This will not work out well for the Israeli's.
1
My goodness! As old Ralph Waldo said,
"The horseman serves the horse,
The neat-herd serves the neat,
The merchant serves the purse,
The eater serves his meat;
‘Tis the day of the chattel,
Web to weave, and corn to grind,
Things are in the saddle,
And ride mankind."
And these guys already have atom bombs! Whos afraid of Iran!
"The horseman serves the horse,
The neat-herd serves the neat,
The merchant serves the purse,
The eater serves his meat;
‘Tis the day of the chattel,
Web to weave, and corn to grind,
Things are in the saddle,
And ride mankind."
And these guys already have atom bombs! Whos afraid of Iran!
2
We in USA haw to respect Israel election choice, as well as, formation of Netanyahu new Government but it don't mean that we can't adjust our relation with Israel according to compatibility of our and Israel new government policy towards Middle East in general and Palestinians problem and Two state solution in particular. In other words, less compatibility – less of our financial, economic, military aid and diplomatic support and protections in UN, UNSC and other political International World forums.
3
We in USA haw to respect Israel election choice, as well as, formation of Netanyahu new Government but it don't mean that we can't adjust our relation with Israel according to compatibility of our and Israel new government policy towards Middle East in general and Palestinians problem and Two state solution in particular. In other words, less compatibility – less of our financial, economic, military aid and diplomatic support and protections in UN, UNSC and other political International World forums.
When is the American Jewish comrmunity going to cut itself from Netanyahu and agree to support South African sanctions against Israel on apartheid, if need be.
It will not be needed. One article by Friedman that called for sanctions to save the Jewish character of Israel (Friedman's position) supported by somone like Dennis Ross would bring down the government and result in an independent Palestine state--which the US desperately needs.
Obama should do it on his own, or the Nobel Peace Prize is going to be the symbol of a failed presidency.
It will not be needed. One article by Friedman that called for sanctions to save the Jewish character of Israel (Friedman's position) supported by somone like Dennis Ross would bring down the government and result in an independent Palestine state--which the US desperately needs.
Obama should do it on his own, or the Nobel Peace Prize is going to be the symbol of a failed presidency.
3
Well now, it's good to see that the Times Jerusalem bureau chief and her reporter scored two pieces today, an analysis and a news piece about Israel's new government--both attempting to feign journalism for a change and quote critics as well. But there was no mention of the new government’s intentions regarding the Palestinians, nor how the sitting prime minister is going to address what he just a day or two ago called a “deep problem” of racism in Israel. Moreover there was a conscious effort to heavily soften the bent of the new “minister of Justice”, Ayelet Shaked. A quote from this story: “[Ayelet Shaked] is an outspoken hawk on the Palestinian issue who has described African asylum-seekers as a threat to Israel’s Jewish character and has pressed for a “nationality bill” that critics say would disenfranchise Arab citizens.” But left out of this story, a far more revealing quote from Ms. Shaked: “the entire Palestinian people is the enemy” and she called for its destruction, “including its elderly and its women, its cities and its villages, its property and its infrastructure.” But no hint at all in this story on how this more extremist right-wing “government” is going to deal with the Palestinians—no mention of them.
5
Marine Le Pen and her quasi-fascistic National Front party owe a lot to the new Israeli coalition as, by comparison, the FN appears as a group of moderate liberals.
1
I guess that now Bibi Netanyahu will be on the other end of finding out what "playing hardball" really means. I hope that he gets his fill of it; there is no one more deserving.
1
My understanding is that Netanyahu now has to convince a lot of people that what he wants is what they want. Good, it's about time he had to think beyond the scope of his zone of comfort.
Israelis confirmed their choice of a ultra nationalistic religious government led by Benyamin Netanyahu. The only relevant question is how the future government will relate to the Oval Office occupant. If the GOP or Hillary Clinton win the presidency in 2016, the future looks bright for Bibi.
5
Netanyahu represents the victory of smug power-grabbing duplicity and his cobbled together "government" will last as long as his 'integrity' does.
3
Mr Netanyahu and his government should recognize the right to dignity of the Palestinian peoples
4
Benjamin Netanyahu,caves in to demands of Jewish Home chairman Naftali Bennett and forms a new even more right wing Israeli government.
This will inevitably lead to more Jewish settlements in Palestine, more repression of Palestinians, continuing blockade of Gaza, irrevocable abandonment of the already moribund "two State Solution", more tensions in the occupied territories of Palestine, in the West Bank and in Jerusalem. The western world should isolate Israel and the United Nations should admit Palestine as a nation State.
The region, and the world has entered a new and more dangerous condition which will sooner rather than later lead to more bloodshed and conflict between Jews and Arabs. If the "International Community" do nothing to cajole, persuade or pressurise Israel into making rapid progress towards a settlement, the Palestinian people will have no alternatives than to fight and fight with all means at their command.
This will inevitably lead to more Jewish settlements in Palestine, more repression of Palestinians, continuing blockade of Gaza, irrevocable abandonment of the already moribund "two State Solution", more tensions in the occupied territories of Palestine, in the West Bank and in Jerusalem. The western world should isolate Israel and the United Nations should admit Palestine as a nation State.
The region, and the world has entered a new and more dangerous condition which will sooner rather than later lead to more bloodshed and conflict between Jews and Arabs. If the "International Community" do nothing to cajole, persuade or pressurise Israel into making rapid progress towards a settlement, the Palestinian people will have no alternatives than to fight and fight with all means at their command.
2
We in USA haw to respect Israel election choice, as well as, formation of Netanyahu new Government but it don't mean that we can't adjust our relation with Israel according to compatibility of our and Israel new government policy towards Middle East in general and Palestinians problem and Two state solution in particular. In other words, less compatibility – less of our financial, economic, military aid and diplomatic support and protections in UN, UNSC and other political International World forums.
1
Israel does not have a government. It has a collection of rightwing, extra rightwing, extra-extra rightwing groups and religious zealots. Bibi has allied himself with far, far right Ha-Bayit Ha-Yedudi whose leader not only wants to deport all the original Palestinian residents of the land but even refers to fellow-Israeli leftists as “bacteria”. Practically all parties in this coalition oppose ever accepting a Palestinian state, and are in favor of stealing more Palestinian land. If such a government were elected in Europe or anywhere else in the world it would be called a fascist government and would be shunned by all. I can’t wait for the next time Boehner invites the leader of this bizarre group of extremists to address the joint session of Congress and give him a few more standing ovations. America has some strange friends.
7
Benjamin Netanyahu is still the Prime Minister of Israel because, quite frankly, I believe the average Israeli is sick and tired of the Palestinians and they don't want to hear about "two state solutions" any more. Israelis also have good reason to be worried about Iran. I believe the average Israeli is also sick and tired to death of hearing their country described as a cruel apartheid nation. It's sooooo easy for outsiders who don't live in the danger zone to make snide remarks about Benjamin Netanyahu. But, at the end of the day, returning Benjamin Netanyahu to serve another term in the Knesset was the only choice Israel had left. It's all about Israel's survival.
3
In regards to the Palestinians, Bibi's new government means essentially no change. What I'm curious about is whether the ultra-Orthodox parties will leverage their position in that government to further exempt the ultra-Orthodox from fully participating in Israel life while enjoying its benefits.
The immediate calls to repeal the laws drafting more ultra-Orthodox into the military and easing requirements for conversion to Judaism bode ill, I think. The ultra-Orthodox are loyal to Judaism, not to Israel, and giving them more political clout can reinforce their separation from the responsibilities inherent to citizenship.
The immediate calls to repeal the laws drafting more ultra-Orthodox into the military and easing requirements for conversion to Judaism bode ill, I think. The ultra-Orthodox are loyal to Judaism, not to Israel, and giving them more political clout can reinforce their separation from the responsibilities inherent to citizenship.
1
Nonsense. The draft law actually reduced the number of the very religious in tha army, which may have been its goal. The army wants willing soldiers. The issue is too complex for NYT readers, apparantly.
2
With contradictions abound, instead of offering serious governance to the people of Israel the Humpty Dumpy like fragile government under Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to be on a perpetual mode of balancing itself against any threat from within and without, putting self-survival above everything.
4
So tell me Professor Sharma how are things between India and Pakistan now? Was that pesky Kashmir situation finally resolved after so many years of strife between India and Pakistan?
1
This is good news for the left. This coalition will collapse in a matter of months.
5
Bibi Netanyahu is intent on grabbing the maximum amount of West Bank land. That's why he has no interest in negotiating a settlement with the Palestinians; a true, negotiated peace deal would force Israel to stop stealing land.
Israeli voters have again turned-away from Yitzhak Rabin's admirable legacy.
Israeli voters have again turned-away from Yitzhak Rabin's admirable legacy.
9
I am always astounded that a man like Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated. He was such a man of peace, and gave the world such hope for the healing of very old wrongs. I still mourn Mr. Rabin. I hope we will see his like again.
9
Jews are stealing Judea? It is Arabs that are occupying Jewish land, as anyone familiar with the Book of Books knows.
2
During the entirety of his political career Mr. Netanyahu has been the embodiment of the ancient belief that with small and timid minds no reat things are ever accomplished.
2
If Mr. Kahalon of Kulanu as Minister of Finance is successful in even a small part of his reform program then the government will prevail.
Mr. Herzog prevented his party two days from holding an internal vote to decide against joining the government under any conditions.
If Kahalon succeeds Mr. Herzog and his party will join in a few months. If Mr. Kahalon does not succeed it makes no difference.
As for the rest, Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Herzog basically are the same on major issues; they just say it differently and most Israelis really do not care if the Supreme Court is activist or not or minimalist or maximalist in its interpretation of Israel's Basic Laws (as there is no constitution).
Mr. Herzog prevented his party two days from holding an internal vote to decide against joining the government under any conditions.
If Kahalon succeeds Mr. Herzog and his party will join in a few months. If Mr. Kahalon does not succeed it makes no difference.
As for the rest, Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Herzog basically are the same on major issues; they just say it differently and most Israelis really do not care if the Supreme Court is activist or not or minimalist or maximalist in its interpretation of Israel's Basic Laws (as there is no constitution).
4
Israelis increasingly turn to racism and colonialism to sustain the state. In that and with this extremist government, they are no different than a fractured lebanon. Support from the united states and the european union will be completely undermined with the new israeli lebenstraum. Perhaps they can fight on like a latter day sparta, but I see perilous days ahead for a more radicalized israel.
10
He'll be fine. Obviously the majority of Israelis share his views on Arabs and Palestine, so in addition to the 61 seats he now has, he can also rely upon the six seats of Lieberman's party. And the Americans will pay for it all!
8
A wise man Netanyahu ain't,
His predictions oft' have a taint,
His crude POTUS dissing,
Showed wisdom was missing,
His government's chances seem faint.
His predictions oft' have a taint,
His crude POTUS dissing,
Showed wisdom was missing,
His government's chances seem faint.
9
How do you say "prostitute" in Yiddish?
8
It appears that Israel and the US must literally and figuratively be joined at the hip. Literally, whatever Israel wants from us Israel gets from us regardless if is in our own interest or theirs. Figuratively, just because our legislative democratic government is completely ideologically fractured and divided yielding an essentially inoperable government, isn't it only natural that Israel's should become so as well, just to remain in keeping with its big and hairy twin brother?
Suddenly all those biblical stories regarding twins are beginning to sound not that far fetched anymore.
Suddenly all those biblical stories regarding twins are beginning to sound not that far fetched anymore.
8
After he appeared in Congress, his American favorable ratings fell by 7%, and his negative ratings rose by 5%. Americans now have a largely negative view of Netanyahu, which can't help Israel. We don't like him because he inserted himself into a toxic domestic political environment, on the side of the 47% who voted Republican. He now has a fragile domestic coalition, which he purchased by alienating more than half of Americans, most of whom were favorably disposed towards Israel, until Netanyahu embarrassed a President we admire.
Why is he like Churchill? Randolph, maybe, but not Winston.
Why is he like Churchill? Randolph, maybe, but not Winston.
17
Really? Americans admire Barak Obama?
1
Now that Netanyahu has formed a coalition with parties urging more settlements and opposed to a Palestinian state, will he drop the absurd pretense that he didn't mean what he clearly said he did to win the election?
And will the United States continue to give political and diplomatic cover for this?
And will the United States continue to give political and diplomatic cover for this?
27
The Israeli people have all but given up on negotiating a settlement with the P.A. Most Israelis were wildly optimistic about a negotiated resolution in 2000 but by 2005 even the majority of left leaning Israelis recognized that there will never be peace with the Arab world and that hostilities will never end. Israel will continue to contain the Arab population on territories it conquered from Jordan and Egypt. Anything else is a recipe for international conflict or civil war.
4
Make no mistake. There can be no negotiation with such a vast imbalance in power relations. What do Palestinians have to negotiate with? The Boycott Divestment and Sanctions movement must prevail to restore balance and new community leaders will rise (or be released from Israeli prisons where they are held under administrative detention!) and there will be one state because it is already one state with Israel sitting on top of/inside Historic Palestine. One democratic secular state. Not an ethno-theocratic Jewish supremacy.
It's a bit late now, but the Palestinians could offer what Israelis have always wanted: Adoption of the idea of two states for two peoples, meaning a permanent settlement, in which Palestinians would give up the right of immigration to Israel, which would be acknowledged as the homeland for the Jewish people. Palestinians who wanted to would immigrate to the new state of Palestine, borders to be determined but based on the territory held by Jordan and Egypt before the 1967 war. This is what the Palestinian side has always rejected. Of course, given everything going on in the disputed territories, Israeli politics, and especially the surrounding countries, it all seems pretty hopeless now. As always we should remember that other than Lebanon, all of the surrounding states and the Palestinian Authority enshrine Islam as their official religion. Israel doesn't do that. It is actually much more secular and obviously more democratic than the PA or any other country in the region. As far as the ethnic thing goes: Yes, the Kurds would like a Kurdish state and the Irish like having an Irish state, and the Palestinians want not just another Arab state but a Palestinian Arab one, and the Jewish people also want to maintain their own independent state, a small one in their historic homeland.
1
Sadly, this government is only reinforcing the fact that Israel has become a very right wing racist government, which has no interest in peace or ending the illegal and immoral occupation. In fact this government will have members that flat out call for ethnic cleansing of Palestininas.
22
Is Netanyahu the Nixon of Israel, someone willing to do anything to further his immediate political interests? It looks like that from here, and I wouldn't be at all surprised to see him meet the same disgrace.
21
Is it just me but isn't there an elephant in the room? The generally instransigent opposing views on who's in the right about the Israeli-Palestinian divide result from that part of the world being at the physical intersection of two opposing ethics? The one inspired by the Judeo-Christian deal and the other by the Islamic deal? Two traditionally adversarial cultures (but not mono-cultures within each of them) seeking the same patch of land?
Is there any conceivable solution in realpolitic that doesn't suggest elimination or subjugation/marginalization of one group by the other? Something not out of la la land? Where are there examples of non-homogenous populations living interspersed with manageable frictions?
Is there any conceivable solution in realpolitic that doesn't suggest elimination or subjugation/marginalization of one group by the other? Something not out of la la land? Where are there examples of non-homogenous populations living interspersed with manageable frictions?
4
They were just that before the turn of the last century in Palestime. Peaceful cohabitation of one land with a Muslim majority. When European Jews started pouring in, with the creation of Israel in the pipeline, everything changed. Colonization will do that. The indigenous Jews Christians and Muslims suffered because of this. Palestinian Jews were assimilated, but the other Palestinians were victims of dispossession and genocide.
I guess it's true . . . even when you win you lose.
2
Seems like the Israelis, who almost got used to having elections every two years, will have to get used to them every six months.
10
This government will thankfully be short-lived.
It will either implode from xenophobia or one of Bibi's right wing partners will resign anytime there is cooperation with the US on anything having to do with the Palestinians.
It will either implode from xenophobia or one of Bibi's right wing partners will resign anytime there is cooperation with the US on anything having to do with the Palestinians.
12
“In every other country, if the largest party has 30 seats, this is ridiculous, this is not a victory,” added Professor Rahat, referring to the number of seats that Mr. Netanyahu’s Likud Party won. “In the Israeli context it’s become a large victory, but 30 seats is having a quarter of the legislature — in normal countries such a result is the best loser. We have a problem with our government system and this fragmentation.”
Not - the Netherlands, it's not.
Not - the Netherlands, it's not.
3
“Nobody in his right mind believes that this will hold for even a short time,” says Eytan Gilboa. That doesn't cover too many of Israeli voters who created this mess.
5
The world already doesn't trust Bibi. Putting together a coalition that proves his lies was probably one of the stupidest thing he could do. But I guess it scared him to even consider putting a Arab in Government after all if he did they might have had to actually discuss trying to make peace we all know no one there wants that only more settlements and that government will do what it can to achieve that. Just maybe the world will finally pu thier foot down and not support Israel in its hate campaign to make sure the Palestinians get nothing.
19
So Netanyahu managed a literally 11th-hour coalition with a nominal plurality and a fractured relationship with President Obama, those Jews worldwide who do not want the Prime Minister to speak for them, and the Israeli citizens he ostracized while campaigning; next, he'll pretend he has a mandate to act imperiously!
21
What causes a concern is that Netanyahu's new government includes two ultra-Orthodox parties - United Torah Judaism and Shas. Many of their supporters were outraged when the Knesset passed a law forcing ultra-Orthodox Jews to join the military, perform civilian service or face prosecution. They might try to rescind it!
Indeed the opposition can sharpen their knives! It's going to be a lot of bickering between Netanyahu and Naftali Bennett, seen as "childish" by some of Netanyahu's associates.
Indeed the opposition can sharpen their knives! It's going to be a lot of bickering between Netanyahu and Naftali Bennett, seen as "childish" by some of Netanyahu's associates.
8
Let's hope that this new government doesn't last! Naftali Bennett is going to take it down, if Netanyahu doesn't dance to his tune! Even if Bibi is an opportunist, he still wants to be on speaking terms with the American and European leaders!
2
I hope Mr. Boehner has reserved a seat for Mr. Netanyahu when Pope Francis gives his address to Congress in September. It will be a great opportunity to learn from a world-class leader who doesn't stick to his guns.
3
The only bastion of democratic strength in the Middle East...we should them all the support they need and then some !
10
Are you aware of how many dictators the US and Israel have supported?
How many democracies the US denigrated to install a puppet regime?
What kind of democracy is it when you occupy millions of people for decades, build ethnic colonies in their midst while destroying thousands of *their* homes, and not annexing the territory because you dont want the people you occupy to have a vote because of racial considerations?
"Democracy?
Ain't what it used to be, friend.
The democracies of the world, or at least the US and Israel and the UK - have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the past few decades - overwhelmingly to benefit corporations or otherwise for national power or expansion.
Holding a vote now and then doesn't turn all that sin into salvation.
How many democracies the US denigrated to install a puppet regime?
What kind of democracy is it when you occupy millions of people for decades, build ethnic colonies in their midst while destroying thousands of *their* homes, and not annexing the territory because you dont want the people you occupy to have a vote because of racial considerations?
"Democracy?
Ain't what it used to be, friend.
The democracies of the world, or at least the US and Israel and the UK - have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the past few decades - overwhelmingly to benefit corporations or otherwise for national power or expansion.
Holding a vote now and then doesn't turn all that sin into salvation.
16
Where is there democracy among Palestinians, who have not held an election since 2007; where Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah, who rules the West Bank, is now in the 10th year of the four year term to which he was elected in 2005; where Ismael Haniyeh of Hamas, who rules Gaza, is now in the 8th year of the five year term to which he was elected in 2007; where the "Palestinian-wide" elections scheduled for early this year, have yet to occur?
But Palestinians, if they had their way, would "ethnically cleanse" Jews from the Middle-East, by "driving them into the sea!" Perhaps, Israel holds elections too often, but that is certainly preferable to holding them too infrequently, if at all!
But Palestinians, if they had their way, would "ethnically cleanse" Jews from the Middle-East, by "driving them into the sea!" Perhaps, Israel holds elections too often, but that is certainly preferable to holding them too infrequently, if at all!
6
Keep drinking the coolaide!
1
I hope the first topic up for discussion in the Knesset is whether to allow orthodox Jews to avoid military service in lieu of studying the Torah, and I hope it torpedoes Bibi's new coalition. There is no single person on the planet I would rather see fail than Netanyahu, a war criminal. He has to go even further right, which soon should be his complete unraveling, forcing the US to vote "present" when the next round of discussions about Palestine come up at the UN. Bibi must be punished by the international community for intentionally bombing seven UN schools last summer like a blood thirsty war lord, freeing up billions for US citizens instead of Israelis.
14
What about punishing Hamas for deliberately targeting Israeli civilian communities in violation of the 1949 Geneva Conventions? Isn't that also a "war crime," as recently determined by Amnesty International?
When Hamas initiates "wars of aggression" against Israel, they may choose the "Rules of Engagement," but when the I.D.F applies those same "ROE" against Hamas, they have no right to complain. The recent devastation of Gaza in the third Gaza war, is the price Hamas willingly pays for its aggression. There is an old Marine Corps adage about "Payback," which cannot be repeated in its entirety in a family newspaper, but in essence, "what goes around, comes around!"
When Hamas initiates "wars of aggression" against Israel, they may choose the "Rules of Engagement," but when the I.D.F applies those same "ROE" against Hamas, they have no right to complain. The recent devastation of Gaza in the third Gaza war, is the price Hamas willingly pays for its aggression. There is an old Marine Corps adage about "Payback," which cannot be repeated in its entirety in a family newspaper, but in essence, "what goes around, comes around!"
6
You're contradicting yourself. If the Israeli military commits war crimes then you should be commending the ultra Orthodox for not wanting to serve in such a military rather than denouncing them for not serving.
Israel is surrounded by very bad neighbors in a very bad neighborhood.Israel must act accordingly.
11
Wow. That's quite the indictment of Netanyahu. Blistering, actually. Perhaps the irony was unintentional, but, like a branding iron, it was a searing hot bit of logic.
More Bibi means, literally, more support for Salafist terrorism in Syria and Iraq.
http://www.mintpressnews.com/israel-fuels-the-syrian-crisis-with-aid-to-...
The American media, as would be expected, has not gone to much trouble to cover the various ways, direct [caches of Israeli weapons have been found lSIS and Al Nusra] and indirect [intelligence, bombing Syrian government sites several times, etc.] that Israel is literally assisting Sunni mercenaries and Salafist jihadists - Al Qaeda, and ISIS.
In fact, Saudi Arabia, the US, and Israel are *all* supporting terror groups while fabricating stories designed to malign Assad, who is no angel, but far, far better [for the Syrian people] than any of the alternatives.
Is this because they care about Syria or democracy?
Of course not - and their effort to help foreign jihadis oust Assad has destroyed more infrastructure and killed more civilians than, one might safely wager, Assad's regime ever has.
Indeed, the destruction of civilian infrastructure in Lebanon, or Iraq, or Syria, or Iran probably suits Likud Israel fine.... while the nuclear issue is a ruse, the economic [technology, gas] competition from Iran is what Israel really fears.
The Israel Lobby is not all-powerful.
"Standing with Israel" is not the same thing as standing with Israel's increasingly powerful right wing warmongers, and blind support for Israel is not what the American people want or expect from their Congress.
http://www.mintpressnews.com/israel-fuels-the-syrian-crisis-with-aid-to-...
The American media, as would be expected, has not gone to much trouble to cover the various ways, direct [caches of Israeli weapons have been found lSIS and Al Nusra] and indirect [intelligence, bombing Syrian government sites several times, etc.] that Israel is literally assisting Sunni mercenaries and Salafist jihadists - Al Qaeda, and ISIS.
In fact, Saudi Arabia, the US, and Israel are *all* supporting terror groups while fabricating stories designed to malign Assad, who is no angel, but far, far better [for the Syrian people] than any of the alternatives.
Is this because they care about Syria or democracy?
Of course not - and their effort to help foreign jihadis oust Assad has destroyed more infrastructure and killed more civilians than, one might safely wager, Assad's regime ever has.
Indeed, the destruction of civilian infrastructure in Lebanon, or Iraq, or Syria, or Iran probably suits Likud Israel fine.... while the nuclear issue is a ruse, the economic [technology, gas] competition from Iran is what Israel really fears.
The Israel Lobby is not all-powerful.
"Standing with Israel" is not the same thing as standing with Israel's increasingly powerful right wing warmongers, and blind support for Israel is not what the American people want or expect from their Congress.
17
After a suprisingly long hiatus the earth shattering news that Prime Minister Netanyahu formed a government within the required deadline became the signal for commenters to unleash a new barrage of angry Israel bashing anti-Netanyahu comments. Stop living in denial -- Israelis went to the polls and re-elected Benjamin Netanyahu and nothing is going to change that for the forseeable future. Isn't it time the bloggers grew up and stopped throwing these pointless hissy fits???
10
We didn't like Israeli policy before - we will like it even less now.
8
Give up and let the fanatics take over, you mean.
2
Should the fanatics of Hamas and the P.L.O., which reject the "two-state" solution in the terms of their founding documents, take over instead? Under any "one to the exclusion of the other" scenario, where Palestinians reject the "two-state" solution, Israel is entitled to be the one "single-state!"
3
You know, as much as I would rather sit next to a ticking nuclear bomb than ever be mistaken for a supporter of Netanyahu, you just have give to the guy credit for being one really smooth political operator.
4
I'm still waiting for someone to name an Arab country or a Palestinian faction - that has ever in the entire history of the conflict - gone on record as wanting a two state solution with Israel. It doesn't exist; Bibi knows this and that is why Israel has moved to the right.
14
The ugly truth is that the Palestinians don't want a state period. Isn't it time this farce ended farce once and for all?
3
This is false. I have corrected it twice but for some reason, those corrections do not show up. Google the "Arab Peace Initiative" and then come back and tell us if you are still waiting for Arabs to accept the two-state solution. The entire premise of your post is false and it shows that you really are not following the issue objectively.
See my post directly above.
I love Israel but not Netanyahu. Good luck to his opposition.
15
Providing financial support to Israel is a very bad investment. We're providing billions for a government that won't last long or get much done; and one that disavows a two-state solution, which sounds an awful lot like the thinking of their foes. We're just burning money sending it into this quagmire.
31
Israel is a Parliamentary Democracy and Netanyahu speaks for his party and the parties in coalition with his party. Each one of these parties only represents a minority of the voters in Israel.
While Netanyahu is the Israeli Head-of-Government he does not speak for all Israeli's so his words have to be seen in that light. Much in the same way the Republicans in the USA make the point that President Obama does not speak for all Americans.
Despite the spin-machine politics, Israel is not a monolith of single opinion about anything. After all the Israelis are human beings and don't agree on everything, even their elected leadership. Differing with Netanyahu is neither anti-Semitic, nor anti-Israel.
While Netanyahu is the Israeli Head-of-Government he does not speak for all Israeli's so his words have to be seen in that light. Much in the same way the Republicans in the USA make the point that President Obama does not speak for all Americans.
Despite the spin-machine politics, Israel is not a monolith of single opinion about anything. After all the Israelis are human beings and don't agree on everything, even their elected leadership. Differing with Netanyahu is neither anti-Semitic, nor anti-Israel.
36
Israel may not be a "monolith of single opinion about anything," but an openly racist and Jewish supremacist candidate did win the election handily and then formed a coalition with like minded parties.
Now the question has to be what will the United States and Europe do, go along with the inevitable lies the Israeli government will attempt to sell about negotiating for a Palestinian state while taking more of Palestine every day to make such a state impossible, or demand that this charade stop and a real solution be found instead of apartheid?
Now the question has to be what will the United States and Europe do, go along with the inevitable lies the Israeli government will attempt to sell about negotiating for a Palestinian state while taking more of Palestine every day to make such a state impossible, or demand that this charade stop and a real solution be found instead of apartheid?
6
"Racist"? Come on, aren't you tired of that catchall one yet? Jewish supremacist? News flash! It's a Jewish state. Has been for nearly 4,000 years. Gave the world monotheism, the Ten Commandment and the other two faiths.The world's only, just the one, the rest are either Christiam, Muslim or communist. It's okay for the Jews to have one where they can call the shots and not be locked in ghettos, excluded from common society or hurried into ovens, Nealy, it is.
2
Why should their government try any harder to do what is good for the country than our own dysfunctional one. Both seem bent on spending their treasure on blowing things up more than building bridges or communities.
Some day both country's will look back and say "How could we have acted so stupidly"?
Some day both country's will look back and say "How could we have acted so stupidly"?
12
It's not a question of moral relativism. It's a question of long term sustainability; politically, ethically and morally. Israel can't 'go it alone' in the world, it's just not big enough. It can't avoid the Palestinian's situatoin much longer, it's already ghettoizing Gaza and the West Bank's general population in order the punish Hamas and the Palestinian Authority at the expense of the general population. And anything more severe runs dangerously close to behavior ironically comparable to national socialism of pre-WWII Germany. The question is not whether they should be more retrospective, it should be whether or not orthodoxy and conservatism that results in nationalism über allis is sustainable.
1
As an American, raised to value secular government, believe in human rights and support the freedom to choose one's own religion at a personal level, I fail to see how supporting the Israeli government's Zionist policies and oppressive practices, viz-a-viz the Palestinian people, is any longer in our best interests. Likud policies steel Palestinian land for 'settlements'. They use the IDF's superior military force indiscriminately against civilians and they create a 2-tiered value system by which non-Jewish people are treated as 2nd class citizens. This is profoundly un-American.
29
Wait! When are you giving back your settlements to to the American Indians as a moral imperative?
Why is Israel allowed to decide rather there is a two-state solution. A two-state solution is what the United States feels is in its best interest. Why are we still sending billions of dollars to Israel? They are an extremely rich country. They do not need our money. America needs its money to help the ordinary citizens of America, not Israel. They are not our friends. Certainly not three billion dollars worth of friendship.
48
Do the Palestinians want a two-state solution? They have yet to demonstrate the desire for it!
Once they do express a commitment to the two-state solution, they will find Israel willing and ready to join them in that endeavor!
Once they do express a commitment to the two-state solution, they will find Israel willing and ready to join them in that endeavor!
12
Are you serious? How many foreign countries receive foreign aid from the U.S.? Does that allow the U.S. to determine borders and redraw maps? Foreign aid forges alliances in specific regions of the world. U.S. sends foreign aid to Egypt and Jordan..plenty of Palestinians live in those countries. Why not carve out land from them? Your comment is ignorant. Israel is the U.S. ONLY consistent ally in the Middle East. At various times, Iran, Qatar and Saudia Arabia (our President just went there to "pay respects" to the recently departed leader of that country) have encouraged terrorism against the U.S. Get your facts straight as to who is friend or foe of the U.S.
8
Larry, according to the IMF and World Bank, Israel's GDP is roughly equivalent to Equatorial Guinea's. Besides, if Israel isn't our ally, then we probably have none. Don't mistake Netanyahu and Obama not being friends for our countries not being friends. Big difference. Besides, what do mean why do they decide? In the end, whose business is it besides the Palestinians and Israelis? Do you seriously think they can strike an agreement with a government in which Hamas is a part? How would that even be possible?
4
As seems to be always the case these days, the Likud party caters to these right wing and religious fringe elements, and empowers them far beyond their actual numbers, and puts Israel's long term security on hold indefinitely.
They need to try something new in Israel. How about a fusion government where the two largest, mainstream parties form a government, and leave the fringe elements out on the fringe? Or is a compromise of that kind outside the national experience?
They need to try something new in Israel. How about a fusion government where the two largest, mainstream parties form a government, and leave the fringe elements out on the fringe? Or is a compromise of that kind outside the national experience?
12
When have we ever had a fusion government, RM? Not since the first election, but it was only a short time before Washington's all-star cabinet was at loggerheads with one another and the country split into two parties which hated each other worse than the two main parties do today. Even the National Union Party in the Civil War was really just another temporary name for the Republican Party. We'd all love that rational cool-headed third party where everyone pulls together. But, what we really mean is that we want everyone to peaceably agree with us. It is mostly a fantasy in a diverse country - I know because I fancy it too. But why expect Israel to do what we cannot?
9
Any time there is a state religion in the mix, there will be trouble. I guess Israelis have not learned their lesson, yet. Let's hope the US never has to learn that same lesson.
2
Netanyahu offered to form a unity government with the Zionist Camp, but Mr. Herzog declined and joined the opposition.
3
In case there was any doubt of Mr. Netanyahu's thoughts on a two-state solution, this is what Mr. Bennett has to say about the issue: "I will do everything in my power to make sure they never get a state."
2
In case there was any doubt of Mr. Netanyahu's thoughts on a two-state solution, this is what Mr. Bennett has to say about the issue: "I will do everything in my power to make sure they never get a state."
54
I guess Mike 71 has a brilliant comeback to that one as well. Makes me understand where his loyalty lies-it certainly isn't to the truth-racist demagoguery is more like it...
1
Why would someone want a Hamas (prove it won't happen sooner than later) state on their borders and in their Capitol destroying all relics of our Jewish past in our holy land?
Is there any instance in all of human history where legitimizing extremist groups works out well for a nation? Does Israel seriously want to move further right on the issue of settlements when the rest of the world, including a significant number of Americans, is moving in the opposite direction. Deal with the devil and find the devil is in the details.
8
Is there any instance in all of human history where legitimizing extremist groups works out well for a nation? Does Israel seriously want to move further right on the issue of settlements when the rest of the world, including a significant number of Americans, is moving in the opposite direction. Deal with the devil and find the devil is in the details.
40
But, but, but...GOD promised them that land, and encouraged them to "wipe out" all outsiders! (And, they've made some pretty efforts to accomplish that goal, while whining about Iran's exhortation to do the same thing to them.) It's in the Bible, if you have doubts.
8
What's so unusual about that? Mr. Haniyeh of Hamas has taken exactly the same position: no two-state solution! If it is to be a "one to the exclusion of the other" proposition, Israel is equally entitled to be the "one-state!"
7
I would suggest that you re-read your history. The Arab's who left their homes were instructed to do so by Egypt, Jordan, Syria and the other surrounding Middle East Counties so that the invasion of the State of Israel could begin. They didn't want to have to worry about killing Arab's, only Jews.
I would agree that Likud is Right Wing, but to say that everyone that is a member of Likud is racist is a very broad brush. That would be saying that everyone who is a Democrat in the US is a Liberal, or that everyone in the UK who supports the Labor Party is a Union member. Same broad brush that you try to paint with. Also, most of the ethnic cleansing (your words) is being espoused by the Arab's (Hamas, Hezbollah, etc.) and very little by mainstream Israeli's.
You really should research the facts more before responding.
I would agree that Likud is Right Wing, but to say that everyone that is a member of Likud is racist is a very broad brush. That would be saying that everyone who is a Democrat in the US is a Liberal, or that everyone in the UK who supports the Labor Party is a Union member. Same broad brush that you try to paint with. Also, most of the ethnic cleansing (your words) is being espoused by the Arab's (Hamas, Hezbollah, etc.) and very little by mainstream Israeli's.
You really should research the facts more before responding.
10
Prime Minister Netanyahu's governing coalition is just the latest victory for extremism in the Middle East and will only further diminish the prospects for peace and increase them for war. The major questions posed by such a slim, but ultra-right, majority of the Netanyahu government are: Will Israel now move to incorporate all the remaining Palestinian territory in the West bank into a Greater Israel? Will they be further emboldened to undermine the potential nuclear "deal" between the western powers and Iran? The increased regional instability the new Israeli government brings to an area where wars are raging in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen is of great concern for its potential to escalate into a major international war.
3
Prime Minister Netanyahu's governing coalition is just the latest victory for extremism in the Middle East and will only further diminish the prospects for peace and increase them for war. The major questions posed by such a slim, but ultra-right, majority of the Netanyahu government are: Will Israel now move to incorporate all the remaining Palestinian territory in the West bank into a Greater Israel? Will they be further emboldened to undermine the potential nuclear "deal" between the western powers and Iran? The increased regional instability the new Israeli government brings to an area where wars are raging in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen is of great concern for its potential to escalate into a major international war.
34
Mr. Netanyahu and his fanatical supporters have done irreparable damage to Israel and to its surrounding world. Why the U.S. puts up with his misjudgments and dishonesties is difficult to understand in the light of the disastrous actions that Israel has taken under his leadership and the wars we have been led into in going along with his policies. It is time for a new more constructive leader in Israel if it is every to work its way out of the extremist swamp it has wandered into under Netanyahu and his uncompromising followers.
8
Mr. Netanyahu and his fanatical supporters have done irreparable damage to Israel and to its surrounding world. Why the U.S. puts up with his misjudgments and dishonesties is difficult to understand in the light of the disastrous actions that Israel has taken under his leadership and the wars we have been led into in going along with his policies. It is time for a new more constructive leader in Israel if it is every to work its way out of the extremist swamp it has wandered into under Netanyahu and his uncompromising followers.
149
Netanyahu was elected by the people of Israel and has formed a government under a parliamentary system. Do we accept citizens of other countries telling us to impeach our president and replace our elected representatives because they don't happen to agree with them?
14
It is unfortunately easy to understand why the US puts up with Israeli extremism when one looks at the influence of Christian Zionism on US policy. A large faction of Americans insist on adherence to their interpretation of the Bible even though that results in behavior towards the Palestinian people that can only be characterized as criminal. The price to pay for this mistake is already enormous and still growing.
17
That will only be possible under a US president that tells Israel and the world, "Iran will never have a nuclear weapon".
4
This is just another step down Israel's road to self-destruction.
7
This is just another step down Israel's road to self-destruction.
43
and your suggestion would be what then? surrender to hamas and disperse across the globe.
9
Just because God told you to kill Palestinians (outsiders, non-Jews) doesn't mean you really should do it.
7
That is far more like Hamas' road to self destruction of Gaza. After three failed "wars of aggression" against Israel, the cost to Hamas and the population of Gaza only increases.
Have you wondered why the supposed pledges of reconstruction aid to Gaza have not materialized? Would you donate to the reconstruction of Gaza, knowing that your contribution is likely to be destroyed in a subsequent Hamas initiated war?
Hamas has reiterated the objectives contained in its Covenant, which means that Hamas will eventually initiate another war. They have already test fired rockets into the Mediterranean in preparation. Israel is a well armed nation with a very capable armed force prepared to act in the nation's defense. The next war will not go any better, and likely go far worse, for Hamas than the last one. Yet, this is the price that Hamas willingly pays!
Have you wondered why the supposed pledges of reconstruction aid to Gaza have not materialized? Would you donate to the reconstruction of Gaza, knowing that your contribution is likely to be destroyed in a subsequent Hamas initiated war?
Hamas has reiterated the objectives contained in its Covenant, which means that Hamas will eventually initiate another war. They have already test fired rockets into the Mediterranean in preparation. Israel is a well armed nation with a very capable armed force prepared to act in the nation's defense. The next war will not go any better, and likely go far worse, for Hamas than the last one. Yet, this is the price that Hamas willingly pays!
7
Now Israel can focus even more on getting the US to wage war against Iran just as they did regarding the unnecessary war against Iraq. They'll work closely again with the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament based neocon movement ( http://deism.com/neoconsbible.htm ) and the powerful Israel lobby for another religious war for Israel's benefit. And US politicians from both parties will be more than happy to make the war a reality which will strengthen their political careers via the Israel lobby.
9
The neocons certainly wanted the Iraq war in contemplation of benefits inuring to Israel.
But the neocons, whose whole philosophy flowed from that of Leo Strauss, who hated 'democracy' and essentially thought the public should be, literally, lied to in order to motive the masses to the whims of the ruling class...
http://www.voltairenet.org/article178638.html
Should not be taken to be equivalent to 'The Jewish Lobby' or even as representing more than a dedicated, but numerically small and very right wing fringe.
That they are still in power, for example Victoria Nuland, who helped engender the US-backed coup in Kiev, is because the media has not done much to challenge the neocon narrative about Iraq, or Iran, or Syria.
You can come up to your own theory as to why that is, but the more one learns about the "Straussians" -the more reprehensible this quasi-Platonic political philosophy seems.
But the neocons, whose whole philosophy flowed from that of Leo Strauss, who hated 'democracy' and essentially thought the public should be, literally, lied to in order to motive the masses to the whims of the ruling class...
http://www.voltairenet.org/article178638.html
Should not be taken to be equivalent to 'The Jewish Lobby' or even as representing more than a dedicated, but numerically small and very right wing fringe.
That they are still in power, for example Victoria Nuland, who helped engender the US-backed coup in Kiev, is because the media has not done much to challenge the neocon narrative about Iraq, or Iran, or Syria.
You can come up to your own theory as to why that is, but the more one learns about the "Straussians" -the more reprehensible this quasi-Platonic political philosophy seems.
2
Now Israel can focus even more on getting the US to wage war against Iran just as they did regarding the unnecessary war against Iraq. They'll work closely again with the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament based neocon movement ( http://deism.com/neoconsbible.htm ) and the powerful Israel lobby for another religious war for Israel's benefit. And US politicians from both parties will be more than happy to make the war a reality which will strengthen their political careers via the Israel lobby.
56
The neocons certainly wanted the Iraq war in contemplation of benefits inuring to Israel.
But the neocons, whose whole philosophy flowed from that of Leo Strauss, who hated 'democracy' and essentially thought the public should be, literally, lied to in order to motive the masses to the whims of the ruling class...
http://www.voltairenet.org/article178638.html
Should not be taken to be equivalent to 'The Jewish Lobby' or even as representing more than a dedicated, but numerically small and very right wing fringe.
That they are still in power, for example Victoria Nuland, who helped engender the US-backed coup in Kiev, is because the media has not done much to challenge the neocon narrative about Iraq, or Iran, or Syria.
You can come up to your own theory as to why that is, but the more one learns about the "Straussians" -the more reprehensible this quasi-Platonic political philosophy seems.
But the neocons, whose whole philosophy flowed from that of Leo Strauss, who hated 'democracy' and essentially thought the public should be, literally, lied to in order to motive the masses to the whims of the ruling class...
http://www.voltairenet.org/article178638.html
Should not be taken to be equivalent to 'The Jewish Lobby' or even as representing more than a dedicated, but numerically small and very right wing fringe.
That they are still in power, for example Victoria Nuland, who helped engender the US-backed coup in Kiev, is because the media has not done much to challenge the neocon narrative about Iraq, or Iran, or Syria.
You can come up to your own theory as to why that is, but the more one learns about the "Straussians" -the more reprehensible this quasi-Platonic political philosophy seems.
24
I hate to say this, but I would take a former commando any day over a community organizer from Chicago. Need I say more.
6
Why do you hate to say it. It is so darned obvious. Obama is hater and has betrayed all of our allies and our country as well. Sad that the NY Times can't stop itself from posting nasty headlines.
4
Me too Arnie, Me too.
2
No, you don't need to say more. But I would like to remind you that real life is not some Stallone or Schwarzenegger movie.
4
I hate to say this, but I would take a former commando any day over a community organizer from Chicago. Need I say more.
12
Why do you hate to say it. It is so darned obvious. Obama is hater and has betrayed all of our allies and our country as well. Sad that the NY Times can't stop itself from posting nasty headlines.
5
Me too Arnie, Me too.
4
No, you don't need to say more. But I would like to remind you that real life is not some Stallone or Schwarzenegger movie.
19
Most people reacting so far judge the Israeli elections using an American winner takes all prism. When one needs a coalition, there is a give and take. If Hertzog were in Bibi's place, he would have given the ultra orthodox the same, but then the liberal media would have uploaded him. There is no shortage of hypocrisy.
It is inconceivable to imagine Liberman voting with Ahmad Tibi to topple Bibi's government, and this is why the foreign ministry portfolio is kept for him. If Hertzog had the interest of Israel rather than narrow politic calculations, he would have been the foreign minister today and the coalition could be Likud, Kachlon and the Zionist Camp. He declared emphatically less than 24 hours after the elections that he is going to the opposition, so here we are.
At the end of the day, many of the demands of the ultra orthodox will benefit ALL Israelis. So the criticism is only about the military service, or the removal of the law by which an Ultra orthodox will go to jail. My position has been that these issues will be solved by persuasion, and not by jail.
Israel has a new government with an experienced and highly qualified prime minister. Let us wish the new government well.
It is inconceivable to imagine Liberman voting with Ahmad Tibi to topple Bibi's government, and this is why the foreign ministry portfolio is kept for him. If Hertzog had the interest of Israel rather than narrow politic calculations, he would have been the foreign minister today and the coalition could be Likud, Kachlon and the Zionist Camp. He declared emphatically less than 24 hours after the elections that he is going to the opposition, so here we are.
At the end of the day, many of the demands of the ultra orthodox will benefit ALL Israelis. So the criticism is only about the military service, or the removal of the law by which an Ultra orthodox will go to jail. My position has been that these issues will be solved by persuasion, and not by jail.
Israel has a new government with an experienced and highly qualified prime minister. Let us wish the new government well.
5
Most people reacting so far judge the Israeli elections using an American winner takes all prism. When one needs a coalition, there is a give and take. If Hertzog were in Bibi's place, he would have given the ultra orthodox the same, but then the liberal media would have uploaded him. There is no shortage of hypocrisy.
It is inconceivable to imagine Liberman voting with Ahmad Tibi to topple Bibi's government, and this is why the foreign ministry portfolio is kept for him. If Hertzog had the interest of Israel rather than narrow politic calculations, he would have been the foreign minister today and the coalition could be Likud, Kachlon and the Zionist Camp. He declared emphatically less than 24 hours after the elections that he is going to the opposition, so here we are.
At the end of the day, many of the demands of the ultra orthodox will benefit ALL Israelis. So the criticism is only about the military service, or the removal of the law by which an Ultra orthodox will go to jail. My position has been that these issues will be solved by persuasion, and not by jail.
Israel has a new government with an experienced and highly qualified prime minister. Let us wish the new government well.
It is inconceivable to imagine Liberman voting with Ahmad Tibi to topple Bibi's government, and this is why the foreign ministry portfolio is kept for him. If Hertzog had the interest of Israel rather than narrow politic calculations, he would have been the foreign minister today and the coalition could be Likud, Kachlon and the Zionist Camp. He declared emphatically less than 24 hours after the elections that he is going to the opposition, so here we are.
At the end of the day, many of the demands of the ultra orthodox will benefit ALL Israelis. So the criticism is only about the military service, or the removal of the law by which an Ultra orthodox will go to jail. My position has been that these issues will be solved by persuasion, and not by jail.
Israel has a new government with an experienced and highly qualified prime minister. Let us wish the new government well.
12
Thanks, I'll pass.
2
I totally agree with your comments on Hertzog and had he agreed to a true coalition, the new Israeli Government might have a shot at proposing some solutions to the formation of a Palestinian State (the Palestinians would never agree, but at least we could again try). Where I disagree with you is on the Ultra-Orthodox parties demands benefiting all Israeli's since when you talk to the average Israeli they don't feel that way. If Israel is to be a true Democracy, the sway of the Ultra-Orthodox in daily like needs to change.
1
An interfering meddler who is turning the secularamerican majority against israel
Bringing in Naftali Bennett and his racist, expansionist party makes the transformation of Israel into a state where rights will be solely based on religion and, as in other racialist states like the Third Reich, the concept of a 'people/volk' above all othersi is the organizing principle. Expect the illegal land grabs to continue and the further erosion of the concept of the Jewish people as defenders of the downtrodden and oppressed.
So many wonderful ideas and beliefs grew out of the diaspora Jewish communities, only to be trampled by the need for an exclusionary state.
So many wonderful ideas and beliefs grew out of the diaspora Jewish communities, only to be trampled by the need for an exclusionary state.
16
Bringing in Naftali Bennett and his racist, expansionist party makes the transformation of Israel into a state where rights will be solely based on religion and, as in other racialist states like the Third Reich, the concept of a 'people/volk' above all othersi is the organizing principle. Expect the illegal land grabs to continue and the further erosion of the concept of the Jewish people as defenders of the downtrodden and oppressed.
So many wonderful ideas and beliefs grew out of the diaspora Jewish communities, only to be trampled by the need for an exclusionary state.
So many wonderful ideas and beliefs grew out of the diaspora Jewish communities, only to be trampled by the need for an exclusionary state.
82
Right wingers in both countries (USA & Israel) will drag both of these countries to the mayhem. We can kiss goodbye to ME peace as long as Bibi stays in power. Who knows what will happen if Republicans get the presidency in 2016 while Bibi in office: unrestrained craziness to follow.,,
22
Right wingers in both countries (USA & Israel) will drag both of these countries to the mayhem. We can kiss goodbye to ME peace as long as Bibi stays in power. Who knows what will happen if Republicans get the presidency in 2016 while Bibi in office: unrestrained craziness to follow.,,
85
perhaps you haven't noticed the current mayhem that prevails across much of Africa, the middle east, and near asia.
8
Yes, all thanks to the massively destabilizing policies and wars of the George W. Bush administration. I guess you forgot to mention that.
10
There was never any doubt about the final outcome.
Good on Israel for being the only democratic nation in the Middle East.
Good on Israel for being the only democratic nation in the Middle East.
8
Uh, if there was never ANY doubt about the final outcome--i.e. if this was some kind of prearranged, orchestrated affair--that kind of calls into question Israel's bona fides as a democracy, doesn't it?
12
You mean a cobbled together weak government that is unlikely to last long or get anything substantive accomplished? That is, of course, one of the hazards of democracy. Also, you should welcome Tunisia to the list of democracies in the Middle East.
6
There was never any doubt about the final outcome.
Good on Israel for being the only democratic nation in the Middle East.
Good on Israel for being the only democratic nation in the Middle East.
16
Uh, if there was never ANY doubt about the final outcome--i.e. if this was some kind of prearranged, orchestrated affair--that kind of calls into question Israel's bona fides as a democracy, doesn't it?
31
You mean a cobbled together weak government that is unlikely to last long or get anything substantive accomplished? That is, of course, one of the hazards of democracy. Also, you should welcome Tunisia to the list of democracies in the Middle East.
21
Israel recently held an election reelecting the Prime Minister. Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah, which rules the West Bank, is now in the 10th year of the four year term to which he was elected in 2005; Ismael Haniyeh of Hamas, which rules Gaza, is now in the 8th year of the five year term to which he was elected in 2007. The Palestinian-wide elections, which were to take place at the beginning of this year under the "Unity Government," have yet to occur. Before Palestinians criticize the practice of democracy in Israel, they must first learn to practice it at home!
3
Great, now Tommy Cotton & Co. can do aliyah and leave the country led by a president (Obama) they despise in the same way people like Pinochet in Chile hated Salvador Allende. America's neocons are rejoicing because they are now almost certain that their hero Netanyahu will be prime minister of Israel on June 5, 2017--the 50th anniversary of the start of the war that turned Israel from a "light unto the nations" into just another imperialistic, land-grabbing power bulldozing the homes of people who had never done anything to hurt anybody.
Non-neocons, meanwhile, certainly won't be applauding the fact that a country founded by giants like Ben-Gurion and Weizmann will now be led for several more years by a guy who belongs in the same class of "zero credibility" types like Dick Cheney, Douglas Feith, George W. Bush, and Richard Perle. What an embarrassment.
Non-neocons, meanwhile, certainly won't be applauding the fact that a country founded by giants like Ben-Gurion and Weizmann will now be led for several more years by a guy who belongs in the same class of "zero credibility" types like Dick Cheney, Douglas Feith, George W. Bush, and Richard Perle. What an embarrassment.
33
Well said.
3
Sad how the defenders of Saddam Hussien, Hamas and the Mullah of Tehran still can't see through their own blindness and naivete. One readers "embarrassment" is another source of great pride. Whod'a think it?
3
I would not hold my breath regarding Bibi still being the PM for two more years. His government is holding power by one, single vote. How long will it take before some lie, deceptive scheme, or political stunt by Bibi will convince one of those 61 Knesset members that they made an ill-advised deal with the devil? Herzog did the right thing by absolutely not joining with that con man, and if he's patient, Herzog will get his chance.
1
Great, now Tommy Cotton & Co. can do aliyah and leave the country led by a president (Obama) they despise in the same way people like Pinochet in Chile hated Salvador Allende. America's neocons are rejoicing because they are now almost certain that their hero Netanyahu will be prime minister of Israel on June 5, 2017--the 50th anniversary of the start of the war that turned Israel from a "light unto the nations" into just another imperialistic, land-grabbing power bulldozing the homes of people who had never done anything to hurt anybody.
Non-neocons, meanwhile, certainly won't be applauding the fact that a country founded by giants like Ben-Gurion and Weizmann will now be led for several more years by a guy who belongs in the same class of "zero credibility" types like Dick Cheney, Douglas Feith, George W. Bush, and Richard Perle. What an embarrassment.
Non-neocons, meanwhile, certainly won't be applauding the fact that a country founded by giants like Ben-Gurion and Weizmann will now be led for several more years by a guy who belongs in the same class of "zero credibility" types like Dick Cheney, Douglas Feith, George W. Bush, and Richard Perle. What an embarrassment.
138
Well said.
10
Sad how the defenders of Saddam Hussien, Hamas and the Mullah of Tehran still can't see through their own blindness and naivete. One readers "embarrassment" is another source of great pride. Whod'a think it?
8
I would not hold my breath regarding Bibi still being the PM for two more years. His government is holding power by one, single vote. How long will it take before some lie, deceptive scheme, or political stunt by Bibi will convince one of those 61 Knesset members that they made an ill-advised deal with the devil? Herzog did the right thing by absolutely not joining with that con man, and if he's patient, Herzog will get his chance.
5
Lesson: never declare early elections since you might end up worse off. I mean, wasn't the who idea to get rid of Bennett's voice in the cabinet?
6
No. The whole idea was to get rid of Lapid and Livni. Mission accomplished!
2
Lesson: never declare early elections since you might end up worse off. I mean, wasn't the who idea to get rid of Bennett's voice in the cabinet?
13
No. The whole idea was to get rid of Lapid and Livni. Mission accomplished!
8
Netanyahu would not be struggling so much if he could form Government with the US Congress. It seems he is not that popular in his own Parliament.
16
Netanyahu would not be struggling so much if he could form Government with the US Congress. It seems he is not that popular in his own Parliament.
38
Evidently, Netanyahu was too busy being Chicken-Little about the US/Iran accords to worry about accords for his own intended government.
20
Evidently, Netanyahu was too busy being Chicken-Little about the US/Iran accords to worry about accords for his own intended government.
39
I wish somebody would explain how 23% of the popular vote and 25% (30 of 120) of the seats in the Knesset is a "strong mandate". That is how well Bibi and the Likud did in the March 17 election.
Now Bibi is having a difficult time putting to gether a bare minimum 61 seat coalition. Even if he were to succeed, that would put the stability of his gvernment on a knife edge, because one defector on any vote would result in a vote of no confidence, and new elections would be in order.
On the cost side, Bibi has alienated many Americans, including many American Jews, such as myself. Talk about a Phyrric victory. Way to go Bibi. You too, Ron Dermer. Blowhards, fools, ... (I will leave it at that because this is a family newspaper).
Now Bibi is having a difficult time putting to gether a bare minimum 61 seat coalition. Even if he were to succeed, that would put the stability of his gvernment on a knife edge, because one defector on any vote would result in a vote of no confidence, and new elections would be in order.
On the cost side, Bibi has alienated many Americans, including many American Jews, such as myself. Talk about a Phyrric victory. Way to go Bibi. You too, Ron Dermer. Blowhards, fools, ... (I will leave it at that because this is a family newspaper).
78
Israeli politics is far less stable than ours. We have a clear choice between only two parties and a government is assured. Of course that choice is between the most avaricious and corrupt politician in America (Hillary) with a sexual predator and serial adulterer for a husband, and a Republican ju jour who would turn the clock back to 1875. Some choice! PS: Obama has alienated more Americans than Bibi has Israelis. It is easy to criticize Netanyahu from the salons of Brookline or Newton. However, there are those Jewish Americans who Netanyahu has not alienated. That would be me.
2
If you are alienated by BN and the Likud, that is your own doing- don't blame it on them. You might as well alienate yourself from 25+ of the population that voted for him- including the sephardic and many religious. That is significant- or are you willing to write off that part of the country as being irrelevant?
1
I wish somebody would explain how 23% of the popular vote and 25% (30 of 120) of the seats in the Knesset is a "strong mandate". That is how well Bibi and the Likud did in the March 17 election.
Now Bibi is having a difficult time putting to gether a bare minimum 61 seat coalition. Even if he were to succeed, that would put the stability of his gvernment on a knife edge, because one defector on any vote would result in a vote of no confidence, and new elections would be in order.
On the cost side, Bibi has alienated many Americans, including many American Jews, such as myself. Talk about a Phyrric victory. Way to go Bibi. You too, Ron Dermer. Blowhards, fools, ... (I will leave it at that because this is a family newspaper).
Now Bibi is having a difficult time putting to gether a bare minimum 61 seat coalition. Even if he were to succeed, that would put the stability of his gvernment on a knife edge, because one defector on any vote would result in a vote of no confidence, and new elections would be in order.
On the cost side, Bibi has alienated many Americans, including many American Jews, such as myself. Talk about a Phyrric victory. Way to go Bibi. You too, Ron Dermer. Blowhards, fools, ... (I will leave it at that because this is a family newspaper).
221
If you are alienated by BN and the Likud, that is your own doing- don't blame it on them. You might as well alienate yourself from 25+ of the population that voted for him- including the sephardic and many religious. That is significant- or are you willing to write off that part of the country as being irrelevant?
3
So you don't support the state of half your people because you don't like its PM? Please -- it has nothing to do with Bibi. You just don't particularly like Israel to begin with. Bibi's extreme conservatism helps you relieve your conscience.
5
It's not a point of fact, or haven't you noticed that in a winner-take-all political system 'mandates' are self-declared? The Sykes-Picot agreement mandated British rule over Palestine after WWI, as negotiated by the British. In the US there's been a new mandate every 4 years, based on a single man winning the prerogative of ever since Reagan. Mandates are just declarations propped up by the illusion of power.
At last, a political quandary for Netanyahu that the US Congress can't get him out of.
58
At last, a political quandary for Netanyahu that the US Congress can't get him out of.
132
"At last, a political quandary for Netanyahu that the US Congress can't get him out of. @NM: your mouth to God's ears!
1
What? Mr. Demagogue isn't overwhelming powerful? Maybe Boehner, another demagogue, can help him with another speech to Congress. Then again maybe not.
42
What? Mr. Demagogue isn't overwhelming powerful? Maybe Boehner, another demagogue, can help him with another speech to Congress. Then again maybe not.
84
Israeli news organizations reported on Wednesday that Mr. Netanyahu had yielded to Jewish Home’s demand for the Justice Ministry, which the party could use to weaken the Supreme Court, emphasize Israel’s Jewishness and restrict leftist advocacy groups.
Good. Now Bibi will be able to turn off the rest of the diaspora (except the right-wing religious fanatics in Brooklyn, NY) and the Europeans. But I guess he's counting on the continued support of Boehner, Adelson, little Tommy Cotton, and America's evangelicals who continue to prepare for the Rapture.
Good. Now Bibi will be able to turn off the rest of the diaspora (except the right-wing religious fanatics in Brooklyn, NY) and the Europeans. But I guess he's counting on the continued support of Boehner, Adelson, little Tommy Cotton, and America's evangelicals who continue to prepare for the Rapture.
76
I'm not Orthodox and I don't live in Brooklyn. And I haven't voted Republican since the first time I ever voted in 1984 for Walter Mondale. Don't pretend to speak for all of us diaspora Jews, Mr. Eliot.
2
Israeli news organizations reported on Wednesday that Mr. Netanyahu had yielded to Jewish Home’s demand for the Justice Ministry, which the party could use to weaken the Supreme Court, emphasize Israel’s Jewishness and restrict leftist advocacy groups.
Good. Now Bibi will be able to turn off the rest of the diaspora (except the right-wing religious fanatics in Brooklyn, NY) and the Europeans. But I guess he's counting on the continued support of Boehner, Adelson, little Tommy Cotton, and America's evangelicals who continue to prepare for the Rapture.
Good. Now Bibi will be able to turn off the rest of the diaspora (except the right-wing religious fanatics in Brooklyn, NY) and the Europeans. But I guess he's counting on the continued support of Boehner, Adelson, little Tommy Cotton, and America's evangelicals who continue to prepare for the Rapture.
203
I'm not Orthodox and I don't live in Brooklyn. And I haven't voted Republican since the first time I ever voted in 1984 for Walter Mondale. Don't pretend to speak for all of us diaspora Jews, Mr. Eliot.
10
Brooklyn has a strong flavor of anti-Zionist Orthodox Judaism.
This does not bode well for Israel, as it portends an ultranationalist direction for its domestic and foreign policies, and likely will then result in greater isolation for the country.
As for the Palestinian issue, a harsh, punitive approach could lead to a third and potentially more violent intifada.
Unfortunately for the US, our own right wing ideologues, including the neocons, will move to kill any nuke agreement with Iran, followed by a push to, as Sen. Tom Cotton has demanded, carpet bomb all known and suspected nuclear facilities, bringing on further Middle East destabilization and Iranian determination to build nuclear weapons as soon as possible.
May we live in interesting times, indeed.
As for the Palestinian issue, a harsh, punitive approach could lead to a third and potentially more violent intifada.
Unfortunately for the US, our own right wing ideologues, including the neocons, will move to kill any nuke agreement with Iran, followed by a push to, as Sen. Tom Cotton has demanded, carpet bomb all known and suspected nuclear facilities, bringing on further Middle East destabilization and Iranian determination to build nuclear weapons as soon as possible.
May we live in interesting times, indeed.
47
Agree with most of your comment, but the Republicans won't be able to kill an agreement with Iran even with the Corker bill.
4
Every "intifadeh" sets the "Palestinian" Arabs further. Any and all capitulation by the usual suspects sets the middle-east back even further. The only stability it has ever known was under resolute leadership backed up by all necessary means. Tom Cotton knows how to read the writing on the wall, as does Bibi Netanyahu. However one interprets or misinterprets it one fundamental and immutable element is always clear, and that is that one can run but not hide.
2
This does not bode well for Israel, as it portends an ultranationalist direction for its domestic and foreign policies, and likely will then result in greater isolation for the country.
As for the Palestinian issue, a harsh, punitive approach could lead to a third and potentially more violent intifada.
Unfortunately for the US, our own right wing ideologues, including the neocons, will move to kill any nuke agreement with Iran, followed by a push to, as Sen. Tom Cotton has demanded, carpet bomb all known and suspected nuclear facilities, bringing on further Middle East destabilization and Iranian determination to build nuclear weapons as soon as possible.
May we live in interesting times, indeed.
As for the Palestinian issue, a harsh, punitive approach could lead to a third and potentially more violent intifada.
Unfortunately for the US, our own right wing ideologues, including the neocons, will move to kill any nuke agreement with Iran, followed by a push to, as Sen. Tom Cotton has demanded, carpet bomb all known and suspected nuclear facilities, bringing on further Middle East destabilization and Iranian determination to build nuclear weapons as soon as possible.
May we live in interesting times, indeed.
175
Agree with most of your comment, but the Republicans won't be able to kill an agreement with Iran even with the Corker bill.
10
Every "intifadeh" sets the "Palestinian" Arabs further. Any and all capitulation by the usual suspects sets the middle-east back even further. The only stability it has ever known was under resolute leadership backed up by all necessary means. Tom Cotton knows how to read the writing on the wall, as does Bibi Netanyahu. However one interprets or misinterprets it one fundamental and immutable element is always clear, and that is that one can run but not hide.
4
Anybody else wonder what John Boehner thinks about all this? Seems to me he played a part in the process.
22
Boehner's little schemes never work out very well for him. The two ton weight he pushed off the cliff landed on Netanyahu instead of Obama.
3
Anybody else wonder what John Boehner thinks about all this? Seems to me he played a part in the process.
33
Boehner's little schemes never work out very well for him. The two ton weight he pushed off the cliff landed on Netanyahu instead of Obama.
10
It is encouraging that after Mr. Netanyahu's astonishingly cynical campaign - appealing to settlers, anti-Arab and anti anti-peace sentiment - the parties and represented citizens he alienated - are responding in kind.
44
It is encouraging that after Mr. Netanyahu's astonishingly cynical campaign - appealing to settlers, anti-Arab and anti anti-peace sentiment - the parties and represented citizens he alienated - are responding in kind.
126
No matter how you slice it, looks like Humble Pie is on the menu for Mr. Naciss... Um ... Netanyahu.
20
No matter how you slice it, looks like Humble Pie is on the menu for Mr. Naciss... Um ... Netanyahu.
26
The right has been wrong since 1967. Lobbying cannot trump history.
48
The right has been wrong since 1967. Lobbying cannot trump history.
84
...And Netanyahu brought this all upon himself when he said he would not tolerate dissent within the government and called for the elections. His hubris will be his own undoing.
50
2 Samuel 1:19,25 The beauty of Israel is slain on your high places: how are the mighty fallen!
16
...And Netanyahu brought this all upon himself when he said he would not tolerate dissent within the government and called for the elections. His hubris will be his own undoing.
118
2 Samuel 1:19,25 The beauty of Israel is slain on your high places: how are the mighty fallen!
21
In other words, if this coalition is firmed up, Israel will expand in the West Bank and bring legal apartheid to Israel, depriving the Arab Israelis of rights and excluding the Ethiopian Jews for being the wrong color. Not THAT'S democracy, Middle Eastern style. It's democratic as long as your in the right group Alabama, here Israel comes.
35
It fits in with the American Republican agenda.
13
Israel already is essentially an apartheid state.
18
Sad that Israel does not even belong to all Jews, much less the native Palestinians. I guess Israel is only a haven for Jews if you are the right color. Otherwise it is like every other racist state.
In other words, if this coalition is firmed up, Israel will expand in the West Bank and bring legal apartheid to Israel, depriving the Arab Israelis of rights and excluding the Ethiopian Jews for being the wrong color. Not THAT'S democracy, Middle Eastern style. It's democratic as long as your in the right group Alabama, here Israel comes.
72
It fits in with the American Republican agenda.
21
Israel already is essentially an apartheid state.
60
Sad that Israel does not even belong to all Jews, much less the native Palestinians. I guess Israel is only a haven for Jews if you are the right color. Otherwise it is like every other racist state.
5
At the end of the day, Mr. Netanyahu will prevail because the people of Israel want him to. It's a democracy you know, something they don't have in Iran or anywhere else in the Middle East.
9
what tedious hasbara. Is the Israeli occupation of the indigenous Palestinian people against their will "democracy" too?
45
On the day after Israel and the Palestinians reach some sort of peace agreement, Israel will still be a democracy and residents of the new Palestinian state will still be living under the rule of thugs and terrorists.
5
Sounds like Bibi's coalition with the "nationality bill" want to take away the voting rights of Israeli citizens of Arab descent.
Democracy?
Democracy?
25
At the end of the day, Mr. Netanyahu will prevail because the people of Israel want him to. It's a democracy you know, something they don't have in Iran or anywhere else in the Middle East.
40
what tedious hasbara. Is the Israeli occupation of the indigenous Palestinian people against their will "democracy" too?
108
On the day after Israel and the Palestinians reach some sort of peace agreement, Israel will still be a democracy and residents of the new Palestinian state will still be living under the rule of thugs and terrorists.
12
Sounds like Bibi's coalition with the "nationality bill" want to take away the voting rights of Israeli citizens of Arab descent.
Democracy?
Democracy?
69