deal or not because Mr. Netanyahu says so, but, that doesn't mean he's wrong, and we have to consider Iran's policies and actions at large. I do not understand how we can trust them or Russia, for that matter, in playing fair with any deal once done. And, will we back off challenging them in other matters, like the Ukraine or Yemen, so that they will keep their end of the bargain on the nuclear deal? It seems that this is how we managed to solidify Assad's position in Syrian. He agree on chemical weapons and poof, no more red lines from us.
I can't know for sure, but I expect that some time after a deal is done, we will read that the Iranian translation is slightly different than the English one and that no one had bothered to check. And, without doubt, our two prominent political parties will differ dramatically about the value of any agreement based on their 2016 ambitions regardless of its actual merits.
1
The great Andy Borowitz of The New Yorker nailed it with the very first paragraph of his latest column on the kerfuffle about Bibi's speech in the hallowed halls of Congress:
"On the eve of the Israeli Prime Minister's address to Congress, House Speaker Boehner used a joint press conference to praise Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him "our closest and most important ally in the fight against President Obama".
"On the eve of the Israeli Prime Minister's address to Congress, House Speaker Boehner used a joint press conference to praise Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him "our closest and most important ally in the fight against President Obama".
2
BIBI in a state of panic regarding the speech? Hmmmm The issue is whether we can trust Iran not to cheat or hide its program. Those who say we can trust Iran--as implied by the writer--should point to explicit evidence. Otherwise, the article is just unsupported opinion. Is there any explicit evidence that we cannot trust Iran?
1
Your idea of balance is to bookend coverage of Bibis speech with a representative of the most repellant regime on the planet, save North Korea? A country that invaded sovereign U.S. soil in taking our embassy and holding our people hostages? That openly voices support for the destruction of not only Israel but America, which it calls the Great Satan? That is responsible,directly or indirectly, for thousands of deaths and injuries among our troops in the mid-east?
You've stained your paper and embarrassed yourself
You've stained your paper and embarrassed yourself
2
I have for years tried to balance my support for Israel against its routine injustices to Palestinians, the continued expansion of settlements and seizure of Palestinian land only the most obvious. All of Netanyahu's posturing and fear-mongering ignores the fact that Israel secretly developed its own nuclear weapons in defiance of nuclear non-proliferation actions by the US and other nations and for which the US imposed not one sanction. It continues refusing to admit to the existence of its own nuclear weapons. Whether or not these were developed as a defense security measure--which I believe they were--still does not address Israel's secret development of its own nuclear weapons program.
2
Israel does not occupy the lands of other nations. The status of the West Bank has never been definitely settled and that is because the Palestinians won't accept a reasonable peace deal. That the NYT would give a tribune such as this to Iran is shocking and despicable, IMO, a country which is a human rights abuser, exporter of terror, totalitarian in nature, and has threatened Israel's elimination.
3
Mr. Khoshroo, it does not matter how many facts you present, you will be disbelieved by supporters of Netanyahu. Facts do not matter in this debate. Fear mongering, lies, deceptions, and unsubstantiated predictions, rule the day. And Netanyahu is a past master at these tactics. Congress slavishly panders to him, and the American public is either apathetic, or ignorant in these matters. I hope the negotiations succeed. I also believe that if Iran cannot have a nuclear capability, then neither should Israel.
2
I will always remember the "intelligence" communities cry of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq many years ago. No evidence ever was found. Now there are plenty of people who believe they were there, but no hard evidence or traces were ever round.
We are now going to believe these people when they tell us that Iran has no military program for uranium enrichment? In two words, "yeah right!" Natanyahu lives within 3 minutes of a missile strike. One Iran launches a missile, armed with a nuclear warhead, Israel is gone. Netanyahu feels like the US felt when Russia was building missile launching capabilities 90 miles off the coast of Florida in Key West. I remember the days of October, when I fully expected to see the fireball and be vaporized. I remember practicing drills behind the elementary school in which the dove into ditches and covered the backs of our heads with our hands. Israel live under that threat daily, but only from conventional weaponry. Add the nuclear option and it changes. I think Netanyahu has that same mental picture. Remember the days before Pearl Harbor when the Japanese were negotiating peace, all the while their fleet was on the way to launch on December 7th? History is repeating itself again, except one would hope that we make the correct choice this time.
We are now going to believe these people when they tell us that Iran has no military program for uranium enrichment? In two words, "yeah right!" Natanyahu lives within 3 minutes of a missile strike. One Iran launches a missile, armed with a nuclear warhead, Israel is gone. Netanyahu feels like the US felt when Russia was building missile launching capabilities 90 miles off the coast of Florida in Key West. I remember the days of October, when I fully expected to see the fireball and be vaporized. I remember practicing drills behind the elementary school in which the dove into ditches and covered the backs of our heads with our hands. Israel live under that threat daily, but only from conventional weaponry. Add the nuclear option and it changes. I think Netanyahu has that same mental picture. Remember the days before Pearl Harbor when the Japanese were negotiating peace, all the while their fleet was on the way to launch on December 7th? History is repeating itself again, except one would hope that we make the correct choice this time.
1
I thought the ambassador was about to explain why, if Iran's intentions were strictly peaceful, it needed its own enrichment program when the material for energy/medical purposes is readily available -- and used by a number of countries.
In fact, the reason there are negotiations at all is that the Western parties participating in negotiations are as mistrustful of ambassador's assertions as is Israel. If the UK, France, Germany, China, Russia and the US did not believe that Iran aims for nuclear weapon, there would not have been any sanctions, and so there would be no negotiations to lift the sanctions in return to cessation of nuclear activities. So its not just Israel who's not taking ambassador's words seriously. As to the "alarmist" predictions, there may be reasons why Iran does not yet have a bomb other than the self-imposed limits -- the ongoing attempts to slow the program down (like stuxnet) offer a better explanation.
In fact, the reason there are negotiations at all is that the Western parties participating in negotiations are as mistrustful of ambassador's assertions as is Israel. If the UK, France, Germany, China, Russia and the US did not believe that Iran aims for nuclear weapon, there would not have been any sanctions, and so there would be no negotiations to lift the sanctions in return to cessation of nuclear activities. So its not just Israel who's not taking ambassador's words seriously. As to the "alarmist" predictions, there may be reasons why Iran does not yet have a bomb other than the self-imposed limits -- the ongoing attempts to slow the program down (like stuxnet) offer a better explanation.
1
Until Netanyahu spoke, Obama was on a path to agree to whatever deal he wanted, however bad, while ignoring Congress and not opening the matter up to debate.
I am very grateful that Netanyahu spoke yesterday, no matter how controversial.
Now any Iran deal will have to be fully exposed and fully debated. As it should be.
I am very grateful that Netanyahu spoke yesterday, no matter how controversial.
Now any Iran deal will have to be fully exposed and fully debated. As it should be.
31
Do you think the congress will give as warm and welcome reception to Secretary Kerry when he discusses the deal? Or will they prefer to take foreign policy advice from a foreign country?
"Obama was on a path to agree to whatever deal he wanted"
???
Doesn't ANYONE remember that the United States is only *one* of the seven nations that are conducting the current negotiations. Were it not for the collaboration among the six who sit across the table from Iran, the sanctions would have been few and weak and Iran would not be negotiating at all.
A lot of hard work by all parties have taken the talks to their current status. If the US now blows off the five partners and starts reading from the Netanyahu script, the whole deal -- including the sanctions -- will disintegrate.
???
Doesn't ANYONE remember that the United States is only *one* of the seven nations that are conducting the current negotiations. Were it not for the collaboration among the six who sit across the table from Iran, the sanctions would have been few and weak and Iran would not be negotiating at all.
A lot of hard work by all parties have taken the talks to their current status. If the US now blows off the five partners and starts reading from the Netanyahu script, the whole deal -- including the sanctions -- will disintegrate.
It is tragic that the events and blunders of the past have led us to blindness about just who we're dealing with. Iran is a rouge state. A worldwide sponsor of terrorism, and the subjugator of nations through the use of proxies. A theocracy built on principles not of freedom and respect for diversity, but rather on those of strict adherence and apolocalyptic prophesy.
While Israel certainly has issues and challenges in dealing with the occupation of lands conquered in a just war, the comments here have been startling in their willingness to apply some sort of moral equivalency in the argument. That's just crazy.
Obama's laudable goal of taking a different path than the bellicosity and mistakes of the past administration place a huge amount of faith in the principle that a wolf won't act like a wolf, that it can be trusted to be something else other than a wolf, when all the outwardly evidence points to the conclusion that Iran is a wolf. I wish there was a way to test this theory other than with the highest of stakes. Don't anyone blame Israel for being the loudest in protesting a policy which is premised on Iran being something other than what all evidence says it is.
While Israel certainly has issues and challenges in dealing with the occupation of lands conquered in a just war, the comments here have been startling in their willingness to apply some sort of moral equivalency in the argument. That's just crazy.
Obama's laudable goal of taking a different path than the bellicosity and mistakes of the past administration place a huge amount of faith in the principle that a wolf won't act like a wolf, that it can be trusted to be something else other than a wolf, when all the outwardly evidence points to the conclusion that Iran is a wolf. I wish there was a way to test this theory other than with the highest of stakes. Don't anyone blame Israel for being the loudest in protesting a policy which is premised on Iran being something other than what all evidence says it is.
1
The author makes a cogent and moderate case, but avoids explanation of Iran's
oft repeated desire to eventually crush Israel, which buzzes around constantly in the background.I would applaud this article if it were written by a member of the
UN nuclear facilities inspection committee .
oft repeated desire to eventually crush Israel, which buzzes around constantly in the background.I would applaud this article if it were written by a member of the
UN nuclear facilities inspection committee .
1
"..but avoids explanation of Iran's oft-repeated desire to eventually crush Israel..."
I don't think he avoided it so much as it is completely irrelevant. The infamous "wipe Israel off the map" statement has been fact-checked and debunked by the Washington Post. The sources of these oft-repeated statements is not Iran but western journalists and consumers of western media. Its just recycle propaganda.
I don't think he avoided it so much as it is completely irrelevant. The infamous "wipe Israel off the map" statement has been fact-checked and debunked by the Washington Post. The sources of these oft-repeated statements is not Iran but western journalists and consumers of western media. Its just recycle propaganda.
I don't blame Israel for not signing the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. As long as they are surrounded by other countries that are openly call for their destruction, then it is understandable that they want to keep the ultimate weapon that will assure their defense. It is Iran that has sworn to blow Israel off the map, Iran that sponsors international terror, Iran that supports Hezbollah and Hamas both sworn to Israel's destruction, and Iran that supports Assad of Syria a dictator with the blood of millions on his hands. Go Israel, you live in a terrible neighborhood with countries that will never make peace with you no matter how much land you give back because it's not about the land it's about their desire to destroy a Jewish, western ally in their midst ...we get it Israel and we support you.
30
If the Israelis really want peace there is only one way they can get it, and that is to acknowledge the legitimate grievances of the Palestinian people, and make amends for their misdeeds. They will never do that, and that is why they will never have peace.
International law dictated many years ago that Israel return the land which it holds under occupation, you really think there can be peace until the land is returned to the rightful owners?..... what would you do if they took your property and put you in a concentration camp?..... read the history as to how we got where we are today and I am sure you would be more sympathetic to the palestinians
Well, just for the sake of argument: can we say the same about Iran? Surrounded by US proxy military bases, receiving war threats almost on a daily frequency from both Israel and the US, supports terror in Iran (Jundallah etc.)... Do you think that Iran should acquire nuclear weapons? I don't think so, and they don't seem to think so, as well.
Iran claims to retaliate in case of an attack by Israel. Unlike Netanyahu, Iran calls for the regime change in Israel (translation issues persist, but it seems like even madman like Ahmadinejad was calling for this, but denials of holocaust and other policies still make him one of the worst ever to come to the chair).
Israel-Iran are geostrategic allies by nature. With the ME being shredded to pieces by Wahhabi-Salafist mad men as it is, Israel and Iran should be allies for their own sakes and guys like Netanyahu are the one who throw even the possibility to the dust bin.
Iran claims to retaliate in case of an attack by Israel. Unlike Netanyahu, Iran calls for the regime change in Israel (translation issues persist, but it seems like even madman like Ahmadinejad was calling for this, but denials of holocaust and other policies still make him one of the worst ever to come to the chair).
Israel-Iran are geostrategic allies by nature. With the ME being shredded to pieces by Wahhabi-Salafist mad men as it is, Israel and Iran should be allies for their own sakes and guys like Netanyahu are the one who throw even the possibility to the dust bin.
Based on this op-ed piece I would have to conclude that omitting Iran as a permanent member of the UN Security Council has been, and continues to be, an egregious injustice.
3
Peace in Our Time!!!!!! (or in the next 10years.) Have we not heard that before?
The agreement being negotiated with Iran trades something real: removal of sanctions, for something not real: promises from Iran. Could it at the least include their removal of promise to wipe Israel off the map? No, who cares about a bunch of Jews vs. oil revenues.
The saddest thing is, that so much of the current situation is caused by USA: removal of Mossadek and installation of the shah, what eventually led to the installation of ayatollahs; arming the Taliban to fight the Soviets, what eventually led to Al Qaida; wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, that led to current situation in Middle East (and deaths of many more Americans that ever were killed by 9/11 and jihadis).
The agreement being negotiated with Iran trades something real: removal of sanctions, for something not real: promises from Iran. Could it at the least include their removal of promise to wipe Israel off the map? No, who cares about a bunch of Jews vs. oil revenues.
The saddest thing is, that so much of the current situation is caused by USA: removal of Mossadek and installation of the shah, what eventually led to the installation of ayatollahs; arming the Taliban to fight the Soviets, what eventually led to Al Qaida; wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, that led to current situation in Middle East (and deaths of many more Americans that ever were killed by 9/11 and jihadis).
1
Here's a piece from 2011 that gives some of the history of scare stories about Iran's nuclear program, including from Netanyahu, going back twenty years.
http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2011/1108/Imminent-Iran-nucle...
http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2011/1108/Imminent-Iran-nucle...
1
This is an EXCELLENT op-ed. There are many logical highly intelligent Israelis who I believe realize how their leader is not helping their country, but further idolating it. I would like to see a working agreement with Iran, which I believe will be better served and instituted without Mr. Netanyahu's involvement. Instructing another country that Israel desperately depends on for aid, as if that country's government consisted of kindergardners (actually often they do, LOL) is likely to furthe isolate Israel, not help it. Moreover, the Palestinian question is not going to go away. My uneducated outsider prediction is that the EU will again bring up a two state resolution in the UN with borders and deadlines in the resolution. If the resolution is deemed fair by our executive branch, its time to sign on to it. Resolving the insecurity with Iran and the Palesinians is not only to Israel's benefit, even if it comes to compliance kicking and screaming, but also to the entire world's benefit. Such an inordinate amount of time has been spent on Middle East issues that I often feel that people in need in other areas are forgotten.
1
This is a long overdue article.
I am very much a supporter of the Israeli people. They deserve to live in peace. I also believe that when they engage in horrendous acts of evil, such as their actions in Gaza, we should not be afraid to speak up and hold them accountable for the massive destruction and deaths.
The Palestinian people deserve to live like human beings. The construction on houses on occupied land should have been halted years ago. It is now obvious that Israel has had no interest in signing a peace deal because it wanted to change the facts on the ground through this building process.
The biggest threat to the Israeli people is the narrow mindset and dangerous actions of Netanyahu and it is time for dramatic changes in the next elections.
I am very much a supporter of the Israeli people. They deserve to live in peace. I also believe that when they engage in horrendous acts of evil, such as their actions in Gaza, we should not be afraid to speak up and hold them accountable for the massive destruction and deaths.
The Palestinian people deserve to live like human beings. The construction on houses on occupied land should have been halted years ago. It is now obvious that Israel has had no interest in signing a peace deal because it wanted to change the facts on the ground through this building process.
The biggest threat to the Israeli people is the narrow mindset and dangerous actions of Netanyahu and it is time for dramatic changes in the next elections.
4
This says it all. It is sad that it took the Ambassador from Iran to say it, and not one of your regular writers.
3
First do no harm--stop expanding the settlements!
5
At one time in my life I considered myself a pretty staunch supporter of Israel. No longer.
At this time I am anxiously awaiting the day when our most valued and trusted ally in the region will be Iran. I believe that day will mark a new beginning in the region and the day that the U.S. will be able to focus on our own problems.
At this time I am anxiously awaiting the day when our most valued and trusted ally in the region will be Iran. I believe that day will mark a new beginning in the region and the day that the U.S. will be able to focus on our own problems.
4
Not all Americans believe the hype coming from Bibi - he is just a war monger. We have too many of them her in the US and obviously they love him. Good luck to you.
4
Our foreign policy has gone from stumbling to downright dangerous. 2016 can't come fast enough.
2
When people top believing scorched earth rhetoric, they will begin thinking sensibly. I really hope that Yahoo is soundly defeated, but it appears that Israelis believe everything he says. It must be extremely disempowering to live in more fear than necessary, rather than finding reasonable resolutions to such risks. Kill the other guy is not a solution.
2
Where is Netanyahu's deception? Iran's leaders have repeatedly and publicly expressed their desire to "wipe Israel off the map." Since I'm unable to read minds, I must accept that the Iranian leaders expressed intentions will be implemented once they have the capability to do so. It would be naïve for Israelis to believe anything else! While some may believe that PM Netanyahu is a jingoist, I have not heard similar threats from him to wipe Iran off the map. I believe our President is being played for a fool by these negotiations, which are just stringing him along while Iran continues to secretly enhance its nuclear war-making capabilities and defy efforts to inspect and confirm. Meanwhile, Iran is arming and supporting Israel's enemies and supporting the enemies of peaceful Western democracies.
4
The real damage Netanyahu did to Israel is that he prompted ordinary Americans to ask, "Why are the U.S. and Israel so close?"
2
I am against what Netenyahu did and want the U.S. to come to a deal -- not because of this article, even though its apparent rationality, and inclusion of some facts, sounds reasonable -- but because I do not trust Iran. A deal would benefit the U.S. and keep peace for several years, and I do not think we have to go to war over this.
There are too many other Iran-connected incidents which are unsolved. I would rather have Mr. Koshroo address, for example, the charges that Iran was involved in the 1984 bombing of a synagogue in Argentina that killed 85 people -- a case which now has apparently been quashed in court there.
There are too many other Iran-connected incidents which are unsolved. I would rather have Mr. Koshroo address, for example, the charges that Iran was involved in the 1984 bombing of a synagogue in Argentina that killed 85 people -- a case which now has apparently been quashed in court there.
Netanyahu knows full-well that the existential threat to Israel is from ISIL, not from Iran. But he must ignore this publicly because he also knows that his government's abuse of Palestinian rights is a chief raison d'etre for ISIL.
1
I'm convinced that as long as Netanyahu is PM there will never be an equitable settlement with the Palestinians. His continued push for more settlements on the West Bank does nothing but continue to enflame tensions in the region.
So different from former PM Itzak Rabin's attitude
w
So different from former PM Itzak Rabin's attitude
w
1
This was - is - an insult to the Presidency of the United State from a friend, not an enemy. With friends like this...friends who get our help and come to deride our foreign policy in our own 'house.'
Now, point us in the right direction: when and who, ever, was invited and came to speak to the American public via house/senate without the knowledge or approval of the president at that point in time? Has any president of the United States ever spoke to the official/elected bodies of a foreign nation without the knowledge and approval of that nation? I do hope NYT answers these questions!
Now, point us in the right direction: when and who, ever, was invited and came to speak to the American public via house/senate without the knowledge or approval of the president at that point in time? Has any president of the United States ever spoke to the official/elected bodies of a foreign nation without the knowledge and approval of that nation? I do hope NYT answers these questions!
The ambassador protests his good faith and intentions, but does not explain the fact of his country's secret operation of a uranium enrichment facility. And what about Iran's bellicose language and behavior, particularly its promise to annihilate Israel? These two factors alone might better explain Netanyahu's misgivings than the ambassador's conjecture that Israel is trying to distract attention from its settlement activities.
1
It is clear that Mr. Netanyahu was only interested in furthering the polarity between Republicans & Democrats and Jewish people & Islamic people. He shows no interest in trying to build bridges. It was really sad seeing him display such polar rhetoric that was full of misrepresentations. Mr. Netanyahu failed to point out that Israel is the 6th country to posses a nuclear weapon. He failed to point out that Israel is one of the four nuclear-armed countries not recognized as a Nuclear Weapons State by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the others being India, Pakistan and North Korea (Wikipedia). So he needs to look in the mirror. No doubt Israel thinks it possesses a weapon as a deterrent. Isn't it possible that Iran may have those aspirations given that Israel has a weapon? Granted, Israel doesn't project a national rhetoric of wanting to "wipe Iran off the face of the eath" the way Iran has sometimes done to Israel. I understand the fears that Jewish people have living in the Middle East. However, electing a leader who has no interest in reconciliation is not a good position. Mr. Netanyahu does not understand that Obama's negotiations with Iran are an important step towards reconcilation and bringing Iran back into the global community. The Iranian people have been victimized by all the sanctions. It is time to resolve this situation. Obama is on the right track, Netanyahu is misguided.
69
At the same time as Bibi's saying that in months, perhaps a year, Iran will have the ability to satisfy its goal of evaporating Israel off the face of the Earth, and with it about half the world's Jewish population...
... he is telling French and other European Jews that they should come "home" to Israel where they will be safe and loved. Just because they are always in Iranian sights and beseiged by Iran-sponsored terrorists raining missles into the country, that's no reason to think Paris is any safer. It's either a lie or a paranoid proposition. Maybe both.
If he loses the election Bibi can open a used car lot.
To become a real success, perhaps he can partner up with an out-of-office Iranian.
... he is telling French and other European Jews that they should come "home" to Israel where they will be safe and loved. Just because they are always in Iranian sights and beseiged by Iran-sponsored terrorists raining missles into the country, that's no reason to think Paris is any safer. It's either a lie or a paranoid proposition. Maybe both.
If he loses the election Bibi can open a used car lot.
To become a real success, perhaps he can partner up with an out-of-office Iranian.
Mr.Khoshroo's rebuttal to Bibi was to be expected. He can easily,stop Bibi's rhetoric with a few simple words."I would like to make peace with Israel,& work with Israel to make the Middle East the envy of the world."
3
There is a problem. Politicians with little or no experience or academic expertise in nuclear weapons or global warming - continually speak and influence the opinions of uninformed citizens. We need to ensure the next generation of Americans can think for themselves. It's our choice - make smart decisions or surrender our thoughts to those with the most money, most influence and less concern for facts. Apparently some politicians can fool some and most of the people all the time - "Never the less it still turns".
The US Congress should be applauding the logic of this essay supporting peace and security, instead of fawning over Netanyahu, a leader promoting instability and armed conflicts in order to stay in power.
1
The bottom line is are you as an American ready to enter a war with Iran over Israel? Yes or No? The only way to completely stop Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is to attack them. Is that what you want? Yes or No? This is exactly what the Israelis prime minister is suggesting that we do.
Forget the biggering of democrats and republicans. Lets talk about what the Israelis prime minister is proposing.
Are you willing to put your US military in harm's way for Israel who is fully armed with nuclear weapons? Are you willing to go to war to support Israel who refuses to dismantle their own nuclear weapon program for peace?
I think the US should draw the line with Israel. Let them fight their own war with Iran. If that's the only proposal the prime minister has is to bomb Iran then Israel should go it alone.
Forget the biggering of democrats and republicans. Lets talk about what the Israelis prime minister is proposing.
Are you willing to put your US military in harm's way for Israel who is fully armed with nuclear weapons? Are you willing to go to war to support Israel who refuses to dismantle their own nuclear weapon program for peace?
I think the US should draw the line with Israel. Let them fight their own war with Iran. If that's the only proposal the prime minister has is to bomb Iran then Israel should go it alone.
From Bob: what must Bibi and the Israelis do before we understand the bottom line strategy they pursue: they want the West Bank and all territories up to the Jordan River... but NOT the indigenous non-chosen people who live there. Again and again we see negotiation busting practices like new settlement announcements, even and especially when our heads of state visit. Since Oslo illegals have gone from a few thousand to well over a half- million now with tens of thousands of Arab homes bulldozed... Lives made so difficult in almost a half century of military rule and occupation that many predictably resist giving yet more reasons to illuminate them... WHY can't we see this???
1
The rabid warmongering of the likes of Mr. Netanyahu have strutted the stages of history since time immemorial.
It is up to the civilized to counter his inflammatory push for war and settle for peace in the Middle East.
Nothing would be more disastrous than letting him lead us into a war with Iran.
His true intention.
It is up to the civilized to counter his inflammatory push for war and settle for peace in the Middle East.
Nothing would be more disastrous than letting him lead us into a war with Iran.
His true intention.
Netanyahu is much more than an alarmist. He is a provocateur and a potential warmonger, using his "ally" the United States to be the sword in his (Israel's) battles. He is clearly not our friend, but rather a lowdown political operator trying to not only promote his own dangerous agenda, but also draw our nation deeper into the quagmire that he helped to create.
If this is a friend, or an "ally" - then the U.S. is in deep, deep trouble.
If this is a friend, or an "ally" - then the U.S. is in deep, deep trouble.
1
Come on GK, you know as well as the rest of us do, that Iran would love nothing better than to eliminate Israel from the planet! America as well!
1
This article, the New York Times sees fit to print. That is hardly out of sync with this paper's obsessive and obnoxious characterisation of Netanyahu's prophetic and realistic assessment of the danger posed by a murderous Iranuan regime. It is fruitful to compare Netanyahu's call to action and leadership qualities compared to our milquetoast and cowardly President who is more interested in his questionable legacy than the security and peace of Anerica and Western civilization. In short, yesterday Congress and the American people heard a Churchill while Obama and Kerry carry on like a resurrected Chamberlain.
3
The hypocrisy of Bibi's speech to Congress and the ensuing rapture evident in the applause os the mostly Republican audience is astounding. Here we have a situation where the leader of another country in his sabre rattling pulls at the heart strings of the neo con Republican base all the while ignoring the rather large elephants in the room. The first elephant of course being that everyone knows that Israel has the bomb and has had it for some time. But the biggest elephant in the room is the unquestionable fact that the ONLY country in the world to ever actually detonate these bombs was of course the good old U. S. of A. in the obliteration of two largely civilian cities at a time when World War 2 for the Japanese was for all intents and purposes over.
This is a nice piece of diversion. As if Iran gives a care for the Sunni Palestinians as it supports the Iraq government in its annihilation of Sunnis just a few tens of miles north of the West Bank.
Iran is a victim of its own propaganda. If it wants to be respected as a responsible country it must speak responsibly. As it stands now, the world can either take Iran at its word or not. If it does, then Israel has every right to fear a nuclear attack from Iran. If it does not, then Iran is worthless as a negotiating partner.
Iran is a victim of its own propaganda. If it wants to be respected as a responsible country it must speak responsibly. As it stands now, the world can either take Iran at its word or not. If it does, then Israel has every right to fear a nuclear attack from Iran. If it does not, then Iran is worthless as a negotiating partner.
1
If Israel has such concerns then let Israel deal with it. A nation of 7MM can try and invade and occupy Iran. Good luck. Don't outsource your war casualties to the US! Iran and the US have a common enemy Sunni extremism (See ISIS). If the US and Iran come to peace and Israel wants to fight a disastrous war, help yourselves but leave us out of it!
It is refreshing to read the sensible conclusion of this piece, that the focus in the Middle East should be on solving how to bring justice to the Palestinians ,and from a representative of a country that it is in US strategic interests to create a more open dialogue and treaties with. Yes, 'the occupation of Palestinian territories' is a major means for 'extremist recruitment' and threats to the US. Netanyahu seems to only be adding gasoline to the fire of extremism in both Israel and elsewhere. Thank you Ambassador Khoshroo. You should be invited to give a speech to Congress.
The deal-breaker for me is Zarif's paying homage last year to Imad Mughniyeh's grave. Just do a few google's, and you'll know why.
Iran's goal is to dominate the region, and so far, the Iranians have been very successful. The Iranian puppets dominate Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. While Iranian leaders keep promising to wipe Israel off the face of the Earth, they busily take over one Arab country after another.
Truth be told, Israel doesn't have much to fear from the Iranians thanks to the Israeli unacknowledged nuclear deterrence, but there's no question that for the Iranians, attacking Israel has been a very successful strategy to mask the Iranian imperialistic expansion. In fact, this is why the Middle Eastern Arab countries do not dare to protest too much against the Iranian imperialist ambitions.
It's time for President Obama to bring these issues into the open b/c if he doesn't do it, the vacuum will be filled by Russia and China, and we'll have no friends left in the region.
Truth be told, Israel doesn't have much to fear from the Iranians thanks to the Israeli unacknowledged nuclear deterrence, but there's no question that for the Iranians, attacking Israel has been a very successful strategy to mask the Iranian imperialistic expansion. In fact, this is why the Middle Eastern Arab countries do not dare to protest too much against the Iranian imperialist ambitions.
It's time for President Obama to bring these issues into the open b/c if he doesn't do it, the vacuum will be filled by Russia and China, and we'll have no friends left in the region.
I'm puzzled Mr. Ambassador.
As a highly-placed Iranian official you surely have extensive knowledge of your government's extensive involvement in the instigation and arming of terrorist movements all around the world, as well as the false imprisonment and torture of many of your own citizens, yet you say not a word about it.
Why don't you go to some safe place in the world and tell the NY Times exactly what you know? It would be a brave and noble thing to do and your name would be celebrated forever as a champion of freedom.
Unless, of course, you really do believe in the grotesque things that your country is doing.
As a highly-placed Iranian official you surely have extensive knowledge of your government's extensive involvement in the instigation and arming of terrorist movements all around the world, as well as the false imprisonment and torture of many of your own citizens, yet you say not a word about it.
Why don't you go to some safe place in the world and tell the NY Times exactly what you know? It would be a brave and noble thing to do and your name would be celebrated forever as a champion of freedom.
Unless, of course, you really do believe in the grotesque things that your country is doing.
1
Apparently, you believe the right-wing claptrap from the Republicans and Zionist zealots. Maybe, you are the one with the wool pulled over your eyes.
2
Iran has directly or indirectly funded and armed certain militant groups in other countries. So has the USA, and now so has Israel. The groups the Iranians support have been resisting oppression and injustice, whereas the groups the US supports have been vehicles for US hegemony, whether it be the Middle East or Central America, or elsewhere.
If we were to list and compare the transgressions of Iran with those of Israel, I think we are all aware that Israel would come out black and Iran an off white.
If we were to list and compare the transgressions of Iran with those of Israel, I think we are all aware that Israel would come out black and Iran an off white.
2
Netanyahu is much given to grandstanding. No doubt the timing of this extravagant theatrical intrusion was astutely planned and certainly encouraged and facilitated by the shift in the partisan composition of the U.S. Congress. Add to this the boiling Republican fixation on reining in a President they see as overreaching and infringing on Congressional powers.
So Bibi makes an impassioned speech on Israel in certain peril of annihilation and now Congress seems intent on legislating some dictum on exactly what the acceptable parameters for any agreement with Iran must be. Where was their constructive interaction before the Israeli PM rather rudely interjected himself. The negotiations and the terms of any agreement are not the sole purview of the U.S., nor is the sanctions regime.
Our august Republican-controlled Congress, afflicted as it is with partisan gridlock and rank obstruction, is incapable of producing anything that will further the aim of defusing the Iranian nuclear problem.
Their intervention in order to hamstring the President will likely do no more than derail the entire G-5 Plus One effort to include the any possible reimposition of a sustained and coherent international effort to further force Iran's compliance.
So Bibi makes an impassioned speech on Israel in certain peril of annihilation and now Congress seems intent on legislating some dictum on exactly what the acceptable parameters for any agreement with Iran must be. Where was their constructive interaction before the Israeli PM rather rudely interjected himself. The negotiations and the terms of any agreement are not the sole purview of the U.S., nor is the sanctions regime.
Our august Republican-controlled Congress, afflicted as it is with partisan gridlock and rank obstruction, is incapable of producing anything that will further the aim of defusing the Iranian nuclear problem.
Their intervention in order to hamstring the President will likely do no more than derail the entire G-5 Plus One effort to include the any possible reimposition of a sustained and coherent international effort to further force Iran's compliance.
The leadership in Israel and Iran have to stop the blame game and think of binging peace to the region. There is no logical conclusion to a religious conflict. Nations which choose to take sides, should realize that this conflict will outlive the leadership which involve them in this conflict.
He should've been sent back to his homeland immediately, i.e., no privileges given here addressing the American Government. This should never have been granted to a very minor dignitary.
I may disagree with Mr. Netanyahu, but Iran should look in the mirror. The prime minister's rhetoric is enabled by Iran's frequent and public calls for the destruction of Israel. This is the height of irresponsibility and the definition of terror. Who else among the family of nations calls for the destruction of another nation or people? When Iran's leaders act like they want peace on earth, perhaps Israelis will believe it.
1
Artificial sweeteners were safe, WMD were in Iraq, and Anna-Nicole married for love.
One would think that with Israel's past and the history of persecution of its people that Israel would rise up beyond paranoia and seek for a lasting peace. But I guess politics trumps everything and that of Netanyahu only sullies the reputation of Israel's further.
We will see in the next few weeks whether the Israeli people will have more sense than its current hawkish leader. But our own Republican leaders have shown little regard for the peace process by inviting Netanyahu and our supposedly sensible people voted for our own brand of hawkish crazies.
We will see in the next few weeks whether the Israeli people will have more sense than its current hawkish leader. But our own Republican leaders have shown little regard for the peace process by inviting Netanyahu and our supposedly sensible people voted for our own brand of hawkish crazies.
Iran has so much oil it does not need a nuclear energy program. It does not need to refine its own uranium even if there were a reason to generate electricity. It has located its facilities underground for military purposes. Iran does not have a peaceful relationship with its neighbors. Iran can not be trusted.
1
Al-Arabiya's English edition editor-in-chief Faisal J. Abbas wrote a surprising op-ed on Tuesday, calling on US President Barack Obama to listen to Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu after the latter addressed Congress on the dangers of an Iran nuclear deal being formulated.
Abbas, whose paper is openly anti-Israel and Saudi-owned, began by scornfully conceding "it is extremely rare for any reasonable person to ever agree with anything Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says or does. However, one must admit, Bibi did get it right, at least when it came to dealing with Iran."
Abbas, whose paper is openly anti-Israel and Saudi-owned, began by scornfully conceding "it is extremely rare for any reasonable person to ever agree with anything Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says or does. However, one must admit, Bibi did get it right, at least when it came to dealing with Iran."
1
Maybe the main fault lies with Iran its many public threats by its leaders
over the years that it wants to annihilate the Jewish state.
Then there are the many terrorist groups Iran supplies with weapons and supports which are Israel enemies.
Could that be perhaps one main cause top Mr. Netanyahu's serious concerns?
I think so.
over the years that it wants to annihilate the Jewish state.
Then there are the many terrorist groups Iran supplies with weapons and supports which are Israel enemies.
Could that be perhaps one main cause top Mr. Netanyahu's serious concerns?
I think so.
1
Wow, I am impressed with the New York Times' courage. It creates a special historical event. It breaks down the commonly held belief by many that this most influential media giant was under a strangle-held control. I am glad that the United States is not going to be forced to bomb the living day lights out of another country and murdered hundreds of thousands (if not millions) of people again. Thank you to the NYT's.
It is heartening to see the Iranian ambassador and Democrats stand united in their opposition to Israel. Netanyahu gave a compelling speech but Obama should not be deterred from his quest to provide Iran a pathway to nuclear weapons.
Benjamin Netanyahu's repetitive deceptive tiresome condescending paternalistic "Chicken Little" routine regarding imaginary Iranian nuclear weapons is a diabolical distraction away from all of Israel's real nuclear weapons and their delivery systems.
Instead of drawing another cartoonish nuclear bomb as Netanyahu did during in his U.N. address perhaps Netanyahu could bring DVR of the Israeli nuclear arsenal for the world to see, marvel and tremble.
Instead of another Adolf Hitler style war mongering propaganda speech to our American Congress Netanyahu should save his carnival circus barker routine for his own Israeli Knesset.
Benjamin Netanyahu as the magician pick-pocket needs his own reality TV show.
Instead of drawing another cartoonish nuclear bomb as Netanyahu did during in his U.N. address perhaps Netanyahu could bring DVR of the Israeli nuclear arsenal for the world to see, marvel and tremble.
Instead of another Adolf Hitler style war mongering propaganda speech to our American Congress Netanyahu should save his carnival circus barker routine for his own Israeli Knesset.
Benjamin Netanyahu as the magician pick-pocket needs his own reality TV show.
1
Thank you, NYT, for running Mr. Khoshroo's opinion. It refutes Netanyahu's comments before Congress on the dangers of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon and of how many times he has lied about the danger of Iran's drive toward obtaining a nuclear weapon. Who should we believe?
What credibility does the Israeli PM have when under his leadership Palestinian land has been stolen over and over, even under the guise of a peace plan initiated by the US?
In reality, Israel has numerous nuclear weapons and has dodged all questions concerning same. On the other hand, Iran has signed a nuclear non-proliferation treaty, which should lead to more transparency. Netanyahu is paranoid and refuses to allow Israel to sign a nuclear non-proliferation treaty, though such a treaty could prevent the Middle East from going up in flames.
We must demand that Israel (1) adhere to international law and give back the stolen territories in Palestine, and restore their human rights; (2) sign a nuclear non-proliferation treaty along with other Middle Eastern countries.
What credibility does the Israeli PM have when under his leadership Palestinian land has been stolen over and over, even under the guise of a peace plan initiated by the US?
In reality, Israel has numerous nuclear weapons and has dodged all questions concerning same. On the other hand, Iran has signed a nuclear non-proliferation treaty, which should lead to more transparency. Netanyahu is paranoid and refuses to allow Israel to sign a nuclear non-proliferation treaty, though such a treaty could prevent the Middle East from going up in flames.
We must demand that Israel (1) adhere to international law and give back the stolen territories in Palestine, and restore their human rights; (2) sign a nuclear non-proliferation treaty along with other Middle Eastern countries.
Welcome to the World of Propaganda, Deceit, Greed and Nonsense. The world runs on it and people get rich on it. Israel, we have coddled them for too long. We have too many people pulling our chain and we march right along as good soldiers should. Enough to make a strong man cry in his beer.
2
It's clear now that Netanyahu is more
interested in serving his own political interest than ensuring long term Israeli security. From now on, only people running for office and eager to get AIPAC money would pretend to take him seriously.
Having said that, Iran must at some point recognize that Hezbollah is not the way to buy international prestige recognize. Prestige is all about building a diversified strong economy that can export more than just oil terrorism.
interested in serving his own political interest than ensuring long term Israeli security. From now on, only people running for office and eager to get AIPAC money would pretend to take him seriously.
Having said that, Iran must at some point recognize that Hezbollah is not the way to buy international prestige recognize. Prestige is all about building a diversified strong economy that can export more than just oil terrorism.
Iran has Hezbollah. Israel has the USA. The USA had the Contras in Nicaragua. the list goes on and on.....
1
Never has the leader of a country allied with the United States shown so much disrespect for our President and national protocols than Benjamin Netanyahu. He has done more to harm the Israeli people in one speech than any prime minister in the history of the state of Israel.
8
I digress, but even with a nuclear-capable Iran, we have a relatively sophisticated and stable regime there which is highly unlikely to attack Israel and guarantee it's own destruction by the U.S. and the West. What worries me more are Pakistan's nukes, not to mention North Korea's existing capability of reaching American territory (non-mainland) with its missiles. It seems to me that their regimes are far more likely to launch what would be suicidal attacks than Iran.
1
Correct. ISIL, Pakistan, and North Korea are far more dangerous. Iran is Israel's decoy.
1
Despite all the inflammatory rhetoric peace must be pursued. It may appear illogical at first for sworn enemies to acknowledge & respect each other but what other option is there? There are Nukes all across the globe, including Pakistan. Obama is looking for peace in all the dark corners of the Middle East shining a light on our enemies, bringing them in from the cold (albeit reluctantly.) Bibi would just as soon blow everyone up, with weapons from the US, & ask questions later. What would he do with himself if he had no war to wage, no people to oppress? The best thing that could happen is he loses the election, perhaps a long shot, but still the best one for getting beyond Isreali intransgience in the face of peace.
2
I'm sure he would be overjoyed if there were no war to wage. Israel would love to have peace, to stop worrying about terrorism, enemies on the border, about their sons and husbands going to war. I'm no fan of Netanyahu, but I understand his fears about Iran. If there was a country supplying terrorists that were constantly infiltrating US borders and supplying terrorists to shoot missiles into US towns, I'm sure our President would want to try to have a say in negotiating with that country around nuclear weapons. I don't think Iran has shown that it has the will not the leadership to offer a dependable agreement, indeed they have indicated in actions and rhetoric that they demonize the US, and have ambitions to dominate the Middle East and to destroy Israel.
1
Ambassador, why does your country want nuclear weapons? Why won't you recognize Israel's right to exist? Why don't Sunni Muslims, Jews, Christians and women have equal rights in your country?
6
Replies to Joe Yohka:
1) My country does not want nuclear weapons, it just wants to maintain it's rights to a peaceful nuclear program.
2) My country will recognize Israel's right to exist immediately after Israel formally recognizes the State of Palestine's right to exist, and by this I mean ALL of the West Bank and Gaza.
3) All Muslims, Jews, and Christians enjoy rights in Iran that are not available in Israel.
1) My country does not want nuclear weapons, it just wants to maintain it's rights to a peaceful nuclear program.
2) My country will recognize Israel's right to exist immediately after Israel formally recognizes the State of Palestine's right to exist, and by this I mean ALL of the West Bank and Gaza.
3) All Muslims, Jews, and Christians enjoy rights in Iran that are not available in Israel.
1
According to the Ambassador, his country does not want nuclear weapons, and no evidence has been presented to refute that claim. Your other questions are quite valid, however.
1
Sad to read so many confused readers projecting their own bias into a simple to understand situation. Iran frequently declares its desire and intent to destroy Israel(little Satan) to commit genocide; and to destroy the West as well. We have the Islamic Republic (Iran) and we The Islamic State (ISIS) both share the same vision the same goal, somewhat different means. Pretty simple to understand. Israel is almost irrelevant to this global problem, except that it is next in line before Europe. Sad that bigotry blinds people to the simple reality and obvious danger.
2
What a timely and thoughtful response to Netanyahu's hyperbolic rhetoric! Shame Boehner didn't invite Iranian counterpart to present the other side of the story. For our democratic ideals to be protected by our legislators and continue to inform our policies (domestic and international), we need to hear all sides of the hot issue on hand, certainly not from politicians like Bibi but from prominent experts and thinkers who will help us reach informed and comprehensive solutions. Mr. Speaker, time to invite a speaker from the other end of the spectrum. (Note: Mr. Speaker, you are aware that people are suspecting your motive inviting a speaker who you knew would certainly insult our President and undermine the ongoing due process led by the US. Shame on you. Not cool. Your action speaks louder than your rhetoric.)
4
War to make peace.
Netanyahu should listen to the Mossad and should understand that the President, not the Speaker of the House, makes US foreign policy. I he wants to get involved in US politics he should resign his post, emigrate to the United States and run for office.
Netanyahu should listen to the Mossad and should understand that the President, not the Speaker of the House, makes US foreign policy. I he wants to get involved in US politics he should resign his post, emigrate to the United States and run for office.
1
Mr. Netanyahu in his speech to Congress stated that Israel could go it alone. Perhaps, if Mr. Netanyahu is re-elected; and, thus, the Israelis tell the world that they choose to continue to undercut the efforts of the United States and the P5 plus 1 to reach an agreement to restrict Iran's nuclear program, it is time to test that proposition. No more military support, no more vetoes in the United Nations, no more billions to prop up Israel until we have had a realistic, real-politic evaluation of whether the current relationship with Israel is really in the best interest of the people of the United States.
1
Gholamali Khoshroo represents a country on record seeing to destroy Israel, denying the Holocaust, and one that persecutes its own citizens. Why would anyone listen to anything this man has to say or write?
3
While many in the Iranian leadership may think the "zionist entity" should never have been created and therefore should not exist on the map, this does NOT translate into an Iranian military threat. Iranians are smart enough to realize that any military offensive would be suicidal. In the long term the Iranians may hope that demographic change and economic isolation will end up wiping the name “Israel” off the map.
99.9% of Iranians do not deny the Holocaust, however we hear of some in Iran and in other parts of the world that do.
Israel is guilty of more human rights abuse than Iran can ever think of.
99.9% of Iranians do not deny the Holocaust, however we hear of some in Iran and in other parts of the world that do.
Israel is guilty of more human rights abuse than Iran can ever think of.
2
"Netanyahu’s Nuclear Deceptions" Are you kidding?! How about Iran's nuclear deceptions?
I'm stunned that you have less trust in the leader of Israel than in the leader of Iran. Have you gone mad?
How is it "alarmist" to issue a strong warning when an enemy who has said repeatedly they would destroy Israel develops nukes? Do you really think Iran is telling the truth and they haven't gotten hidden centrifuges underground?
If Israel gets hit with nukes, it will be another holocaust that will destroy the only Jewish country in the world. Can't you understand the concern Israel has?
I'm stunned that you have less trust in the leader of Israel than in the leader of Iran. Have you gone mad?
How is it "alarmist" to issue a strong warning when an enemy who has said repeatedly they would destroy Israel develops nukes? Do you really think Iran is telling the truth and they haven't gotten hidden centrifuges underground?
If Israel gets hit with nukes, it will be another holocaust that will destroy the only Jewish country in the world. Can't you understand the concern Israel has?
5
"I'm stunned that you have less trust in the leader of Israel than in the leader of Iran. Have you gone mad?"
We are a little stunned also, but that's what Netanyahu& Co. has achieved. We are mad alright ..... at Netanyahu & Co.
We are a little stunned also, but that's what Netanyahu& Co. has achieved. We are mad alright ..... at Netanyahu & Co.
2
I keep asking myself---what viable option to we have? Does Mr. Netanyahu truly believe we could successfully invade and occupy Iran? That appears to be the only option he is offering. His agenda, which has always been his agenda, is not the security of Israel, but the establishment of Israeli hegemony over the region.
3
and for starters, the annexation of the West Bank.
2
Mr. Khoshroo,
One can argue points about what is true and what isn't true about nuclear capabilities. I do not believe any of you because the public just does not know, and we never will until it is too late. Your attacks on Mr. Netanyahu smacks of Fox News strategy of ad hominem attacks. That's not very intelligent. My biggest issue, however, is that you did not defend Iran from the biggest attack in Mr. Netantahu's speech: That if Iran wants to be considered a normal country in the world of nations then it should start acting like one. You are strangely silent on that attack. In fact you support the attack by not rejecting past policies and rhetoric, and constitutional imperative if one is to believe Mr. Netanyahu, that Israel must be wiped off the map. I would have to go along with Mr. Netanyahu on that one: Iran is not a normal country. I wish it were. I think that Iran and The United Staes both have enough to apologize to each other for and I would feel better if that happened before we started talking about Iran's nuclear capabilities.
One can argue points about what is true and what isn't true about nuclear capabilities. I do not believe any of you because the public just does not know, and we never will until it is too late. Your attacks on Mr. Netanyahu smacks of Fox News strategy of ad hominem attacks. That's not very intelligent. My biggest issue, however, is that you did not defend Iran from the biggest attack in Mr. Netantahu's speech: That if Iran wants to be considered a normal country in the world of nations then it should start acting like one. You are strangely silent on that attack. In fact you support the attack by not rejecting past policies and rhetoric, and constitutional imperative if one is to believe Mr. Netanyahu, that Israel must be wiped off the map. I would have to go along with Mr. Netanyahu on that one: Iran is not a normal country. I wish it were. I think that Iran and The United Staes both have enough to apologize to each other for and I would feel better if that happened before we started talking about Iran's nuclear capabilities.
2
Are Benjamin Netanyahu and Dick Cheney actually the exact same person? Hmmm.
2
What about addressing your country's comments that
Israel should not exist. That might just raise a concern
in anyone's thinking
Israel should not exist. That might just raise a concern
in anyone's thinking
4
This op-ed is written by an Iran ambassador. How could you take any of this is as fact. Iran's decree is to destroy the nation of Israel and all Jewish people. That fact is not up for debate. To think that Iran only has good intentions with their nuclear program is completely naivette. Until Iran brings on leaders who's decree is not Jihad they lose the right to have any nuclear program. Plain and simple.
4
And it's completely naive to think Israel is acting in good faith. Lying to us (an ally!), deceiving us into the Iraq war, killing thousands of innocent Palestinian women and children - I can go on and on. But using the House Chamber as a campaign prop in a foreign election is the last straw. I no longer support Israel and never will.
Can you vote in the upcoming Israeli election? If you can, I strongly advise you to think hard about where your prime minister is taking you.
Can you vote in the upcoming Israeli election? If you can, I strongly advise you to think hard about where your prime minister is taking you.
1
Apologists for Israel's war like posture always state that many Israelis disagree with his policies. But yet the Netanyahu's always seem to be in power. Enough is enough. We must cut the cord tying the U.S. to Israel until they become a rational country with rational foreign policy, one that does not including having their U.S. dog fetch wars with their neighbors.
4
It is sad that political and economic agendas are what the only reasons that count causing wars, hundreds of thousands -if not millions- of deaths and undescribable sufferance of a whole region. isn't Mr. Netanyahu tired with all the deaths and destruction caused by wars in the Middle East? Can the world survive another war in the region? Doesn't he know any other language but that of bombs, blood and sufferance? Can't the world leaders use their intelligence and "wisdom"-if they have any- to lead the world to peace and stability??
1
"200 nukes..."
Pure conjecture on your part dear sir.
Piffle!
Pure conjecture on your part dear sir.
Piffle!
2
Dear Mr. McCann,
Mr. Khoshroo didn't say Israel had 200 nukes. I guess you're responding to another comment here, but the fact is, estimates indicate Israel has between 60 and 85 nuclear missiles operational. It's impossible to be exact because they will not allow any inspections and maintain considerable secrecy about their nuclear stockpile. But there's no doubt that they have one, and that Iran does not.
Mr. Khoshroo didn't say Israel had 200 nukes. I guess you're responding to another comment here, but the fact is, estimates indicate Israel has between 60 and 85 nuclear missiles operational. It's impossible to be exact because they will not allow any inspections and maintain considerable secrecy about their nuclear stockpile. But there's no doubt that they have one, and that Iran does not.
1
Mr. Netanyahu, in delivering this speech, has made himself a tool of the GOP in it's unyielding efforts to slander and discredit President Obama. When he finally retires from public "service," Netanyahu should get a job with FOX News.
4
For Americans, it should always be, what is best for America! Period!
7
Bibi should run for office in the USA. He has all of the qualifications that any candidate in a certain US political party must have: (1) he keeps a straight face when lying, (2) he tells the same lies over and over even long after they have been proved false, (3) he panders to extremists, (4) his best friends are fear, hate, intolerance and religion, (5) he wants the US to invade countries of his choosing, (6) he want the US to continue sending aid to Israel, (7) he likes Fox News.
2
Sure, it's all 'hype'....After all, why should Bibi or any Israeli be alarmed at the prospect of an Islamofascist regime which has openly called for the destruction of Israel acquiring a nuclear arsenal. Returning to the Real World it is obvious that anyone questioning the sincerity and concern which Israel has on this issue is the one engaging in deception and deceit.
4
It is good to read a factual rebuttal of the wild claims made at the US congress yesterday. A few silly puns and alliterations aside, Bibi is a charismatic speaker capable of moving a crowd to group think as he intends. Based on the history of the last century, educated people should have doubts about what such charisma might achieve. Sadly, the majority of the audience yesterday seemed to have few qualms about where they were being led.
Particularly galling was Bibi's rhetoric about Iran "gobbling up" territory in the middle east. Iran has not expanded its borders through might of arms whereas Israel has done so and blatantly continues to colonize the west bank.
Particularly galling was Bibi's rhetoric about Iran "gobbling up" territory in the middle east. Iran has not expanded its borders through might of arms whereas Israel has done so and blatantly continues to colonize the west bank.
7
Jordan captured and annexed the area known as the West Bank ibn 1948. After Jordan attacked Israel from the West Bank during the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel took the West Bank from Jordan. In 1988, Jordan renounced it claims to the West Bank. This made Israel the sovereign power, not an occupying power, in the West Bank. The West Bank is part of Israel. The notion that it is illegal for Jews to live there is absurd. In 1997 the Security Council rejected resolutions that sought to brand Israeli settlements as illegal. Arab groups subsequently bypassed the Security Council to pass a General Assembly resolution that expressed the General Assembly opinion that the Jewish West Bank settlements were illegal. UN Charter does not grant the General Assembly or The United National International Court of Justice attempt to treat the General Assembly resolution as established International law, but the UN charter does not make a General Assembly resolution binding on Israel. It's odd that the New York Times would take a position that Jews should not be allowed to settle in the West Bank due to their religion.
3
Even more deception from the Hasbara: " In 1988, Jordan renounced it claims to the West Bank. This made Israel the sovereign power, not an occupying power,..."
AMMAN, Jordan, July 31 (1988)— King Hussein of Jordan tonight abandoned to the Palestine Liberation Organization any claim to the Israeli-occupied West Bank his Hashemite family ruled between 1948 and 1967. ''We respect the wish of the P.L.O., the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, to secede from us in an independent Palestinian state,'' the King said
AMMAN, Jordan, July 31 (1988)— King Hussein of Jordan tonight abandoned to the Palestine Liberation Organization any claim to the Israeli-occupied West Bank his Hashemite family ruled between 1948 and 1967. ''We respect the wish of the P.L.O., the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, to secede from us in an independent Palestinian state,'' the King said
2
What this writer fails to address is that Netayahu wrote in an artilce at the time why he raised this warning http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4633272,00.html
"Netanyahu cited then-Iranian president Hashemi Rafsanjani as saying in October 1991 that "the Muslims must cooperate in the production of atomic bombs". He also quoted the vice president of Iran at the time, Akbar Rafsanjani, who said: "Iran's aim in obtaining nuclear weapons is to build together with its Muslim sisters an atomic bomb, in order to put it up against the Israeli atomic bomb."
He should also address why the ayatolah has already declared his plans to have 190,000 centrifuges running, and not even in 10 years when the deal is supposed to expire according to Obama's proposal. According to Reuters Iran rejected 10 years as unacceptable and said that they are willing to accept limits on their nuclear program for no longer than 5 years.
And when Iran's leaders have been saying for years that Israel must be annihilated, most the ayatollah himself who said so 3 weeks during the height of he negotiations, what are they referring to. Can he explain how Iran is planning on annihilating Israel.
This is not to mention the fact that UN inspectors have been unable to get answers from Iran on why they conducted work that can only be for the purpose of creating a nuclear weapon, such as on how to detonate a nuclear device. As a result they cannot certify that Iran does in fact not have a nuclear program.
"Netanyahu cited then-Iranian president Hashemi Rafsanjani as saying in October 1991 that "the Muslims must cooperate in the production of atomic bombs". He also quoted the vice president of Iran at the time, Akbar Rafsanjani, who said: "Iran's aim in obtaining nuclear weapons is to build together with its Muslim sisters an atomic bomb, in order to put it up against the Israeli atomic bomb."
He should also address why the ayatolah has already declared his plans to have 190,000 centrifuges running, and not even in 10 years when the deal is supposed to expire according to Obama's proposal. According to Reuters Iran rejected 10 years as unacceptable and said that they are willing to accept limits on their nuclear program for no longer than 5 years.
And when Iran's leaders have been saying for years that Israel must be annihilated, most the ayatollah himself who said so 3 weeks during the height of he negotiations, what are they referring to. Can he explain how Iran is planning on annihilating Israel.
This is not to mention the fact that UN inspectors have been unable to get answers from Iran on why they conducted work that can only be for the purpose of creating a nuclear weapon, such as on how to detonate a nuclear device. As a result they cannot certify that Iran does in fact not have a nuclear program.
2
Any good businessman knows that they must expand for success. Israel being the size of a pea in a vegetable garden, will always want more land. That is why they want their enemies harnessed.
4
Any organization, person, or state that resists Israeli government policies is immediately demonized, whether it is Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, or now Obama.
3
Mr. Khoshroo's response seems reasonable...at a distance. If Iran was located just south of Mexico and the United States was facing Iran as it was spreading terrorism and radical Islam throughout the Southern nations exactly what would be the view point of the United States? Supposing Iran was involved with arming Islamist rebels in Mexico, Panama, and Venezuela? What if Columbian drug cartels were receiving arms and ammunition from a nearby Iran? And what if the Iranian Navy was cruising the Caribbean and threaten closure of the Panama Canal while it shoots apart a large scale model of an American aircraft carrier? What if Iranian military advisors were in Cuba and Brazil? If that was the case, and let's pretend for the sake of argument that is, how would America view the Iran nuclear program? Would the United States feel threatened? Would the United States allow Iran to build and operate tens of thousands of centrifuges to enrich nuclear material suitable only for a nuclear weapon...or hundreds of nuclear weapons? What if Iran military advisors were stationed on the Rio Grande? And what if, Iran, located only hundreds of miles away from the United States homeland threatened, continually threatened to "wipe the United States off the face of the Earth?" Again think about that and place Iran just South of the U.S.
That is the threat faced by Israel. A large, powerful and militaristic state led by militant radical mullahs is close and ready to strike. That is not deception.
That is the threat faced by Israel. A large, powerful and militaristic state led by militant radical mullahs is close and ready to strike. That is not deception.
3
That IS deception. The real threat to Israel is ISIL, not Iran, and Netanyahu knows it. Problem is that his government's policies helped in the birth and growth of ISIL.
1
I think Netanyahu's speech in Congress was an outrage. I also appreciated the demonstrations of solidarity WITH America that took place in the streets of Tehran following the 9/11 event. I think Ambassador Khoshroo's article was generally rational and helpful.
However, I would have liked to have seen the Ambassador, in this article, simply say that Iran would recognize Israel's right to exist, and reject any calls for its annihilation. This is something that Iran needs to do.
However, I would have liked to have seen the Ambassador, in this article, simply say that Iran would recognize Israel's right to exist, and reject any calls for its annihilation. This is something that Iran needs to do.
3
if Ambassador Khoshroo is so concerned about the Palestinians why doesn't he offer to resettle them in Iran? Iran is a huge country and I'm sure there's more than enough room to accommodate the Palestinians. If tiny Israel can be a sanctuary. for Jews threatened with violence and mayhem then it shouldn't be a problem for Iran take the Palestinians in. Why should the Palestinians stay in a place where they're oppressed and unhappy? And if Iranian's nuclear program is meant for peaceful purposes why does the esteemed ambassador sound so defensive and nervous? Despite the tensions between Israel and Iran I don't recall Bibi Netanyahu threatening to blast Tehran off the map.
3
Netanyahu has, more than once, threatened to bomb Iran.
The Iranian government has never threatened military aggression against Israel. The famous (and contentious translation) "wipe Israel of the map" phrase has been manipulated into meaning an Iranian attack, when there are other means to Israel's destruction, including the policies of Netanyahu & Co.
The Iranian government has never threatened military aggression against Israel. The famous (and contentious translation) "wipe Israel of the map" phrase has been manipulated into meaning an Iranian attack, when there are other means to Israel's destruction, including the policies of Netanyahu & Co.
2
Exactly why is he deflecting the argument to Gaza - when it is not only Israel blockading Gaza and the only reason it is being done is that Iran is shipping weapons in there? Oh and what the world needs is another Muslim state this time only a few km away from Tel Aviv? The world does not need a state of Palestine and the world does not need a state sponsor of terrorism because Iran's fingerprints are on the shipping crates for the missile in the hands of Hamas and Hezbolah. The reason is that they were supplied by Iran to destabilize Israel. This guy is not exactly impartial now is he. Oh and neither am I.
2
March 17 will tell if Israel really wants peace in the Middle East when its population decides to send Netanyahu packing or not. Until then, silence is the best remedy.
1
At the community college I teach and in conversations with peers of my sons at Michigan State University, the support for Israel's continuing reticence in pursuing a Palestinian/West Bank solution is practically nil. The young people see a greater human injustice at work, and they are not beholden to the deep pockets of the Israeli lobby. The clock of young public opinion is ticking against the Israelis.
3
The question remains:Why has Israel not attacked Iran's nuclear facilities, as it did in Iraq and Syria, unilaterally and with impunity? Iran's certain and potentially devastating response, is the answer. Israel's US-supplied military is in a quandary, being opposed by a military that can effectively strike back. This is what has Netanyahu so frustrated, his bluster that Israel can act on its own notwithstanding.
2
As the author points out, the current Israeli leader has been crying wolf for over 20 years. And yet the sycophants in our Congress stoop up to applaud his continued fear-mongering. Originally, the US supported the new state of Israel as a safe-haven for those who had suffered horribly in WW2. It's been over half a century years since then and now this state has itself become a force for oppression and violence in the Middle East. The only reason that horrible individuals like Netanyahu are given any time in the US Congress is because of people like Sheldon Adelson who keep the US election campaigns funded. The far-right in Israel has done far more harm than good to their own nation. European nations are already distancing themselves from Israel and it would be wise for the US to follow suit.
2
If Bibi wants to go to war with Iran he does not need us to do that or Obama's blessings.
The Right got their misinformation that they wanted.
The Right got their misinformation that they wanted.
3
The Republicans had to bring in a Guest Alarmist to continue their campaign of fear. Fear of everything: ISIS, Iran, Ebola, immigration, the ACA, all designed to gather more support from their paranoiac followers. But as usual, Bibi and his Republican buddies have proposed nothing to deal with all these imminent crises.
5
Netanyahu's arrogant proclamations that this is a bad deal and worse his disrespect for Americans, is doing a disservice to Israel. America is the only friend Israel has in the world. Israel's existential threat is not Iran. It is an America that gets torn apart. No other country would save Israel.
If a war occurs with Iran, and America is involved with thousands of dead Americans, the blame will be squarely on the shoulders of Israel. Imagine that for a moment and have some humility.
If a war occurs with Iran, and America is involved with thousands of dead Americans, the blame will be squarely on the shoulders of Israel. Imagine that for a moment and have some humility.
3
Bravo editorial staff writers! What a brilliant and powerful summation of real problems Mr. Netanyahu is desperately trying to smokescreen. He has misled our government time and again. In fact you should have mentioned Netanyahu's urgent and completely false warnings about the threat that Iraq posed back in the last decade, how morally essential it was to attack them and look how well that turned out. Settlement building in the Palestinian lands is the real source of global tensions, not a nation attempting to modernize with nuclear energy that has kept to its agreements and has not transgressed its borders.
2
I agree that it is only fair to let the Ambassador respond to the exaggerated claims Mr. Netanyahu made in his address to the U.S. Congress. For one, what is Israel's justification for expanding settlements on Palestinian territory? The U.S. continues to ignore the claims of the marginalized Palestinians.
2
When it comes to Mid-East policy speeches, I stopped listening to Israeli and American leaders years ago. They have zero credibility. The actual goals of these proven liars and purveyors of untruths is usually hidden far below the phony Doomsday stump speech, and terrifying public propaganda campaigns.
Should a citizen wish to consider the merit of western and Israeli aggressions, the public proclamations of their leadership is the last place to go for information because they are devoid of truth and obscure state intentions.
Should a citizen wish to consider the merit of western and Israeli aggressions, the public proclamations of their leadership is the last place to go for information because they are devoid of truth and obscure state intentions.
2
I am beginning to see Ben Netanyahu as the Sarah Palin of Israel, what with all the outlandish claims and distortions condemning Iran. The man strikes me a paranoid and delusional as well as having a bad case of megalomania.
Instead of thanking America for all we, as a nation, have done for Israel he has the nerve to come here and criticize us and our president for not doing his bidding.
I sure hope he looses his re-election bid and a more moderate leader takes over.
Instead of thanking America for all we, as a nation, have done for Israel he has the nerve to come here and criticize us and our president for not doing his bidding.
I sure hope he looses his re-election bid and a more moderate leader takes over.
8
Thank you, Ambassador Khoshroo, for your thoughtful rebuttals of the unsubstantiated claims Benjamin Netanyahu made to our Congress yesterday. Thank you for reminding the world of Mr. Netanyahu’s illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, and of the war crimes Mr. Netanyahu recently committed against Gaza.
I was grieved to watch Mr. Netanyahu, in his address to a joint session of our Congress yesterday, utilize deceptive rhetoric and demagogue his way to the hearts and minds of some members of our Congress.
Yet I sincerely hope that the United States and Iran, for their own sake, and for the sake of humanity and world peace, will not be deterred. I hope that they will continue their negotiations in earnest, so that, ultimately, they do attain a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the nuclear issue.
I also hope that resolving the nuclear issue will eventually lead to normalizing full relations between the United States and Iran, so that both may resume political and economic cooperation and bring peace and stability to the entire Middle East region.
With its human, intellectual and economic resources, coupled with its geographic and strategic location, Iran is destined to become one of the most important countries in the Middle East and perhaps in the world.
A long term and stable United States-Iran partnership could therefore be in the interest of both.
Perhaps more than nuclear weapons, this is what Mr. Netanyahu and his new allies dread.
I was grieved to watch Mr. Netanyahu, in his address to a joint session of our Congress yesterday, utilize deceptive rhetoric and demagogue his way to the hearts and minds of some members of our Congress.
Yet I sincerely hope that the United States and Iran, for their own sake, and for the sake of humanity and world peace, will not be deterred. I hope that they will continue their negotiations in earnest, so that, ultimately, they do attain a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the nuclear issue.
I also hope that resolving the nuclear issue will eventually lead to normalizing full relations between the United States and Iran, so that both may resume political and economic cooperation and bring peace and stability to the entire Middle East region.
With its human, intellectual and economic resources, coupled with its geographic and strategic location, Iran is destined to become one of the most important countries in the Middle East and perhaps in the world.
A long term and stable United States-Iran partnership could therefore be in the interest of both.
Perhaps more than nuclear weapons, this is what Mr. Netanyahu and his new allies dread.
91
Beautifully stated.
2
Please compare the predictions that Netanyahu has made over the years and the eventual outcome to the predictions our own Presidents and Congress have made to the citizens of our country and the world over the years and the consequences of their erroneous predictions to be fair.
1
Overlook and dismiss the following truths and we all die.
* Iran's perennial foot-dragging to inconclusive negotiations
* Iran has intercontinental ballistic missiles designed for carrying
nuclear payloads 2000 miles.
* Iran's claim nuclear reactors are for civilian electricity is a bare-faced lie. Iran's oil reserves are second to Saudi Arabia and assures them unlimited energy for electricity for hundreds of years.
* Iran's perennial foot-dragging to inconclusive negotiations
* Iran has intercontinental ballistic missiles designed for carrying
nuclear payloads 2000 miles.
* Iran's claim nuclear reactors are for civilian electricity is a bare-faced lie. Iran's oil reserves are second to Saudi Arabia and assures them unlimited energy for electricity for hundreds of years.
2
If Netanyahu was serious about halting Iran’s nuclear program why doesn’t he negotiate with them – and offer to freeze settlements if they freeze their nuclear program. He could take it a step further and offer a Palestinian state in exchange for Iran completely dismantling their whole nuclear program
1
Israel had no troop casualties in Iraq. The reason is they sent no troops to support the US in the war that they encouraged us to fight. More recently I have seen no reports of bombing missions by the Israeli air force to help fight ISIS. The Israelis, or more specifically Mr. Netanyahu and his Tea Party like support group, seem content to stir the pot of fear stew which they don't eat themselves yet expect the rest of the world to sit down at the table and consume. I'm not hungry.
1
Excellent piece.
6
Throughout my 53 years, and especially under the leadership of the likes of Netanyahu, Israel has been one of the most aggressive and non-democratic countries on this planet. They have invaded, repressed and oppressed! It is time for new leadership there and here! Those with the Hawkish predilections to lead by fear & war; Netanyahu, McCain, Cheney, G.W. Bush, etc., have made a blooming mess of the world. Peace now, with Iran, in the Middle East and throughout the world!
1
Alarmist rhetoric concerning the world's most ardent terrorist state is hardly unfounded.
3
Did you by chance mean Israeli aggression and the occupation of Palestinian territories have always been a major reason for successful extremist recruitment? For evidence just read the last paragraph.
2
We have clearly reached the point where possession of nuclear weapons by any country diminishes world security. Why not use this confrontation as a reason to pivot toward accelerated dialogues about eliminating all nuclear weapons on Earth? The vehement tone of the current talks regarding Iran could be transformed to a broader international dialogue that can ultimately enhance global security and enhance actions to address global challenges.
1
Dear Dave,
Well it's a nice thought, but a planet free of nuclear weapons is not going to happen anytime soon. For it to happen, the governments of North Korea, Russia, Pakistan, and China would have to be violently deposed and replaced with humanitarian ones. Good luck getting that done, so yeah, there will be nuclear weapons around for a long time to come.
Well it's a nice thought, but a planet free of nuclear weapons is not going to happen anytime soon. For it to happen, the governments of North Korea, Russia, Pakistan, and China would have to be violently deposed and replaced with humanitarian ones. Good luck getting that done, so yeah, there will be nuclear weapons around for a long time to come.
What is rather strange is that Iran does possess a huge amount of oil. In addition, there's great potential for solar and, I imagine, wind power as well. Why would they want to pursue a nuclear course for their energy source which is hugely expensive and rife with all kinds of risk? So, it is reasonable to doubt their motivations. Under these circumstances, I don't blame Israel for being skeptical.
33
Under the provisions of the NPT, Iran, like all other signatories to that treaty has the right to conduct peaceful nuclear research. Unless we are ready to scrap that treaty, there is no way we can demand that they stop their research. Maybe the Israelis don't care about the treaty, they have never signed it, but we should.
Have you heard terms such as "long-term resource management," "nonrenewable resources," "population pressure," and "commodity exporter?" Everything you wrote equally applies to a number of other counties including U.S.
A thanks to the NY Times for publishing this opinion piece. I was struck by the statement that Iran has not invaded another country since the US became the US. That would be since 1787 or so, what 228 years. We've invaded at least three countries without cause(Iraq, Panama, and Vietnam/Cambodia) in the past 50 years. I will leave out all of the incursions in South and Central America to shill for US big business. If one looks at the map Iran would have to march across Iraq and part of another country to arrive at Israel's border. This whole argument is keeping the welfare money flowing to the Israeli state. The end.
2
Mr. Netanyahu finally succeeds in getting Iran to tell the truth about something without mis-represnting the facts.
"The whole world should work to defuse it.." Bravo, yes indeed. Otherwise you say that Bibi's Iranian doom rhetoric is deliberate diversion from focus on matters Palestinian. If that's the case, that's a hefty diversion. Not a diversion level warranted from building a few houses ...perhaps ..I think that plan has bigger goals. One of them likely 'Two States Never'.
1
At last, on these sacred pages, an honest assessment of Israel's contribution to the Middle East instability.
While the portions dealing with Iran's nuclear program are subject to informed question, the role of our "ally" in this situation, as well as the allusion to the hysteria that initiated our last little mideastern misunderstanding are unassailable.
While the portions dealing with Iran's nuclear program are subject to informed question, the role of our "ally" in this situation, as well as the allusion to the hysteria that initiated our last little mideastern misunderstanding are unassailable.
2
Iran, after the decade long horrible war with Iraq, had every reason
to fear a nuclear armed Iraq.
They were not concerned about Iraq's nuclear program because
their intelligence services knew there was no such program.
They never openly expressed fear or concern.
That alone should have been a clue to our press to counter
the Bush war mongers deceit and obfuscation.
to fear a nuclear armed Iraq.
They were not concerned about Iraq's nuclear program because
their intelligence services knew there was no such program.
They never openly expressed fear or concern.
That alone should have been a clue to our press to counter
the Bush war mongers deceit and obfuscation.
If Netanyahu wants to bomb Iran, then do it yourself and stop asking someone else to do it for you. What audacity! How about inviting a representative to speak to your governing body who may point out his/her concern about how Israel is treating the innocent Palestinians.
7
Sadly, the left and right in America share very few insights and often have puzzlingly opposing perceptions of objective and plain to see facts. It is instructive to note that they are in full agreement when it come to the following:
1. That Iran is a state sponsor of terror.
2. That Iran has repeatedly lied to the international community about its nuclear program.
3. That Iranian leaders have in fact publicly called for the destruction of Israel.
4. That The Iranian leadership stands squarely at the center of an ongoing struggle within Islam for political and religious hegemony over the Middle East.
I suggest we juxtapose this rare agreement between polar opposites to the statements made in this editorial by the esteemed ambassador. Notwithstanding the shinning object that is the Israeli Palestinian object, It would be wise for us to take the Ambassador's propaganda piece with a grain of salt. Remember, the argument between the left and right centers on how to deal with the threat Iran presents to the international community not the existence or nature of the threat . Don't be deceived, we live in very troubled times.
1. That Iran is a state sponsor of terror.
2. That Iran has repeatedly lied to the international community about its nuclear program.
3. That Iranian leaders have in fact publicly called for the destruction of Israel.
4. That The Iranian leadership stands squarely at the center of an ongoing struggle within Islam for political and religious hegemony over the Middle East.
I suggest we juxtapose this rare agreement between polar opposites to the statements made in this editorial by the esteemed ambassador. Notwithstanding the shinning object that is the Israeli Palestinian object, It would be wise for us to take the Ambassador's propaganda piece with a grain of salt. Remember, the argument between the left and right centers on how to deal with the threat Iran presents to the international community not the existence or nature of the threat . Don't be deceived, we live in very troubled times.
1
When does that little boy come along and solve all our problems with a slingshot?
While Iran may not have invaded another nation since the "founding of the Republic", I believe it is without debate that Iran is a sponsor of terrorism, specifically through its support of Hamas and Hezbollah. Iran's control/influence in Damascus and Beirut, likewise, do not reflect a benign proponent of regional peace and stability. Trust, maybe, but certainly verify. RAK
5
Israeli terrorism is no less heinous, it just arrives at 500 knots.
"Trust but verify." EXACTLY. That's what the Western agreement with Iran will embody unless Israel can kill it with a speech or a well-timed event.
"Trust but verify." EXACTLY. That's what the Western agreement with Iran will embody unless Israel can kill it with a speech or a well-timed event.
I think it is clearly time for our leaders to step into 2015. We are in a hissy fit over nuclear weapons? First, they are a scary prospect but we have seen time and again that any loser can use fertilizer to bomb a federal building, pipe bombs at a marathon, gun down first graders., the list goes on. We grew up terrified about Russia and it never happened. What it did was produce a political party based on fear.
Here is a good political solution...Israel, stop stuffing down the Palestinians. Palestinians, give more to your people than bombs. Iran, tell your religious leaders to start preaching tolerance. You have a highly educated workforce and young talent that wants to contribute. And btw Boehner, Israel is more religious and intolerant than ever so reconcile that the next time you want to appease Saudi Arabia. Isn't that really what this was about? Saudi is terrified that an oil rich Iran is coming out of the shadows. And since we've been paying them for years not to hurt Israel, they've only been focused on crazy Sunni terrorism but now that their purse strings are getting pulled, Houston has a big problem.
Here is a good political solution...Israel, stop stuffing down the Palestinians. Palestinians, give more to your people than bombs. Iran, tell your religious leaders to start preaching tolerance. You have a highly educated workforce and young talent that wants to contribute. And btw Boehner, Israel is more religious and intolerant than ever so reconcile that the next time you want to appease Saudi Arabia. Isn't that really what this was about? Saudi is terrified that an oil rich Iran is coming out of the shadows. And since we've been paying them for years not to hurt Israel, they've only been focused on crazy Sunni terrorism but now that their purse strings are getting pulled, Houston has a big problem.
1
(R Sen.) Arthur Vandenberg, who coined the expression "Politics stops at the water's edge" must be spinning in his grave at the Punch and Judy show Boehner and Netanyahu ran in front of Congress for transparent political gain. Boehner and Netanyahu exposed themselves as a pair of crass political co-dependants.
It was the height of chutzpah for the head of a foreign power to come before Congress to directly attempt to influence US foreign policy.
Boehner is not fit for the office he holds.
It was the height of chutzpah for the head of a foreign power to come before Congress to directly attempt to influence US foreign policy.
Boehner is not fit for the office he holds.
7
Your enemy always tells you what he's going to do.
1
For the Times to give Iran's ambassador an open forum is truly a new low for this paper I once so admired. The hypocrisy of not publishing the Charlie Hebdo cartoons, only to publish the words of terror-enabler Gholamali Khoshroo in the name of free-speech is frightening. Gholamali is an ambassador of a regime which uses Sharia Law, executes gays, supports global terror, and is openly anti-Semitic.
For him to be lecturing Israel on morality in the New York Times is ironic.
I think it is insulting that this guy expects the Times' readers to believe that Iran is not after a weapon. He's trying to manipulate us into shifting the conversation towards Israel's settlements, predictable....
For him to be lecturing Israel on morality in the New York Times is ironic.
I think it is insulting that this guy expects the Times' readers to believe that Iran is not after a weapon. He's trying to manipulate us into shifting the conversation towards Israel's settlements, predictable....
6
Well, that's reassuring. Iran's ambassador to the U.S. tells us everything is hunky dory. Now I can stop worrying.
8
I believe the Ambassador far more than I believe Netanyahu. He presented more facts and logic.
2
I find it odd how foolish the US Congress allows itself to behave on behalf of a minority PM seeking reelection in a country that is totally dependent on the US for its economic viability and defense. Israel has hundreds of nuclear weapons and any number of ways to deliver them. The truly magical thing that Netanyahu has done is to make the oppression of the Palestinians by Israel disappear from the US Congress' view. That has been mentioned a lot as the true goal of Netanyahu's gambit to get up in front of the US Congress and watch these people embarrass themselves with thunderous applause for a nasty provocateur.
18
Bibi's speech was a grave disappointment...aside from the complete lack of any any alternative to military action, where was the silly cartoon drawing? Such a cartoon as he used at the UN would have made clear his arrogance and just how stupid he thinks Congress is. And the way they're were jumping up and down like extras in his political theatre maybe he's right. I was missing the obnoxious congressman to yell out "Liar"...where is he when you really need him. It is time for Israel to dump this chump. He has no world view, no ability to see the bigger picture and no interest in realizing it is he, it is Israel, who is hiding the nuclear program from the American people and the world. If I was Iran's leader I would offer to give up my nuclear program if Israel discloses theirs and submits to inspections. The idea that a man like Bibi has his finger on the button is as scary as can be. And let's not forget, Iran has signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty...Israel has not.
9
Iran sponsors Hezbollah and Hamas, two recognized terror organizations responsibe for endless attacks against Jews and Israelis (Hamas was also now recognized as a terror organization by Egypt), and yet the Iranian ambassador, who advocates the destruction of Israel, writes pieces for the NYT, all full of lies and deception. What next, an opinion piece by ISIS?
7
And your prime minister is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Palestinian women and children. A rocket attack from Gaza? No problem, just raze dozens of Palestinian structures and kill several hundred innocent women and children trying to take out the person who fired it.
Mr. "Disproportional Response" Netanyahu, indeed.
And, I think Jared Huffman summed it up best when he said Netanyahu has never seen a war that he didn't want (the U.S.) to fight.
At this point, Iran is looking like more of an ally than Israel is. You might want to think twice before voting for Bibi again if you actually want peace in the middle east.
Mr. "Disproportional Response" Netanyahu, indeed.
And, I think Jared Huffman summed it up best when he said Netanyahu has never seen a war that he didn't want (the U.S.) to fight.
At this point, Iran is looking like more of an ally than Israel is. You might want to think twice before voting for Bibi again if you actually want peace in the middle east.
1
Hello America, How does it feel to be lectured on what your Middle East foreign policy should be by a Prime Minister of a country that you financially and diplomatically prop up and the Prime Minister as a person who does not hesitate to insult your government and President.
For the sake of all, please get some backbone and stand up to Israel before that war mongering country consumes us all.
For the sake of all, please get some backbone and stand up to Israel before that war mongering country consumes us all.
12
Nothing new, even 10 years ago, the CIA concluded that Iran does not build nuclear weapons and does not even have a plan to do so.
Still, Israel needs a bogey man in the region and thus Iran was the target of numerous and entirely uncalled for sanctions while Israel has nuclear weapons, delivery systems and is not even part of the NPT.
All the while Iran was entirely within the framework of the NPT and has never ever broken any of the rules it signed up for.
At the same time Saudi Arabia has funded the development of nuclear weapons in Pakistan and has immediate access to these weapons, including delivery systems.
So what we see here is called a deception in diplomatics and a blatant lie in real life.
Maybe it is time to end the sanctions against Iran and take a closer look at the real problem.
But that, of course, would cost the US administration dearly in their most important currency: voters.
Still, Israel needs a bogey man in the region and thus Iran was the target of numerous and entirely uncalled for sanctions while Israel has nuclear weapons, delivery systems and is not even part of the NPT.
All the while Iran was entirely within the framework of the NPT and has never ever broken any of the rules it signed up for.
At the same time Saudi Arabia has funded the development of nuclear weapons in Pakistan and has immediate access to these weapons, including delivery systems.
So what we see here is called a deception in diplomatics and a blatant lie in real life.
Maybe it is time to end the sanctions against Iran and take a closer look at the real problem.
But that, of course, would cost the US administration dearly in their most important currency: voters.
3
I can only encourage The New York Times to give "Equal Times" to credible (and clearly authorized) representatives of Iran, such as Ambassador Khoshroo, to present not simply opposing views, but views from opposing parties-in-interest, to the P5+1-Iran nuclear facility negotiations.
I would also encourage the NYT to give such opportunity to the representatives of the P5+1 parties other than the US, particularly now that the NYT has given so much time, directly and indirectly, to Israel, to Mr. Netanyahu, and to all of their partisans, on this issue, certainly parties-in-interest, but not parties directly participating in the negotiations. (For that matter, we have not heard in the NYT much from Mr. Netanyahu's own opponents in Israel.)
In fact, I would encourage the NYT to give such opportunity to all counterparties-in-interest to the many issues revolving around Israel, and the Middle East. Yes, we do hear opposing views within a community consisting of mostly Americans and Israelis, and from sub-communities of Zionists, left and right, and from the sub-sub communities of Jews, left and right, American and Israeli. But what we get to hear is mostly from "the poles." There are other parties with other perspectives, which we rarely if ever hear from, at least not in the NYT.
Please, Sirs, we'd like some more. A whole lot more. A whole lot greater variety. From a whole lot greater variety of actual parties-in-interest.
I would also encourage the NYT to give such opportunity to the representatives of the P5+1 parties other than the US, particularly now that the NYT has given so much time, directly and indirectly, to Israel, to Mr. Netanyahu, and to all of their partisans, on this issue, certainly parties-in-interest, but not parties directly participating in the negotiations. (For that matter, we have not heard in the NYT much from Mr. Netanyahu's own opponents in Israel.)
In fact, I would encourage the NYT to give such opportunity to all counterparties-in-interest to the many issues revolving around Israel, and the Middle East. Yes, we do hear opposing views within a community consisting of mostly Americans and Israelis, and from sub-communities of Zionists, left and right, and from the sub-sub communities of Jews, left and right, American and Israeli. But what we get to hear is mostly from "the poles." There are other parties with other perspectives, which we rarely if ever hear from, at least not in the NYT.
Please, Sirs, we'd like some more. A whole lot more. A whole lot greater variety. From a whole lot greater variety of actual parties-in-interest.
9
Netanyahu might have unwittingly done a great service to President Obama and to the cause of peace by his belligerent speech, whose lies can be easily exposed. The fact is that the language of Iranian officials towards Israel is harsh and ugly. However, given the long record of Israeli hostility towards Iran with constant threats of bombing Iran, openly inciting US governments to attack Iran, the use of Stuxnet to destroy the centrifuges, the assassination of Iranian scientists, etc. it is not hard to understand why Iranian leaders are hostile towards Israel. They don't want to see another Iraq.
Nevertheless, they have never called for the destruction of Israel, but for the removal of the “Zionist regime”, in the same way that the apartheid regime in South Africa or the communist regime in Russia were removed. Iran’s official policy is that they would accept whatever agreement the Palestinians reach with Israel. Meanwhile, they support the Palestinians.
It is clear that Netanyahu’s main aim in scaremongering about the possibility of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons for the past 20 years is to expand illegal settlements in occupied lands and to push the Palestinians out of their homes. To that end, Israel has launched three barbaric attacks on Gaza killing thousands of innocent people. Netanyahu should not be allowed to get away with that. It is time the world put pressure on Israel to abide by international law and end the stateless condition of millions of Palestinians.
Nevertheless, they have never called for the destruction of Israel, but for the removal of the “Zionist regime”, in the same way that the apartheid regime in South Africa or the communist regime in Russia were removed. Iran’s official policy is that they would accept whatever agreement the Palestinians reach with Israel. Meanwhile, they support the Palestinians.
It is clear that Netanyahu’s main aim in scaremongering about the possibility of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons for the past 20 years is to expand illegal settlements in occupied lands and to push the Palestinians out of their homes. To that end, Israel has launched three barbaric attacks on Gaza killing thousands of innocent people. Netanyahu should not be allowed to get away with that. It is time the world put pressure on Israel to abide by international law and end the stateless condition of millions of Palestinians.
9
The simplest way for Mr. Netanyahu to assure a nuclear free Middle East is for Israel to give up its nuclear status via direct negotiations with its neighbors. The U.S. and the U.N. should stop carrying its water and work to fairly broker such a deal.
6
So let's see. What do we have to show for the trillions of dollars spent to influence foreign policy in the Middle East for the last 50 years? Same old nuclear annihilation theories that has proved that nuclear weapons is not the real threat. Netanyahu's intransigence over his political career has allowed Israel to be so badly hated around the world. This is wrong. Israel will always have congressional friends in the US due to its democratic principles and amount of monies thrown around by their lobbyists to their political contacts in Washington. It's time to compromise. Now it is time to stop Israel from dragging the U.S. into unfavorable positions that acts against many US interests and makes us a hated people. The real threat to the Middle East is ISIS and their brotherhood. Their spawning is due to intransigence and one sided foreign policy views funded by PAC's and narrow minded congressional members who would take monies from a drug dealer if they thought no one would find out.
7
Netanyahu, at best is a hypocrite; at worst, a very destructive force in the world. It is very difficult to understand why Israel is considered an ally when clearly, their foreign policy may even be worse than ours. Israel's crimes against humanity have been confirmed by an illustrious Israeli jurist, and the US invited Netanyahu to speak before Congress? Bizarre at every conceivable level.
12
A more rational voice from the Iranian ambassador to the UN than from our own politicians? A telling commentary on us all.
14
I have disagreed with Netanyahu settlement policies in the occupied territories, I disagreed with him over Jerusalem and the stalled peace process and on many other things relating to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But a very big but, on the Iranian nuclear question, I agree with Netanyahu. The first time I agree with the Israeli Prime Minister. He expressed unequivocally the thoughts of many Arab leaders in the region. I am afraid President Obama is wrong and Prime Minister Netanyahu is right.
4
Netanyahu lied about Iraq and tricked us into sacrificing thousands of lives, trillions of dollars, and immeasurable international good will. Now he's lying to us again and trying to sabotage our foreign policy. It's time for campaign finance reform! JSIL has pushed for us to invade Iraq, Syria, and Iran. When will it end?
9
Let us also not forget that Netanyahu is creating a theocratic society in Israel, similar to Iran and also his wholesale lack of interest in any form of peace with the Palestinians. This man governs from emotion not from logic.
14
No, it's the logic of concealing your intentions. The ginned-up emotion is art of the distraction.
Wow, I guess even butter wouldn't melt in Iran's mouth.
It's true that Iran has not invaded any countries, but that's only because they lack the capability and confidence to do so. Instead, they fund and arm groups like Hamas and Hezbollah to fight a war with Israel by proxy. When missiles fall on Israel from the sky or terrorists emerge from tunnels in the ground, Iran's fingerprints are all over it.
Mr. Khoshroo feigns concern for Palestinian refugees, but Iranian support is the grease that keeps the gears of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict spinning in an endless cycle of violence. They fund terror attacks on Israel, Israel responds, the Palestinian civilians suffer, and Iran's leaders use their suffering to direct the ire of the Iranian people against Israel - because as long as Iranians are hanging Mr. Netanyahu or President Obama in effigy, they're less likely to hang their own inept, corrupt leaders in the streets.
As far as the innocence of Iran's nuclear program, Mr. Khoshroo portrays Mr. Netanyahu as one lone nut running around making dire, yet baseless, accusations, while everyone else knows Iran's program is peaceful. If that were the case, then why did President Obama order cyberattacks on Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities in 2012?
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/01/world/middleeast/obama-ordered-wave-of...
We should not confuse Iran's inability, so far, to build nuclear weapons with a disinterest in doing so.
It's true that Iran has not invaded any countries, but that's only because they lack the capability and confidence to do so. Instead, they fund and arm groups like Hamas and Hezbollah to fight a war with Israel by proxy. When missiles fall on Israel from the sky or terrorists emerge from tunnels in the ground, Iran's fingerprints are all over it.
Mr. Khoshroo feigns concern for Palestinian refugees, but Iranian support is the grease that keeps the gears of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict spinning in an endless cycle of violence. They fund terror attacks on Israel, Israel responds, the Palestinian civilians suffer, and Iran's leaders use their suffering to direct the ire of the Iranian people against Israel - because as long as Iranians are hanging Mr. Netanyahu or President Obama in effigy, they're less likely to hang their own inept, corrupt leaders in the streets.
As far as the innocence of Iran's nuclear program, Mr. Khoshroo portrays Mr. Netanyahu as one lone nut running around making dire, yet baseless, accusations, while everyone else knows Iran's program is peaceful. If that were the case, then why did President Obama order cyberattacks on Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities in 2012?
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/01/world/middleeast/obama-ordered-wave-of...
We should not confuse Iran's inability, so far, to build nuclear weapons with a disinterest in doing so.
67
What utter blindness. "Iranian support is the grease that keeps the gears of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict spinning in an endless cycle of violence". No, the enormous heist that Isreal pulled off in mid-twentieth century is the grease that keeps the violence going, and their acting like they are entitled to whatever they want, including our tax dollars - that's what's fueling the deep animus in the Middle East.
When the national-personal hatred gets in the way, even IAEA inspections or reports cannot defeat the "how can we still know?" skepticism, I guess. You have experienced this before without listening to Blix's warnings. Time to wise up.
"Help, the sky is falling in" has been Netanyahu's refrain for many years, in oder to get support from the US. The alarmist tone of his pronouncements approach the bloviating by some right wing talking heads. Netanyahu sounds like an Israeli Wolfovitz surging the US to bomb Iran into submission. Wolfovitz and his fellow Neocons cost us dearly when Bush listened to them.
21
Netanyahu, like Wolfowitz, was cheerleading the neocons to invade Iraq and get rid of Saddam for years. Which caused the rise of Iran. Which is Israel's next target. Was that the plan all along?
Is there a pattern here? After Iran, Lebanon or Syria, or Iraq again? Will it ever end?
Is there a pattern here? After Iran, Lebanon or Syria, or Iraq again? Will it ever end?
The writer is ambassador of Iran, a country where citizens live in fear of their totalitarian government. Iran is a country which imprisons and executes people suspected of opposing the regime, a country where women are subject to punishment of up to 70 lashes or 60 days imprisonment for the crime of "Bad hijab" - exposure of any part of the body other than hands and face. The Iranian regime has sent its proxies to the countries surrounding Israel, and they are involved in the fighting and killing of citizens in Syria, in Yemen, and in Iraq, and in other places in the Middle East. The credibility of their ambassador should be the same as that of an ambassador from North Korea.
12
Substitute Saudi Arabia for Iran and your commentary is moot.
Or the ambassador of Israel a country that continues to commit crimes against humanity. Pot, kettle, black; some words that come to mind
2
When was the last time you visited Gaza and the West bank? Of all people you do not have the moral high ground to talk about dehumanizing treatment of others.
Fix your house which includes the occupied territories of Palestine and its inhabitants then discuss Iran.
Fix your house which includes the occupied territories of Palestine and its inhabitants then discuss Iran.
2
A nuclear Iran will force Israel to accept a free Palestinian State and thus bring peace to the middle east.
16
There is a Palestineam State. It is called Jordan.
3
Naive nonsense. The Pakistani - Indian nuclear parity did not resolve ANY of the long outstanding issues between them - and it will not. What it does is bring nightmare visions to the West of a nuclear mushroom over Asia. A foolish notion of possessing A-Bomb only to force a resolution on the long-standing Israeli - Palestinian conflict deserves a better, and in depth look, by a licensed mental health professional.
3
Israel already offered the Palestinians their own state -- in fact it's done it many, many times, going back to late '40s. However, the Palestinians rejected these offers every time, most famously by Arafat in 2000. Israel doesn't need to be compelled to permit a Palestinian state. It's wanted one for a long, long time.
4
Without this well organised and rich organisation AIPAC that funds a lot of senators and Congress people, the Israeli prime minister would of course not get this Grand Theater for his electoral show. The importance of the STAGE that he gets offered by a partisan party in the USA makes one believe the Bibi MESSAGE is important as well. But the amazing stage production, with Hollywoodian perfection and means, is just a game in 2 different electoral battles going on. This is where we are: war talk and dissemination of phantasy mega threats in order to gain a few votes in electoral battle. In my life time few other stage productions have been available of this magnitude, using such irresponsible means.
26
I agree with you that our political parties are at present motivated by the desire to gain a "few votes" in the election. These parties need to get the message that their behavior is also costing them votes and eventually will cost them electoral votes. Perhaps the only solution is to have a third party that will be able to respond in a more mature and responsible way to to Israel's or Netanyahu's demands. I think that the capability for creating such an option may best be generated by those in the American Jewish community who can be more balanced in their evaluation of the Israeli agenda, independent of the Israeli state without being open to the charge of being anti-Semitic. In any case, we need to find a practical way of organizing the political will of those of us who do not think Israel should be making decisions for us.
1
Thank you for this informative and insightful article. After watching the speech, the ignominious reaction of Republicans, and the hapless cowardly and either uninformed or rendered so inarticulate as to be mute response from the Demicrats, your words stoked a nearly dead hope for our countries and the world's democracies.
21
Perhaps, Mr. Ambassador, you should check your facts. Iran has produced, paraded and tested ballistic missiles with easy capability to reach Israel. It can import more than enough material for medical purposes and sits on great fossil fuel reserves. It worries not just Israel but other Arab countries in the middle east. The AEC has no proof of military capability because Iran refuses full access.
13
In the article the ambassador did not mention that Iran do not have the capability or the quantities of missiles to reach Israel, his point mentioned was Netanyahu's ludicrous claim of missile (ICBM) reaching Manhattan.
With Israel having 100s of nuclear weapons, Iran must have enough to defend itself.
With Israel having 100s of nuclear weapons, Iran must have enough to defend itself.
2
I would guess that Mr. Netanyahu's speech will get many hours of coverage on Fox News, but I would doubt that Mr. Khoshroo's column, a fair and well-balanced look at the Iran problem, will hardly be mentioned.
28
For a better and far more accurate, , look at the transcripts of U.N. speeches by Iran's former President, Ahmadinejad. He spoke in Farsi, i.e. true intentions of Iranian clergy, while Khoshroo wrote his 'stuff' for English-speaking. good-news-wishing West ONLY.
3
"Well-balanced"? He is speaking on behalf of and in promotion of ONE party, Iran. That is the EXACT OPPOSITE of well-balanced.
2
Netanhayu has the atomic bomb, but he wants to dictate to the world who else should have, or not have, the bomb.
I cannot understand why America subsidises Israel to the tune of billions of dollars every year so that they can impose a reign of terror throughout the Middle East.
America used to pride itself on being the world's policeman, but that policeman is now operating in a totally one-sided manner.
Shame on the American government!
I cannot understand why America subsidises Israel to the tune of billions of dollars every year so that they can impose a reign of terror throughout the Middle East.
America used to pride itself on being the world's policeman, but that policeman is now operating in a totally one-sided manner.
Shame on the American government!
29
Do you really think you've made an apples-to-apples comparison? You are comparing Israel, a liberal democracy with checks and balances and rule of law, with Iran, a somewhat repressive theocracy that is a state-sponsor of terrorist acts around the world and whose justice system is based heavily, if not primarily, on the precepts of religious law.
I wish we lived in a world with no nuclear weapons, but, alas, we don't. I feel uneasy about the presence of nuclear weapons in this world, but, if they are to exist, I feel decently comfortable with them in the hands of a liberal democracy led by rational actors. I do not feel that way about having them in the hands of Iranian theocrats, driven largely by the religious factors that underpinned the Islamic Revolution.
I wish we lived in a world with no nuclear weapons, but, alas, we don't. I feel uneasy about the presence of nuclear weapons in this world, but, if they are to exist, I feel decently comfortable with them in the hands of a liberal democracy led by rational actors. I do not feel that way about having them in the hands of Iranian theocrats, driven largely by the religious factors that underpinned the Islamic Revolution.
3
A "reign of terror throughout the Middle East"? The level of ignorance embodied in this statement is truly astonishing. Do you have even the slightest knowledge of how Arab countries treat their citizens? Are you aware of the civil war in Syria in which hundreds of thousands are dead, and which had nothing to do with Israel at all? Do you even care, or is the virulent hatred of Jews that is at the bottom of statements like this the only thing that matters to you?
3
A nuclear weapons Iran is a fearsome thing to imagine. Israel lives in constant fear because Iran wants to annihilate the country. Israel would be foolish to put its life solely into the hands of a man who little understands the meaning behind the 9/11 attack. The Obama administration needs to either work with Netanyahu the wise man, or leave him be because Obama politics don't work with Iran. Only military might is what Iran understands. Israel knows this. When will Obama get it?
7
What was the last war Iran initiated? What was the last country Iran invaded?
2
Rather interesting rant, when would you understand that the dispute in the house should stay in the house and you need to work it from within. Inviting foreigners to dictate your national policies is very disingenuous (I do not want to call it dis-loyal) of our Politicians.
i do not understand why we are so disrespectful of the Office of the President of the United States that we are calling the Office holder by his first name? Maybe their is some resentment there for some.
War is not the answer. Peace is.
Bibi wants nothing short of War. If Israel wants war let them send their own to fight it, We can use the $4 Billion a year subsidy right here to fix our infra-structures.
Thank you.
i do not understand why we are so disrespectful of the Office of the President of the United States that we are calling the Office holder by his first name? Maybe their is some resentment there for some.
War is not the answer. Peace is.
Bibi wants nothing short of War. If Israel wants war let them send their own to fight it, We can use the $4 Billion a year subsidy right here to fix our infra-structures.
Thank you.
2
Exactly right the Obama administration should leave Netanyahu be. If he truely believes what he says then he and his government alone should defend itself against Iran. Amercia does not need to be involved in a conflict not based on facts. The consequences are long lasting and have been evidenced numerous times in the past decade. I believe Obama gets it all too well and he is man that has more information on the situation then Netanyahu ever will.
2
This paragraph about summarizes it all:
"The paradox of the situation is that a government that has built a stockpile of nuclear weapons, rejected calls to establish a nuclear-weapons-free zone in the Middle East, made military incursions into neighboring states and flouted international law by keeping the lands of other nations under occupation, now makes such a big fuss over a country, Iran, that has not invaded another country since America became a sovereign nation."
"The paradox of the situation is that a government that has built a stockpile of nuclear weapons, rejected calls to establish a nuclear-weapons-free zone in the Middle East, made military incursions into neighboring states and flouted international law by keeping the lands of other nations under occupation, now makes such a big fuss over a country, Iran, that has not invaded another country since America became a sovereign nation."
40
I hope you understand the paradox correctly, but just for starter, and in a nutshell, you know Iran can not be trusted even after it agrees in writing and swears on the Koran. Moreover, if Israel were to agree to a "nuclear-weapons-free zone" in the Middle East . . .." it would be the only country to honor its promise. About the incursion into neighboring states, Israel holds those lands as a buffer against sworn enemies determine to "wipe the earth clean of them and all Jews," and has a standing promise to return all those lands in exchange for a true commitment for peace. Hamas, Hezbollah, ISIS etc just won't agree.
Iran may have not invaded another country, but its agents and its proxy army has been involved, DIRECTLY, in civil war of Syria, the ongoing conflict between warring sides in the Middle East, i.e. Yemen, Lebanon, Bahrain, is active in Venezuela, Argentina, USA, UK and all of Europe, as well as the regional conflicts in Asia and Africa. So yes, it isn't involved directly, but it is involved actively, VERY actively, including murder of US Military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan.
As for I Israeli nukes... why are you worried about it when nobody in the world, except for those who openly wish for Israel to be gone, are?
As for I Israeli nukes... why are you worried about it when nobody in the world, except for those who openly wish for Israel to be gone, are?
1
Iran is one of the world's great oil powers. Why is it rushing so fast and so hard toward nuclear power other than to make weapons? Do we see Saudi Arabia or Kuwait doing the same? If not, why not?
9
Paradoxically, Iran is troubled by gasoline shortages. So, the situation may have complexities we don't know about. Excellent question, though.
and who said Iran is making nuclear weapons? No one except Netanyahu. And BTW, both the US and Canada has lots of oil. Both the US and Canada has nuclear power.
2
Why not? Because Saudi Arabia and the Kuwaiti government have protective agreements from the U.S. that's why.
1
I read this article and said to myself the writer is totally distorting everything that Mr. Netanyahu said in his speach to the US House of Representatives. At least how I interpreted his speach anyway. Who is this clown Gholamali I said to myself ? Turns out Gholamali Khoshroo is the Iranian ambassador to the US. Now the shoe fits! Sort of like listening to the rant of the Russian ambassador to the US and how Putin had nothing to do with the shooting down of the Indonesian airliner. My biggest fear is that the US is getting sucked in once again by one of these mid-eastern carpetbaggers. First Iraq, Russia and now Iran.
8
"At least how I interpreted his speach anyway."
That is the key. Netanyahu's speech was jingoistic, alarmist and crude. Please read the speech side by side with this terse and straightforward op ed, complete with links and citations, and the difference is obvious.
That is the key. Netanyahu's speech was jingoistic, alarmist and crude. Please read the speech side by side with this terse and straightforward op ed, complete with links and citations, and the difference is obvious.
2
Or sort of like listening to Bibi about the same situation?
1
I'm grateful to President Obama for his careful position, but worried about future leadership of this country. Have we learned nothing from the trumped-up charges that led to the invasion of Iraq?
The Republicans are bad enough, but Hillary Clinton is known as Madame Neo-Con, and I have to wonder if we're in for trouble no matter who is elected. If she was in Congress, would she have been in the front row, cheering along with the Republicans? Are we doomed to war no matter which party holds the presidential office? Please, Democrats, choose another candidate.
The Republicans are bad enough, but Hillary Clinton is known as Madame Neo-Con, and I have to wonder if we're in for trouble no matter who is elected. If she was in Congress, would she have been in the front row, cheering along with the Republicans? Are we doomed to war no matter which party holds the presidential office? Please, Democrats, choose another candidate.
20
Mr. Khoshroo described Netanyahu as thriving on chaos and, I would add, while swinging a cowboy hat and riding a bomb. The Iranian leaders look downright cool and put together compared to Israeli leadership. Netanyahu is unscrewed. He screams about student boycott movements against Israel, all while setting himself up for a PERSONAL BOYCOTT by nearly 60 U.S. Congressmen. The irony is rich.
That Israelis would allow the mass escalation of settlements -- certain to end in full blown apartheid and terminal instability --- is unbelievable. Meanwhile, Iran and Lebanese Shites are helping us fight ISIS -- quite effectively.
Israel and Bibi? Well, they're just asking for more money to expand the occupation, an occupation that makes Americans less secure. Is Israel an authentic "ally"? What have they done for us lately?
That Israelis would allow the mass escalation of settlements -- certain to end in full blown apartheid and terminal instability --- is unbelievable. Meanwhile, Iran and Lebanese Shites are helping us fight ISIS -- quite effectively.
Israel and Bibi? Well, they're just asking for more money to expand the occupation, an occupation that makes Americans less secure. Is Israel an authentic "ally"? What have they done for us lately?
31
I might add another part of the ISIS, where the ISIS in Syria are on the Border with Israel and neither ISIS or IDF have fired a single shot on each other, just even a token to show that they are fighting each other. Israel is only interested in subjugating every other country in the Middle East, any country that is not taking its dictation, it wants us to go and fight for them.
3
Great to see such sanity at Principia! What has Israel done for us lately? They allow us the privilege of being their sponsor and, well, handmaid.
2
When the reason for war is based on real or imagined WMDs, the U.S. wrote the playbook. Most in Congress agreed. See Iraq.
Bibi spoke before an audience that is always ready to believe Netanyahu. He said in 2002: Iraq has Centrifuges ‘the size of Washing Machines’ to Produce A-Bomb. He believed removing Saddam would bring democracy to the middle east.
Bibi acts tough and can bomb Gaza, and Lebanon, and Syria with impunity. But he is afraid of the consequences of bombing Iran, so he wants the US to do his dirty work for him, and provide him cover.
Bibi spoke before an audience that is always ready to believe Netanyahu. He said in 2002: Iraq has Centrifuges ‘the size of Washing Machines’ to Produce A-Bomb. He believed removing Saddam would bring democracy to the middle east.
Bibi acts tough and can bomb Gaza, and Lebanon, and Syria with impunity. But he is afraid of the consequences of bombing Iran, so he wants the US to do his dirty work for him, and provide him cover.
32
Iran and Israel have been on a collision course since 1979. The inevitable is about to happen...
Either Israel bombs Iran's nuclear program today, or they face a nuclear-armed Iran in a decade.
The truth is that anyone in Iran's position would be pursuing the bomb. And, anyone in Israel's position would be doing everything they could to prevent it.
War is coming. It's either now or later. I prefer getting it over with now.
Either Israel bombs Iran's nuclear program today, or they face a nuclear-armed Iran in a decade.
The truth is that anyone in Iran's position would be pursuing the bomb. And, anyone in Israel's position would be doing everything they could to prevent it.
War is coming. It's either now or later. I prefer getting it over with now.
2
Are you suggesting sending the Canadian air force and army to assist?
1
1979, what a year! I remember my Iranian student friends going home to try to overthrow the Shah, who led a corrupt, violent and repressive regime, only to be faced with the unimaginable result of an even more corrupt, more repressive, more violent regime that, in addition to making life much worse, added lack of respect for international norms and genocidal calls for the destruction of Israel. Neither my old friends nor, apparently, the majority of Iranians, who were not yet born in 1979, have much fondness or respect for the current regime. We can only hope they'll overturn it before too long. The last attempt was not successful; perhaps the next will be.
So war may indeed be likely, but it is not inevitable. Negotiations with Iran, in the short term, are a good thing. In the longer term, both Iran and Israel need regime changes. Let's hope the people of Israel start by voting Bibi out of office.
So war may indeed be likely, but it is not inevitable. Negotiations with Iran, in the short term, are a good thing. In the longer term, both Iran and Israel need regime changes. Let's hope the people of Israel start by voting Bibi out of office.
1
"Israeli aggression and the occupation of Palestinian territories have always been of major propaganda value for extremist recruitment."
Very true, Mr. Ambassador... including "for extremist recruitment" by Iran: Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad, and also Hamas until it criticized Iran's surrogate Bashar Al-Assad, and Iran itself when it ordered the killing of hundreds of Americans in Lebanon and dozens of Jews in Buenos-Aires.
Very true, Mr. Ambassador... including "for extremist recruitment" by Iran: Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad, and also Hamas until it criticized Iran's surrogate Bashar Al-Assad, and Iran itself when it ordered the killing of hundreds of Americans in Lebanon and dozens of Jews in Buenos-Aires.
8
Netanyahu is a narcissist megalomaniac without wit or sense to take good care of the interest of the people of Israel. I just want this guy to go home quickly before he confuses and tarnishes the love I have for Israel with the deep scorn I have for him.
Having said that, it's so boring and annoying to hear all these predominantly Muslim countries, including Iran, talking and acting as if they are the only ones who can take on the responsibility to speak for the Palestinians. The Palestinian issue is at its core humanitarian, not Islamic. Iran has no business financing a terrorist group like Hezbollah in the name of defending the Palestinians! This is how the Iranian Ayatollahs give munitions to the likes of Netanyahu to war monger and depict them as lunatic Islamic expansionists!
Having said that, it's so boring and annoying to hear all these predominantly Muslim countries, including Iran, talking and acting as if they are the only ones who can take on the responsibility to speak for the Palestinians. The Palestinian issue is at its core humanitarian, not Islamic. Iran has no business financing a terrorist group like Hezbollah in the name of defending the Palestinians! This is how the Iranian Ayatollahs give munitions to the likes of Netanyahu to war monger and depict them as lunatic Islamic expansionists!
10
The Iranian ambassador's concerns for Arabs living in Gaza, Judea and Samaria is quite touching. Truly, the Arab plight in the areas administered by Israel are the "root" of all of the Mideast's problems.
This explains why Iran sends missiles and money to Hamas. To reduce "tensions" and assure Hamas that it supports its struggle to live peacefully with israel.
This explains why Iran's proxy Hezbollah gets lots of new advanced missiles, over 100,000 at last count, so the Shi'ite army can live peacefully with Israel on the Golan.
This explains why Iran recently supported the Houthis in Yemen in a coup, not to facilitate Iranian control of the oil-delivery shipping lanes to the Mediterranean, but only to further the Arab cause in East Jerusalem.
This explains why Iran supports the continued reign of Bashir Assad, not because it wishes to have a Shi'ite arc across israel's Northern borders, but because Iran is concerned about Arab rights in Hebron and Bethlehem.
This explains why Iran's fingerprints are all over the 1983 murder of over 200 US marines in Beirut, and among the ruins of the Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires (not to mention the recent murder of Argentinian prosecutor Nisman), because Iran wishes to further the peaceful aims of Hamas and the PLO.
After all this peaceful display, it is a shame that Netanyahu points a finger at Iran.
The Ambassador left out that after the return of the Mahdi, Iranian "Greens" will surely be released from prison.
This explains why Iran sends missiles and money to Hamas. To reduce "tensions" and assure Hamas that it supports its struggle to live peacefully with israel.
This explains why Iran's proxy Hezbollah gets lots of new advanced missiles, over 100,000 at last count, so the Shi'ite army can live peacefully with Israel on the Golan.
This explains why Iran recently supported the Houthis in Yemen in a coup, not to facilitate Iranian control of the oil-delivery shipping lanes to the Mediterranean, but only to further the Arab cause in East Jerusalem.
This explains why Iran supports the continued reign of Bashir Assad, not because it wishes to have a Shi'ite arc across israel's Northern borders, but because Iran is concerned about Arab rights in Hebron and Bethlehem.
This explains why Iran's fingerprints are all over the 1983 murder of over 200 US marines in Beirut, and among the ruins of the Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires (not to mention the recent murder of Argentinian prosecutor Nisman), because Iran wishes to further the peaceful aims of Hamas and the PLO.
After all this peaceful display, it is a shame that Netanyahu points a finger at Iran.
The Ambassador left out that after the return of the Mahdi, Iranian "Greens" will surely be released from prison.
11
One would think Bibi wrote that comment given that nothing stated is actually supported by facts.
2
This is what we call MAD (Mutually assured destruction)
You forgot the USS Liberty, and many others.
You also have to justify how two wrongs make a right. If Iran is sending weapons to Lebanese or the Palestinians? when did this start, in 1948 or later.
If my memory serves me Lebanon debacle is linked with the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982., The massacre of Palestinian men women and children at Sabra and Shatilla refuge camps by IDF and its cronies the phalange Militia created by IDF- while Ariel Sharon was in charge.
History is rather bad on the side of Israel, The truck bombing in was in Beirut and not in manhattan by the Lebanese, In Manhattan we lost over 3000 of our citizens on 9-11, most of the hijackers were Saudis; they are the best friends we have! (with friends like these, who needs enemies)
There is enough blame to go around, it is time saner minds prevail and we work towards peace.
Peace is the only sane answer we should work towards and that too without eliminating the total population whom we want to save.
You forgot the USS Liberty, and many others.
You also have to justify how two wrongs make a right. If Iran is sending weapons to Lebanese or the Palestinians? when did this start, in 1948 or later.
If my memory serves me Lebanon debacle is linked with the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982., The massacre of Palestinian men women and children at Sabra and Shatilla refuge camps by IDF and its cronies the phalange Militia created by IDF- while Ariel Sharon was in charge.
History is rather bad on the side of Israel, The truck bombing in was in Beirut and not in manhattan by the Lebanese, In Manhattan we lost over 3000 of our citizens on 9-11, most of the hijackers were Saudis; they are the best friends we have! (with friends like these, who needs enemies)
There is enough blame to go around, it is time saner minds prevail and we work towards peace.
Peace is the only sane answer we should work towards and that too without eliminating the total population whom we want to save.
2
Obama resisting Netanyahu's call to violence and extremism has just made the US a little safer.
Terrorists go where the most extreme opposition exists. In other words Israel has just got a lot more dangerous.
Terrorists go where the most extreme opposition exists. In other words Israel has just got a lot more dangerous.
28
But Netanyahu has provided an extended display of the US Congress cheering and frothing at the mouth over his warmongering claims. We are not safer. He and the congressional leadership have made things far more dangerous with this repugnant display.
2
At this point - not even 24 hours have passed, NO ONE remembers what Bibi said and if they did remember, they wouldn't care.
16
For Bibi, the time is always one minute to midnight. His career depends on it. He doesn't have anything else to offer Israel or the Middle East. Iran remains a bad state actor, but with Netanyahu as its enemy it continues to draw interest from possible future friends. He's succeeding only in further isolating Israel.
32
Thank you Mr. Ambassador for your insightful comments!
26
Congress gives a platform to the Israelis.
The Times gives one to the Iranians.
Obama must be laboring over his Twitter response. Where's Walter Cronkite when you need him?
The Times gives one to the Iranians.
Obama must be laboring over his Twitter response. Where's Walter Cronkite when you need him?
4
Netanyahu appeals to bad allies when he seeks the support of the American Right's leaders. There's no real unity among them. They're players, not diplomats. They're jockeying among themselves, each for his own survival. Each of them would sell the other ones out for a day's leadership in a straw poll.
Netanyahu appeals to lesser angels when he plays to the knee-jerk ignorance, simplistic solutions, mindless fear and vindictiveness of the American Right's base. They view all this with the eyes of xenophobes and fundamentalists. They hate nuance and complexity, so they hate diplomacy. One of the actually said in another paper's blogs that "the only safe Iran is a radioactive Iran."
Those people are the GOP base. Republican leaders can't negotiate responsibly among themselves, let alone with the Democrats. They certainly can't represent the United States on the international stage. They and their wordview are being defeated, marginalized and just left behind, which they deserve.
The GOP is overthrown by its own worst supporters. The Prime Minister made an ally of a failed state. Netanyahu may have thought he was here to keep Israel safe from Iran, but at least as much, he was here to keep the Republican leaders safe from their own voters.
Netanyahu appeals to lesser angels when he plays to the knee-jerk ignorance, simplistic solutions, mindless fear and vindictiveness of the American Right's base. They view all this with the eyes of xenophobes and fundamentalists. They hate nuance and complexity, so they hate diplomacy. One of the actually said in another paper's blogs that "the only safe Iran is a radioactive Iran."
Those people are the GOP base. Republican leaders can't negotiate responsibly among themselves, let alone with the Democrats. They certainly can't represent the United States on the international stage. They and their wordview are being defeated, marginalized and just left behind, which they deserve.
The GOP is overthrown by its own worst supporters. The Prime Minister made an ally of a failed state. Netanyahu may have thought he was here to keep Israel safe from Iran, but at least as much, he was here to keep the Republican leaders safe from their own voters.
12
How did this knucklehead ever get elected? Amazing! Maybe they're trying to out-do us, since we elected Bush/Cheney not once, but twice! Finally, we're not the only stupid country. Yaaaay!
17
The New York Times has shown open minded reporting in this op-ed piece. It is a breath of fresh air that lightens the hot air from Mr. N. His repetitive rhetoric has been always to incite discord, with intention of presenting Israel as a dove-like democracy when in actuality it is an oppressive theocracy. Does Israel not have a nuclear bomb? With its recent history of occupation and assault in Gaza, should we not fear Israel would use its nuclear weapons in the guise of protecting itself, but in reality consistent with expanding itself in the region? Our past naivete in accepting Israel's encouraging propaganda, resulting in the debacle of the Iraq war, should make us cautious of accepting Mr. N's latest speech. He is all for war to protect dove-like Israel. In reality he protects Israel's obvious present and future expansion in the area.
20
Mr N of Israel has stated again and again that he wants Israel to be a Jewish state. A theocracy is not a good idea for any state.
6
It is deeply saddening that a man who has so injured the world, Bibi Netanyahu, is given such a hero's welcome in Congress. It is embarrassing to me as an American. Are the people who get elected really this disconnected from the facts? From caring about the suffering of the Palestinians (and Israelis in a round about fashion), from caring about the enormous transfer of our energies from productive uses to non productive, with military products becoming our largest industrial export. In other words if Israel cannot negotiate peace with its neighbors, it is the US which pays the price. This is deeply screwed up. Ultra nationalist policies of Israel could be said to represent 5 or more trillion dollars of our national debt. Imagine if a two state solution had been implemented back 20 years ago? Saddam Husseing could not have used the Palestinian cause as a propaganda tool. How different the world would be. I beg all Israelis, for America's sake and your own. Vote this man out of office and end your feud with the people most close to you genetically of any people: The Palestinians.
28
The US did recently have a President who was disconnected from the facts. Do you not remember George W Bush? He was the one who invaded Iraq on trumped up charges.
5
The US has lost its moral compass, the country is toast with a governement like this!
I don't trust either countries leaders. Iran, Israel, Saudi , Syria, Lebanon, need I go on. The whole world fears the megalomaniacs leading your countries. I dearly wish we could just let all of you fight it out amongst yourselves, but I guss our world is too complicated for simple answers. Wouldn't it be nice if just one of your leaders proposed a truce and a real path towards peace. Just one of you?
7
I hope we don't have to wait very long for another Netanyahu Joint Meeting of Congress speech. With four, he'll pass Churchill.
He'll be able to say he's in a class by himself. Hope Dermer and Boehner are working on some dates. Maybe April 15...he can crack some neat jokes about where our tax dollars go.
http://www.wednesdayswars.com
He'll be able to say he's in a class by himself. Hope Dermer and Boehner are working on some dates. Maybe April 15...he can crack some neat jokes about where our tax dollars go.
http://www.wednesdayswars.com
14
While some disagree, the US policy is to never negotiate with a terrorist. The reason is obvious. You encourage more terrorist acts when you pay off the terrorists. Obviously Obama and this author don't believe the same logic applies to countries who conduct and pay for terrorism.
At the same time that Obama denies weapons to the government of Ukraine or the rebels in Syria, he openly negotiates with Iran, the country which supports more terrorism than any other country in the world.
This author accuses Netanyahu of crying wolf. At the same time he simply ignores the fact that we don't know what Iran has because they have never allowed an open inspection in their country. He also ignores the impact of Israel's unilateral actions to impede Iran's development of a nuclear weapon.
You don't continue to cut deals with someone who always cheats just because they might reform in the future.
Note that, like Obama, this author has not refuted a single fact stated by Netanyahu.
At the same time that Obama denies weapons to the government of Ukraine or the rebels in Syria, he openly negotiates with Iran, the country which supports more terrorism than any other country in the world.
This author accuses Netanyahu of crying wolf. At the same time he simply ignores the fact that we don't know what Iran has because they have never allowed an open inspection in their country. He also ignores the impact of Israel's unilateral actions to impede Iran's development of a nuclear weapon.
You don't continue to cut deals with someone who always cheats just because they might reform in the future.
Note that, like Obama, this author has not refuted a single fact stated by Netanyahu.
7
It looks as though you haven't read the column.
1
I don't believe Mr. Netanyahu stated any "facts." Were any of his frightening statements verifiable? He has been sounding the same alarm for nearly 20 years. Sounded like our own run up to war in Iraq.
2
Mr. HOLAMALI KHOSHROO,
I read your response to Mr. Netanyahu's speech with great interest. I'm hoping the leaders of our nations can strike a deal that leads to improved security for all nations in the region, and sets the stage for improving diplomatic relations. I understand there may still be some obstacles to a more inclusive and progressive political culture in Iran. We have our problems as well. Political hotheads here in America are happy to use a man like Netanyahu to create a distraction while they pick our pockets.
I had the pleasure to know some Iranian people while living in San Francisco back in the 80's. Nicest folks you could ever hope to meet. Pay no attention to the little man behind the curtain. All we really want to do is come over and share a few kebabs with the locals.
PEACE
I read your response to Mr. Netanyahu's speech with great interest. I'm hoping the leaders of our nations can strike a deal that leads to improved security for all nations in the region, and sets the stage for improving diplomatic relations. I understand there may still be some obstacles to a more inclusive and progressive political culture in Iran. We have our problems as well. Political hotheads here in America are happy to use a man like Netanyahu to create a distraction while they pick our pockets.
I had the pleasure to know some Iranian people while living in San Francisco back in the 80's. Nicest folks you could ever hope to meet. Pay no attention to the little man behind the curtain. All we really want to do is come over and share a few kebabs with the locals.
PEACE
9
It is disgusting that America still cannot distinguish Sunni from Shia. Iran is Shia, anytime better as a people that can be expected to be more rational and less fundamentalist and dogmatic than Sunnis. It is possible to get them to agree never to produce a nuclear weapon, and not cheat if America agrees to provide a nuclear umbrella.
Schar
Schar
2
Sour grapes because Netanyahu refuses to write an OP-ED for the Times? Mr. Ambassador your words, a reposition of Hassan's words in the Washington Post two years prior, would hold more value if first you encouraged your country to walk a talk rather than just talk. Unfortunately, this American will need several years of a peaceful and concliatiory Iran before I believe this new wolf and your sheep's clothing. Just like Netanyahu stated, and unfortunately it IS nothing new because your country has still failed to do so, show clear evidence that you no longer fuel the conflicts of your neighbors, as you mentioned, with weapons. Show me with actions that neighboring terrorists no longer have a cheerleading section in your country's regime. Encourage your Palestinian brethren to negotiate and adopt peaceful proposals that have been offered to them by Israel time and again - including the "occupied" lands they have cried for but refused in favor for the annihilation of Israel. Until a long history of terrorism and instability and aggression in your country is rewritten through trustworthy and believable actions - I for one do need any reports from the UN to know that I don't want any nuclear capabilities, for peaceful uses or not, in your hands. Sir, I do not trust you.
7
Yo, Ambassador! You must be kidding. Your nation exports terror; murdered Americans; harassed Iraq; attacks Jews everywhere. The continuing irrational and psychotic hatred of the Jews is reason alone to deny your country entry to civil society. Every word you wrote in the Times is a lie including "the" and "of" and "a". By the way, Iran did cross the Iraq border during its long fruitless war with that country, so get off your high horse.
8
The Boy Who Cried Wolf. Classic. Seems more and more people are starting to question Wolf callers. Maybe some day enough people will say no more believing them.
15
When will this country and the world realize all the neocons and Bibi want are wars, everywhere all the time and nothing else? They will continue to lie every chance they get like Bibi Netanyahu did today in front of congress.
He has been saying Iran will soon have the capability to create a nuclear bomb for over twenty years and it’s still not true. He spoke as if there was already a peace plan on the table when one does not exist.
For Bibi to accept an invitation by Bonehead Boehner to speak to our congress to rebuke our president on his plan for peace negotiations in progress two weeks before his re-election is appalling and incomprehensible.
His and Boehner's arrogance has caused a partisan split in our sacred relationship with Israel for the first time in our history.
And for what….just to hear Bibi tell his same lies about Iran. Both the neocons and Bibi are warmongers with nothing but hate and fear to peddle to a world already filled with despair. Mr. Boehner is solidifying himself as one of the worse Speaker of the House in modern history.
He has been saying Iran will soon have the capability to create a nuclear bomb for over twenty years and it’s still not true. He spoke as if there was already a peace plan on the table when one does not exist.
For Bibi to accept an invitation by Bonehead Boehner to speak to our congress to rebuke our president on his plan for peace negotiations in progress two weeks before his re-election is appalling and incomprehensible.
His and Boehner's arrogance has caused a partisan split in our sacred relationship with Israel for the first time in our history.
And for what….just to hear Bibi tell his same lies about Iran. Both the neocons and Bibi are warmongers with nothing but hate and fear to peddle to a world already filled with despair. Mr. Boehner is solidifying himself as one of the worse Speaker of the House in modern history.
26
Do you remember what Mr. Sarkozy told to President Obama about B. Netanyahu? Seems to me he was right.
8
The Orwellian spectacle of Netanyahu's performance should be seen as a warning to the United States to distance ourselves immediately. Instead, we are saddled with a gerrymandered Congress that is too craven to stand up to AIPAC or anyone with a checkbook.
Jon Stewart illustrated the dysfunctional 'tail wagging dog' relationship brilliantly tonight, but he was the only one who dared. We see tiny slivers of truth peeking out in our media, about the occupation, the land theft, the relentless expansion of settlements, but this is not covered in much depth or context. We don't hear about the torturing and imprisoning of Palestinian children. I learned about that from an Australian documentary.
We excoriate Putin but we never hear about the deliberate targeting and blackmailing of gay Palestinians by Israel. There was a horrific video leaked in Israel today of several IDF soldiers unleashing attack dogs on a small teen boy. That will never see the light of day here.
Americans are know-nothings partly by design. There is too much money to be made in exploiting the US to tolerate an educated electorate, so we are subjected to simplistic talking points and sound bites instead. Bibi's speech would have been laughed out of France or the UK, but here it is called "masterful."
I do hope Iran comes to the table, not because I fear Iran, but because I fear the people who are trying to make me fear Iran.
Jon Stewart illustrated the dysfunctional 'tail wagging dog' relationship brilliantly tonight, but he was the only one who dared. We see tiny slivers of truth peeking out in our media, about the occupation, the land theft, the relentless expansion of settlements, but this is not covered in much depth or context. We don't hear about the torturing and imprisoning of Palestinian children. I learned about that from an Australian documentary.
We excoriate Putin but we never hear about the deliberate targeting and blackmailing of gay Palestinians by Israel. There was a horrific video leaked in Israel today of several IDF soldiers unleashing attack dogs on a small teen boy. That will never see the light of day here.
Americans are know-nothings partly by design. There is too much money to be made in exploiting the US to tolerate an educated electorate, so we are subjected to simplistic talking points and sound bites instead. Bibi's speech would have been laughed out of France or the UK, but here it is called "masterful."
I do hope Iran comes to the table, not because I fear Iran, but because I fear the people who are trying to make me fear Iran.
36
You should fear Iran. Not to like Netanyahu's speech or policies is one thing; to view Iran as benign is foolish.
1
Iran IS at the table, along with the US and the rest of the UN Security Council, so the chances of a livable outcome are better than they have been in decades.
Standing in their way are the usual fear-mongers and war-mongers, and you are right to fear them.
Standing in their way are the usual fear-mongers and war-mongers, and you are right to fear them.
1
@A.Simon
One of the best comments I've read the last couple of days - and I've read scores.
A very true and important point, which I also made: how little informed the American people are when it comes to life for Palestinians under Israeli occupation, whether they choose to be blind and deaf, or are kept that way by some interested parties with the help of the media. As you point out, the average person in most European countries would be educated enough in world affairs not to be bamboozled by a dishonest and self-serving snake oil sakesman like the PM of Israel.
One of the best comments I've read the last couple of days - and I've read scores.
A very true and important point, which I also made: how little informed the American people are when it comes to life for Palestinians under Israeli occupation, whether they choose to be blind and deaf, or are kept that way by some interested parties with the help of the media. As you point out, the average person in most European countries would be educated enough in world affairs not to be bamboozled by a dishonest and self-serving snake oil sakesman like the PM of Israel.
According to all accepted evidence from the IAEA regime of inspections, to the National Intelligence Estimate, to Netanyahu's own Mossad, Iran does not have a nuclear weapons program. Iran is completely entitled to enrich uranium to high grade, but not fissile grade or 85-90% U 235. Iran's centrifuge cascades are legal, and if one actually considers the NPT, knowledge of the enrichment process is clearly not grounds to launch a preemptive attack upon Iran.
So my question is: Why doesn't the President, if he is miffed by Bibi going over his head to blow up his nuclear negotiations with Iran, simply state the truth, and therein lays the rub. The President doesn't seem willing to speak the truth, to the American people, regarding the Persian weaponization program. He may be reluctant, because then there would be no grounds for sanctions in the first place or the negotiations. Iran has a right to a full cycle nuclear program by treaty law!
It should be obvious that nothing is on the up and up. So what is really going on here? Is Bibi just playing bad guy to Obama's not quite good guy in order to convince Tehran to fall into line, regardless of their rights on paper, or Netanyahu will have his way with them? Heck, Obama could point the finger at Bibi and say, "You have your own nukes to account for which are illegal, but if you want the Persian Program reduced to rubble then do it yourself." Israel wants Regional Hegemony, and the Iran threat is a pretext for more belligerence.
So my question is: Why doesn't the President, if he is miffed by Bibi going over his head to blow up his nuclear negotiations with Iran, simply state the truth, and therein lays the rub. The President doesn't seem willing to speak the truth, to the American people, regarding the Persian weaponization program. He may be reluctant, because then there would be no grounds for sanctions in the first place or the negotiations. Iran has a right to a full cycle nuclear program by treaty law!
It should be obvious that nothing is on the up and up. So what is really going on here? Is Bibi just playing bad guy to Obama's not quite good guy in order to convince Tehran to fall into line, regardless of their rights on paper, or Netanyahu will have his way with them? Heck, Obama could point the finger at Bibi and say, "You have your own nukes to account for which are illegal, but if you want the Persian Program reduced to rubble then do it yourself." Israel wants Regional Hegemony, and the Iran threat is a pretext for more belligerence.
23
"According to all accepted evidence from the IAEA regime of inspections..."
You do realize the IAEA announced the other day that Iran is not allowing full inspections. Iran does not need the ability to enrich uranium for peaceful nuclear program. And it dose not need intercontinental missiles for anything except nuclear payload delivery to the West. But it is actively building ICBMs.
Iran is the problem here - time for you to open your eyes and see that.
You do realize the IAEA announced the other day that Iran is not allowing full inspections. Iran does not need the ability to enrich uranium for peaceful nuclear program. And it dose not need intercontinental missiles for anything except nuclear payload delivery to the West. But it is actively building ICBMs.
Iran is the problem here - time for you to open your eyes and see that.
1
Don't you know, by treaty it is forbidden for the US govt to disclose or discuss Isreal's nuclear capacity. Not joking.
The ambassador writes that though Netanyahu has made a "prediction that Iran would never abide by the terms of the accord, Iran has dutifully stood by every commitment - as the International Atomic Energy Agency has reported." What time is the ambassador referring to in which Iran has never broken a commitment? It is true that Iran has previously hidden nuclear reactors and centifuges. It is also true that Iran has given aid to many terrorist organizations. Israel's fear that Iran may try to cheat the system is a legitimate one, and if Iran is successful in doing so, Israels fear that Iran may use its newfound nuclear might to spread terror and hate is also legitimate.
Why does Iran need as many nuclear centrifuges as they are demanding if not for a bomb? Iran is a tremendously oil rich country. The 190,000 centrifuges that they would be allowed to have by the end of treaty are more than enough to provide Iran with nuclear power, even without relying much on oil or coal, as they likely still will. This is more reason to be suspicious.
Iran could be supplied with a nuclear reactor and enriched uranium at cost from the U.S. or Israel or a European country with nuclear power. If Iran truly just wanted nuclear power for civilian use, this should be a satisfactory agreement for them. I suspect they would not be happy with it though - because they want nuclear power for more than just energy.
Why does Iran need as many nuclear centrifuges as they are demanding if not for a bomb? Iran is a tremendously oil rich country. The 190,000 centrifuges that they would be allowed to have by the end of treaty are more than enough to provide Iran with nuclear power, even without relying much on oil or coal, as they likely still will. This is more reason to be suspicious.
Iran could be supplied with a nuclear reactor and enriched uranium at cost from the U.S. or Israel or a European country with nuclear power. If Iran truly just wanted nuclear power for civilian use, this should be a satisfactory agreement for them. I suspect they would not be happy with it though - because they want nuclear power for more than just energy.
48
The 190,000 is not a real number- it was a hypothetical to make the point that it doesn't matter because the agreement was not about centrifuges per se, but that they were not 'making a bomb'.
"Iran could be supplied with a nuclear reactor and enriched uranium at cost from the U.S. or Israel or a European country with nuclear power. If Iran truly just wanted nuclear power for civilian use, this should be a satisfactory agreement for them." - Why should they rely on other countries for their energy? Why should Iran not seek to be self-reliant? According to your argument, if Americans just want to drive cars, should they stop manufacturing cars, and just let Japan or Germany sell cars to them?
Why does an oil-rich nation want nuclear power plants and medical applications? Start with climate change, continue on with the volatile prices of oil, and project a future in which we cannot afford to produce so much energy with petroleum.
Many in our country are short-sighted and only react to the price at the pump today. Maybe the Iranians aren't the fanatical savages some in our media try to portray them as. Maybe they see the writing on the wall for oil exporters and are trying to plan a sustainable future that does not depend on the paternalism of nuclear nations selling them systems.
Always with the speculative fear, and always the presumption of the worst motives...
Many in our country are short-sighted and only react to the price at the pump today. Maybe the Iranians aren't the fanatical savages some in our media try to portray them as. Maybe they see the writing on the wall for oil exporters and are trying to plan a sustainable future that does not depend on the paternalism of nuclear nations selling them systems.
Always with the speculative fear, and always the presumption of the worst motives...
All the grandstanding is irrelevant. The Europeans and the Chinese are simply going to do a deal without the U.S. It will be irrelevant if the Republican Congress does not eliminate the U.S. sanctions, if the rest of the world eliminates their sanctions with Iran. Republican politics will just result in another example of how the U.S. has become less relevant in the world.
6
Khoshroo, well, defends his country. Doesn't talk about all the efforts of Iran to support terrorism in the middle east.
But even Iran gets the bomb one day, it probably will use it as a political tool not as an instrument of aggression. But what assurances do we have?
But even Iran gets the bomb one day, it probably will use it as a political tool not as an instrument of aggression. But what assurances do we have?
1
How fun that Israel, a rogue nuclear state, lectures the world on nuclear proliferation!
17
The Republicans could not possibly get more unpatriotic, unethical or petty than they just did. Their blind support for the one nation that has contributed most to the violence in the Middle East may prove extremely dangerous. The Republicans also clearly lack any understanding of foreign policy and how negotiations function. By allowing this extremist leader to use them as a centerpiece of his election campaign, they have betrayed the trust of the American people.
24
This guy should talk. He's the Ambassador of a totalitarian regime that rules by force of arms, provides no individual freedom or freedom of the press to it's citizens and in fact, responds to legal demonstrations by murdering it's own citizens. Iran is also the #1 exporter of terrorism world wide. Anyone who thinks Iran is not after nuclear weapons is delusional. Iran cannot be trusted to honor any deal with anyone about anything. I fear Mr. Obama and the rest of us will rue the day we made a deal with this devil.
3
Firstly, I find Netanyahu completely repelling and insulting the way he disrespected our President, I can't hear whatever he said. He looks so out of place, behind the podium meant for US lawmakers, and out of touch with reality, waiving into the camera, it makes me grimace. Secondly, US policy should be set for Americans, not for the interest of Israelis. Netanyahu is so convinced that US policies, laws, and resources should be used for Israelis, he thought it normal to come to our country and tell what policies to set, and in contravention of what our President is doing and saying. Thirdly, he does this 2 weeks before his close re-election campaign. It's so obvious that he's using the US congress as a prop, it's so disturbing, repelling, and disgusting on so many levels. He has gone too far. This is going to cost Israel now and in the future.
23
Can't refute the facts presented. As opposed to war mongering spectacle.
There's a deep huge divide now where it was previously occasional charged differing.
Netanyahu so condescending in his speech, as well as our applauding Congress in not expecting us to know anything other than what Bibi says. Insulting.
There's a deep huge divide now where it was previously occasional charged differing.
Netanyahu so condescending in his speech, as well as our applauding Congress in not expecting us to know anything other than what Bibi says. Insulting.
25
Given the Times' historic commitment to the survival of Israel, and the large Jewish population in the New York City market that it serves so well, I think it took tremendous courage and character to publish this editorial that leaves no doubt that only reason, logic and compassion drive its authors. I extend to the editors my deepest respect. I hope their words will be read and heard by voters in Israel who can then see how very thinly stretched the Israeli arguments over the weapons issue - and their rationale for permitting settlements - has become. Mr. Netanyahu's portrayal of Israel's impending doom ought to be turned right back on him, for it is clear that within the conservative policies of Likud and Netanyahu, it is in fact the rest of the Middle East that is more likely doomed when Israel's unfounded fears spark a nuclear Armageddon that only Israel can win - they being the only nation in the region (excepting Pakistan, in South Asia) with a substantial nuclear armory. It would be literally a day's "work" for Israel to level every major city in the Middle East outside its own borders, with utter impunity, too, since they have our Patriot missiles, the Iron Dome and our longstanding commitment to protecting them against anyone who might fight back. God, help us all, please.
26
Every nation has a right to self defense; with Israel no one is arguing otherwise. However, Netanyahu promotes an attitude of strike first and no other nation in the region can be comparable militarily to Israel. Military might is the rule for Bibi distrusting diplomacy as according to him, no one in the Middle East can be trusted. US military intervention in the region has produce instability and a splintering of Al Qaeda into more volatile terrorist cells. Promoting and protecting Israel is absolute; but Israel is not the Middle East. Iran is a power in the Islamic world but is it the same Iran from 30 years ? The region can not perceive the US as promoting a crusade and issues must be resolved by regional powers. Conversely, the US must be viewed as supporting Israel without question; but it must be an open and honest relationship based on constructive criticism. The Palestinian issue must be resolved and cannot be solved by military incursions into Gaza and with heavy handed tactics. If diplomacy is off the table then what does Bibi recommend? The American people are tired of war in the region and the US will not be dictated by foreign entities to engage militarily against perceived threats!!! The core agreement between President Obama and PM Netanyahu—Iran must not possess the Nuclear weapons; building on this agreement is the starting point, not sticking a thumb in the President’s eye by addressing congress, attempting to derail his efforts in Iran!
6
Mr. Khoshroo:
Here's the difference: Israel has never called for the destruction of Iran or the elimination of the Iranian people. The same cannot be said of your nation or your leaders.
I would like to see peace. Ideally, I'd like to see your nation's young people seize power peacefully, kick the old regime to the curb, and install an inclusive, democratic nation. A nation of wealth, of surplus, a nation whose memories of sanctions are a distant past. I'd like to visit Iran and experience the country and culture. Hopefully, I would make some new friends. I hear Iranians are warm, loving people, whose top priority is their families.
That sounds a lot like people I know here.
But make no mistake Sir. If you pick a fight with Israel, you pick a fight with us. And you'll lose,...badly. Govern yourself accordingly.
(The following comments are offered solely as those of an American citizen and a member of the U.S. Army Reserve. I do not speak for anyone but myself and do not speak for any governmental agency or other official body of the United States, thank you.)
Here's the difference: Israel has never called for the destruction of Iran or the elimination of the Iranian people. The same cannot be said of your nation or your leaders.
I would like to see peace. Ideally, I'd like to see your nation's young people seize power peacefully, kick the old regime to the curb, and install an inclusive, democratic nation. A nation of wealth, of surplus, a nation whose memories of sanctions are a distant past. I'd like to visit Iran and experience the country and culture. Hopefully, I would make some new friends. I hear Iranians are warm, loving people, whose top priority is their families.
That sounds a lot like people I know here.
But make no mistake Sir. If you pick a fight with Israel, you pick a fight with us. And you'll lose,...badly. Govern yourself accordingly.
(The following comments are offered solely as those of an American citizen and a member of the U.S. Army Reserve. I do not speak for anyone but myself and do not speak for any governmental agency or other official body of the United States, thank you.)
4
The issues here are wholesomely immune to the art of distraction. Iran is controlled by a cadre of fanatics, committed to a Koranic interpretation that would be dismissed as an absurdity if it did not carry with it an agenda of terrorism and conquest. Promising to obliterate the nation of Israel, these same high priests have relentlessly pursued the nuclear option. If the same pathology beset the political leadership of Montreal, we know how long it would take for the military might of the U.S. to vaporize Quebec. Any questions?
3
It seems to me that Israel is controlled by a cadre of fanatics, wih an agenda of terrorism and conquest.
1
This op-ed is stunning… and I'm not a huge supporter of Israel. But must we be exposed to propaganda from an Iranian government official, just because the Times is so incensed over Netanyahu's visit?
Does the author really believe what he writes - that the notion that Iran is striving for the bomb is nothing more than a fantasy of the Israelis? The US and other Western powers seem quite convinced of the danger too!
Then Mr Khoshroo helpfully informs us:
"The violent extremism we see in Syria and Iraq is one (great issue), and to fight it effectively, we need to ease international tensions. "
Wow. Apparently he sees no need to mention Hezbollah, Iran's terrorist proxy responsible for the deaths of so many Americans over the years, including that of CIA station chief William Buckley, whom they tortured to death.
I find this op-ed outrageous.
Does the author really believe what he writes - that the notion that Iran is striving for the bomb is nothing more than a fantasy of the Israelis? The US and other Western powers seem quite convinced of the danger too!
Then Mr Khoshroo helpfully informs us:
"The violent extremism we see in Syria and Iraq is one (great issue), and to fight it effectively, we need to ease international tensions. "
Wow. Apparently he sees no need to mention Hezbollah, Iran's terrorist proxy responsible for the deaths of so many Americans over the years, including that of CIA station chief William Buckley, whom they tortured to death.
I find this op-ed outrageous.
8
This whole debate is smoke and mirrors. Iran is one of the oldest civilizations with a large (17th largest in the world) population many of whom are highly educated in science and technology. Iran is more than capable of building a bomb and will produce one whenever it wishes dispite any treaty with the USA or any attack upon its nuclear facilities. Iran has also shown itself no slouch in building ballistic missiles so one must also assume a capacity to develop ICBMs.
This analysis of Netanyahu's Iranian nuclear hyperbole gives me a real feeling of dejavu: Back to when Cheney and Powell came out with the same alarmist and willfully exaggerated estimate of Saddam's Iraqi nuclear threat to justify the war they seemed to feel bent on waging because is satiated some internal desire to wage to make up for perceived failures of the past.
What was it W. said: Fool me once . . . won't get fooled again? Or some nonsense like that? In spite of how badly be fumbled it, maybe his sentiment was legitimate; not necessarily for what he was talking about then, but for today.
I swore I'd never quote that man, but maybe in spite of the gravity of the current situation it's worth quoting the words out of the mouth of babes, for in their obliviousness there may in fact be a universal kernel of applicable wisdom when applied correctly.
What was it W. said: Fool me once . . . won't get fooled again? Or some nonsense like that? In spite of how badly be fumbled it, maybe his sentiment was legitimate; not necessarily for what he was talking about then, but for today.
I swore I'd never quote that man, but maybe in spite of the gravity of the current situation it's worth quoting the words out of the mouth of babes, for in their obliviousness there may in fact be a universal kernel of applicable wisdom when applied correctly.
7
This whole 'show' is not about nuclear weapons, but rather ego, bigotry and manipulation! It's starred by Mr. Netanyahu, directed by Mr. Boehner and produced by the GOPs.
13
The Supreme Ruler of Iran has stated that Israel should be destroyed.
Iran has funded murderous terrorist activities of Hezbollah and the Palestinians against Israel, as US, and other nation, courts have decided.
And we are supposed to believe Mr. Khoshroo?
How apt that this appears today on the Fast of Esther, the day before Purim, celebrating the defeat of the ancient Persian attempt to wipe out the Jews of the Persian Empire.
Mr. Netanyahu is no Queen Esther or Mordechai, but there are still those in Iran who call for the destruction of Israel.
Iran has funded murderous terrorist activities of Hezbollah and the Palestinians against Israel, as US, and other nation, courts have decided.
And we are supposed to believe Mr. Khoshroo?
How apt that this appears today on the Fast of Esther, the day before Purim, celebrating the defeat of the ancient Persian attempt to wipe out the Jews of the Persian Empire.
Mr. Netanyahu is no Queen Esther or Mordechai, but there are still those in Iran who call for the destruction of Israel.
3
Israel is an aggressive expansionist nation. We condemn Putin in the Ukraine, but honor Netanyahu?? We sure like to pick and choose the good aggressors and the bad aggressors, don't we??
1
The biblical story of Esther is often cited as a warning against hate. But according to the Bible, after the Persian conspiracy was stopped, the Jews then massacred 80,000 Persians and stole their belongings.
1
End apartheid towards Palestinians or lose the support of America.
That is really Israel's only real long term option.
And it is America's only real long term option, as well.
That, and adding Iran to America's list of friends.
That is really Israel's only real long term option.
And it is America's only real long term option, as well.
That, and adding Iran to America's list of friends.
1
Netanyahu is like the boy who repeatedly cried wolf. He embellished the facts to make it appear that Iraq had a nuclear program, encouraged us to invade and assured us that the Middle East would be a better place if we did. He was catastrophically wrong, not just about the outcome but about the effect on the Middle East. Invading Iraq was the biggest favor anyone could do to Iran.
Why would anyone listen to him now?
Why would anyone listen to him now?
15
Thank you Mr. Gholamali Khosoroo for presenting the second side of the same coin that Mr. Netanyahu is using to assert his fantasy. Obviously Mr. Netanuahu is desperately seeking reelection as Israel's Prime Minister and needs to huff, puff, and blow the opposition away to win. It is sad that once again the Republicans in Congress have chosen fantasy over reality in giving Mr. Netanyahu the opportunity to paint his illusions in the heart of our Capital.
21
There is only one acceptable deal with Iran. Oil-rich Iran must immediately cease all nuclear activity and dismantle any and all nuclear installations that they may have. Any and all area in Iran are to be subject to inspection at any time, in the sole discretion of the inspectors.
Ramp up the sanctions!
Ramp up the sanctions!
1
Why? What have they ever done to you?
1
And when they don't agree to such an absurd suggestion? What then? More McCain style saber rattling?
It's difficult enough to explain how the US and Israel, both countries with nuclear WEAPONS, can demand that another country not have them.
It's difficult enough to explain how the US and Israel, both countries with nuclear WEAPONS, can demand that another country not have them.
1
Tell us, Mike: are you a gun owner? Because if you are, how would you feel if the New York City police could come into your home at any time, unannounced, and "inspect" your property?
Like any state, Iran has national pride. It is a sovereign nation, and sovereign nations have certain rights, which include the sanctity of their borders. Whether we agree with Iran's politics isn't the issue here.
You're obviously afraid of Iran. Well, I'm afraid of Israel as a loose cannon and am 100% opposed to the US getting dragged into any more middle east proxy wars on its behalf. The sanctions in place have been working - let's see what kind of deal is brokered. Our Constitution specifies the President has responsibility for foreign policy, but Congress has the responsibility to debate and ratify treaties. There will be plenty of time and opportunity to debate the merits/demerits of an agreement if/when one is reached.
Like any state, Iran has national pride. It is a sovereign nation, and sovereign nations have certain rights, which include the sanctity of their borders. Whether we agree with Iran's politics isn't the issue here.
You're obviously afraid of Iran. Well, I'm afraid of Israel as a loose cannon and am 100% opposed to the US getting dragged into any more middle east proxy wars on its behalf. The sanctions in place have been working - let's see what kind of deal is brokered. Our Constitution specifies the President has responsibility for foreign policy, but Congress has the responsibility to debate and ratify treaties. There will be plenty of time and opportunity to debate the merits/demerits of an agreement if/when one is reached.
1
Now I've seen it all. The Israeli PM doing the fear mongering, and the Iranian ambassador making sense.
25
Hate to say this - I don't trust Iran. I don't trust Netanyahu either. From my perspective, it is Netanyahu that is poking the hornet's nest now - the one that Bush/Cheney unleashed with their "war on terror". It is understood that Iran's leaders wish Israel's destruction, but shouldn't Israel be the first to desire diplomacy? Israel has enough nuclear fire power to turn Iran into a radio-active wasteland.
Is it not in both country's interest to prevent that? Do Israelis not realize that they too would be lost? The only winner is the grim reaper, for generations. Please, give diplomacy at least a hearing. To do otherwise is folly, on an unimaginable scale, for both Israel, Iran and the entire region.
Is it not in both country's interest to prevent that? Do Israelis not realize that they too would be lost? The only winner is the grim reaper, for generations. Please, give diplomacy at least a hearing. To do otherwise is folly, on an unimaginable scale, for both Israel, Iran and the entire region.
16
For his own personal politcal gain and not for the security of Israel Netanyahu has willingly allowed himself to be used as a tool of the right wing extremists in the US Congress . Netanyahu's allies despise Obama and have ever since he took office. Truth be known, they hate Netanyahu as well since he is one of those other people. This was unforgivable and despicable behavior by a power hungry politco. We can only hope that thoughtful Israelis will make Netanyahu pay heavily for his self-indulgence.
16
It was a serious breach of protocol for Netanyahu to be invited to speak to the Congress, and what he said was indeed his same old fear based rhetoric, no matter how eloquently he spoke. He has done no one but himself any good, and has made negotiations more difficult, which I am sure was one of his goals.
Speaker Barnard was wrong to invite him and Netanyahu was wrong to have accepted. There are many reasons to negotiate with Iran and many reasons to not let our nation's policies be based on fear and the opinion of others. Let our elected president do his job.
Speaker Barnard was wrong to invite him and Netanyahu was wrong to have accepted. There are many reasons to negotiate with Iran and many reasons to not let our nation's policies be based on fear and the opinion of others. Let our elected president do his job.
21
Unless Israel is ready to lose it's own nuclear weapons, it is in no position to make demands on other nations on the issue. Not only is Netanyahu the greatest danger to a peace in the Middle East, but he has been dragging the malleable US Congress into the pit with him. It's time to reject this horrible man and all that he stands for. Our foreign policy needs to center on us - not on a little rogue nation. I'm glad the President is following the path of negotiations and peaceful means of resolving the issues at hand.
36
Has Netanyahu exaggerated the time criticality of an Iranian bomb? Probably. Was he politically motivated to do so? Probably. Does any of this really matter? No.
Iran's ability to produce a nuclear weapon in the next year or two is not the relevant issue here. The real issue is does Iran *want* the bomb. Of course they do. Everyone wants the bomb. Everyone wants to have that kind of power at their disposal. This is human nature. All through human history, societies repeatedly desire the latest, most powerful weapons technology. We find safety in having the capability to destroy any potential threat, real or imagined.
Iran lives in a very tough neighborhood. The ISIS barbarians are at the gate. Pakistan, India and Israel already have the bomb. Iran wants to join the club and be as feared as all the rest. It's respect earned through power.
Bringing up the Palestinian issue is a diversionary tactic no different than Netanyahu's fear mongering. He constantly talks about being annihilated and you talk about Palestine. Both are smokescreens.
Iran could offer us a token of hope by allowing its people to have some freedoms. By ceasing to support their proxy terrorist fighters. By stopping Shia atrocities.
Israel has done some bad things, no question. But that does not excuse your evils. Your diversionary tactics reveal that you truly do want the bomb. Someday, Iran will have the bomb and we will deal with that.
Iran's ability to produce a nuclear weapon in the next year or two is not the relevant issue here. The real issue is does Iran *want* the bomb. Of course they do. Everyone wants the bomb. Everyone wants to have that kind of power at their disposal. This is human nature. All through human history, societies repeatedly desire the latest, most powerful weapons technology. We find safety in having the capability to destroy any potential threat, real or imagined.
Iran lives in a very tough neighborhood. The ISIS barbarians are at the gate. Pakistan, India and Israel already have the bomb. Iran wants to join the club and be as feared as all the rest. It's respect earned through power.
Bringing up the Palestinian issue is a diversionary tactic no different than Netanyahu's fear mongering. He constantly talks about being annihilated and you talk about Palestine. Both are smokescreens.
Iran could offer us a token of hope by allowing its people to have some freedoms. By ceasing to support their proxy terrorist fighters. By stopping Shia atrocities.
Israel has done some bad things, no question. But that does not excuse your evils. Your diversionary tactics reveal that you truly do want the bomb. Someday, Iran will have the bomb and we will deal with that.
67
The only nuclear power in the region is Israel. And, given a delusional madman is at the helm there, they concern me much more than Iran does.
2
"Human nature" is not on the negotiating table. If Iran wants the bomb because everyone does, because that's "human nature," then Iran's desire for the bomb is not the point. The question is, indeed, how quickly they can build and use one, and whether negotiations can put them in a situation in which they feel they can survive without one.
Well said, Bruce.
1
Assume for the moment that we adopted the policy advocated by Mr. Netanyahu. Negotiations would essentially collapse and then we are left with the ugly situation of Iran rushing to develop a nuclear weapon to assure their survival and the US and Israel going to war against yet another nation in order to stop them. Sanctions make life painful, but do not stop a nation -- particularly when there is no other desirable alternative offered.
There is throughout this the flagrant assumption that Iran would use nuclear weapons once they become available. Even North Korea knows that their use is suicidal. While we may disagree with their leadership, no one can accuse them of being insane or suicidal.
There is throughout this the flagrant assumption that Iran would use nuclear weapons once they become available. Even North Korea knows that their use is suicidal. While we may disagree with their leadership, no one can accuse them of being insane or suicidal.
8
Perhaps the world should listen to Eli Weisel who was present in the US Capital today for Netanyau's speech instead of the Iranian Ambassador, GHOLAMALI KHOSHROO.
Old Eli could tell the world a thing or two about modern nations who threaten to kill and actually mass murder Jews.
Old Eli could tell the world a thing or two about modern nations who threaten to kill and actually mass murder Jews.
9
I was intrigued by "the speech"; it was poetic, moving, and designed to provide more raw meat than the Chicago stockyards. And, it was so off-kilter and monotone as to be anything but convincing!
Poetic? My, the careful alliteration, the cadednce of the sentences, the timing of Bibi's presentation itself! Very well written ... and well performed. And, it was a performance - or at least, so I hope. For, If Prime Minister Netanyahu actually believes what he said, he may be one of the most dangerous demagogues in the Middle East.
As far as speaking for "all Jews" ... I don't think so. Nor, obviously, do they. We'll see in a few weeks.
Poetic? My, the careful alliteration, the cadednce of the sentences, the timing of Bibi's presentation itself! Very well written ... and well performed. And, it was a performance - or at least, so I hope. For, If Prime Minister Netanyahu actually believes what he said, he may be one of the most dangerous demagogues in the Middle East.
As far as speaking for "all Jews" ... I don't think so. Nor, obviously, do they. We'll see in a few weeks.
15
I'm no fan of the current Iranian regime, but facts are facts. It is well-known (to all but the Republicans in Congress) that Netanyahu has been issuing these dire warnings for decades (all of which have turned out to be without substance), including supporting the infamous misleading claims about Saddam's nuclear program, which resulted in our invasion of Iraq and - subsequently - ISIS (and, ironically, strengthened Iran's position and its Shiite allies).
So let's be clear: last time we acted on Bibi's recommendations, we ended up with ISIS. What do you think will happen if we bomb Iran? It will turn them into our friends?
So let's be clear: last time we acted on Bibi's recommendations, we ended up with ISIS. What do you think will happen if we bomb Iran? It will turn them into our friends?
18
I have never shared Israel's belief in the "mad dog" assessment of Iran's political and military establishments. Iran's leadership has never shown any actions which match israel's very own love affair with nuclear explosives. Indeed, Isreal's nuclear weapon stockpile is estimated to be larger than that of either the UK or France. Neither has it been forthcoming with any details regarding it's own nuclear arsenal. For a nation that demands 100% transparency of its neighbors, Isreal has been stubbornly obtuse when discussing (or should I say NOT discussing) it's own nuclear weapons program.
Frankly, if I were a nation within range of the Isreali nuclear missiles, I would be pushing for economic sanctions against the Jewish State. I would add that Israel is not even a signatory of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. This is the most blatant form of hypocrisy in the history of arms negotiations. All Mr. Netanyahu can point to when he speaks of the actions of the Iranians, is the inflammatory rhetoric of its former president. Yet, Isreal's willingness to subjugate the Palestinian people, and to thumb its nose at those who rightfully question the legality of new Jewish settlements on the West Bank, shows a total contempt for building a peaceful coexistence with its neighbors.
So the only thing I have to say to the Israeli Prime Minister is "go home Bebe". You have no moral authority over anyone, so long as you believe that you and your nation are "special" and above the law.
Frankly, if I were a nation within range of the Isreali nuclear missiles, I would be pushing for economic sanctions against the Jewish State. I would add that Israel is not even a signatory of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. This is the most blatant form of hypocrisy in the history of arms negotiations. All Mr. Netanyahu can point to when he speaks of the actions of the Iranians, is the inflammatory rhetoric of its former president. Yet, Isreal's willingness to subjugate the Palestinian people, and to thumb its nose at those who rightfully question the legality of new Jewish settlements on the West Bank, shows a total contempt for building a peaceful coexistence with its neighbors.
So the only thing I have to say to the Israeli Prime Minister is "go home Bebe". You have no moral authority over anyone, so long as you believe that you and your nation are "special" and above the law.
37
Mr. Ambassador and most readers here understand that regarding Iraq; Operation Desert Storm in 1991, in Kuwait and Iraq, and later Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, both were possible because the nuclear program of Saddam Hussein already happened to be previously removed in 1981 by Operation Opera (or Babylon) . For this, Iran owes a debt of gratitude to both Israel and the US. If he could, Saddam Hussein would not hesitate to nuke Iran. I do not believe it would be in Iran's interest in the future, trying to outdo Saddam Hussein, or trying to outsmart the P5+1 and Israel.
2
Shame on us for getting bullied by a small country into doing what is not in our national or world interest or self respect.
28
Thank you for allowing Iran’s UN ambassador to state the most obvious facts of this situation: Israel’s nuclear arsenal and its refusal to sign the Nuclear Non-proliferation treaty and to allow IAEA inspections vs Iran’s cooperation on those fronts. It’s pretty hard to get such basic facts on the table, given the virtual taboo against their mention in this country by anyone in politics or the news media.
By the way, It would have been refreshing to hear Netanyahu say, “There are targets in the Middle East that Israel needs to be able to destroy, and for which conventional weapons are simply inadequate. That’s why Israel needs a nuclear arsenal, and also why it needs a monopoly on same, since it’s impractical to use nuclear weapons against a nuclear-armed adversary.” We could then have a discussion based on real issues.
By the way, It would have been refreshing to hear Netanyahu say, “There are targets in the Middle East that Israel needs to be able to destroy, and for which conventional weapons are simply inadequate. That’s why Israel needs a nuclear arsenal, and also why it needs a monopoly on same, since it’s impractical to use nuclear weapons against a nuclear-armed adversary.” We could then have a discussion based on real issues.
204
Israel never threatened to annihilate any of its. neighbors. Consider this. None of Israel's neighboring enemies developed nuclear weapons even though their Zionist enemy had them. Now that Iran may develop nuclear weapons, the fear is that all the states in the region will want nuclear weapons. That is, Iran is a hegemonic power not Israel.
1
@Dismal
Israel never threatened to annihilate any of its neighbors"
Why, if they intended to would they advertise it to the world? That's why all these claims that Iran wants to wipe Israel off the map, which is not even the actual phrase but a poor translation from the original, are strickly based on this unfortunate quote from an old Farsi book. This is Netanyahu's entire case against Iran developing nuclear power, some meaningless words that we are to believe were an actual threat to obliterate Israel. If they truly had such plans I don't believe they would disclose them, any more than I believe Israel doesn't have them simply because they don't make open threats.
Israel never threatened to annihilate any of its neighbors"
Why, if they intended to would they advertise it to the world? That's why all these claims that Iran wants to wipe Israel off the map, which is not even the actual phrase but a poor translation from the original, are strickly based on this unfortunate quote from an old Farsi book. This is Netanyahu's entire case against Iran developing nuclear power, some meaningless words that we are to believe were an actual threat to obliterate Israel. If they truly had such plans I don't believe they would disclose them, any more than I believe Israel doesn't have them simply because they don't make open threats.
1
"By the way, It would have been refreshing to hear Netanyahu say, “There are targets in the Middle East that Israel needs to be able to destroy, and for which conventional weapons are simply inadequate. That’s why Israel needs a nuclear arsenal, and also why it needs a monopoly on same, since it’s impractical to use nuclear weapons against a nuclear-armed adversary.” We could then have a discussion based on real issues."
So nice to see somebody express the truth, somewhere. Of course, truth is never politically palatable, so we spout arguments of I'm more moral than you! at each other.
So nice to see somebody express the truth, somewhere. Of course, truth is never politically palatable, so we spout arguments of I'm more moral than you! at each other.
Political grandstanding by Mr. Khoshroo. He accuses Israel of being an aggressive state, yet not one word about Iranian involvement in Syria, arming Hezbollah to the teeth, with over a hundred thousand missiles aimed directly at Israel, assisting the Shiite overthrow of the Sunni govt. in Yemen, the arming of Shiite militias that killed thousands of American soldiers during the Iraqi war, etc. Not one word about Iranian govt. threats to destroy Israel, yet Israel has never threatened to destroy Iran. Let Mr. Khoshroo explain why Iran is so fixated on ridding the world of the Jewish state before feigning innocence on the "peaceful" nuclear program.
116
Look more closely. Is Iran's principle objective to destroy Israel or to be recognized as the leader of Muslim world?
3
Most of Iran's motivation for this is the "Palestinian question". Israel has and continues to oppress and displace the Palestinians, hence the hatred from the rest of the middle east. This has become a cycle where one side uses the other's bad behavior to justify their own bad behavior. And so it will be unless and until both side make a serious attempt to resolve the issue.
1
Rosalie
Iran is against regime change in Syria and there helps fight the rebels. Something wrong with that?
Iran provides arms and support to those that resist Israeli occupation and annexation of Palestinian land ..... like the US assisting the Ukrainians against Russia. Something wrong with that?
Iran supports those that fight the Sunni-financed extremists and they fight alongside the Americans against ISIL in Iraq. Something wrong with that?
The Iranian government may wish that Israel never existed and one day will no longer exist, but they have never threatened Iranian military aggression against Israel, but Israel HAS threatened military aggression against Iran.
The Iranian nuclear program is open and inspected to the extreme, while Israel's remains obscured.
Iran is against regime change in Syria and there helps fight the rebels. Something wrong with that?
Iran provides arms and support to those that resist Israeli occupation and annexation of Palestinian land ..... like the US assisting the Ukrainians against Russia. Something wrong with that?
Iran supports those that fight the Sunni-financed extremists and they fight alongside the Americans against ISIL in Iraq. Something wrong with that?
The Iranian government may wish that Israel never existed and one day will no longer exist, but they have never threatened Iranian military aggression against Israel, but Israel HAS threatened military aggression against Iran.
The Iranian nuclear program is open and inspected to the extreme, while Israel's remains obscured.
4
Today was a shameful day in American history, Mr. Ambassador, but many decent people in your country and mine are still hopeful for a successful outcome of the negotiations. A reasonable agreement can be reached and the sanctions can begin to fall away. Let the coming rapprochement between America and Iran be a decisive blow to the war party and to the Netanyahu's of the world.
281
What about Israel nuclear weapons? why no one bothers to ask Bibi about it?
17
Mr. Netanyahu is a danger to whatever slim chance of stability in the middle -east that might exist. It is becoming apparent that his real agenda is Israeli hegemony in that region. Or is that assessment to harsh a thought to think about our "ally"? Maybe he should get Dick Cheney on his ticket for the up-coming election. They seem to have the same, misguided world view. Follow the money.
13
The only thing I wish I could have learned from Prime Minister's speech is how his plan and its consequences are going to be paid for? Who's he asking to pay the bill?
2
Iran itself openly claims to have built a formidable arsenal of ballistic missiles. Which way do they want to have it?
10
We also have built a formidable arsenal of ballistic missiles. Should we also be required to destroy ours?
They don't compare with the nuclear arsenal maintained by Israel. Israel is the real enemy of peace in the region.
1
Many nations have missile arsenals, chiefly the US. Only the US has ever used nuclear weapons in war. Missiles usually carry conventional warheads.
Your point?
Your point?
So true: Thanks to Wikileaks, Netanyahu's anti-Iran nuke program flow charts and scare-fest were entirely bogus and even contradicted his own security service's recommendations. So now we are giving this abject liar a front row podium for more dubious rhetoric and spurious pro-war propagandizing that is slurped up by our bought-and-paid-for Congress and Senate? The entire charade is a blot on our historical landscape - even more so than past performances by other illustrious political blowhards. It's bad enough that we still have John McCain rattling sabers throughout Ukraine and Obama now sending three batalions of "trainers" to "help" Ukraine - right…trainers in the same sense that we sent "advisors" to French Indochina, aka Vietnam, in 1959, prior to that debacle that claimed so many lives and billions of dollars. But since war-mongering is no longer the exclusive domain of the right and is being embraced by the left (in breathless anticipation of a Hillary Brand® (p)residency in all its' Neo-Con glory), all systems are go. Call in the prevaricators and let them tell Congress what their duty is and where it lies…apparently NOT with the American people, but with a foreign nation - that hasn't hesitated to put its own agenda before that of everyone else, and STILL can't do right by those embattled and ghettoized prisoners in Palestine.
9
And Americans should trust anything written by the Iranian ambassador to the UN? I don't think so. Iran is the original and continuing source of all the fundamentalist terror that the world has seen since their Islamic regime came to power in the 1970s.
8
Better read up on history - the duly and democratically elected Prime Minister of Iran was overthrown by a UK instigated but US led coup (as the oilfields were being nationalized) and the Shah installed in power. The mullahs were the Iranian people's backlash to over 2 decades of that dictatorship and the embassy hostages were a natural part of that revolution. It wasn't a pretty sight but it did not happen in a vacuum. (Perhaps you should add "selectively ignorant" to the "new conservative".)
1
If you bother to read a bit, you'd learn that the Sunnis are the source of most terrorism, and you'd wonder why Netanyahu & Co. are courting a relationship with the Saudis, the bankers of ISIL. You'd learn that the existential threat to Israel comes from ISIL, extremists fed in large part by Israeli treatment of the Palestinians.
2
What about Iran's rhetoric that it will destroy Israel? Netanyahu clearly does NOT want war; he wants tougher negotiations. What good will a, 'Gee we're really sorry' be, after the world once again refuses to take such a threat seriously, and a bomb explodes. Surely you've the clarity of thought to distinguish between Israel's existential fear of a nuclear Iran, the whole world's fear, given the likelihood of Iran achieving delivery rocketry in the next 10 years: and the duplicitous alarmist lies sewn by Bush, Cheney and Powell?
1
Fine article. Thank you, and thanks to the NYT for printing it.
The fear card is usually a political ploy, and netanyahu takes it
over the top.
The fear card is usually a political ploy, and netanyahu takes it
over the top.
24
I believe that Iran does not yet have nuclear weapons. I have seen no proof that they are attempting to make any. That does not mean that they are not trying. Iran needs to be completely open and forthcoming. Prove to the world that you are right and Netanyahu is wrong. Help demonstrate to Netanyahu and the Conservatives in this country to whom he is appealing that Iran desires peace. Netanyahu's actions are only desperate warmongering if he is wrong about Iran.
9
Did you read the op-ed? Iran's nuclear activities are the second-most inspected in the world.
1
If Netanyahu recommended a nuclear-free Middle East, including Israel, and if Netanyahu agreed that Israel would also begin to abide by international law, starting with ending the colonization of the West Bank, his words would shake the Earth, and we would listen to him.
But he does not, so we do not. Same old, same old.
But he does not, so we do not. Same old, same old.
32
Eisenhower deposed Mossadecq, which led to the rule of the mullahs in Iran.
Reagan armed the Afghan fundamentalists which led to the Taliban.
Torture Bush and his Charge of the Fools Brigade led to ISIS.
Now, the same mindset suggests the light at the end of the tunnel is more war, with Iran?
Fool us once, shame on you.....
Reagan armed the Afghan fundamentalists which led to the Taliban.
Torture Bush and his Charge of the Fools Brigade led to ISIS.
Now, the same mindset suggests the light at the end of the tunnel is more war, with Iran?
Fool us once, shame on you.....
28
"Since Israel’s prime minister appears to be a person who thrives on chaos and conflict, we fear that he may have further plans to poison the atmosphere and sow discord among those involved in this historic effort."
That about sums it up.
The Democrats should invite Ambassador Khoshroo to speak to Congress about Iran's intentions for agreeing to treaty.
That about sums it up.
The Democrats should invite Ambassador Khoshroo to speak to Congress about Iran's intentions for agreeing to treaty.
238
They are far too timid to do that. Most of the Democrats were even too cowardly and craven not to appear to hear Netanyahu's bombastic deceptive delusional screed.
Perhaps Iranian President Hassan Rouhani can tape and release a speech to the American people on this subject?
And maybe even John Boehner can be counted upon to invite the real one and only President of the United States of America to address a joint session of Congress on this issue. Right?
Perhaps Iranian President Hassan Rouhani can tape and release a speech to the American people on this subject?
And maybe even John Boehner can be counted upon to invite the real one and only President of the United States of America to address a joint session of Congress on this issue. Right?
1
If only the dems could. But the pawn of Israel - John Boehner - is the only one with the power to invite. Hence, the spectacle we saw yesterday.
2
Wow, the world has truly turned upside down.
Ambassador Gholamali Khoshroo, I agree with your assessment of Benjamin Netanyahu's base, self-seeking motives relating his speech before the US Congress. Indeed, one doesn't need to be intelligent to see through him, his rule-and-divide game and maximalist stance.
Your country, the Islamic Republic of Iran should take advantage of the forthcoming elections in Israel and reach out to the opposition, vowing to improve the bilateral relations, if the voters unseat Netanyahu, whose Iranophobia seems to be pathological! He is the one who jeopardises Israel's future, by making more enemies than friends.
Apart from the Hamas, Israelis see the Hezbollah as an existential threat. Your country has no role to play in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but it can exercise its influence on the Hezbollah!
Your country, the Islamic Republic of Iran should take advantage of the forthcoming elections in Israel and reach out to the opposition, vowing to improve the bilateral relations, if the voters unseat Netanyahu, whose Iranophobia seems to be pathological! He is the one who jeopardises Israel's future, by making more enemies than friends.
Apart from the Hamas, Israelis see the Hezbollah as an existential threat. Your country has no role to play in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but it can exercise its influence on the Hezbollah!
8
Why are there no American politicians talking about the undeniable FACTS that are written in this piece? Beyond the (correct) evaluations of Netanyahu's motives, the actual record of how he has lied for two decades demonstrates with absolutely no doubt that Netanyahu is not credible.
Add to that his actual policies, including defiance of international law regarding illegal settlements, genocide in Gaza, collective punishment, and a range of other violations of international law, not to mention his utter immorality, one wonders why so many american politicians are afraid to speak the truth about this thug. Not many profiles in courage here, are there.
Add to that his actual policies, including defiance of international law regarding illegal settlements, genocide in Gaza, collective punishment, and a range of other violations of international law, not to mention his utter immorality, one wonders why so many american politicians are afraid to speak the truth about this thug. Not many profiles in courage here, are there.
25
"Yet all his predictions about how close Iran was to acquiring a nuclear bomb have proved baseless."
Israel is in the unenviable position of losing a conventional shooting war just once and being wrong about Iran's nuclear ability and intent just once.
Israel truly has an existential predicament, one which no other nation in the world faces. The Jews of Israel are also well aware of the history of two millennia of Church and State sponsored hatred of and attacks on Jews.
Israel is in the unenviable position of losing a conventional shooting war just once and being wrong about Iran's nuclear ability and intent just once.
Israel truly has an existential predicament, one which no other nation in the world faces. The Jews of Israel are also well aware of the history of two millennia of Church and State sponsored hatred of and attacks on Jews.
86
But not in Iran.
Israel has been wrong about everything, just about forever. It would start getting "right" the day we stop supporting its illegal acts and its murderous military efforts. It would make peace the day it could no longer pay for its never-ending hostile and illegal acts.
1
The only existential predicament Israel has is in the fact that it will never agree to any acceptable solution to its conflict with the Palestinians even with them agreeing to give away 80% of their original country. Israel never stops to want more and never stops to try to enlarge its borders. It will always try to have more and more until one day it is defeated, because you can't always win.
2
Netanyahu has invoked the Iranian "existential threat" to Israel for some 25 years now, like clockwork whenever there's an election in Israel.
A fantastic example of the Propaganda Big Lie, which when repeated often and loud enough no one bothers to question. And it's total nonsense: In no way is Iran an existential threat to Israel, for Iran doesn't have nukes and is a signatory of the NPT. Israel, though, does have nukes, is not a signatory of NPT, and has the unqualified backing of the military might of the US. If anything it is Israel, with its constant appeals to the US to bomb Iran, which is the threat to Iran.
Netanyahu is of course not afraid of the non-existent Iranian nukes, rather he is terrified of any deal between the US and Iran which could lead to a normalization of US-Iran relations, for that would alter the balance of power in the Middle East and possibly impede the continuous thieving of land in Occupied Palestine.
Normalized relations between the US and Iran is indispensable for peace in the Middle East. But Netayahu wants endless turmoil, and hence at the moment is tacitly supporting ISIS in cahoots with Saudi by repeatedly bombing Syrian anti-rebel forces.
As Rep. Yarmuth has pointed out, everything in Netayahu's arrogant address to our supine, servile Congress has been taken from the Dick Cheney copybook, with endless war as the only proposal. Isn't it time for the US to finally dump the neocon agenda and start working for peace?
A fantastic example of the Propaganda Big Lie, which when repeated often and loud enough no one bothers to question. And it's total nonsense: In no way is Iran an existential threat to Israel, for Iran doesn't have nukes and is a signatory of the NPT. Israel, though, does have nukes, is not a signatory of NPT, and has the unqualified backing of the military might of the US. If anything it is Israel, with its constant appeals to the US to bomb Iran, which is the threat to Iran.
Netanyahu is of course not afraid of the non-existent Iranian nukes, rather he is terrified of any deal between the US and Iran which could lead to a normalization of US-Iran relations, for that would alter the balance of power in the Middle East and possibly impede the continuous thieving of land in Occupied Palestine.
Normalized relations between the US and Iran is indispensable for peace in the Middle East. But Netayahu wants endless turmoil, and hence at the moment is tacitly supporting ISIS in cahoots with Saudi by repeatedly bombing Syrian anti-rebel forces.
As Rep. Yarmuth has pointed out, everything in Netayahu's arrogant address to our supine, servile Congress has been taken from the Dick Cheney copybook, with endless war as the only proposal. Isn't it time for the US to finally dump the neocon agenda and start working for peace?
35
Netanyahu's political posturing notwithstanding, Iran's overt support of terrorism via Hamas and others, and the heinous repeated threats by Iranian leadership to obliterate Israel and Jews are reason enough to question the motives of this most dangerous nation. Indeed, if there is a nation that seeks to thrive on regional chaos and conflict it is most certainly Iran. We in the United States can only hope to be the strong and honest brokers of peace by pursuing a forthright policy of "distrust and verify" in the current negotiations. President Obama's approach to preventing a nuclear-armed Iran may not be ideal but it's the best option we have at the moment.
Perhaps, someday, the world will see more moderate leadership emerge in both Israel and Iran. That is the true path to peace in the Middle East.
Perhaps, someday, the world will see more moderate leadership emerge in both Israel and Iran. That is the true path to peace in the Middle East.
11
So, we should trust the American hostage takers, the war games attack on an American mock vessel, the bombings and murder in Argentina, the constant weapons cache being exported to Hizbullah, et.al? And now authorizing Iranian scientists to study at MIT.
Legacy as opposed to common sense Mr. Obama?
Legacy as opposed to common sense Mr. Obama?
15
The hostage crisis was almost 40 years ago.
The US Navy shot down an actual Iranian airliner, with loss of all life on board, yet you're freaked out about target practice on a mock vessel?
Israel attacked and sank a US Navy ship in 1967. A lot of Nazi-hunting went on in Argentina. Israel has attacked just about every neighboring country at one time or another.
We supply more arms to the world than Iran will ever dream of, including many that fell into the wrong hands or remained in the hands of zealots we trained and armed to do our proxy aggression. Guns R Us.
The ongoing negotiations are the most sensible development in this situation in a long, long time.
And Heaven forfend that Iranians should get good educations? Horrors.
The US Navy shot down an actual Iranian airliner, with loss of all life on board, yet you're freaked out about target practice on a mock vessel?
Israel attacked and sank a US Navy ship in 1967. A lot of Nazi-hunting went on in Argentina. Israel has attacked just about every neighboring country at one time or another.
We supply more arms to the world than Iran will ever dream of, including many that fell into the wrong hands or remained in the hands of zealots we trained and armed to do our proxy aggression. Guns R Us.
The ongoing negotiations are the most sensible development in this situation in a long, long time.
And Heaven forfend that Iranians should get good educations? Horrors.
1
Thank you, Mr. Ambassador, for your clarification of the important issues we, as a world-wide community, must address. I know many Americans who fervently pray for peace in the Middle East. It's long past time for the world to focus on the harrowing fact that Israel has a huge nuclear inventory which needs to be thoroughly inspected with the same attention to detail in which other nations are held accountable. As an American, I strongly oppose any further financial assistance to Israel nor do I wish to see our sons & daughters in the US military losing their lives doing "proxy war duty" for Israel. I pray that the US & Iran come to a fruitful, lasting agreement that creates peace & prosperity for both its citizens. Our children & grandchildren deserve better...
31
And I'm sure the tooth fairy will visit
I might be more inclined to give consideration to the ambassador's opinion had so many of Iran's leaders not pledged to wipe Israel from the face of the earth.
20
Since Mr. Khoshroo brings in the Israeli-Palestinian issue, I would love to hear him and his government say that they are ready to join the Arab Peace Initiative (make it the Arab-Iranian Peace Initiative) or at least to say that Iran is ready for full recognition of, and peace with Israel, if a two-state solution acceptable to the Palestinians can be achieved. His complaint in this op-ed is based on Israel's settlement policy, and I think he is right to criticize it. But if he can make clear that THAT is the issue and not the very existence of Israel, it would be a big step forward.
22
Sounds like the rush to root out WMD all over again.
17
No rush, and they have found thousands of centrifuges, hidden nuclear labs, ballistic missiles, cover-up of facilities etc. for years..-- how can you possibly compare the two issues ? There is no comparison.
1
Top Iranian government officials issue continual calls for Israel to be destroyed. Regular political rallies are organized by top Iranian government officials, and held in the streets of Teheran, with crowds screaming "Death to Israel" and "Death to the United States." That's the government of the man who wrote this op-ed.
18
And do you blame them?
Examples of these continual calls for destruction? And for the regular politcal rallies? You specify "top Iranian officials"--do they represent the vast majority of Iranians? Does Netanyau speak for all Jews as he recently implied?
1
Did it ever occur to anyone that some of those statements are made to appease a radical - and small - element of society overall? The same hyperbolic statements can be seen in both Israel's and the U.S.'s political rhetoric. How do you think Israel justifies killing hundreds of Palestinian women and children when responding to a single rocket attack?
Strange that virtually all articles do not mention that Israel has nuclear weapons and this might the reason that neighboring countries seek their own.
25
Maison, in the 4th paragraph from the end of this article I believe the author is referring to Israel as the "government that has built a stockpile of nuclear weapons...."
Israel has had nuclear weapons for decades, yet has never used them in any wars, including Yom Kippur War which they were on the verge of losing. Do you really think Iran or any Arab neighbor would hesitate to use their nuclear weapons in such a situation?
1
This continues to amaze me: why is it not ever mentioned in these negotiations that, yes, Israel has enough nuclear bombs on hand to not only vaporize Iran but possibly the whole of the ME, and then proceed from there to see why and how Iran should be prevented from acquiring any nuclear weapons.
When the US and the western powers imposed/imposes sanctions on India/Pakistan/North Korea for going nuclear, it was never denied that these western powers had the nuclear arsenal to wipe out the whole of humanity. We simply said, 'we will prevent you from going nuclear simply because we don't want you to go nuclear and that we can'.
Why do we persist in this bewildering/maddening silence about Israel being a fully capable nuclear power, and its acquisition of the nuclear weapons capability was aided/abetted by the very same western powers, specifically France, that now are vehemently against Iran going nuclear. Why not honestly say, 'we will stop you because we can'.
That will be another application of 'yes we can'.
When the US and the western powers imposed/imposes sanctions on India/Pakistan/North Korea for going nuclear, it was never denied that these western powers had the nuclear arsenal to wipe out the whole of humanity. We simply said, 'we will prevent you from going nuclear simply because we don't want you to go nuclear and that we can'.
Why do we persist in this bewildering/maddening silence about Israel being a fully capable nuclear power, and its acquisition of the nuclear weapons capability was aided/abetted by the very same western powers, specifically France, that now are vehemently against Iran going nuclear. Why not honestly say, 'we will stop you because we can'.
That will be another application of 'yes we can'.
2
I appreciate the rational argument made here by the Iranian ambassador. I'm sure others involved in these issues can attest to the accuracy of his statements and statistics. I am impressed by the contrast between his views and the fear-mongering tone taken by Mr. Netanyahu, from whom, frankly, I expected little else. Mr. Netanyahu seeks to exploit the divisions and fecklessness rampant in Congress to scuttle any hope for the administration's gradually emerging little hope of an actual compromise with Iran -- a deal that might forestall conflict and provide some space in which to develop a new and more cooperative paradigm for managing the disaster that is the Middle East.
Mr. Netanyahu has shown over and over again that he will take whatever he can get away with for Israel (settlements, rejection of a two-state solution) while ignoring the grievances and rights of the Palestinian people. In his view, apparently, the slightest compromise or retraction is a defeat. Like many of the intransigent allies he seeks now in our own governing body (or corpse) he prefers a disaster that can then be blamed on others to a partial victory that gives up an iota of idealogical ground. His approach has led to nothing but gridlock and stalemate. No wonder he looked so at home in our hall of governance.
Mr. Netanyahu has shown over and over again that he will take whatever he can get away with for Israel (settlements, rejection of a two-state solution) while ignoring the grievances and rights of the Palestinian people. In his view, apparently, the slightest compromise or retraction is a defeat. Like many of the intransigent allies he seeks now in our own governing body (or corpse) he prefers a disaster that can then be blamed on others to a partial victory that gives up an iota of idealogical ground. His approach has led to nothing but gridlock and stalemate. No wonder he looked so at home in our hall of governance.
402
William, this from a country who has rallies chanting 'death to America'. Interesting that some take their side. Moral compasses sometimes work and sometimes do not.
2
Explain how rational the Ambassador is to the thousands of Christians and Bah'ai in Iran who are persecuted on a daily basis and even killed because they have different beliefs. Explain rationally to the christians in Lebanon how handing over 80,000 Iranian rockets to Hezbollah helps their minority. Explain rationally to Saudi Arabia that Iran is really not out to destroy them-- and don't forget to rationally blame the Jews for everything, not Iran.
2
While I agree with your thoughts regarding Netanyahu, I take issue
with a compromise with Iran. It does not matter what Iran claims as they are famous as liars and cheats. They are also war mongers and putting trust in them is a foolish act from the American point of view.
It also does not matter if it is 3 years of 10 years as it will become a threat at any time. It is also possible that ISIS can take control of the nuclear ingredients and use it against the people they are convinced need to be killed. Do we want to take that huge chance? They will not use the weapons against Israel as they know we will come after them but they will use them against us so we cannot protect Israel.
This may be far fetched to others but it seems like a reality judging the hatred they also feel for us and that hatred is endless from not only the government but their citizens.
What have they done in the past that makes us think we can trust them with almost any issue?
with a compromise with Iran. It does not matter what Iran claims as they are famous as liars and cheats. They are also war mongers and putting trust in them is a foolish act from the American point of view.
It also does not matter if it is 3 years of 10 years as it will become a threat at any time. It is also possible that ISIS can take control of the nuclear ingredients and use it against the people they are convinced need to be killed. Do we want to take that huge chance? They will not use the weapons against Israel as they know we will come after them but they will use them against us so we cannot protect Israel.
This may be far fetched to others but it seems like a reality judging the hatred they also feel for us and that hatred is endless from not only the government but their citizens.
What have they done in the past that makes us think we can trust them with almost any issue?
1
Perhaps if Colin Powell had done his bidding ...
1
Did Obama's National Security Advisor Susan Rice write this article? Or is this the product of the NY Times usual apologist drivel? Either way, the analysis is wrong and misleads the American people and the world. The Times doesn't have current intelligence on Iran's nuclear programs, so I can see how they can miss the mark, but Susan Rice does, so no pass for her.
17
You can't disagree with anything in this piece and be considered a fair critic. Bogeyman creation, distraction and issue substitution, threat of leverage in campaign donations, ramping up evangelicals, it's all part of the combined Israeli chess game. To their credit, being in very much the wrong place over the long course of time and certainly not going anywhere, they play the pieces they have well. Machiavelli would be impressed.
To listen to Netanyahu, Iran is going to drop nukes all over Israel with zero notice, wipe it out, and .., what? Sit back and laugh? Why? The US would knock out every bit of Iranian leadership, probably the same day, destroy every bit of it's military within 2 weeks, and waltz in and take the place over like it was Germany in 1945. But we are supposed to buy into the Big Scare anyway. It's ludicrous, especially keeping in mind the US had been set up for decades to detect and handle a Soviet first strike. We are absolutely over prepared for such a thing and Iran knows it very well.
Israel is playing chess. It simply hates the idea of a sanction free Iran with political and moral power in the Mideast equal to it's size and resources, just like it would have if were not run by clerics. It wants Iran bowed and humiliated. Asking the US to participate in this is the foreign policy chess move of the century. It's a trap, don't fall for it.
To listen to Netanyahu, Iran is going to drop nukes all over Israel with zero notice, wipe it out, and .., what? Sit back and laugh? Why? The US would knock out every bit of Iranian leadership, probably the same day, destroy every bit of it's military within 2 weeks, and waltz in and take the place over like it was Germany in 1945. But we are supposed to buy into the Big Scare anyway. It's ludicrous, especially keeping in mind the US had been set up for decades to detect and handle a Soviet first strike. We are absolutely over prepared for such a thing and Iran knows it very well.
Israel is playing chess. It simply hates the idea of a sanction free Iran with political and moral power in the Mideast equal to it's size and resources, just like it would have if were not run by clerics. It wants Iran bowed and humiliated. Asking the US to participate in this is the foreign policy chess move of the century. It's a trap, don't fall for it.
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Exactly. Keeping Iran weak works for Netanyahu.
A question (I don't have the answer). What would the U.S. do if the same issue (substitute Iran's capability) came up today with Cuba?
I applaud Ambassador Khoshroo managing to wait so long in his rebuttal to bring up the Palestinians and settlements. Huge issues, to be sure, but irrelevant in this context. Mr. Khoshroo does a fine job poking holes in all of Netanyahu's claims except for one--the belligerence and vocal desire to destroy Israel. Netanyahu may be overly dramatic but it's hard to blame him considering a large nation and sworn enemy like Iran is on the brink of not only gaining the capacity to achieve its goal of wiping Israel off the map, but gaining tacit international approval to do so.
22
Rhetoric not supported by facts will be detrimental on the long run. Yes Iran cannot be trusted but the US has worked and negotiated with the likes of Stalin and Mao who slaughtered millions but negotiation were required to safeguard American interest. The president is following a policy that reflects the national interest of the US and not Israel. Israel has around 300 undeclared Nuclear weapons and has acted irresponsibly in regards to its occupation policies. It is important for those who support Israel in the US congress to understand their first duty is to the American citizens and the republic and not a foreign Gov. Israel can take care of their own interest.
Our government vocally tries to destroy other countries through embargoes and sanctions. Cuba for example has not been a threat to the USA for well over 25 years or longer, yet we continue to hurt the normal people of Cuba through such tactics. Gentler language but the idea is the same.
Israel is constantly threatening to attack Iran. Netanyahu did it again in that speech yesterday. In the last few years, I've seen discussions of whether Israel might use nuclear weapons to destroy facilities in Iran.
Israel was imposed on that region by the British so problems were inevitable. On top of that, the US has been funding Israel, vetoing any UN resolutions dealing with Israel and even sneaking Israel the nuclear bomb. If any other country behaved the way Israel does, the US would be bombing them. Small wonder theres a lot of enmity for Israel in that region.
Israel was imposed on that region by the British so problems were inevitable. On top of that, the US has been funding Israel, vetoing any UN resolutions dealing with Israel and even sneaking Israel the nuclear bomb. If any other country behaved the way Israel does, the US would be bombing them. Small wonder theres a lot of enmity for Israel in that region.
Bibi: the little boy who keeps crying, "wolf."
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Only the NYT would publish the opinion of the Iranian UN ambassador AND it own opinion attacking Netanyahu's speech. No bias there....
25
Liberals have forgotten the Times lavish praise in support of Obama 's Arab Spring policy which has turned out to be a total disaster with Iraq and Libya controlled by terrorists and Egypt barely escaping. At the very least this should give one pause before embracing another of Obama's middle east adventures.
1
You are so right. We should ONLY hear Jewish/israeli version/opinion. How dare we listen to a well referenced, fact ridden argument instead of theatrics.
1
Thanks to the Times for publishing this piece.
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When the day comes that the reverse can be expressed by an Iranian or an Arab in the Middle East, that is when we would not have to be frightened about Iran's "peaceful" nuclear program.
The Middle East is such a mess.
Now, Iran's ambassador sounds more reasonable than Israel's Prime Minister.
Only time will tell who is right, but we don't need to be in the middle of it.
Now, Iran's ambassador sounds more reasonable than Israel's Prime Minister.
Only time will tell who is right, but we don't need to be in the middle of it.
62
Nuclear fallout will be everywhere. You will be in the middle of it. When the president of Iran says he intends to wipe another state of the map, to obliterate another state, what do you think he means?
Once Iran gets a nuclear bomb they will use it. I wouldn't be surprised if they used it within days of being able to deliver it. They have said they will and they pray everyday for the option.
Once Iran gets a nuclear bomb they will use it. I wouldn't be surprised if they used it within days of being able to deliver it. They have said they will and they pray everyday for the option.
Mr Netanyahu made an articulate, compelling and logical presentation in his speech to the US Congress. No one else, including this op-ed writer, can offer any evidence to refute what he states nor can present an equally compelling argument refuting Mr Netanyahu.
Iran has irrefutably been opposed to the interests of the United States in every single instance and has actively supported causes that have caused great harm to the US, our interests, our allies and our service members and Government employees around the world. Iran is an evil empire, truly. We do not need to believe Mr Netanyahu, we just need to look at the facts and trust our gut instincts.
Just as we know the drunk man with the pistol could kill us....the creep leering at our children has evil intentions....and the thug eyeing granny's purse on the subway is probably going to take it.....we can tell that Iran will do great harm to many people with the weapons that we may enable them to have.
You can opinionate about Mr Netanyahu ...but I do not trust an overly eager Secretary of State....lost in the process....trying for his Nobel Peace Prize....or President who seems unwilling to believe that there are people not only beyond his ability to persuade.....but who actually function at levels of evil levels above his understanding.
Iran has irrefutably been opposed to the interests of the United States in every single instance and has actively supported causes that have caused great harm to the US, our interests, our allies and our service members and Government employees around the world. Iran is an evil empire, truly. We do not need to believe Mr Netanyahu, we just need to look at the facts and trust our gut instincts.
Just as we know the drunk man with the pistol could kill us....the creep leering at our children has evil intentions....and the thug eyeing granny's purse on the subway is probably going to take it.....we can tell that Iran will do great harm to many people with the weapons that we may enable them to have.
You can opinionate about Mr Netanyahu ...but I do not trust an overly eager Secretary of State....lost in the process....trying for his Nobel Peace Prize....or President who seems unwilling to believe that there are people not only beyond his ability to persuade.....but who actually function at levels of evil levels above his understanding.
33
>>No one else, including this op-ed writer, can offer any evidence to refute what he states nor can present an equally compelling argument refuting Mr Netanyahu. <<
And here I thought today's op-ed piece did precisely that. Maybe you read it through your Tea Party glasses.
And here I thought today's op-ed piece did precisely that. Maybe you read it through your Tea Party glasses.
1
Peace is better than war for everyone - except the military, the industries that supply the military's needs, and the power seekers - the rest of us can learn and work and live with our families and enjoy all we have to offer each other when there is peace and the balanced economy that can exist in peaceful times.
President Obama is working to achieve a state of peace for a part of the world that hasn't known much, where very few people know the kinds of lives that you, my readers, have achieved. Pursuing diplomacy to achieve peace is much harder work than making war. Our President is choosing a much more difficult task, and doing it without the support of our Congress. Prime Minister Netanyahu is working to save Israel and his own political fortunes and in presenting himself to our Congress is interfering in the due processes of our government.
The US and Israel are not in the same place, we cannot see this matter from the same perspective, we do not have the same interests and while we have always been concerned for the safety of Israel I'm not sure they are concerned for ours. You should know that I am a Jew.
Human nature can change. It is not a monolith. It is made of of small parts none of which is always stable. Governments are composed of human beings. Germany is probably the prime example of a country that has changed. Germany, the unequaled persecutor of Jews.
I'm just saying'...
President Obama is working to achieve a state of peace for a part of the world that hasn't known much, where very few people know the kinds of lives that you, my readers, have achieved. Pursuing diplomacy to achieve peace is much harder work than making war. Our President is choosing a much more difficult task, and doing it without the support of our Congress. Prime Minister Netanyahu is working to save Israel and his own political fortunes and in presenting himself to our Congress is interfering in the due processes of our government.
The US and Israel are not in the same place, we cannot see this matter from the same perspective, we do not have the same interests and while we have always been concerned for the safety of Israel I'm not sure they are concerned for ours. You should know that I am a Jew.
Human nature can change. It is not a monolith. It is made of of small parts none of which is always stable. Governments are composed of human beings. Germany is probably the prime example of a country that has changed. Germany, the unequaled persecutor of Jews.
I'm just saying'...
1
I think that Mr. Obama is very familiar with "people beyond his ability to persuade." That would include the entire republican party.
Iran has not been opposed to U.S. interests at every turn. They are as against ISIS and the Taliban as we are. They are more on our side than Pakistan, because at least they're united. Heck, they probably even supported the Iraq war; it's certainly worked out well for them.
Iran is a country looking out for its interests, just like most other countries. There is absolutely no evidence that their leaders are any more evil than pretty much any other leaders in the Middle East. They are more democratic and open than our good pals Saudi Arabia.
If you don't make a deal with them, you can either invade, or wait for them to actually make a nuclear weapon; those will be your choices. Invasion would be insane, even more insane than the Iraq insanity. Sitting back and letting them continue developing their nuclear program does not seem sensible either. That leaves negotiating.
I really don't care what Netanyahu has to say about it. He's never negotiated anything international in his life. He clearly does not believe in it. He has no interest in peace, he does not believe it is possible, and apparently believes Israel can eventually take all of the west bank. Otherwise, he wouldn't keep building settlements there. Having such a man exercise so much power over OUR foreign policy is frightening.
Iran has not been opposed to U.S. interests at every turn. They are as against ISIS and the Taliban as we are. They are more on our side than Pakistan, because at least they're united. Heck, they probably even supported the Iraq war; it's certainly worked out well for them.
Iran is a country looking out for its interests, just like most other countries. There is absolutely no evidence that their leaders are any more evil than pretty much any other leaders in the Middle East. They are more democratic and open than our good pals Saudi Arabia.
If you don't make a deal with them, you can either invade, or wait for them to actually make a nuclear weapon; those will be your choices. Invasion would be insane, even more insane than the Iraq insanity. Sitting back and letting them continue developing their nuclear program does not seem sensible either. That leaves negotiating.
I really don't care what Netanyahu has to say about it. He's never negotiated anything international in his life. He clearly does not believe in it. He has no interest in peace, he does not believe it is possible, and apparently believes Israel can eventually take all of the west bank. Otherwise, he wouldn't keep building settlements there. Having such a man exercise so much power over OUR foreign policy is frightening.
The unfortunate truth is that the American public is polarized. The left, and the right. No amount of exposing lies and loops will dislodge an opinion based on nothing more than innuendo and ideological nonsense and anecdote.
A loop is a half-truth intended to deceive.....
A loop is a half-truth intended to deceive.....
7
The fact that you can express an option in the American press is a indication of the freedom here. We should trust you why???
14
Because his facts are verifiable and true? Because the shill for war, Bibi, went before our Congress before the Iraq war and made the same claims about Iraq?
Because we ask the question whose boots do you want on the ground and are you agreeable to bringing back the draft?
Because we ask the question whose boots do you want on the ground and are you agreeable to bringing back the draft?
1
Oh, no! Someone finally trying to confuse us with well referenced FACTs, instead of theatrics.
109
Yeah, facts so well referenced they need a stage, instead of a meeting.
Really? A political appointee of an unabashed hard-line theocracy which brutally suppress its press, enjoying the first amendment freedom and the liberal mindedness of our fourth estate to pen an editorial in the NYTimes is someone you're going to trust as a giver of facts? So you'll be skeptical of our government--sure, fair enough, skepticism of governments is a healthy thing. But you'll extoll someone appointed by the same ayatollah that refers to your country as the Great Satan and funds Hezbollah, not to mention all the many nasty things Iran has engaged in that you would refuse to believe until the burden of proof meets the standards you would hold twice as high for Israel and the US. This is a double standard. Acknowledge it!
Folks - let's agree you can't really have sheep guarding the flock. In some situations you need a sheepdog.
Argue all you want - enjoy it, in fact. But don't ever believe there are no wolves.
History is a crazy thing. It's one of the most studied subject in education. Yet, it's the one thing no one learns from.
Very odd.
Argue all you want - enjoy it, in fact. But don't ever believe there are no wolves.
History is a crazy thing. It's one of the most studied subject in education. Yet, it's the one thing no one learns from.
Very odd.
20
Whats really crazy is that sometimes we dont realize that we are the wolf and not the sheepdog.
It is the job of the citizen to be a skeptic as well as a realist.
Your analogy needs amplifying. There will always be wolves and there will also always be those who cry Wolf when it could benefit them. Naive to think there are not also opportunists, political and otherwise, in the real world. "Beware wolves dressed as cheerleaders" should be our motto after the Iraq War.
There is an obligation to question every politician, even those who haul out the Apocalypse Right Now card. And especially if they are seeking election. Playing sides against the President says to me you can afford to be deeply unserious about solving a massive problem and that you have the luxury of alienating half the population. If your life is in danger you do not diss your foxhole mates.
This is not the part where America gets told what to believe with discussion made taboo again. Sorry! Real friendship involves mutual respect.
Your analogy needs amplifying. There will always be wolves and there will also always be those who cry Wolf when it could benefit them. Naive to think there are not also opportunists, political and otherwise, in the real world. "Beware wolves dressed as cheerleaders" should be our motto after the Iraq War.
There is an obligation to question every politician, even those who haul out the Apocalypse Right Now card. And especially if they are seeking election. Playing sides against the President says to me you can afford to be deeply unserious about solving a massive problem and that you have the luxury of alienating half the population. If your life is in danger you do not diss your foxhole mates.
This is not the part where America gets told what to believe with discussion made taboo again. Sorry! Real friendship involves mutual respect.
1
Everything in Netanyahu's speech was about as credible as the 16 words in Bush's 2003 State of the Union claiming Iraq tried to buy uranium in Africa that was based on a blatant forgery. Netanyahu is trying to get our country to go to war again. How disheartening to watch Congress cheer it, like they have learned nothing. I just saw Sen. Sanders on CNN and he said that if Netanyahu gets us into another war, this time with Iran, the wars will never end and Republicans will try to pay for them by cutting Social Security and Medicare. That's about the only thing that would get America's attention but it'll be too late.
Thank you, NY Times, for running this article by Mr. Khoshroo. Much more rational and temperate than Netanyahu's crazy speech to Congress.
Thank you, NY Times, for running this article by Mr. Khoshroo. Much more rational and temperate than Netanyahu's crazy speech to Congress.
190
More rational and temporate? This is an appointed representative of the Iranian government. But okay, first, here's whats legitimate from his remarks: he has responded to the allegation that Iran will imminantly reach threshold by pointing out that Israeli and Western intel assessments have gotten the timeframe wrong so far. Fair enough. And then he diverted to the Palestinian issue to whip up liberal sentiment. Though perhaps containing some legitimate critique, it's filled with problems, including the fact that it contains the false suggestion that Israel is responsible for ISIS and Sunni radicalism, and then the preposterous suggestion that only Sunni radicalism is synonymous with radical Islam. What about Hezbollah, Hamas, the Houthis?
Here's whats totally illegitimate and disingenuous about this editorial: Koshroo (or anyone else from the regime) does not at all address the very real reason that an Israeli of any political stripe, in or out of government, would feel very justifiably terrified of Iran. He does not address the fact that Iran has called for the destruction of Israel time and again. He does not take that back or say it was misunderstood. He does not walk back from that line one inch. He does not explain at all his country's funding Hizbollah--"the army of God,"--and supplying them with sophisticated weapons. He does not retract the idiom of great and little Satan his country continues to use to describe the US and Israel.
Here's whats totally illegitimate and disingenuous about this editorial: Koshroo (or anyone else from the regime) does not at all address the very real reason that an Israeli of any political stripe, in or out of government, would feel very justifiably terrified of Iran. He does not address the fact that Iran has called for the destruction of Israel time and again. He does not take that back or say it was misunderstood. He does not walk back from that line one inch. He does not explain at all his country's funding Hizbollah--"the army of God,"--and supplying them with sophisticated weapons. He does not retract the idiom of great and little Satan his country continues to use to describe the US and Israel.
1
If Mr. Netanyahu is disputing his own intelligence agency's findings, why is that not an important point for our Congress to question? Does he not use their findings?
76
The article does not mention Bibi's public declarations that Iraq was developing nuclear capability, proven false of course, but it does list many of his gross errors and distortions. Some balance is welcome by a politician with such a track record who is also facing an election in two weeks.
69
When was it proven that Iraq was not developing nuclear weapons capability? They did have a program in the 1980s, until Israel bombed it to rubble (no doubt, to the vicious condemnation of this newspaper) and Saddam's senior military staff all believed it. There were reports of equipment buried in the desert or transported into Syria by Baathist forces.
But suppose you're right -- despite being a know-nothing, anonymous poster on the internet -- and Netanyahu was indeed wrong about Iraq. The fact is, Iran definitely has nuclear equipment, they have stated publicly that they should have the bomb, they have centrifuges, and they have military nuclear plants that have been off limits to inspectors. Obviously they are developing nukes. Both the CIA and Israel's MOSSAD have operatives in Iran, sabotaging the nuclear project, and have done for years.
Now Saudi Arabia and Egypt are seeking nuclear reactors in response to Iran. You may live in a fantasy bubble of peace and love, but the Arabs are not that stupid.
But suppose you're right -- despite being a know-nothing, anonymous poster on the internet -- and Netanyahu was indeed wrong about Iraq. The fact is, Iran definitely has nuclear equipment, they have stated publicly that they should have the bomb, they have centrifuges, and they have military nuclear plants that have been off limits to inspectors. Obviously they are developing nukes. Both the CIA and Israel's MOSSAD have operatives in Iran, sabotaging the nuclear project, and have done for years.
Now Saudi Arabia and Egypt are seeking nuclear reactors in response to Iran. You may live in a fantasy bubble of peace and love, but the Arabs are not that stupid.
Benjamin Netanyahu exaggerations and lies undermine the very real concerns that many of us have about your country. We are concerned when we see a state with a history of oppression, a state that is only a nominal democracy, a state that is in fact a theocracy, doing significant research into highly enriched uranium, claiming it is for medical purposes. Clearly the reason that Iran wants this is to have the technology to build nuclear weapons. So clearly your nation has the desire to, at least, know how to build nuclear weapons.
The worst possible answer, however, would be for our country to attack you. This would give you the motivation to build a bomb, which you would do, which would then leave the conflict in a very dangerous place.
So we bargain. I'll settle for ten years of no nukes. Maybe in ten years we can be friends.
The worst possible answer, however, would be for our country to attack you. This would give you the motivation to build a bomb, which you would do, which would then leave the conflict in a very dangerous place.
So we bargain. I'll settle for ten years of no nukes. Maybe in ten years we can be friends.
43
"Clearly the reason that Iran wants this is to have the technology to build nuclear weapons. So clearly your nation has the desire to, at least, know how to build nuclear weapons."
Right there, you went from discourse to stating a personal opinion and conclusion based on, what? It is not at all clear, and the dissembling language resorted to "desire to, at least, know how to" treats Iran like ignorant children who want to learn adult secrets.
Iran has scientists who are as well educated as any in the West, and science has "known how" to build such things since 1945. That's why the US and Israel have been trying to kill some of them in recent years. Killing scientists to stop the advance of knowledge; hmm, sounds right in the Republican wheelhouse.
This is the same distant-threat argument that Bush/Cheney used to goad us into the Iraq invasion, that the enemy might have the ability to someday have a program that might ultimately bring about what we are being asked to fear here and now. It's always the same with right-wing fear mongering, that we should fear what might happen rather than addressing what is happening.
Mr. Netanyahu screeches (yet again) that the sky is falling, and Mr, Khoshroo calmly lays out facts, overarching principles, and a big-picture perspective. The sky hasn't fallen since the former started screeching nearly 20 years ago, and a factual rebuttal to the latter seems to be something that the Israeli hard-right's defenders simply cannot muster.
Right there, you went from discourse to stating a personal opinion and conclusion based on, what? It is not at all clear, and the dissembling language resorted to "desire to, at least, know how to" treats Iran like ignorant children who want to learn adult secrets.
Iran has scientists who are as well educated as any in the West, and science has "known how" to build such things since 1945. That's why the US and Israel have been trying to kill some of them in recent years. Killing scientists to stop the advance of knowledge; hmm, sounds right in the Republican wheelhouse.
This is the same distant-threat argument that Bush/Cheney used to goad us into the Iraq invasion, that the enemy might have the ability to someday have a program that might ultimately bring about what we are being asked to fear here and now. It's always the same with right-wing fear mongering, that we should fear what might happen rather than addressing what is happening.
Mr. Netanyahu screeches (yet again) that the sky is falling, and Mr, Khoshroo calmly lays out facts, overarching principles, and a big-picture perspective. The sky hasn't fallen since the former started screeching nearly 20 years ago, and a factual rebuttal to the latter seems to be something that the Israeli hard-right's defenders simply cannot muster.
1
So you are saying Iran does not try to develop the capacity to eventually build a nuclear bomb? Why hide thins and not allow inspectors into the facilities? Argentina has reactors, and a nuclear program and nobody is accusing her of trying to develop nuclear capabilities. And of course you have nothing to do with the bombing in Argentina that killed dozens of citizens in Buenos Aires, right?
You did not take Americans hostages a few years back, right? And BTY, good try, injecting ISIS into the equation. A good distraction to divert attention to your real plans. And who is a state that export terrorism? Let me give yhou a hint. It starts with I.
You did not take Americans hostages a few years back, right? And BTY, good try, injecting ISIS into the equation. A good distraction to divert attention to your real plans. And who is a state that export terrorism? Let me give yhou a hint. It starts with I.
13
Iran is a terrorist catalyst in the mid-east. A police state, killing and jailing those with opposition to the regime. False elections, brutal jails. Can you imagine their boldness once they have nuclear weapons. It is NOT Netanyahu who is unrealistic it is Gholamali Khoshroo. Iran was responsible for the killing of American Marines in Lebanon and Iraq. Current government of Iran, is brutal to their own people. This Op-Ed contributor is unrealistic. Iran is a danger for all.
19
You call Iran a police state but the rate of incarceration in Iran is only about a third of the rate of US. The US imprisons 707 people per 100,000. Iran imprisons 228.
3
You would have been already at the brink of having a nuclear device if it wasn't for the allies sabotage of your nuclear devices...I am talking about the virus in the programming which brought you back a couple of years. Also you would have had more capabilities if not the world would have boycotted you. The falling prices of oil also was a helpful tool, that worked against you for the lack of $$. The mistake to deal with you and give you 7 billion $ was a big mistake, but because of those facts you still do not have the nuclear device. You can lie as many times you want ,it will never be true because you repeat it. As Goebbels said you should continue to repeat lies and never tell the true...
9
Hey. He knows his own deception and what it serves, AIPAC members know and love it, and the American people, with the possible exception of the House of Chihuahuas in DC, know it.
16
AKA, I appreciate the imagery you evoke. A grand hall with 435 of them ... yelping, snarling, each of them compact and tiny, and generally useless, except possibly for entertainment purposes.
It's sad, though. We all deserve better.
It's sad, though. We all deserve better.
An Iranian official sounds eminently rational and sensible, while an Israeli prime minister (along with his political minions in the Republican party) sounds like a shrill chicken little.
What a turnabout.
What a turnabout.
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The truth is that the leaders of both countries need to go. Maybe it's naive, but my sense is that the regular people on both sides would rather see peace, not their leaders' posturing.
The posturing by Mr. Khoshroo is every bit as bad as the posturing by Mr. Netanyahu.
Mr Khoshroo's claims are in blatant contradiction to Iran's obvious desire to obtain nuclear capabilities unnecessary for peaceful purposes.
Mr. Netanyahu's hysterical claims make no mention of the clear fact that if Israel were to suffer any kind of nuclear attack, they could immediately put an end to a Farsi civilization that has existed for about 3000 years. Absent clear proof that Iran was not responsible for the attack, the would do so. Despite his own hysterical rantings, Mr. Ali Khamenei knows this.
Let the negotiations continue. Mistrust and verify is plain common sense. Sign a deal that barely lifts sanctions on Iran in exchange for intrusive inspections, and ease the sanctions over a long period based on full Iranian compliance.
At the same time slowly and inexorably wind down aid and military support to Israel until they stop stealing Arab lands and begin to roll back the illegal settlements.
Dan Kravitz
Mr Khoshroo's claims are in blatant contradiction to Iran's obvious desire to obtain nuclear capabilities unnecessary for peaceful purposes.
Mr. Netanyahu's hysterical claims make no mention of the clear fact that if Israel were to suffer any kind of nuclear attack, they could immediately put an end to a Farsi civilization that has existed for about 3000 years. Absent clear proof that Iran was not responsible for the attack, the would do so. Despite his own hysterical rantings, Mr. Ali Khamenei knows this.
Let the negotiations continue. Mistrust and verify is plain common sense. Sign a deal that barely lifts sanctions on Iran in exchange for intrusive inspections, and ease the sanctions over a long period based on full Iranian compliance.
At the same time slowly and inexorably wind down aid and military support to Israel until they stop stealing Arab lands and begin to roll back the illegal settlements.
Dan Kravitz
18
Yes, Iran truly is a peace loving nation, with freedom and respect for all.
The reason they want to go nuclear is that they really want to go green.
They are leading environmentalists!
The reason they want to go nuclear is that they really want to go green.
They are leading environmentalists!
41
So far, much like Iraq in 2003, they are in compliance with the treaty they signed. So what is the reason to go to war? That is ulitimately what the right wants right? You can't seriously expect that Iran will just capitulate without gaining some benefit in any deal. The actual facts on the ground do not support the right's war mongering position.
2
Yes, Israel is a peace loving nation, with freedom and respect for all.
The reason they *are* nuclear, are deliberately trying to scuttle US-Iranian negotiations and just inferred unilateral action in yesterday's speech is because they just want to be left alone.
They are a beacon of democracy!
The reason they *are* nuclear, are deliberately trying to scuttle US-Iranian negotiations and just inferred unilateral action in yesterday's speech is because they just want to be left alone.
They are a beacon of democracy!
1
Right...and Israel is really going to stop illegal settlements and agree to a viable Palestinian state. They are leading peacemakers!
1
I would trust Mr. Netanyahu with my safety a lot more than Mr. Obama or Mr. Kerry. Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism and would love to blow Israel and the US off the map.
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If you have more trust in Netanyahu, then you should go live in Israel, Bill. As for me, I'm staying put. Mr. Obama brought this country back from the brink of economic collapse, and there has not been a successful attack on this country since he took office. Compare that to Mr. Bush's malfeasance: 2,996 dead in 9/11. Good luck trying to find housing in Tel Aviv.
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Perhaps you forget that the US overthrew the legitimate government of Iran and installed a dictator, the Shah.
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Bill, Iran has troops on the ground in Ira fighting ISIS. Does Israel?
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Why are my tax dollars being thrown into the black hole of Middle East religious politics? Iran could show real leadership in the world if they abandon a nuclear program, which is more inclined to hurt their own people/country than Israel or America. Look at the nuclear plant nightmare in Japan after the Tsunami. Look at Chernobyl. Entire cities had to be shut down and the nuclear waste will be here for centuries. Perhaps Iran's leaders will join President Obama and other world leaders to lead us to sanity in the world? If not now, when?
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Iran has many small and sometimes large earthquakes, no? They have lots of oil. Why do they want a lot of nuclear power?
@njglea
Perhaps Israel could start leading this march to sanity - after all, that's where most of our tax dollars are thrown.
Perhaps Israel could start leading this march to sanity - after all, that's where most of our tax dollars are thrown.
I know there's a large peace movement within Israel and I hope it continues to win enlightened converts who can turn the nation around. Mr. Netanyahu's slanted pitch to our U.S. Congress leaves me in despair and reinforces for me reasons to quit subsidizing Israel. This U.S. taxpayer wants to know -- what progress is this investment actually achieving toward peace and fairness in the Middle East?
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Ann, where's the Arab and Muslim peace movement? Slanted pitch? You want some slant, just look at the article you're responding to. Iran and those it supports want every Jew in Israel dead and are doing everything they can to make it happen. Israel is a pluralistic democracy with over 2 million Arab citizens who have full and equal rights, full political representation and plenty of their own political parties, an Arab Israeli on the supreme court and much more. Peace and fairness? How about demanding that Iran recognize Israel, stops making threats, stop supporting terror and enter into negotiations with Israel and with the other Middle East States without preconditions- as Israel has agreed to do over and over? And do let me know when you find the Arab/Iranian Peace Movement- those members of it who are still alive that is.
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To answer your question: none!!
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I bet there is a large peace movement inside Iran, but the Ambassador's bosses suppress it was well as virtually all freedom of expression. I wonder which Tehran newspaper would print an Op / Ed piece by a US Ambassador expressing dismay about the Ayatollah's ridiculous denial of the holocaust, not to mention other histrionic mis-representation of facts? That said, I salute the NYT for inviting Mr. Khoshroo to present his views as it which contributes positively to the debate.
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Dick Cheney stated three days before U.S.-led coalition forces invaded Iraq that Iraq “has reconstituted nuclear weapons.” Yet U.S. and other intelligence officials disagreed.
Netanyahu doesn't have "proof" either and his evidence is contrived.
The Bush administration claimed that Iraq was attempting to acquire uranium from Niger. Intelligence officials expressed reservations.
In October 2002 the NIE claimed that Iraq was attempting to obtain aluminum tubes and magnets to use in a centrifuge for uranium-enrichment. An IAEA investigation stated that “there is no indication that Iraq has attempted to import aluminum tubes for use in a centrifuge..."
The Bush administration claimed that Sadam Hussein was meeting with top nuclear weapons experts and maintained scientific knowledge to produce nuclear weapons. Intelligence reports stated that "no solid evidence indicated Iraq’s scientists were rejuvenating Iraq’s nuclear weapons program..."
The Bush Administration told a total (?) of about 900 lies to carrot and stick the U.S. into war; war that ultimately killed, displace, and physically or mentally or culturally maimed millions for absolutely no reason other than ideological pathology.
Israel, U.S. and other nation's citizens should be incredibly circumspect of stories told about Iran by Mr. Netanyahu, and U.S. Conservatives, who, despite being in key leadership positions, are as capable of lying in the interest of belief as were Bush Administration officials.
.
Netanyahu doesn't have "proof" either and his evidence is contrived.
The Bush administration claimed that Iraq was attempting to acquire uranium from Niger. Intelligence officials expressed reservations.
In October 2002 the NIE claimed that Iraq was attempting to obtain aluminum tubes and magnets to use in a centrifuge for uranium-enrichment. An IAEA investigation stated that “there is no indication that Iraq has attempted to import aluminum tubes for use in a centrifuge..."
The Bush administration claimed that Sadam Hussein was meeting with top nuclear weapons experts and maintained scientific knowledge to produce nuclear weapons. Intelligence reports stated that "no solid evidence indicated Iraq’s scientists were rejuvenating Iraq’s nuclear weapons program..."
The Bush Administration told a total (?) of about 900 lies to carrot and stick the U.S. into war; war that ultimately killed, displace, and physically or mentally or culturally maimed millions for absolutely no reason other than ideological pathology.
Israel, U.S. and other nation's citizens should be incredibly circumspect of stories told about Iran by Mr. Netanyahu, and U.S. Conservatives, who, despite being in key leadership positions, are as capable of lying in the interest of belief as were Bush Administration officials.
.
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These boys will fight Iran to your last child. But their children will not see combat.
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You are omitting mention of the role of the UN agency head whose first report re Iraq's nuclear capabilities was alarming. By the time he came back with a second and less accusatory report it was too late. You also omit how many politicians in Congress voted for the invasion of Iraq.
Netanyahu doesn't claim that Iran has nuclear weapons or is currently building nuclear weapons. He claims that lifting restrictions on Iran's nuclear power plant program will give it the weapons grade uranium that it could use and will use to make nuclear weapons. He pointed out that this was how North Korea built its nuclear arsenal. No one doubts that Iran could build nuclear weapons once it has enough centrifuges.
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I'm sure, given the American tradition of hearing both sides in a full debate, that Mr. Khoshroo will also be invited by the Republicans to address congress and present Iran's side of the issue. After all, it has no reason to distrust America....
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Nor does America have any reason to distrust Iran....
If invited by the Republicans, which I doubt very much, he should be also given a standing ovation similar to the one given to Netanyahu.
Sarcasm . . . I like it.
A simple question for the Ambassador: "Does Israel have the right to exist within safe and secure borders?" Also, is Iran in a state-of-war with Israel?
Thanks for the favour of a reply.
Thanks for the favour of a reply.
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They are perfectly welcome to say "no". The real question is what means they adopt to this end. Feel the same way re China and Taiwan.
Yes, within its internationally recognized borders or its borders before 1967 war. Iran has never been in state of war with Israel. Where did you hear that?
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'Safe and secure borders ' is an utterly meaningless term,paddled by right wingers.
Every state has a right to live safely WITHIN ITS BORDERS. in Israel's case nobody knows where those borders are. Furthermore, nobody has a right to create their 'safety' by displacing others.
Every state has a right to live safely WITHIN ITS BORDERS. in Israel's case nobody knows where those borders are. Furthermore, nobody has a right to create their 'safety' by displacing others.
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Great article, but you must take into account that the speech was delivered to a Republican Congress. It didn't need to be factual or even accurate. History and logic are ignored by these people as if it were a job requirement. It was an anti-Obama speech. He had them at hello. The more you make sense the further you get from their reality. Deception is sustanance to the Republican Congress.
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See Rick, the problem is they were elected by the American people.
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You're right and you could say the same about Netanyahu and the Israeli govrnment
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Right on. I'm surprised they didn't have Bill O'Reilly as the opening act for Bibi.
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Interesting times when Israel has less credibility than Iran.
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At last, people in the US are starting to know the truth about Israel. It has been more than a century that Iran has not attacked any neighbor. All its wars were defensive. But Israel never stopped aggressing its neighbors and even the Palestinians whose lands and homes it occupies and those who are its citizens
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Israel has less credibility than Iran? Only for fools. I cannot see who can believe to Islamo-fascists who deny Holocaust and have the same goal as Hitler, a destruction of Israel.
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Indeed, probably even less than Putin
One other thing: Israel has 200+ nukes which it refuses to acknowledge.
Israel has every right to not want Iran to have nuclear weapons. That would be an existential threat to its existence.
So how do Palestinians and other Arab neighbors feel about Israel's nuclear weapons? I know - Israel has shown no inclination to use them.
But Israel's hard right extremist population is growing. Who can predict what a future extreme government might decide to do?
Israel has every right to not want Iran to have nuclear weapons. That would be an existential threat to its existence.
So how do Palestinians and other Arab neighbors feel about Israel's nuclear weapons? I know - Israel has shown no inclination to use them.
But Israel's hard right extremist population is growing. Who can predict what a future extreme government might decide to do?
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There was an existential threat to me throughout my childhood and most of my adult life - i.e. nuclear war with the Soviet Union. We here in the US lived with it for years - it was the only practical thing to do. What entitles Mr. Netanyahu and Israel to immediate relief of their concerns?
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magnificent and says it all
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What you said about Israel's not having any inclination to use its nukes shows the logic behind Iranian's affirmations that they do not want to have them because they are useless: nobody these days can win by using nuclear devices.
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Iran is building ballistic missiles, and to what end?
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Why do India, Israel, Pakistan, China and France-- to sample a few-- have them? Because all the cool kids do. That and "strategic considerations".
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This has not been shown or even indicated.
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Today's right-wing talking point.
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Right-wingers rely on blatant lies to elicit support from the uninformed.
They can't win a debate using actual facts, so they make facts up. It's impossible to discuss issues with people who use these tactics because -- if you allow yourself to be drawn in -- you spend all of your time arguing about what the facts are and never get to discussing what to do about what is actually true.
They can't win a debate using actual facts, so they make facts up. It's impossible to discuss issues with people who use these tactics because -- if you allow yourself to be drawn in -- you spend all of your time arguing about what the facts are and never get to discussing what to do about what is actually true.
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"Facts" always get in the way of opinion. Unfortunately, Bibi does not seem to have a strategy other than "bombing Iran". Maybe he just wants to be re-elected!
The past is the past, it cannot be changed (though I grant you it can be re-written by the victors). Analysis of the Iranian Nuclear program changes as progress is made or not...so given the current US assessment, "jawing" is the only path forward at this point in time.
It was interesting to watch the US stock market fall during the "speech" - I think warring is inimical to profitable business. Only through global peace (and understanding) can we on a small world expect to strive for better times and thrive. By carefully and deliberately interlocking all humans through a intricate web of trade, knowledge sharing, co-existing, we can all help to build a better peaceful place.
The past is the past, it cannot be changed (though I grant you it can be re-written by the victors). Analysis of the Iranian Nuclear program changes as progress is made or not...so given the current US assessment, "jawing" is the only path forward at this point in time.
It was interesting to watch the US stock market fall during the "speech" - I think warring is inimical to profitable business. Only through global peace (and understanding) can we on a small world expect to strive for better times and thrive. By carefully and deliberately interlocking all humans through a intricate web of trade, knowledge sharing, co-existing, we can all help to build a better peaceful place.
How are you so skeptical of right-wing American politicians but so bamboozled when the Iranian ambassador to the UN publishes a piece in the NY Times? Let's remember who this is. This is the ambassador of a truly evil government that is the largest theocracy in the world.
(For some reason, NY Times commenters are brave in the face of nuclear weapons but cower in fear when a “theocracy” is mentioned.)
(For some reason, NY Times commenters are brave in the face of nuclear weapons but cower in fear when a “theocracy” is mentioned.)
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Anonymous:
"Who this is" makes Netanyahu's lies not lies?
What universe do you live in?
"Who this is" makes Netanyahu's lies not lies?
What universe do you live in?
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
Thank you for taking the time to submit your op/ed piece which should certainly provide food for thought to the enemies of your leaders and our's who are presently representing some of the more benighted corners of these United States. One pertinent question, however: I don't presume to speak/dissemble for the Prime Minister of Israel but can't we at least acknowledge that there is some validity to the point he makes that the country in which he lives has a right to feel threatened by your country? Although it's true that none of Iran's leaders has directly spoken of a personal inclination to destroy the state of Israel it is also the case that your former P.M., Mr. Ahmadinejad, opined that Israel would ultimately be destroyed and that your Supreme Leader. Ayatollah Khameini, and his predecessor, the late Ayatollah Khomeini, have also referred to that nation as "illegitimate" and have called for its destruction in time and by nations unnamed. My question to you, Mr. Ambassador (and to your Supreme Leader) can be summed up as follows: What can or should be done to assure the citizens of Israel that Iran has no plan and no intention to wage preemptive war against the Jewish
state? Further, would Iran be ready to recognize Israel and to engage in normal, peaceful relations with that country if and when an agreement is reached with the Palestinian Arabs to establish an independent state that would coexist peacefully with the Jewish state?
Sincerely
Thank you for taking the time to submit your op/ed piece which should certainly provide food for thought to the enemies of your leaders and our's who are presently representing some of the more benighted corners of these United States. One pertinent question, however: I don't presume to speak/dissemble for the Prime Minister of Israel but can't we at least acknowledge that there is some validity to the point he makes that the country in which he lives has a right to feel threatened by your country? Although it's true that none of Iran's leaders has directly spoken of a personal inclination to destroy the state of Israel it is also the case that your former P.M., Mr. Ahmadinejad, opined that Israel would ultimately be destroyed and that your Supreme Leader. Ayatollah Khameini, and his predecessor, the late Ayatollah Khomeini, have also referred to that nation as "illegitimate" and have called for its destruction in time and by nations unnamed. My question to you, Mr. Ambassador (and to your Supreme Leader) can be summed up as follows: What can or should be done to assure the citizens of Israel that Iran has no plan and no intention to wage preemptive war against the Jewish
state? Further, would Iran be ready to recognize Israel and to engage in normal, peaceful relations with that country if and when an agreement is reached with the Palestinian Arabs to establish an independent state that would coexist peacefully with the Jewish state?
Sincerely
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I think we have to question what the leaders of Iran mean by the destruction of Israel.
Are they calling for a military type destruction, some kind of armed conflict, or political destruction? At present it has appeared at times as if Israel is on a road to its own end. It occupation of Palestinian lands, its apartheid behavior, the general hatred of Palestinians among the Israeli population, all have the potential to lead to the end of Israel as an independent country.
It has become detested by it neighboring countries, not because they are Jews, but because of their relationships with the Arabic and Islamic countries. It is true, modern Islam is intolerant of Judaism, it has been a conflict for 14 centuries. Yet Jews did live in Islamic countries, and in Iran in particular. It was not until the Islamic revolution in Iran that the Jews were no longer welcome there.
The Jews insistence that God gave them Israel, does not make them friends either. Their belief that they are justified in evicting people from their ancestral lands is oppressive, along with the indiscriminate killing of non combatants, women and children, businesses, travel restrictions, stealing taxes owed to them which are needed to pay their police and teachers, just might have something to do with the Palestinians throwing bombs at them.
Are they calling for a military type destruction, some kind of armed conflict, or political destruction? At present it has appeared at times as if Israel is on a road to its own end. It occupation of Palestinian lands, its apartheid behavior, the general hatred of Palestinians among the Israeli population, all have the potential to lead to the end of Israel as an independent country.
It has become detested by it neighboring countries, not because they are Jews, but because of their relationships with the Arabic and Islamic countries. It is true, modern Islam is intolerant of Judaism, it has been a conflict for 14 centuries. Yet Jews did live in Islamic countries, and in Iran in particular. It was not until the Islamic revolution in Iran that the Jews were no longer welcome there.
The Jews insistence that God gave them Israel, does not make them friends either. Their belief that they are justified in evicting people from their ancestral lands is oppressive, along with the indiscriminate killing of non combatants, women and children, businesses, travel restrictions, stealing taxes owed to them which are needed to pay their police and teachers, just might have something to do with the Palestinians throwing bombs at them.
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I agree with you on most points but be informed that Jews continue to live in Iran (though certainly in smaller numbers than previously) and are not subject to official discrimination. There remain a number of active synagogues (I visited one in Isfahan) and there is a seat reserved in the Majlis to represent the interests of the country's Jewish community.
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And they donated $400,000 a year or 2 ago for a Jewish hospital. As much as I disagree with many of their policies and actions there is no question they treat their minorities better than israel does.
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Netanyahu and Boehner may have shot themselves, or maybe one another, in the foot here. Did they really think this speech was going to make a difference in the negotiations? Or maybe Boehner is using BIbi as cover for his having to let a clean DHS bill have a vote. Don't think it will throw them off, but nice try.
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No, anyone who has followed Mr Obama's confident estimation of his own utterly amateurish and dangerous policies will not expect any change in negotiations with Iran. Rather, Prime Minister Netanyahu's convincing critique will make more likely the election of a serious, realistic and strong President in 2016. How reassuring it would be to see Mr Obama leaving town in the company of a sobbing Nancy Pelosi and deflated Valerie Jarret. The later might proceed to recover in her place of birth -- Teheran.
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Even if what half of what Mr. Khoshroo says is true, we can see what is behind Iran's rhetoric, that they want to eliminate Israel
As I have asked many times here, what if Iran did make a nuke or two, what good would it do them? Would they be so stupid as to start a nuclear war. They are well aware, the U.S. would have a multiple warhead ICBM on the way, the minute they used one.
The real threat is a country that has the capability to make a suitcase sized one. Iran already has the knowledge to build a nuke, they are the best educated Islamic country. It would not be the perceived enemy it is, if it had not been for the overthrow of its democratically elected government, engineered by Eisenhower and Churchill, for the benefit of British Petroleum.
Bad policy comes back to make you pay for it, like Chile, Nicaragua, Iraq, Viet Nam, even Cuba. Maybe, just Maybe, Mr.Obama can break that streak of self defeating behavior, despite the GOP's actions to undermine him. They do not want him to get any credit for bringing some kind of peace to the Middle East, they have made it their mission to prevent him for getting credit for anything positive.
Israel under Netanyahu is an impediment to peace in that part of the world, and Boehner is trying to capitalize on it. The GOP has become a zoo of Boo Birds.
As I have asked many times here, what if Iran did make a nuke or two, what good would it do them? Would they be so stupid as to start a nuclear war. They are well aware, the U.S. would have a multiple warhead ICBM on the way, the minute they used one.
The real threat is a country that has the capability to make a suitcase sized one. Iran already has the knowledge to build a nuke, they are the best educated Islamic country. It would not be the perceived enemy it is, if it had not been for the overthrow of its democratically elected government, engineered by Eisenhower and Churchill, for the benefit of British Petroleum.
Bad policy comes back to make you pay for it, like Chile, Nicaragua, Iraq, Viet Nam, even Cuba. Maybe, just Maybe, Mr.Obama can break that streak of self defeating behavior, despite the GOP's actions to undermine him. They do not want him to get any credit for bringing some kind of peace to the Middle East, they have made it their mission to prevent him for getting credit for anything positive.
Israel under Netanyahu is an impediment to peace in that part of the world, and Boehner is trying to capitalize on it. The GOP has become a zoo of Boo Birds.
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That's why they gave him a bust of Churchill as a gift. Churchill also bamboozled the American public for many years.
As for the last paragraph of Mr. Underwood's comment, let's remember that the Palestinians rejected several deals from other Israeli administrations. Those offers were the best opportunity for peace.
Yes, past US policy in Iran was short-sighted. That is not Israel's problem nor should that country pay for it. Neville Chamberlain's "peace in our time" was short-sighted, too. We should trust Iran and its leaders as much as the Third Reich.
And by the way, I am a Democrat and voted for Mr. Obama, twice. I object to the GOP's playing politics with good policy. However, I don't have to agree with all of the President's policies. That is what a democracy is about.
Yes, past US policy in Iran was short-sighted. That is not Israel's problem nor should that country pay for it. Neville Chamberlain's "peace in our time" was short-sighted, too. We should trust Iran and its leaders as much as the Third Reich.
And by the way, I am a Democrat and voted for Mr. Obama, twice. I object to the GOP's playing politics with good policy. However, I don't have to agree with all of the President's policies. That is what a democracy is about.
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Bad policy like Carter in Iran, Clinton in North Korea and Obama in Syria or Libya?
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Bush, Cheney, a Rice, Powell, Rumsfeld, McCain, and now Bibi. The song is always the same. Exaggerations and lies to justify war. I think like most Americans, and increasingly more, I've really had it with these people. They might be evil war profiteers or might be honestly deluded or just built differently than your average, mostly moral person. I don't care anymore. I'm done with them all. Like they say about other addicts, when these folks' lips are moving, it's just proof they're lying again. They should all live in a military dictatorship where they'd all find a home.
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I agree wholeheartedly.
I can't, however, understand how a war-monger like Netanyahu continues to be referred to by a childish pet name.
This isn't a school playground and the actions of bullies like Netanyahu shouldn't be qualified by the use of a cloying nickname.
I can't, however, understand how a war-monger like Netanyahu continues to be referred to by a childish pet name.
This isn't a school playground and the actions of bullies like Netanyahu shouldn't be qualified by the use of a cloying nickname.
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agree !
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I'd leave Powell (and maybe McCain) out of that list ... Otherwise, Amen!
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