Bernie Sanders spoke very candidly about the Netanyahu regime using excessive military force against the Palestinian people. He is a Jew and cannot be accused of antisemitism. We should speak out for what is right even if it offends those who are dearest to us. There is, however a time and place for everything and Sanders needs to be mindful of this.
5
So many commenters are skirting the starkly transcendent issue in Israel: Can a state aspiring to be a democracy "officially" mandate the dominance of one religious or ethnic group over another? Democracy, after all, assures full and unconditional equality to all the citizens of a state. The insistence on Israel remaining a Jewish state under all conditions tortures this intellectually unassailable logic.
Israel shows an admirable level of tolerance for religious diversity compared with any theocratic Arab state, but that still fails to raise Israel to the lofty plane of democracy. Right now, the country is in a limbo on this issue, but if a democratic constitution were to be proclaimed, this dilemma would need to be resolved by enshrining a categorical state secularism in it; democracy and state secularism are mutually nourishing categories.
I know many American Jews, and even more those in Israel, are fully cognizant of this Israeli predicament, but I have yet to see a workable solution to it. A secular state might make the Arabs in Israel and the West Bank( not sure about those in Gaza) identify themselves enthusiastically with Israel, but by the same token it might throw a pall of self- doubt and agony over those who have long held a stake in Israel's Jewishness. A two-state solution, should it ever come to pass, may fulfill two ardent and irreconcilable nationalisms, but might each not run the risk of turning into another full-fledged theocracy?
Israel shows an admirable level of tolerance for religious diversity compared with any theocratic Arab state, but that still fails to raise Israel to the lofty plane of democracy. Right now, the country is in a limbo on this issue, but if a democratic constitution were to be proclaimed, this dilemma would need to be resolved by enshrining a categorical state secularism in it; democracy and state secularism are mutually nourishing categories.
I know many American Jews, and even more those in Israel, are fully cognizant of this Israeli predicament, but I have yet to see a workable solution to it. A secular state might make the Arabs in Israel and the West Bank( not sure about those in Gaza) identify themselves enthusiastically with Israel, but by the same token it might throw a pall of self- doubt and agony over those who have long held a stake in Israel's Jewishness. A two-state solution, should it ever come to pass, may fulfill two ardent and irreconcilable nationalisms, but might each not run the risk of turning into another full-fledged theocracy?
6
It's not Cornell West decision to give away our sacred territory to the Palestinians.
This choice was made by someone higher than him or Bernie or even Obama.
This choice was made by someone higher than him or Bernie or even Obama.
6
As a jew and supporter of Israel many of us agree that occupation is not a long term solution. But neither are shooting random missiles or bombing bus or pizza parlors. When the Palestinian society matures into a viable society and stops teaching hate and jew killing as a sport and promoting the death of israel perhaps we can discuss but never until then.
16
If Bernie is so committed to the extreme views of Cornel West on Obama, Israel, etc, why had Bernie, supposedly the epitome of "authenticity", not voiced these same views earlier in the Senate or during his campaigns for Senator? He wasn't shy about pandering to the rural vote by voicing his anti-gun control views when running in Vermont, so why the hang-up here?
Or is the naming of West, as I suspect, a ploy to embarrass Hillary by dividing the Democrats and thereby secure the nomination for himself? Real authenticity, for sure.
Or is the naming of West, as I suspect, a ploy to embarrass Hillary by dividing the Democrats and thereby secure the nomination for himself? Real authenticity, for sure.
11
See:
Straight Talk From Bernie Sanders on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
http://takingnote.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/03/22/straight-talk-from-bernie...
I guess if you missed his speech in Utah, you'd also be unaware of his his past criticisms of Netanyahu and his speech before congress...
Straight Talk From Bernie Sanders on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
http://takingnote.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/03/22/straight-talk-from-bernie...
I guess if you missed his speech in Utah, you'd also be unaware of his his past criticisms of Netanyahu and his speech before congress...
5
Who do these Palestinian people think they are? Wanting to lead a life of dignity, free from the shackles of oppression, like all the rest of us human beings? What nerve of them! Just like the Irish from their British oppressors, the Africans from their colonizers, the American blacks from their benign masters and all others of similar fate living a non-human existence, they yearn to be free. They all hated being beaten down and subjected to daily indignities. Wouldn't you hate your oppressors, call for their destruction, elect groups to represent you, fight back by all necessary means, reject so-called fig-leaf peace offers that don't give you complete freedom? The Palestinians are human beings just like you and me. Let's stop denigrating them and help them in their quest for freedom.
16
Bernie is an opportunist who believes he can win the presidential election at any cost. The Israeli Palestinian conflict could have waited. Nothing will be resolved at the Democratic Convention. This is just another desperate grab for power, shame on Bernie.
10
Bernie Sanders is not a real Democrat and consequently has no hesitation to place his warped agenda ahead of party unity or success. Many of his positions are closer to Trump's than reality. Perhaps he would be happier running as Trump's running mate.
6
So if party unity demands that we continue to send billions of dollars to the hospital-bombing criminals of Israel so that they can continue to oppress an entire people, then hooray for the Democrats?
I don't think so.
I don't think so.
9
There is something seriously wrong and deceitful when people in a country go to great lengths to justify the obvious injustices of one people over another. In this case, the most sophisticated military power in the Middle East over a people trying to live in their own ancestral lands and being denied any legitimacy through sheer military muscle and concocted laws that favour people who never belonged there.
All this carried out by threat that reaches the outcomes of the U.S. elections and consequently the lives of Americans.
Not to address that is not only hypocritical but continues to endanger lives of everyone in the M.E. region as well as the American peoples.
Sanders and the like have to be admired for not bowing down to money or threats to speak about justice for all peoples and not only that have the ability to threaten and subjugate with deep pockets...to be bought out and to be told to shut up is a heinous crime that has no end to it.
All this carried out by threat that reaches the outcomes of the U.S. elections and consequently the lives of Americans.
Not to address that is not only hypocritical but continues to endanger lives of everyone in the M.E. region as well as the American peoples.
Sanders and the like have to be admired for not bowing down to money or threats to speak about justice for all peoples and not only that have the ability to threaten and subjugate with deep pockets...to be bought out and to be told to shut up is a heinous crime that has no end to it.
15
Cornel is standing up for the unrepresented in our national dialog. I want all children Palestinian and Israeli to be safe. If the grownups can't agree on this simple concept, then they need to step aside and allow those of us who can make the decisions.
10
This week Netanyahu choose a dangerous right-wing anti-Palestinian radical as Defense Minister. Many Israelis and most American Jews do not support the current Israeli Government and many see the current occupation as terribly unjust to Palestinians and bad for Israel. So, why should the Democratic Party be afraid to be critical of this sharp right turn in Israel? Is it that Clinton and Schultz are in thrall to the wealthy leadership of AIPAC and other such organizations, which present themselves as the voice of American Jewry even though their views are in the minority?
12
While I mostly agree with your sentiments, we should avoid speaking of Israel's "sudden right turn." Indeed, one of the most remarkable things about Israel is the absolute consistency with which every Israeli leader since 1948 has been dedicated to stealing Palestinian land and mercilessly oppressing Palestinian people. This has been true regardless of whether Labor or Likud held power. Netanyahu is an absolutely typical Israeli leader, at least so far as the Palestinian issue is concerned.
14
Exactly.
"In the age of missiles, the military justification for occupation no longer exists."
In 1967, Israel took over the West Bank, arguing that it needed that "buffer" since Israel was extremely narrow. Since then, Israel has filled in that "buffer" with dozens of settlements -- which undoubtedly will need a "buffer" too some day.
Enough! If we'd conquered part of Canada in 1967, and had since filled in the occupied territory with numerous Americans-only settlements, built Americans-only roads through the occupied territories and arrested Canadians caught driving on those roads, and refused to let those Canadians vote in our elections on the ground that they weren't really citizens -- just residents of a "territory" -- would we all consider that to be OK?
Of course not. Why then, do we send billions of dollars to Israel each year so that it can do precisely that? I'd like to think that Americans just don't know this is happening. It's hard to believe they DO know and yet condone this -- and even pay for it to continue.
It's not hard to understand why many pro-Israel commenters insist this should not be raised at the Democratic convention. It is rather embarrassing that it happens at all, and extremely embarrassing and troubling to know that we Americans support it with billions and billions of our tax dollars.
"In the age of missiles, the military justification for occupation no longer exists."
In 1967, Israel took over the West Bank, arguing that it needed that "buffer" since Israel was extremely narrow. Since then, Israel has filled in that "buffer" with dozens of settlements -- which undoubtedly will need a "buffer" too some day.
Enough! If we'd conquered part of Canada in 1967, and had since filled in the occupied territory with numerous Americans-only settlements, built Americans-only roads through the occupied territories and arrested Canadians caught driving on those roads, and refused to let those Canadians vote in our elections on the ground that they weren't really citizens -- just residents of a "territory" -- would we all consider that to be OK?
Of course not. Why then, do we send billions of dollars to Israel each year so that it can do precisely that? I'd like to think that Americans just don't know this is happening. It's hard to believe they DO know and yet condone this -- and even pay for it to continue.
It's not hard to understand why many pro-Israel commenters insist this should not be raised at the Democratic convention. It is rather embarrassing that it happens at all, and extremely embarrassing and troubling to know that we Americans support it with billions and billions of our tax dollars.
13
I wish there was a more even position on Israel and palestine, What here from some Israelis sounds more racist that what would here in the 1960 south about African Americans. Good for Bernie He is at least forcing the issue and he should stay in the race Clinton and her supporters are not honest.
9
I follow the good intention, wise policy maker Dr. Cornel West and Dr. James Zogby. The Israel communities and their powerful lobby have manipulated and twisted, misled the American people for too long. These critics put the truth upward for the American people to see. Peace can never attain if you are the oppressor and abuser of peace, murderers of Palestinian children and people at free will! That is insane and in human, so cruel and hypocrite!
9
Of COURSE it's attractive to Israel to hang on to the West Bank. Every country likes to have more territory. That's not hard to understand. But that doesn't make it right.
We have three choices:
1. Help Israel to keep doing what it's doing.
2. Reverse course and pressure Israel to stop doing what it's doing.
3. Just back away and let Israel do what it's going to do, but not on our nickel.
As I read this article, Cornel West is really just pushing for #3, not #2. I'd be happy with that for the time being. But what we've been doing for the past 50 years is #1, while pretending to be doing #2. That should stop.
We have three choices:
1. Help Israel to keep doing what it's doing.
2. Reverse course and pressure Israel to stop doing what it's doing.
3. Just back away and let Israel do what it's going to do, but not on our nickel.
As I read this article, Cornel West is really just pushing for #3, not #2. I'd be happy with that for the time being. But what we've been doing for the past 50 years is #1, while pretending to be doing #2. That should stop.
12
No one follows the platform. No one reads it. No one cares what's in it.
Why exactly are we fighting over it?
Why exactly are we fighting over it?
4
By voting for a Democrat, you're signing on to the party's platform, whether or not you've read it or care what's in it.
This time, assuming West and Zogby are able to intimidate the others into allowing their anti-Israel and anti-Semitic planks into the platform Sanders demands, you're agreeing with these vicious men that Israel should be destroyed and Israelis driven into the sea.
This time, assuming West and Zogby are able to intimidate the others into allowing their anti-Israel and anti-Semitic planks into the platform Sanders demands, you're agreeing with these vicious men that Israel should be destroyed and Israelis driven into the sea.
7
It is my understanding that Israel now wants $50 billion over 10 years ($5 billion per year) in foreign aid from the United States Congress. It is also my understanding that every citizen of Israel is guaranteed free medical care by the government.
I would make the argument that there should not be a single penny in foreign aid given to Israel until guaranteed medical care for every U. S. citizen is equal to or better than that provided to the citizens of Israel. And, if any politician here in the United States, Republican or Democrat, disagrees with this foreign aid policy, he or she should move to Israel before the November, 2016 election. You are no longer needed here.
I would make the argument that there should not be a single penny in foreign aid given to Israel until guaranteed medical care for every U. S. citizen is equal to or better than that provided to the citizens of Israel. And, if any politician here in the United States, Republican or Democrat, disagrees with this foreign aid policy, he or she should move to Israel before the November, 2016 election. You are no longer needed here.
11
Frankly, I couldn't care less about Cornel West. But he happens to have the right idea about our support for Israel. I would hope Israel will clean up its act, but that's ultimately Israel's call, since it's a sovereign nation. The US is a sovereign nation, too, and we should stop -- immediately, if not sooner -- helping Israel to misbehave. Israel is not some poor third-world country. It can pay for itself. And even if it were not, we should not be helping it to misbehave.
10
That settles it for me. It's Hillary or bust.
7
Fresh off the press:
"Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders announced Thursday that calls to boycott the Jewish state fall within the limits of free speech, undermining intensive Israeli diplomatic efforts to sway European capitals to outlaw the Boycott, Sanctions and Divestment Movement.
“Statements or meetings concerning BDS are protected by freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, as enshrined in the Dutch Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights,” Koenders said Thursday during a debate on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the Dutch parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in The Hague.
He added that the Dutch government has explained to Israel that it opposes any boycott against it, but that BDS endorsement is a free speech issue. Sweden recently made a similar declaration."
http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Politics-And-Diplomacy/In-huge-blow-to-...
"Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders announced Thursday that calls to boycott the Jewish state fall within the limits of free speech, undermining intensive Israeli diplomatic efforts to sway European capitals to outlaw the Boycott, Sanctions and Divestment Movement.
“Statements or meetings concerning BDS are protected by freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, as enshrined in the Dutch Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights,” Koenders said Thursday during a debate on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the Dutch parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in The Hague.
He added that the Dutch government has explained to Israel that it opposes any boycott against it, but that BDS endorsement is a free speech issue. Sweden recently made a similar declaration."
http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Politics-And-Diplomacy/In-huge-blow-to-...
6
Cornell West seems very interested in standing up for perceived violations of Palestinian rights. I'm curious as to whether he has ever said anything - even once - about Palestinian acts of aggression and/or terrorism against Israel. I would also like to know if he has ever been to the Middle East so he could develop a first-hand impression about the situation there as opposed to what he is probably doing, which is simply swallowing the Palestinian line without any further investigation. This guy is a clown, and should not be taken seriously.
13
The gross delusion under which so many people on this thread are clearly suffering would be amusing were it not so terrifying. I am reading comments here that demonstrate that many on the left have not a clue with whom the citizens of the State of Israel are contending. The comments here demonstrate that there is a belief, totally unsupported by fact, that the Palestinian leadership specifically, and the Muslim/Arab wold generally, want peace and nothing more than Gaza and the West Bank back. Are you people willfully ignorant, painfully stupid, or just mentally and emotionally incapable of stomaching the fact that the goal of the Palestinians and the Muslim/Arab world is the destruction of the State of Israel? You can take the advise of the wildly overly revered Dr. West if you choose. But there is only the thinnest of veneers over his bubbling antisemitism. Giving any more money or support to the Palestinians, who have a penchant for diverting it to "kill Jews" programs, is an exercise in supporting the destruction of the only functioning democracy in the Middle East, the only nation in that region that recognizes the freedom of religion (or atheism for that matter) and expression, the right to not be beaten or killed because you are gay, and the right of women to not be held as second class citizens or worse as chattle.. Progressives are something to behold. Summers was right about Cornel West by the way.
13
Yes, Summers was absolutely right about the make-believe scholar/intellectual. A glance at the books he lists makes it clear that they are not scholarly, and that he did not write them. He contributes a foreword or a chapter and takes credit. Now he's the weapon chosen by Sanders to bern down the Democratic convention and destroy Hillary.
4
Oh god! Everyone who dares to raise objections about Netanyahu's right-wing nationalist extremist state is an anti-semite? Seriously? At some stage this nonsense argument will exhaust all its credibility, even here in America. The Israeli state is politically, legally, and morally culpable for its actions in contravention of international laws and norms. No one is exempt from the logic of principles. Forget Israel and Palestine, think A and B. (And NO, the history of A does not exempt them from following the dictates of moral law and principled political action.) Perhaps there would not be so much confusion on this issue if the US media coverage wasn't (in the main) so shamefully biased.
11
How could Bernie do this to his own people?
Does he really believe that we should follow Cornell West
plan to give away all of Israel to the Arabs and leave our people
vulnerable once again?
Has Bernie ever had rockets shot at him?
Has Cornell West ever been in a bus that exploded?
We in Israel have been constant victims of these atrocities and
Bernie doesn't care.
Does he really believe that we should follow Cornell West
plan to give away all of Israel to the Arabs and leave our people
vulnerable once again?
Has Bernie ever had rockets shot at him?
Has Cornell West ever been in a bus that exploded?
We in Israel have been constant victims of these atrocities and
Bernie doesn't care.
13
He doesn't quite think that we should give away all
of Israel to the Arabs, but his plan to allow for the Palestinians
to have their own state on land that was given to Jews by God
would ultimately lead to our loss of the whole of our territory.
of Israel to the Arabs, but his plan to allow for the Palestinians
to have their own state on land that was given to Jews by God
would ultimately lead to our loss of the whole of our territory.
4
African Americans, Latinos and young white liberals are surging in their support of Palestinians and the Palestinian State. The demographics of the United States (and Israel) run contrary to the position of radical Zionists. Every year the polls show declining sentiment toward Israel in the United States and around the world. (Which explains the often vicious tactics of AIPAC, as we all saw during the confirmation of war hero Chuck Hagel).
AIPAC gets their power from money, threats and coercion, not the sentiment of the American people. How long can this hold?
For the Democratic Party, let alone the United States to fight this trend is counterproductive and damaging to the national security of the United States and Israel.
AIPAC gets their power from money, threats and coercion, not the sentiment of the American people. How long can this hold?
For the Democratic Party, let alone the United States to fight this trend is counterproductive and damaging to the national security of the United States and Israel.
7
It's about time that this matter gets cracked wide open here and now. I want my tax dollars spent on educating our children, fixing infrastructure, paying for that elusive single payer health care, caring for our people and our planet. I for one want a world without constant conflict and as long as Isreal has a blank check for cruel aggressions and occupation there will always be war and instability. Why is Israel so prominent in policy and given so much input in our elections? Who's making money off of this?? Enough, enough!
6
Finally a space is opening up to discuss American involvement in the Middle East. The US has taken part in Israel's policy towards the Palestinians not only by not stating a clear opinion against it, but also by sending huge military aids to Israel. Israel could not have sustained the occupation without the help of american military aid, which is actually our tax money given to the arms industry. It is time to think about those policies in context of corporations profiting from these crimes. As a former Israeli and a Jewish American citizen, I fully support Sanders in those choices and in bringing up these issues.
5
Bernie Sanders is the only Democrat with enough courage to even suggest, on national TV, that Palestinians have human rights. The Democratic Party sold out years ago by being bought and bullied by Israel's supporters. Clearly the Democratic establishment has loaded the platform committee. Even so, it is still amusing to hear and read the outrage expressed by the chicken littles on this list and in the party when other voices dare express critical views of Israel. The public expression of these views are long overdue. Israeli apartheid and aggression must end.
7
Don't like Hillary but Sanders is in a thorn in everyone's side & they were all thinking the problems would be on the RNC but instead the DNC is the one who is going NUTS....I am not saying that there will not be problems for the RNC but Hillary was suppose to be a shoe in & she can't seal the deal.
2
If we have reservations regarding Netanyahu's government actions, why are we, blindly, reelecting Senator Schemer? As our representative, he should be in the front of voicing our objections. I don't think it's in his character to be able to do so.
9
You know how if you really don't like somebody, after a while if they're for something, you're automatically against it? I can't speak to the specifics of America-Israel policy. But I've met Cornel West at a function and I've had to read what he writes. Even though most of it seemingly stopped making sense about two decades ago, sometimes he's still required reading in certain college classes and I do see Mr. West in the news several years after college. This man HATES the current president of the United States. I mean, he hates him.
If Barack Obama said he was in favor of sunshine, Cornel West would talk about how much energy sunshine consumes and how greedy we all are for wanting some sometimes and why does Barack Obama want to oppress people into wishing for a sun? It's a government con, I tell you, a con!
I honestly had no idea Bernie Sanders was trying to put Mr. West into a position of power in shaping the Democratic platform. I hate to sound un - Democratic, but I hope everyone in those conferences nods politely at Mr. West and Mr. Zogby, thanks them for coming, and listens to some people with some real ideas on these issues - and not people with a very, very personal agenda.
If Barack Obama said he was in favor of sunshine, Cornel West would talk about how much energy sunshine consumes and how greedy we all are for wanting some sometimes and why does Barack Obama want to oppress people into wishing for a sun? It's a government con, I tell you, a con!
I honestly had no idea Bernie Sanders was trying to put Mr. West into a position of power in shaping the Democratic platform. I hate to sound un - Democratic, but I hope everyone in those conferences nods politely at Mr. West and Mr. Zogby, thanks them for coming, and listens to some people with some real ideas on these issues - and not people with a very, very personal agenda.
12
Actually, most liberal journalists have been as scathing toward Obama as West, if not more so. The reasons are very clear: Obama has cow-towed to the horrible Israelis, refused Palestinian statehood, declared drone war on the world and helped out his wealthy Wall Street buddies. He's modernizing the US nuclear arsenal, to the tune of a trillion dollars. Is he better than a lunatic like Trump? Naturally, though that isn't saying much, is it?
6
Israelis don't have a monopoly on militaristic slaughter of civilians, nor is Israel a state that needs national attention as if they were Texas in a territorial border war with Mexico.
Certainly if anyone is militarized enough to fight its own endless, intractable, unwinnable wars, it's nuclear-tipped Israel.
Israel is of consequence to US policy not because Americans care so much about Jews or democracy in the Mideast.
Instead it appears Israel is of consequence to US politics due to special-interest influence:
Among US Zionist Jews, its the powerful AIPAC lobby and its influence on policy.
Among Christian Evangelicals it's End-Times theology, dispensationalists, powerful scripturalist biblical televangalist mega-church ideologues manipulating since Reagan.
But among 'liberals' who aren't obsessed with Zionism or Biblicalism, it's the militaristic atrocities in a war that can never end, and resultant injustice all ethnically-based territorial wars propagate, and a burden of responsibility over US obsessions with Israel for the above two reasons.
AIPAC should NOT be influencing US policy, & neither should Evangelicals. We can & should all be shocked about wars & suffering of civilians.
Americans must wind down their rampant arms trade, manufacturing of wars & weapons of war & its military industrialism that has powered so much of US policy.
The next US president needs to take a stand against arming everyone, and work to demilitarize the world and itself.
Certainly if anyone is militarized enough to fight its own endless, intractable, unwinnable wars, it's nuclear-tipped Israel.
Israel is of consequence to US policy not because Americans care so much about Jews or democracy in the Mideast.
Instead it appears Israel is of consequence to US politics due to special-interest influence:
Among US Zionist Jews, its the powerful AIPAC lobby and its influence on policy.
Among Christian Evangelicals it's End-Times theology, dispensationalists, powerful scripturalist biblical televangalist mega-church ideologues manipulating since Reagan.
But among 'liberals' who aren't obsessed with Zionism or Biblicalism, it's the militaristic atrocities in a war that can never end, and resultant injustice all ethnically-based territorial wars propagate, and a burden of responsibility over US obsessions with Israel for the above two reasons.
AIPAC should NOT be influencing US policy, & neither should Evangelicals. We can & should all be shocked about wars & suffering of civilians.
Americans must wind down their rampant arms trade, manufacturing of wars & weapons of war & its military industrialism that has powered so much of US policy.
The next US president needs to take a stand against arming everyone, and work to demilitarize the world and itself.
8
Sigh.
At this point, I'm guessing the Sanders people are trying on purpose to lose the election as sort of vanguardist-leftie fantasy where they'll "bring about the revolution" by pushing the country to the breaking point by getting Trump elected, so that things will "get so bad that that they have to be fixed."
Either that, or they're counting their chickens before they hatch, and are so sure that Trump could never, ever possibly get elected, that they might as well hash out every intra-party squabble they can think of before the general election. Meanwhile the GOP is dutifully coalescing around a narcissistic, would-be dictator, who may well become our next President.
I really hope we don't get Berned in November, for I will take very little pleasure in saying, I told you so.
At this point, I'm guessing the Sanders people are trying on purpose to lose the election as sort of vanguardist-leftie fantasy where they'll "bring about the revolution" by pushing the country to the breaking point by getting Trump elected, so that things will "get so bad that that they have to be fixed."
Either that, or they're counting their chickens before they hatch, and are so sure that Trump could never, ever possibly get elected, that they might as well hash out every intra-party squabble they can think of before the general election. Meanwhile the GOP is dutifully coalescing around a narcissistic, would-be dictator, who may well become our next President.
I really hope we don't get Berned in November, for I will take very little pleasure in saying, I told you so.
6
The most likely scenario is a victory by Hillary Clinton, who will bring even more war, chaos and horror to the world, as she and her military goons have all-but-promised to do. I believe she is insane enough to attack Iran.
And I will say "I told you so."
And I will say "I told you so."
8
As a friendly suggestion, let me please highlight the valuable role Mr. James Zogby will play as a collegial member of the Democratic Platform Committee in formulating the Party's call to action. He ably served in the US Congress and maintains a balanced position on the rights and interests of people here and overseas. He will reflect the views of Democrats and is sufficiently experienced to offer his independent and professional judgments where appropriate. He will be an excellent member of the platform committee.
4
Now that Trump is the official Republican nominee, the issue for Democrats shouldn't be right or wrong but how to make sure he doesn't go any further.Hilary may not be a perfect candidate but she will make a great president.
3
I am a liberal democrat referred to in the article. Perhaps left of Bernie Sanders. But I am sick of US enabling Israel to commit cultural genocide on the Palestinians. It's been 70+ years, for Pete's sake. Generations of refugees. Unspeakable atrocities and cruelty. Free Palestine already!! US claims to support democracy but when Palestinians in Gaza elect Hamas in a closely monitored election (including Jimmy Carter!), we don't like it!! It is time to say the emperor has no clothes. For this, I respect Bernie and Dr. West. And if Hillary wants my vote, she must earn it.
10
"Mr. Sanders, who is Jewish, has himself criticized Israel’s military posture in the Palestinian territories, saying, among other things, that it used disproportionate force in responding to rockets launched from Hamas-controlled Gaza in 2014."
- from this article
I would like to know exactly what Bernie feels is a proportional force. How would the US respond to an attack?
- from this article
I would like to know exactly what Bernie feels is a proportional force. How would the US respond to an attack?
6
We certainly know how the US would respond to any other country on earth boasting a totally ILLEGAL nuclear arsenal (with some of the fissile material STOLEN from US facilities), carrying out a brutal program of ethnic cleansing and threatening the region and the globe. We'd blow it off the map.
7
All very true about Israel's faults and errors. However, also very true is that in all the hundreds of Readers' Comments--there's not even a mention of the surrounding Arab and Iranian powers which attacked Israel the very day of its formation. And they still refuse to accept Israel's right to exist--and have done so since before any settlements were created.
Americans living in a security that has never been threatened need to maybe think through this issue a little bit more deeply. And a bit more humbly.
Americans living in a security that has never been threatened need to maybe think through this issue a little bit more deeply. And a bit more humbly.
7
Iran never attacked Israel at its formation. Iran and Israel were close friends. Iran sold Israel oil during the Arab oil embargo. Get your facts right.
7
if she's nominated without changing her position towards a more balanced approach with the Palestinians, I will be voting for Trump. Because I dislike him less than I dislike her and her Middle East policies especially her stance on the Palestinians!
9
Just as Netanyahu is being accused of war crimes, so should George W bush and Cheney be summoned to the war crimes tribunal, at the very least while they are still living, no point doing it posthumously.
6
One way or another, Sanders will hand this election to the Republicans.
4
Yes, he will rejoice in humiliating the uppity woman who took the nomination from him and in berning down the party that failed him.
1
The rise of BDS on college campuses has seen a rise in anti-Semitic incidences on college campuses. Several states in the USA have recognized the discriminatory nature of BDS and have begun to pass legislation against it. Even within the international community nations have started to recognize that BDS is discriminatory and oppositional to peace between the Arabs and Israel. Nonetheless, Bernie Sanders nominates two BDS supporters, both of whom have a substantial history of anti-Semitic statements, to provide "balance" to the Democratic platform. Does it get any more absurd?
9
Donald Trump will be the next President. The Left will make it happen. The Sanders insurgency has already done irreparable harm to Hillary Clinton and both Sanders and Cornel West are going to turn the Democratic Convention into a fiasco. Is the anti-Israel, crazed, and crazy Cornel West the man Democrats want all over TV during the Convention? Of course not, he is a bomb thrown by Sanders to destroy the party.
The Left doesn’t want to build a better world or help the working class and poverty stricken they just want to tell the rest of us how absolutely awful we really are. And, as I have seen throughout my life they will once again turn this country over to the right by turning everyone but themselves off, and hurt the people they always say they care about.
The Left doesn’t want to build a better world or help the working class and poverty stricken they just want to tell the rest of us how absolutely awful we really are. And, as I have seen throughout my life they will once again turn this country over to the right by turning everyone but themselves off, and hurt the people they always say they care about.
4
You're right. Sanders' choice of Cornel West as his weapon was inspired.
1
The US $3.5B annual aid is now going to Avigdor Lieberman and Netanyahu's war chest, and land stealing and settlement building fund.
8
Since when is this issue a primary concern for Senator Sanders. It is a messy issue, a complicated issue, a divisive issue, but until now not his issue. Is his goal in running for president solving the many economic issues confronting our country, or wading into the international problems that have not been solved in the past seventy years so he can make up for the past forty years of having practically no interest in anything beyond the local interests of the citizens of Vermont.
11
Its good to air it out. There are many of us who are tired of this, upset with Bibi's treatment of Mr Obama and our country, we would like him to understand that Israel is not the 51st state of America.
5
Every element of the Israel-Palestine crisis is present in these comments. Sanders (who gets my vote on June 7) did not have the guts to appoint genuinely qualified candidates to address this plank. West is an anti-Semite, at least based on off-the-cuff lecture comments and seminar comments I heard. Zogby is the Foxman of Arabs so, I only dislike him as much as I dislike Foxman: pitchman for ideological organizations. The world needs an Israel and a Palestine. Israel is allowing a small radical terrorist clique, and the fanatic orthodoxy, to march the nation into oppression and war. This will eventually change as the 1948 generation dies off. Palestinians still wear keys to front doors from villages deserted in 1948 as jewelry. Sanders should have sought out an inclusive representative to seek justice. Instead, we get more racist, rabid, bigots on either side, who will solve nothing. I'm disappointed in you Bernie, but at least you're trying to shape a true Democratic Party away from the centrists who won power with Clinton (Bill).
5
By vilifying Israel, Cornel West will not help the Palestinian cause but will only alienate pragmatic Jewish people who aspire a peaceful solution.
30
It is very sad that we have hardline Israel supporters (including Democrats) who cannot even accept words like "balanced approach" or "fair treatment of Palestinians." No-no-no. They come right back with the same talking points: "Rockets! Hamas! Death to Israel!" It is very sad when a simple humane idea such as fair treatment becomes so strangely inscrutable. Duh, it ain't rocket science folks. But it did take a Jew to speak strongly against Israel (you would be labeled anti-Semitic if anyone else tried). Thank you Bernie for having the chutzpah.
22
What do you mean by fair treatment for Pelestine. World over Muslim population want to divide the countries only because they are Muslims and want seoerate land. Now they are already causing problems in Europe and they way they outnumbered local population very soon similar issue would happen in Europe and then American liberals would be the next target.
3
You admit that "death to Israel" and "rockets" are things that are viewed as ok from the palestinian side. When "right to exist" and "no, we won't randomly rocket civilians" are starting negotiating points, I wonder what might happen...
4
This issue is so emotional, and sometimes so irrational, on all sides I do not want to get involved in the argument, though the debate is long overdue. Thanks to Dr. West and Mr. Sanders for daring to go where few Americans go. Having said that may I request commentators to stop calling everything Israel does as Nazism. Use that term, which represents heinous crimes against humanity, properly. And on the other side, stop calling every criticism and analysis anti-Semitism. Kindly show sense and sensibility in the debate. This is an important foreign policy issue that has been part of America for decades, and needs to be re-examined without all this shouting and yelling. Thank you.
16
Bernie pandering to the #BLM movement by involving one of their militants. Can't Bernie see he already has radical issues (see New Mexico).
If this guys thinks he'll bring a real revolution, he is mistaken. Time to ship him down to Cuba. See ya Bernie.
If this guys thinks he'll bring a real revolution, he is mistaken. Time to ship him down to Cuba. See ya Bernie.
13
Bernie pandering, seriously? Guess you haven't seen Hillary changing her accent with each group she meets? She becomes a southerner, then a New Yorker, then a woman, then an apologizer for email poor judgement...and so on.
3
Actually, it is quite genuine. I have a very specific northern Minnesota accent that emerges whenever I go HOOOme. When visiting with very good college friends from 50 years ago, my accent--and my more spicy vocabulary comes bubbling up. When I'm meeting with my superiors, or with erudite people, my accent and my vocabulary meets that standard. Hillary lived many years in the south....I would imagine it is unavoidable to segue into that accent.
This is a quite delicate issue and needs to be dealt with carefully. Although I support Ms. Clinton, I agree with Sander's assessment that while we must continue to support Israel, we must call them out for their repression of Palestinians also finally pressure them to come to a peace agreement. The latter will most certainly require significant concessions on the part of the Israelis. We must make this clear to them and also make clear that US aid can only continue if progress is make.
15
The supposed policy of the United States is to not sell arms to countries guilty of gross human rights abuses, whereas in reality, its precisely the opposite. If we decide, for whatever cynical reason, not to sell arms to a country, then and only then, is it guilty of human rights abuses. Hence, we have no qualms about arming both Israel and Saudi Arabia, two oppressive states that just happen to suit our interests. Makes me real proud to be an American.
10
I voted for Sanders in the primary and have intended to write his name in, if I had to, for the general election. I am glad to see him breaking away from the Democratic Party orthodoxy on Israel. I cannot vote for Hillary under any circumstances.
But I'm quite disappointed to see Sanders giving any audience at all to that idiot Cornel West. There are plenty of thoughtful American academics who can speak rationally about the Middle East and the mess the US has been complicit in creating and sustaining. Choosing West is just dumb.
I may have to sit this election out.
But I'm quite disappointed to see Sanders giving any audience at all to that idiot Cornel West. There are plenty of thoughtful American academics who can speak rationally about the Middle East and the mess the US has been complicit in creating and sustaining. Choosing West is just dumb.
I may have to sit this election out.
13
SCA, choosing West is not dumb. We have to allow multiplicity of views and opinions in this country. Dr West has been an early supporter of Bernie's and he deserves a listen.
1
"I may have to sit this election out." Yeah, because not voting for Clinton is more important than not electing Trump. That makes terrific good sense.
3
While I agree with Mr. West and Senator Sanders on so much especially regarding Israel, the question is now do we want Donald Trump to be the next President. Scary as hell. Policy after an election means much more than a plank in a platform.
8
Is this the Democrat's Tea Party moment? Will they let extremist minority views take over the party too?
25
Socialist will always support dictatorships over democracies. So why wouldn't Bernie's supporters support Hamas, Hezbollah, etc. They are their brother's in tyrannical governments.
19
The overwhelming support and 'Recommends' the writers who are denouncing Israel's so called 'occupation' of the Palestinian Territories and subjugation of its people with so perceived US support and sanctions is noteworthy. Does that mean that even in the greatest democracy in the world, the will of the people and its intellectuals is constantly ignored and suppressed, or is it that even in an open society like ours there remain certain issues that are beyond debate and an honest opinion. Actually, I am really surprised that a discussion on a sensitive and pariah topic like this one is taking place. Personally, due to lack of knowledge of facts, I have no opinion in the matter and would probably sway towards the opinion of the 'Talking Head', celebrity or crooked politician I am listening to while enjoying my 'Bud'.
6
" Palestinian reparations are probably called for.
"Palestinian reparations are probably called for."
why?
where are the reparations for Jews who were kicked out of Arab countries in the 50's and 60's?
where are the reparations from Palestinians for terrorist murders against Israel, which continue to this day?
I am tired of whining by so called black leaders like cornell west, al sharpton and jessie jackson. instead of focusing on Israel focus on helping your own to get real educations,. to get real jobs and to develop a real sense of morality to stop murdering each other.
'
"Palestinian reparations are probably called for."
why?
where are the reparations for Jews who were kicked out of Arab countries in the 50's and 60's?
where are the reparations from Palestinians for terrorist murders against Israel, which continue to this day?
I am tired of whining by so called black leaders like cornell west, al sharpton and jessie jackson. instead of focusing on Israel focus on helping your own to get real educations,. to get real jobs and to develop a real sense of morality to stop murdering each other.
'
24
It's interesting that the attempt by the Sanders campaign to be "even-handed" towards the Israel/Palestine conflict has been met with such vociferous opposition from the Democratic establishment. For too long have politicians sided unilaterally with Israel. Sanders should not be condemned for seeking a fair approach which recognises the needs of both parities. That is, after all, a basic tenet of effective mediation.
14
like cornell west is an expert on this. another rabble rouser out to cause trouble. what is ironic is I agree with the idea but not the tactics they want to use.
13
So Israel-hater Cornell West is appointed to the Democratic platform drafting committee by Bermie Sanders. West has so crossed the line of extreme anti-Israel criticism, and has done ir repeatedly, that he meets the definition of an anti-Semite as defined by the US State Department. That Sanders would appoint a bigot who spouts the myth of Israeli "war crimes" and "apartheid" and is a staunch proponent of BDS, an organization whose members and founder call for the end of the state of Israel, clearly indicates that Sanders has strengthened the anti-Semitic extremists of the left.
The extreme left and the extreme left meet when it comes to hatred of the Jewish state.
The extreme left and the extreme left meet when it comes to hatred of the Jewish state.
31
Does this mean Egypt will give me back the property they confiscated from my family for being Jewish and evicting us?
26
We will see what actually happen..It's going to be a chaotic convention.
3
I guess this is how far we've strayed: anyone who suggests one nation shouldn't keep another living in virtual concentration camps is deemed 'radical.'
17
I am an American of Jewish descent. And I am absolutely sympathetic to the view that the policies and actions of Israel provide a one-way roadmap to continuing war. There can be no peace as long as Netanyahu and other extremist Israelis continue to occupy and extend their illegal settlements. The Palestinians have suffered enough. Of course they find no alternative to violence. That said, this is probably a moot point for the Democratic party because Sanders is doing everything in his power to make sure Trump wins the election. Sanders is very unlikely to win the nomination; he cannot get his policies enacted, as good as they are, because the Republicans won't allow any such progress, no matter how important to the country. Sanders needs to shut up and get out of the race or we will have a devastating Trump presidency. Sanders seems to have gotten so caught up in his own cause that the country's well-being has become secondary.
13
If any position on Israel must be articulated in the Democratic Party platform, and I'm not sure that one must, I would hope that it would merely affirm support for a negotiated two-state solution and voice general opposition to acts taken by Israelis or Palestinians that are antithetical to that goal. Strident anti-Zionism, that is, outright opposition to the existence of Israel as a Jewish state, still has no place in mainstream Democratic politics. At the same time, an increasingly right-wing Israeli government has no right to expect any statement of support for its policies from a left-of-center American political party.
16
Zogby was also a featured writer for the Arab Voice at the time that paper was excerpting the notorious anti-Semitic forgery, Protocols of the Elders of Zion (Zogby responds at the base of the article, which is followed by a follow-up article casting doubt on parts of his explanations). He accused Israel of waging a “Holocaust” against the Palestinians. More recently, he embraced political polemics if not conspiracies regarding the Iraq war. And most recently, Zogby accused Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of being an “Israel firster,” an anti-Semitic trope. From ADL James Zogby would have us believe that all that prevents peace from prevailing across the Middle East is the existence of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.("The Unsettling Truth About Those Israeli Settlements", June 22) However, Mr. Zogby neglects to mention that just last summer at Camp David, Israel offered to uproot isolated settlements and have the Palestinians create an independent state on 100% of the Gaza Stip and at least 95% of the West Bank. The remaining settlements, located on under 5% of the West Bank would be annexed to Israel.
Mr. Zogby's sophistry cannot disguise the root of the current conflict - ongoing Palestinian belligerence. As outlined in the Mitchell Report and the Tenet Cease-Fire, once the Palestinians lay down their arms and attempt to combat terrorism, Israel has agreed to undertake a series of confidence building measures.
Mr. Zogby's sophistry cannot disguise the root of the current conflict - ongoing Palestinian belligerence. As outlined in the Mitchell Report and the Tenet Cease-Fire, once the Palestinians lay down their arms and attempt to combat terrorism, Israel has agreed to undertake a series of confidence building measures.
25
Talk back to Israel? Not in an election year, and not where anyone can overhear you...
7
Yes, Israel should withdraw its settlements from occupied Palestinian territory, and acknowledge their sovereignty. And yes, Netanyahu and his right wing extremist allies need to reasonably move to the center, and negotiate in good faith. And there must be a two state solution.
Conversely, Palestinians and the other Arabs must also recognize Israel's right to exist. Hezbollah, a terrorist organization must stop terrorizing Israel with rockets and currently tunnels, must stand down and not be a negotiator. And before Cornell West expands criticism in this arena, he must recognize Latino rights must be on parity with Black rights, and further denounce Black Separatist Hate Groups, in the same manner he is criticizing Israel's actions.
Conversely, Palestinians and the other Arabs must also recognize Israel's right to exist. Hezbollah, a terrorist organization must stop terrorizing Israel with rockets and currently tunnels, must stand down and not be a negotiator. And before Cornell West expands criticism in this arena, he must recognize Latino rights must be on parity with Black rights, and further denounce Black Separatist Hate Groups, in the same manner he is criticizing Israel's actions.
19
For a start, you'd think they'd realise that actually Israel handed Gaza over in 2005 so it is no longer "occupied" and is Hamas' problem, not Israel's.
62
Not quite accurate. Gaza is a land under a medieval siege from land, sea and air.
3
Not occupied. Yes besieged.
1
Like in 1980, the Democrats are forgetting their true base and have been again begun the pandering to special interest groups without consideration of the majority. While inclusion is required, democracy requires the will of the majority and what brought forth Reagan, will bring forth Trump. Sow what you reap.
37
You got it, we had enough of 5 decades of pandering to AIPAC. Time to move on.
24
Your point would be well taken if the actual and projected population by race remained stagnant. But it hasn't. In 2050 the Euro-American population will be a minority population, and the current shifts in attitudes about race by millennials and undoubtedly subsequent generations will not support a Eurocentric political or social agenda that has been inequitable and unjust. Arbitrary walls are falling, unreasoned boxes are being decimated, and races are blending culturally and biologically. So don't count on a repeat of Pre-Reagan racism hell bent on holding back the tide. The current of change is a tsunami. Only the adaptable will survive the wake. Oh and don't think that Trumps appeal to the fearful, uniformed and borderline or outright bigots will win the day in November. His rise is a clear indication of an American weakness since its founding: an economic and social system based on a belief in race superiority and inferiority and sustained ignorance of the people. Only 500 years and the experiment of extreme capitalism fueled by racism & classism has destroyed the grand social experiment: democracy. Flawed and weak systems never survive for long. Belief in American exceptionalism is now akin to our belief in the myth of the "American Dream." No one really believes either anymore, and that is why so many are afraid .
1
We are not a majority rule country. We are a constitutional republic.
as a jewish american, I'm tired of the "is it good for the Jews?" mentality of the fake pro Israel crowd. Israel lives on a sea of US money and under a massive US diplomatic umbrella and Israel is a violent settler colonial entity, the US really doesn't care much about the internal politics of countries it considers strategically important as long as they do what the US says, think Saudi Arabia. Nothing meaningful will change in this equation until the US starts to think of Israel as a liability, same for Saudi Arabia. Right now, in general, there is no real negative for a US politician being as right wing as possible on Israel, that's why I support Bernie Sanders, he's taking a brave and unneeded stand.
96
Some call the US a colonial power. Does not make it true.
1
You are so right that Bernie's stand is unneeded.
1
", he's taking a brave and unneeded stand."
I'm in agreement with you on Column B.
I'm in agreement with you on Column B.
1
I vote Democrat in my state and local elections most of the time but it is becoming much more difficult to vote Democrat in Presidential elections. If the DNC let's BS take over without him being the candidate that will be the final straw. If it is Trump vs Sanders I would is have a very difficult choice because I find them both obnoxious.The thing I find difficult to understand is why Elizabeth Warren who has the same platform as BS is someone I would have no difficulty voting for. Maybe it's because I don't like people play the victim, BS
29
A reminder to Progressives such as Dr, West:
The voters for Ralph Nader cost Al Gore the presidency. They delayed work on climate change by 8 years at least. So among the global criminals involved in the destruction of climate we must list Nader and his "Progressive" supporters who failed to see that the-whole-nine-yards is the enemy of half-a-loaf. Indeed Bernie and Dr. West are so enamored of their own opinions that they need to flaunt them in the face of the very real possibility that they are turning the future of climate over to Trump and the Republican Denial Machine. It is past time for them to unify behind HRC.
Oh, West would assure us that COP-21, the Paris Agreements are insufficient to protect climate and someone with Bernie's vision is needed to protect climate. The contrary is true. The Paris Agreements are the necessary first step. Remember Montreal protected ozone, one step at a time. Scuttling the Paris Agreement would be a disaster. If we have to wait for a "truly" Progressive President to enact the Clean Power Plan, then we will be trying to refreeze the permafrost. Bernie and West do not know a forcing from a feedback and certainly never met a trade-off. They are sure that their virtue and purity will enchant CO2 out of the air and back into the ground. Their Star Turn in front of the mirror held by Nader is worth more to them than the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.
I hope that their grandchildren can forgive their vanity.
Chuck Wilson
Golden, CO
The voters for Ralph Nader cost Al Gore the presidency. They delayed work on climate change by 8 years at least. So among the global criminals involved in the destruction of climate we must list Nader and his "Progressive" supporters who failed to see that the-whole-nine-yards is the enemy of half-a-loaf. Indeed Bernie and Dr. West are so enamored of their own opinions that they need to flaunt them in the face of the very real possibility that they are turning the future of climate over to Trump and the Republican Denial Machine. It is past time for them to unify behind HRC.
Oh, West would assure us that COP-21, the Paris Agreements are insufficient to protect climate and someone with Bernie's vision is needed to protect climate. The contrary is true. The Paris Agreements are the necessary first step. Remember Montreal protected ozone, one step at a time. Scuttling the Paris Agreement would be a disaster. If we have to wait for a "truly" Progressive President to enact the Clean Power Plan, then we will be trying to refreeze the permafrost. Bernie and West do not know a forcing from a feedback and certainly never met a trade-off. They are sure that their virtue and purity will enchant CO2 out of the air and back into the ground. Their Star Turn in front of the mirror held by Nader is worth more to them than the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.
I hope that their grandchildren can forgive their vanity.
Chuck Wilson
Golden, CO
48
Thanks Chuck. I'm a recovering Bernie voter who is now observing him supporting anyone who will support him, without looking at the big picture. While Bernieworld is busy promoting the Republican picture of Hillary as calculating, he has begun supporting other people. But it seems he has only one litmus test to earn his support: whether these people unquestionably support him. This does not fit the portrait who has the good of all of us at heart, but rather the win at any cost ethos that he claims is the territory of his opponent.
DailyKos had an interesting analysis of this: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/5/24/1530428/-Bernie-Sanders-is-endor...
I too am concerned about the environment, more than anything else. People have no idea how dangerous this is and how quickly its urgency is moving from hypothetical to real. Hillary could do better, but the idea that Bernie-thwarted voters will endorse Trump is contrary to the continuation of humanity. I have some hope for her, as her positions, while too moderate, are based on reason and reality. Podesta certainly knows what's what.
Bernie just wants to stand in the middle of the room and throw a tantrum, and that will make everybody pay attention!
I don't think so.
DailyKos had an interesting analysis of this: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/5/24/1530428/-Bernie-Sanders-is-endor...
I too am concerned about the environment, more than anything else. People have no idea how dangerous this is and how quickly its urgency is moving from hypothetical to real. Hillary could do better, but the idea that Bernie-thwarted voters will endorse Trump is contrary to the continuation of humanity. I have some hope for her, as her positions, while too moderate, are based on reason and reality. Podesta certainly knows what's what.
Bernie just wants to stand in the middle of the room and throw a tantrum, and that will make everybody pay attention!
I don't think so.
19
On the other hand, Clinton's poll numbers are falling fast and she appears ever more likely to face indictment over her mishandling of sensitive emails. If this election is seen as a must-win for Democrats, which it is, then we ought to be glad that Sanders is still in the race, still building momentum, and may yet stun Clinton with a victory in California and with a real chance to steal the nomination in Philadelphia. If Clinton does manage to stay on course and get the nomination, her only hope of beating Trump then will be if she picks Sanders for VP.
13
Ralph Nader offered to drop his candidacy if the Democrats would take some of his planks into the platform. The DNC declined. Ralph Nader didn't keep Gore out of the White House, the DNC did. As for Gore's record on the environment, if actions speak louder than words, I urge you to check his record in office. Ralph Nader has done far more for the environment than Gore. How does this relate to the issue at hand? The DNC is losing its base because of a constant shift to the right. Do you really think the TPP will help the climate? And why can't we see its terms? What is the Democratic Party hiding? I can answer that... The Dems are pandering to big money as much as the Repubs (and Trump). And that's why they are losing.
The State of Israel was founded by the United Nations with defined boundaries not including the West Bank, then part of Jordan, or Gaza, then part of Egypt. The Israeli occupation of these two area after the Six Day War made sense when tanks were serious threats to Israel. In the age of missiles, the military justification for occupation no longer exists.
Meanwhile, Israel, which from the beginning was intended to be a moral example of righteous living for the rest of the world, has become a moral morass. No principles justify its continued occupation of the lands and suppression of the people.
As a committed Jew, the State of Israel offends me. It should be obliged to withdraw to its internationally recognize boundaries and pay reparations. It should not be obliged to recognize, much less realize, a right of return. And Jerusalem should become an international city under the mandate of the UN and the administration of the United States.
Meanwhile, Israel, which from the beginning was intended to be a moral example of righteous living for the rest of the world, has become a moral morass. No principles justify its continued occupation of the lands and suppression of the people.
As a committed Jew, the State of Israel offends me. It should be obliged to withdraw to its internationally recognize boundaries and pay reparations. It should not be obliged to recognize, much less realize, a right of return. And Jerusalem should become an international city under the mandate of the UN and the administration of the United States.
76
Yours is a common misconception. The UN did not found Israel nor does its Charter give it such powers. You are no doubt thinking of the non-binding UN partition resolution 181 of 1947 that was accepted by the Jewish Agency but rejected by all the Arab countries, went to war to wipe out the Jewish state and lost.
Israel was founded as a consequence of the League of Nations Mandate for Palestine of 1922 - from which over three quarters was within a year severed to create present day Jordan (which just as easily could be called East Palestine). When the Mandate terminated, Israel declared its indedepence and, as a matter of international law (from a 19th century doctrine that brought order to the borders of the new South American states) became sovereign over all the territories of the Mandate as it was internationally recognized in 1948. Notwithstanding that right, Israel has consistently offered to trade part of its land for peace, and the Arabs just as consistently refused until Egypt took the first step in 1979.
The most ignored fact is this: everyone can identify Netanyahu as representing Israel at the bargaining table, but no one can identify a Palestinian counterpart with the legitimacy to sign an end-of-conflict peace and the authority to see that it is enforced. Until that person appears, nothing is going to happen.
As a final point, your religious affiliation is entirely irrelevant to the discussion.
Israel was founded as a consequence of the League of Nations Mandate for Palestine of 1922 - from which over three quarters was within a year severed to create present day Jordan (which just as easily could be called East Palestine). When the Mandate terminated, Israel declared its indedepence and, as a matter of international law (from a 19th century doctrine that brought order to the borders of the new South American states) became sovereign over all the territories of the Mandate as it was internationally recognized in 1948. Notwithstanding that right, Israel has consistently offered to trade part of its land for peace, and the Arabs just as consistently refused until Egypt took the first step in 1979.
The most ignored fact is this: everyone can identify Netanyahu as representing Israel at the bargaining table, but no one can identify a Palestinian counterpart with the legitimacy to sign an end-of-conflict peace and the authority to see that it is enforced. Until that person appears, nothing is going to happen.
As a final point, your religious affiliation is entirely irrelevant to the discussion.
1
How is what you are suggesting different than what was already offered the Palestinians during President Clinton's tenure? Or since?
1
Wrong. The West Bank was not "then part of Jordan in 1948".
But thanks for playing.
After the 1948 war Jordan seized and annexed the West Bank.
But thanks for playing.
After the 1948 war Jordan seized and annexed the West Bank.
3
Bernie is right. Our support for Israel has been lopsided, and this should be adjusted. It's way overdue. We must no longer be intimidated by AIPAC whose financial support most of our elected members of congress so desperately and shamelessly grovel for. God forbid someone might think they were anti-Semitic!
Even if Israel's loathesome Benjamin Netanyahu barely thinks twice before insulting the President of our country, the Congress wags its tails with indifference anyway to get AIPAC's money. Who has the courage to even question the propriety of his coming to address Congress whether or not he's been invited to by the nation's administration?
It's time to stop kow-towing to Israel. They are clearly more powerful than their adversaries in the middle East, and as they build walls around and construct living quarters on land supposedly reserved for Palestinians and behave like Lords and Masters of the area, they are clearly uninterested in achieving a peace treaty with the Palestinians, so why should we continue to accept their gross behavior? It isn't as though Americans treat Jews badly or have to do perpetual "mea culpas" for their tragic past. We deserve better.
Even if Israel's loathesome Benjamin Netanyahu barely thinks twice before insulting the President of our country, the Congress wags its tails with indifference anyway to get AIPAC's money. Who has the courage to even question the propriety of his coming to address Congress whether or not he's been invited to by the nation's administration?
It's time to stop kow-towing to Israel. They are clearly more powerful than their adversaries in the middle East, and as they build walls around and construct living quarters on land supposedly reserved for Palestinians and behave like Lords and Masters of the area, they are clearly uninterested in achieving a peace treaty with the Palestinians, so why should we continue to accept their gross behavior? It isn't as though Americans treat Jews badly or have to do perpetual "mea culpas" for their tragic past. We deserve better.
76
"Upending" the Democratic platform on Israel will effectively give the election to Trump, just like LBJ
gave the South to the Republicans with the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The major difference: the Cuvil Rights Act was a vital necessity. Pandering to the Palestinians by uninformed political trolls is not.
It is dangerous. But then, the Dems pushed the Iran
deal through, and that is dangerous as well. The Iranians laugh in our faces, rake in the cash from sanctions relief, and test their missles to their deranged hearts' desire.
gave the South to the Republicans with the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The major difference: the Cuvil Rights Act was a vital necessity. Pandering to the Palestinians by uninformed political trolls is not.
It is dangerous. But then, the Dems pushed the Iran
deal through, and that is dangerous as well. The Iranians laugh in our faces, rake in the cash from sanctions relief, and test their missles to their deranged hearts' desire.
29
Date and time of the Iran missile test since the treaty was passed? You have none because there is none.
Exaggerate much? A debate on the position of the democratic party's support of Israel vis a vis the Palestinians, is not "Upending" the relationship. Last I checked, Bernie does not own a majority of the seats on the drafting committee.
There will be no Mideast peace for 50-75 years anyway.
Exaggerate much? A debate on the position of the democratic party's support of Israel vis a vis the Palestinians, is not "Upending" the relationship. Last I checked, Bernie does not own a majority of the seats on the drafting committee.
There will be no Mideast peace for 50-75 years anyway.
1
We have got to try. Status quo is not enough
1
One must not be blinded by ideology of supremacy.
1
Palestinian people and their human rights are equally important as Israeli people and their human rights. Anyone who prefers one people over the other, as the vast majority of Americans have done preferring Israelis over Palestinians, are unjust, unethical nationalists in the same vein as racists who prefer one race over another.
Furthermore, these unjust, unethical nationalists are dissemblers by willfully conflating the notion of jewish heritage with the jewish state of Israel: they say that those of us who dare to criticize the state of Israel are being anti-semitic, which is flat out mendacious. Even worse, they conflate the current ruling Likud Party with the state of Israel, and accuse those of us who dare to criticize Netanyahu with being anti-semitic. This from the hypocrites who screech and scream at the mere mention of Palestinian sovereignty.
The democratic establishment will see a totally fractured party if these unjust, unethical nationalists are given the opportunity to voice their double-standards with regard to what really is anti-semitism and their blatant contempt for the Palestinian people.
Furthermore, these unjust, unethical nationalists are dissemblers by willfully conflating the notion of jewish heritage with the jewish state of Israel: they say that those of us who dare to criticize the state of Israel are being anti-semitic, which is flat out mendacious. Even worse, they conflate the current ruling Likud Party with the state of Israel, and accuse those of us who dare to criticize Netanyahu with being anti-semitic. This from the hypocrites who screech and scream at the mere mention of Palestinian sovereignty.
The democratic establishment will see a totally fractured party if these unjust, unethical nationalists are given the opportunity to voice their double-standards with regard to what really is anti-semitism and their blatant contempt for the Palestinian people.
37
There is a difference between criticism of the state based on actual events and criteria and the sort of double-standard or blatantly dishonest criticism that is what is being complained about.
For example, the idea that Israel is an apartheid state would come as quite a surprise to the Arabs who serve as lawyers and judges in the Israeli court system (including the Supreme Court), the Arab doctors and medical students in Israeli hospitals and schools (including the female valedictorian of the Technion) and so on. But, when a group like BDS and a celebrity like Roger Waters says it, it gets swallowed up like popcorn. The false accusation is based on the idea that Gaza, the West Bank and Israel are all one entity, and therefore all should have the rights of Israeli citizens. The truth is that Gaza and the West Bank are separate entities, with their own political system and government (which has been seeking recognition for its statehood from the UN). They should not have Israeli rights any more than Canadians and Mexicans should have citizen's rights in the USA.
The Israeli media is quite frequently the primary source for stories critical of Israel, and it is hard to find any newspaper that does not criticize Israel far more than any other country in the Middle East. The claim that people cannot criticize Israel is a tactic used to silence any attempt to rebut some of the more egregious falsehoods.
For example, the idea that Israel is an apartheid state would come as quite a surprise to the Arabs who serve as lawyers and judges in the Israeli court system (including the Supreme Court), the Arab doctors and medical students in Israeli hospitals and schools (including the female valedictorian of the Technion) and so on. But, when a group like BDS and a celebrity like Roger Waters says it, it gets swallowed up like popcorn. The false accusation is based on the idea that Gaza, the West Bank and Israel are all one entity, and therefore all should have the rights of Israeli citizens. The truth is that Gaza and the West Bank are separate entities, with their own political system and government (which has been seeking recognition for its statehood from the UN). They should not have Israeli rights any more than Canadians and Mexicans should have citizen's rights in the USA.
The Israeli media is quite frequently the primary source for stories critical of Israel, and it is hard to find any newspaper that does not criticize Israel far more than any other country in the Middle East. The claim that people cannot criticize Israel is a tactic used to silence any attempt to rebut some of the more egregious falsehoods.
9
No one likes Netanyahu in Israel, not his voters, not his colleagues nor his former Likud colleagues, of whom there dozens. That being said the security policy of the Likud is not that different than the security policy of the left-wing National Union. There is a widespread sentiment in Israel that there is no one to negotiate with on the Palestinian side. Hamas rules Gaza and rejects any settlement with Israel. The PLO rules the West Bank and is led by Abbas who is now in the eleventh year of a four year term. Abbas does not have the moral authority to make the compromises necessary for a settlement and is in competition with the extremist Hamas for support from the Palestinian public. Multiple public opinion polls show that the Palestinian public does not support any compromise with Israel; they believe that the entire land belongs to the Palestinians. The ten thousand rockets which have been launched from Gaza into Israel since 2005 have convinced most Israelis that any withdrawal from the West Bank would be problematic.
4
Sanders is not an anti-Semite, but Cornel West has a long history of anti-Semitic statements, including the claim that Obama is controlled by Jewish bankers. If this is an example of a Sanders appointee, then he's proved himself unfit for the Presidency.
89
In the sense that he is so eager to accept negative depictions of Israel, and indeed seems to get his information from sources that are notably hostile to Israel, I think that Sanders does come close to behaving like an anti-Semite. He is one of those people for whom being Jewish is something he inherited from his parents without having any say in the matter. Most certainly he has done little to express that Jewish identity in his life, except to proclaim it when politically expedient. Like many Jews who have no particular love for their identity, he seems to push harder against it to show that distance.
These are the people whom he sees as being 'even-handed' in regards to the Arab-Israeli conflict. He must be quite biased against Israel if he thinks that people who advocate for the destruction of the Israeli state are a good choice.
These are the people whom he sees as being 'even-handed' in regards to the Arab-Israeli conflict. He must be quite biased against Israel if he thinks that people who advocate for the destruction of the Israeli state are a good choice.
11
@Common Sense,
Were those Mr. West's exact words? Please clarify.
5-26-16@6:09 pm
Were those Mr. West's exact words? Please clarify.
5-26-16@6:09 pm
1
Cornel west and Travis smiley never considered Obama black enough. I disagreed with them until recently when Obama seemed to assume Hillary as the inevitable nominee, that proved that the dem establishment had never really taken Bernie seriously. Hopefully now they will. We are with Bernie all the way. Cornel west or not.
2
Finally - maybe some discussion regarding our unbalanced relationship with Israel!
46
Sanders made a bold and sincere move.
Along with McGibbon, they cover a large swath of the problems that this country faces.
Ignore the Rightwing Wingbats and pro-Bibi Zionists working up a conniption fit.
Along with McGibbon, they cover a large swath of the problems that this country faces.
Ignore the Rightwing Wingbats and pro-Bibi Zionists working up a conniption fit.
32
Many Americans support Israel as a Jewish and democratic state that respects the religions of all those living within its borders.
Many Americans understand the historic Jewish connection to the Land of Israel going back to Biblical times.
Many Americans grasp that Israel faces numerous enemies: Hamas, Hezbollah, Da’ish (Isis), Al-Qa’ida affiliates and the mullahs in Iran.
Many Americans know that Israel wants peace so long as its security is not compromised.
Many Americans recognize that Israel’s democratically elected government needs to take into account the military implications of any further territorial withdrawal.
Many Americans want to strengthen relations between the United States and Israel.
Israel should not become a partisan issues in American politics.
Many Americans understand the historic Jewish connection to the Land of Israel going back to Biblical times.
Many Americans grasp that Israel faces numerous enemies: Hamas, Hezbollah, Da’ish (Isis), Al-Qa’ida affiliates and the mullahs in Iran.
Many Americans know that Israel wants peace so long as its security is not compromised.
Many Americans recognize that Israel’s democratically elected government needs to take into account the military implications of any further territorial withdrawal.
Many Americans want to strengthen relations between the United States and Israel.
Israel should not become a partisan issues in American politics.
50
Israel should stay OUT of American politics and denounce the Tom Cottons of our government.
29
@fred
Many Americans are dissatisfied with the continuation of Settlements.
Many Americans are dismayed at the treatment of those innocent Palestinians (yes, there must be some).
Many Americans remember Mr. Netanyahu storming into the U.S.Congress without so much as a first word to the White House.
Many Americans regard, with awe, the appointment of Avigdor Lieberman as Minister of Defense.
Many Americans are wondering why Israel continues to receive such massive financial and military aid packages.
Do you see a picture emerging?? -- And it has nothing to do with being anti-Semetic.... Many Americans are just wondering, that's all.
Many Americans are dissatisfied with the continuation of Settlements.
Many Americans are dismayed at the treatment of those innocent Palestinians (yes, there must be some).
Many Americans remember Mr. Netanyahu storming into the U.S.Congress without so much as a first word to the White House.
Many Americans regard, with awe, the appointment of Avigdor Lieberman as Minister of Defense.
Many Americans are wondering why Israel continues to receive such massive financial and military aid packages.
Do you see a picture emerging?? -- And it has nothing to do with being anti-Semetic.... Many Americans are just wondering, that's all.
2
This is funny. Stay out of American politics, but denounce Tom Cotton. Haha
I'm glad our relationshp with Israel is on the table. Sad to say, that nation has lost its way.
47
While the Democratic Party has always enjoyed huge support from the Jews, many are starting to change their allegiance over this issue. Some to the Republican Party and some independent - the latter especially for those who find Republican policies abhorrent on all other issues.
It's not that Jews are in lock step with the current Israeli government - they are not.
It's because most Jews see those in the far left - represented by West - as perceiving the conflict as entirely Israel's fault, and see the resolution as simply a matter of Israel withdrawing to the pre -1967 lines (i.e., ending the "occupation") without any agreement or concessions from the Arabs. In most cases they have never visited Israel and have little or no knowledge of the history of this conflict going back over 100 years.
I could get into a lot more detail, but really what's the point? Those who truly understand the situation get it; those who don't, will never be convinced anyway.
Suffice it to say, Clinton (both of them) and Obama have it right. A negotiated resolution based on recognition, security, land swaps to account for population centers and a sharing or division of religions sites is the only path forward to a true and lasting peace.
It's not that Jews are in lock step with the current Israeli government - they are not.
It's because most Jews see those in the far left - represented by West - as perceiving the conflict as entirely Israel's fault, and see the resolution as simply a matter of Israel withdrawing to the pre -1967 lines (i.e., ending the "occupation") without any agreement or concessions from the Arabs. In most cases they have never visited Israel and have little or no knowledge of the history of this conflict going back over 100 years.
I could get into a lot more detail, but really what's the point? Those who truly understand the situation get it; those who don't, will never be convinced anyway.
Suffice it to say, Clinton (both of them) and Obama have it right. A negotiated resolution based on recognition, security, land swaps to account for population centers and a sharing or division of religions sites is the only path forward to a true and lasting peace.
46
Please back up your contention that West sees only Israel at fault.
Any citation..
I believe that the Palestinians have been given short shrift since Likud has been in power. That does not mean that I place all the blame on Israel.
It does mean Israel needs to regain the '67 borders to make a first step.
Any citation..
I believe that the Palestinians have been given short shrift since Likud has been in power. That does not mean that I place all the blame on Israel.
It does mean Israel needs to regain the '67 borders to make a first step.
3
Add me to the list of Clinton supporters who think Sanders is basically right on this. Cornel West as negotiator seems a poor, petulant choice. I admire West as a thought provocateur, have read one of his books and heard him in person. I have holocaust survivors in my family.
I was utterly appalled at Netanyahu's ghastly disrespect in choosing to speak to Congress and enjoin US partisanship. He may have irreparably damaged the US-Israel relationship. The continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank--indicating zero willingness to ever return that land to Palestinians--enrages not merely appalls. I no longer trust the government of Israel.
We need a specific proposal: how to sanction Israel without withdrawing our guaranteed defense of 1967 borders.
If I were King-of-the-world, I'd forceably return to '67 borders, perhaps working out some exchange, to leave Golan Heights with Israel (until Syria is resolved Assad-less, not sure with whom you'd negotiate.) I think the answer to Jerusalem is to put the U.N. there and declare it a non-partisan non-violent world heritage sovereign city-state, no arms allowed--enforced by U.N. police--with all people welcome to worship at holy sites.
I cannot figure out how to express strongly enough to our leaders that I am no longer willing to take any risk in defense of West Bank hegemony, nor am I willing to countenance any discussion of somehow getting rid of Israel as a state. Palestinian reparations are probably called for.
I was utterly appalled at Netanyahu's ghastly disrespect in choosing to speak to Congress and enjoin US partisanship. He may have irreparably damaged the US-Israel relationship. The continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank--indicating zero willingness to ever return that land to Palestinians--enrages not merely appalls. I no longer trust the government of Israel.
We need a specific proposal: how to sanction Israel without withdrawing our guaranteed defense of 1967 borders.
If I were King-of-the-world, I'd forceably return to '67 borders, perhaps working out some exchange, to leave Golan Heights with Israel (until Syria is resolved Assad-less, not sure with whom you'd negotiate.) I think the answer to Jerusalem is to put the U.N. there and declare it a non-partisan non-violent world heritage sovereign city-state, no arms allowed--enforced by U.N. police--with all people welcome to worship at holy sites.
I cannot figure out how to express strongly enough to our leaders that I am no longer willing to take any risk in defense of West Bank hegemony, nor am I willing to countenance any discussion of somehow getting rid of Israel as a state. Palestinian reparations are probably called for.
30
You admire Cornel West as a "thought provocateur" ? Mr. West, whom I have heard speak and whose books I have dipped into, is an incomprehensible blowhard on a scale equal to Donald Trump. He does not provoke thought...he preaches. Mr. Netanyahu may not be an appealing character but why you are appalled by him is unclear to me. Like so many people commenting here, you seem to lack the knowledge and historical perspective on the middle east that would lend credence to your point of view. No offense intended (of course).
5
Netanyahu was invited by the Congressional majority. He stuck his nose into US affairs, but considering Iran weekly threatens to wipe out his country, wouldn't you say he has a bit of skin in the game? As for leaders interfering in domestic affairs of other countries, well, Obama shot his mouth off openly in the UK just a few weeks ago trying to meddle directly in their upcoming vote to stay or leave the EU. So true to form, not a peep out of people like you regarding this, but if the leader of a nation directly impacted by a nuclear weapons deal with their worst enemy should dare to speak by invitation to Congress, ... well this is Israel of course. And after all the high-sounding protestations and intellectualizations it's back to the milennia old story: one standard for the Jews; one standard for everyone else. What's that called?
6
Those anti-President Obama neo-cons brought this upon themselves; they have implied for years Obama was anti-Israel, which his actions contradict. In many quarters Americans have been seething about Israeli influence,especially after Netanyhua's despictable actions, but even then many Jews did not speak in support of our president.
Sen Sanders disowned Israel to keep and capture anti-Israeli student voters and Trump's supporters also feel Israel has too much sway over US policies and money. Nobody came to Obama's defense as he tried to balance USA interest and Israels. And now who will come out for continuing Israeli largess.
Sen Sanders disowned Israel to keep and capture anti-Israeli student voters and Trump's supporters also feel Israel has too much sway over US policies and money. Nobody came to Obama's defense as he tried to balance USA interest and Israels. And now who will come out for continuing Israeli largess.
16
Actually, I think his appointments will probably end up being more unifying than he expected. What a disappointment.
4
The cosmopolitan liberal worldview that, say, Mr. Obama has and wants to foist upon a reluctant world (once he's reached the for-him-surprising conclusion that most of our adversaries don't possess it) requires, I think, an overcoming of our basic nature. Humans are tribal; most people are conservative. The Palestinians live in a patriarchal society whose violence-oriented religious culture is ligatured to their politics. The conflict, despite the protestations of many, is ideological -- it is not territorial. From the Arab Revolt onward, the position of the Palestinians has been, in the words of Dennis Ross, a "maximalist one. They rejected the Peel Commission Report; they rejected the Anglo-American Committee recommendations; they rejected the Morrison-Grady Plan," the UN Special Committee on Palestine's recommendations, and of course more recently they have rejected both Ehuds' offers.
Lieberman's appointment as Defense Minister doesn't mean the end of the two-state solution. Remember that it was a former Irgun Zvai Leumi member, Menachem Begin, who signed the Camp David Accords. Leftist commenters spend too much time talking to likeminded people at their local indie bookstore. Violence by the Palestinians is wrongly seen as being a reaction to Israeli land grabs and oppression. But it's the other way around: Israeli actions have long been a reaction to terrorism. Join the real world.
West, like the man who appointed him, is a confused fantasist.
Lieberman's appointment as Defense Minister doesn't mean the end of the two-state solution. Remember that it was a former Irgun Zvai Leumi member, Menachem Begin, who signed the Camp David Accords. Leftist commenters spend too much time talking to likeminded people at their local indie bookstore. Violence by the Palestinians is wrongly seen as being a reaction to Israeli land grabs and oppression. But it's the other way around: Israeli actions have long been a reaction to terrorism. Join the real world.
West, like the man who appointed him, is a confused fantasist.
28
Who is surprised that the party of Al Sharpton, Wright, Bill Ayers and Farrakhan is against the Jewish state?
32
Sorry. Just what is the point you are trying to make by grouping the names of a bunch of extremists together? -- Any facts? Quotes? Proof??
20
They are heroes of the progressive Left. That's the point. I'll wager you'd have no problem lumping the most extreme right-wing cranks with the Republican Party. But if the Democrats get a taste of their own medicine ... well, your comment is typical of what we can expect.
4
The US always has a handkerchief for the splinter in the other's eye.
2
I disagree with Bernie on just about every other issue, but I cannot understand why either party's establishment has agreed to provide munificent aid to successive Israeli governments as they violated international agreements and undertook the creeping annexation of the West Bank.
It should be a condition of any further aid to Israel, that Israel should remove all of its civilian settlements on the West Bank over the next ten years. So long as Israel is negotiating in good faith over a Palestinian state, it should be allowed to keep a military presence there.
It should be a condition of any further aid to Israel, that Israel should remove all of its civilian settlements on the West Bank over the next ten years. So long as Israel is negotiating in good faith over a Palestinian state, it should be allowed to keep a military presence there.
14
The US gets back most of the money it gives to Israel in the form of arms purchases hence the reluctance to cut aid.
3
Let us always remember that the Palestinians do not want peace with the Jews. Until they can come to wish for peace on earth, they are the devils, and Israel should have no apologies for being ever vigilant in their own defense. Better to err on the side of over protection, if necessary, than dropping their guard for some bleeding heart weakness.
35
You make the primal error of grouping all Palestinians together under one flag, when in reality, there probably are those who aren't involved with extremist political groups, or activities.
That's almost like saying all Jews are right-wing Orthodox who eschew contact with any other than their own.
Simply not true.
That's almost like saying all Jews are right-wing Orthodox who eschew contact with any other than their own.
Simply not true.
22
No, that is not a primal error. I have been involved in movements to promote peace in the middle east for over 30 years and have at best met 2 or 3 Palestinians interested in attending meetings. At a conference in Jerusalem in 1991, hundreds of Jews from all over the world (and many many Israelis)came to discuss ways that Israelis and Palestinians could share land and resources. We were met by many angry Israelis who regarded us as traitors. Over 150 Palestinians were invited and not one showed up. It was a great disappointment and continues to be.
It is not prejudice, but post-judice that demonstrates the absence of a Palestinian partner for peace. Your analogy re lumping all Jews together as right-wing is ridiculous, because it can easily be demonstrated that there are widespread differences in the way Jews think -- just look at the range of political opinions in Israeli newspapers -- from far left to far right. There is no similar variation visible in Palestinian publications. These are not opinions but observations that can be easily corroborated.
It is not prejudice, but post-judice that demonstrates the absence of a Palestinian partner for peace. Your analogy re lumping all Jews together as right-wing is ridiculous, because it can easily be demonstrated that there are widespread differences in the way Jews think -- just look at the range of political opinions in Israeli newspapers -- from far left to far right. There is no similar variation visible in Palestinian publications. These are not opinions but observations that can be easily corroborated.
4
The main problem with Israel has always been it's unwillingness to compromise or negotiate at all. I fully appreciate that the Gaza situation is two sided and very complex but they are not even ready to halt the silent army of settlers which speaks volumes.
From an overseas perspective it looks like little has changed for the Democrat's over the years i.e they are trying their best to help a little brother who doesn't want to help himself.
Truman's words comes to mind here "Jesus Christ couldn't please them when he was here on earth, so how can anyone expect that I would have any luck?"
From an overseas perspective it looks like little has changed for the Democrat's over the years i.e they are trying their best to help a little brother who doesn't want to help himself.
Truman's words comes to mind here "Jesus Christ couldn't please them when he was here on earth, so how can anyone expect that I would have any luck?"
14
Really??? I guess you conveniently forgot about the several times it has offered the West Bank in exchange for peace?? Only to be greeted with intifadas...
29
There are no "settlers" in Gaza. Israel forcibly evicted them in 2006, as part of a supposed "peach" agreement. What they got was Hamas (which wants to take over ALL of Israel() control of Gaza, rocket attacks and tunnels under the birder..
33
they have been willing to negotiate-look at the peace treaty with Egypt-they gave up the Sinai to them. It has been peaceful for the most part since. They have made peace with Jordan. They uprooted their citizens from the Gaza strip to have peace with the Palestinians. There has been no peace. They were willing to give up much to the Palestinians but they want it all and for it to be apartheid - with no Jews allowed.
22
It was not long ago that Donald Trump stirred up the same hornets nest by suggesting that he would be more even-handed in issues involving Israel and the Palestinian people. Maybe the overall tide of opinion in the USA is turning somewhat. Considering the history of Israel under Bibi Netanyahu including his choice of Defense Minister in the last couple of days, a shift in US opinion to support moderation in Israel seems to me to be a reasonable thing.
18
Is is true we give $10 million a day to Israel, a pretty prosperous country, while our transportation systems fall apart? Time for some review, don't 'ya think? With cheap oil do we really need a proxy state in the Mid-East?
18
We give more aid per capita to the Palestinian Authority than to any other recipient. Fact.
5
The price of gasoline is up $1.20 cents in the last six weeks -- don't count on cheap oil for much longer!
2
Suppoters of Israel have a clear alternative: Donald Trump.
7
We provide 3 billion a year to Israel, for our own security more than for theirs. But Israel's use of the power disparity to illegally enlarge it's borders at the Palestinians expense is not in our long-term interest.Netanyahu's self-serving political policies are deepening the hatred of those in the region to a point that is beginning to insure no resolution without a war that will eventually include the U.S.
Reduce the 3 billion to 1.5 and we'll have a peace that will extend beyond an Israeli-Palestinian accord.
Reduce the 3 billion to 1.5 and we'll have a peace that will extend beyond an Israeli-Palestinian accord.
12
How much has Israel expanded its borders? All the settlements use less than 5% of the West Bank, despite all of the histrionic media claims of "land grabbing" and such.
Why can't Jews live in the borders of a Palestinian state? Why couldn't Jews live in the Old City of Jerusalem, as they have for thousands of years, if it were under Arab control? Why must Hebron have no Jews in it? If Arabs can live peacefully with Jews in Haifa and Tel Aviv, why not in Hebron? Why is the Arab racism so easily ignored?
While Israel is prosperous in ways, the military needs created by Arab violence are an absurd cost on the people there. The aid sent to Israel is spent in the USA, creating jobs here, and the technology that is developed will be shared with the USA. By comparison, the money sent as aid to the Palestinians is often used to line the pockets of the leaders, and some $70 million per year has been used to reward people for having killed Jewish men, women and children.
At the time of the 1949 Armistice, the Arabs rejected the opportunity to turn that line (now known as the 1967 line) into a permanent border. In 1965, Israeli PM Levi Eshkol offered to accept that line as a permanent border and was turned down.
Until the international community begins pressuring the Arabs to make concessions and accept offers, there will be no peace. And even if borders are decided, the Palestinian leadership has refused to promise an end to the conflict. There may never be peace.
Why can't Jews live in the borders of a Palestinian state? Why couldn't Jews live in the Old City of Jerusalem, as they have for thousands of years, if it were under Arab control? Why must Hebron have no Jews in it? If Arabs can live peacefully with Jews in Haifa and Tel Aviv, why not in Hebron? Why is the Arab racism so easily ignored?
While Israel is prosperous in ways, the military needs created by Arab violence are an absurd cost on the people there. The aid sent to Israel is spent in the USA, creating jobs here, and the technology that is developed will be shared with the USA. By comparison, the money sent as aid to the Palestinians is often used to line the pockets of the leaders, and some $70 million per year has been used to reward people for having killed Jewish men, women and children.
At the time of the 1949 Armistice, the Arabs rejected the opportunity to turn that line (now known as the 1967 line) into a permanent border. In 1965, Israeli PM Levi Eshkol offered to accept that line as a permanent border and was turned down.
Until the international community begins pressuring the Arabs to make concessions and accept offers, there will be no peace. And even if borders are decided, the Palestinian leadership has refused to promise an end to the conflict. There may never be peace.
7
The illegality of the settlements remains illegal, regardless of the 5% argument. And the passions generated are toxic for Israel's standing in the international community and to the peace process. This is not a fight between two equals, economically, militarily, or politically.
My main point is that the U.S, is not helping to move the peace process forward when our 3 billion dollars in aid to Israel is almost all military
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/02/us-israel-foreign-aid-milita...
This is the aid that stands behind the arrogance of the Netenyahu coalition in expanding the settlements as well as its intransigence to making any meaningful moves toward a serious peace.
As you note, Israel is a prosperous country. Cutting that aid will still leave it as such, but will likely push it to look toward protecting its future with more maturity and sensibility than the current 'Trump-like' approach of Netanyahu and his coalition.
My main point is that the U.S, is not helping to move the peace process forward when our 3 billion dollars in aid to Israel is almost all military
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/02/us-israel-foreign-aid-milita...
This is the aid that stands behind the arrogance of the Netenyahu coalition in expanding the settlements as well as its intransigence to making any meaningful moves toward a serious peace.
As you note, Israel is a prosperous country. Cutting that aid will still leave it as such, but will likely push it to look toward protecting its future with more maturity and sensibility than the current 'Trump-like' approach of Netanyahu and his coalition.
1
Long over due.
Yet another reason to support Bernie.
Israel is waiting for a $35 billlion care package from the US, apparently they are holding out in hopes of making it $45 to $50 billion. In return Israel gives us it's derision.
Yet another reason to support Bernie.
Israel is waiting for a $35 billlion care package from the US, apparently they are holding out in hopes of making it $45 to $50 billion. In return Israel gives us it's derision.
34
@ron
While I might not categorically place the two together -- I do agree that it's about time to think twice about an increased "care package" to Israel.
They're doing pretty well on their own.
While I might not categorically place the two together -- I do agree that it's about time to think twice about an increased "care package" to Israel.
They're doing pretty well on their own.
1
Taking the lead from the Repulsivans, the Democraps have managed to maximize their internal differences.
So now that both are busily figuring out the best way to self destruct, the voters are left with what? Unacceptable candidates from both sides.
So now that both are busily figuring out the best way to self destruct, the voters are left with what? Unacceptable candidates from both sides.
5
James Zigby is virulently anti-semitic and has been for many years as is Dr. West. If the Democrats adopt any of their positions, the party will definitely suffer greatly. I had the unfortunate experience of meeting Dr. Zogby many years ago and I see his position hasn't changed.
26
Israel is still the nation that, with the least action, can influence US political view.
3
The position of the Left is Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS).
Cornel West is a moderate realist who is expressing the consensus of the world and numerous international legal tribunals.
Cornel West is a moderate realist who is expressing the consensus of the world and numerous international legal tribunals.
19
I spent 10 years in the Navy, much of it in the Middle East. Assuming Drs West and Zogby can prevail, US policy in the Middle East might finally align somewhat with the rest of the industrialized world. One can only hope that the Israel-Palestine conflict, which cost US taxpayers billions every year (a 60+ year old war) might finally ratchet down. Other than Sanders, no candidate is showing ANY leadership on this issue. Go Bernie, go!
28
I am glad that Hillary Clinton understands what is going on Israel and was even known for mentioning what was really going on. During the last debate, she mentioned about how Hamas has been known for firing qassam rockets, doing suicide bombings, and even going with random stabbings. Other things she mentioned was that Hamas got elected shortly after Israel agreed to a unilateral withdraw of the Gaza Strip and was attacked constantly ever since. This is why she wins my vote for president as I did vote for when my state had its primary. Bernie Sanders claims he understands what's going but believes that Israel should have limits even though they are the ones getting attacked. I honestly thought that as a fellow Jew he would understand what the Israelis are going through, but I have been wrong on that. Any other Democrat that supports Israel isn't blind to what is going there, they just know what is really happening and mention as most of the NY Democrats are saying, and I can still remember when so many of them were standing on the steps of City Hall for Israel, which even included NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio himself along with others such as Governor Andrew Cuomo as well as both US Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand being there with many others. Seriously, I'm tired of hearing about AIPAC pulling the strings, because there are other lobbyists doing the same, but no condemnation on those even though some are spending more money than they do.
24
Of course you are going to set off fire works and conflict when you appoint Cornell West to the drafting committee of the Democratic party platform. Beginning, middle and end of story. Let's move on.
17
David,
It was a bold move.
Along with McGibbon, they cover a large swath of the problems that this country faces.
Ignore the Rightwing Wingbats and pro-Bibi Zionists working up a conniption fit.
It was a bold move.
Along with McGibbon, they cover a large swath of the problems that this country faces.
Ignore the Rightwing Wingbats and pro-Bibi Zionists working up a conniption fit.
10
Clark,
It wasn't bold. It was hokey. It was lax.
It wasn't bold. It was hokey. It was lax.
2
its time for the US to stop subsidizing west bank settlements. for every dollar they spend on building in the west bank the US should reduce foreign assistance by 10 dollars.
40
Democrat unity would be pretty easy if the divisive Hillary would step aside for the good of the party. Her huge loss to Trump in November will kill the Dems for a decade, if Obamacare has not already done that in the 2012 and 2014 elections
14
You give yourself away> "Democrat" as an adjective is a Republican insult.
So Bernie fans, why are you falling for this?
So Bernie fans, why are you falling for this?
10
Mr. Cornell West have never advocated to build a wall, for those Mexicans and the keep all Muslims out, or to hate anyone and anything that's not WASP.
5
Cornell West makes me sick every time hear him speak. I do not know of any position he holds that I do not disagree with.
24
Finally!!! Yes! Israel is a racist, apartheid, Jewish only, theocracy engaged for years in the slow, methodical genocide of the Palestinian people. SHAME!!! It is time for the U.S. to end its relationship with Israel. It is also time for the NYT to give full and accurate coverage of the Occupation of Palestine. Palestinians are NOT terrorists---they are merely rebelling against their occupiers, just like the Jews rebelled against the Nazis!
39
You have no sense of history and the fact that all Israel is asking is for the state of war to be stopped by the Palestinians and some time to see if it sticks. The Israelis did not take one the west bank. They reacted to a war started by the Arabs.
7
This is news to me.
Tell me who lead this revolt and where did they get their weapons and when did this happen as I was under the impression the Jews were rounded up and put to death.
Tell me who lead this revolt and where did they get their weapons and when did this happen as I was under the impression the Jews were rounded up and put to death.
9
Israel is not Jewish only. Twenty percent of Israelis (1.6 million) are Arab, and they have the vote, and use it. Justice Salim Jourbran is an Arab Israeli on the Supreme Court of Israel (and in fact was one of the justices who ruled that Prime Minister Olmert broke the law). I mention this as an example of the fact that Arab Israelis enjoy the benefits of living in a democracy. Only ignorant people -- people blinded by lack of facts or sheer hatred -- believe the lie that Israel is an apartheid, Jewish-only state. All the signs in Israel are in three languages, Arabic among them, because so many Arabs live in Israel. The rest of your rant is equally rife with lies.
34
Clinton has been bought by AIPAC.
Trump will be bought by Sheldon Adelson.
Sanders is being bought by the American people.
Trump will be bought by Sheldon Adelson.
Sanders is being bought by the American people.
49
Sanders panders to the black, Muslim and illegal immigration lobby. Not that great.
21
@jane
Sorry. You've got that one wrong. Sanders doesn't "pander" to Blacks, which is precisely why they haven't been voting for him in droves.
Try again.
Sorry. You've got that one wrong. Sanders doesn't "pander" to Blacks, which is precisely why they haven't been voting for him in droves.
Try again.
jane, Sanders gives voice to those that don't have one, because in a democracy everyone needs to be heard. And he is listening to all these silent fellow Americans.
It's about time we Americans cast aside the yoke AIPAC has throttled us with for decades now.. Good for Bernie for getting some folks on the platform committee who are free men.
Mark Hall
Kraków Poland
Mark Hall
Kraków Poland
26
Clinton's stand on Israel is the only policy which keeps be back from voting for her.
10
Sanders pandering to black and Muslim lobby groups are the only poicy which keeps me back from voting for him.
15
@jane,
Apropos Sanders and Blacks, you prejudge and therefore misjudge a an entire diverse population. And of course, part of that diversity includes religious and political views.
And you refer to us as a lobby? We're not a lobby. We're not a special interest group. The NRA is a special interest group with lobbyists in D.C.
You're not voting for him? Fine. It just confirms that I did the right thing when I did vote for him.
5-26-16@6:36 pm
Apropos Sanders and Blacks, you prejudge and therefore misjudge a an entire diverse population. And of course, part of that diversity includes religious and political views.
And you refer to us as a lobby? We're not a lobby. We're not a special interest group. The NRA is a special interest group with lobbyists in D.C.
You're not voting for him? Fine. It just confirms that I did the right thing when I did vote for him.
5-26-16@6:36 pm
1
Given Clinton's insider knowledge as former Secretary of State, I am surprised that she is not leading the effort to redefine our relationship with Israel since it became an apartheid state, elected and re-elected Netanyahu - a leader who interferes in our foreign policy, disrespects Democrats, uses our military power to threaten his enemies and may one day draw us into a war he has created. And, we just saw Netanyahu name Avigdor Lieberman Israeli Defense Minister - a man with a record of undermining attempts to negotiate peace with the Palestinians, probably the only thing that could lead to peace with other Arab countries.
Blindly and unconditionally putting our future and safety in Netanyahu's hands is incredibly stupid. Republicans pander to him. Democrats should tell him Israel will be on its own if it provokes war and our support will be limited if it does not work actively and sincerely to negotiate peace.
Blindly and unconditionally putting our future and safety in Netanyahu's hands is incredibly stupid. Republicans pander to him. Democrats should tell him Israel will be on its own if it provokes war and our support will be limited if it does not work actively and sincerely to negotiate peace.
30
I caucused for Bernie in Colorado, but I have become really disgusted with him and his whining about a 'rigged system' (echoes of Donald Trump). Israel has painted itself into a self-destructive corner under Netanyahu, but that issue should not be front and center in the US presidential campaign.
19
Why not?!
It's a lot like the southern Dixiecrat's saying "I like them blacks, and they should have equal rights and all that.. but this is simply not the time".
11
Cornel West is the Donald Trump of the Democratic party.
18
God bless him!
"... we have diplomatic relations with the State of Israel, which is not a perfect nation..."
And we had diplomatic relations with South African during apartheid. That didn't stop us from insisting that South Africa clean up its act. Israel is at least as bad, if not worse. Why shouldn't we insist that Israel put an end to its virulent form of apartheid – or at least stop spending OUR money to help it continue?
And we had diplomatic relations with South African during apartheid. That didn't stop us from insisting that South Africa clean up its act. Israel is at least as bad, if not worse. Why shouldn't we insist that Israel put an end to its virulent form of apartheid – or at least stop spending OUR money to help it continue?
27
I do believe we need to support Israel but I question the amount of dollars we're giving them, especially with Netanyahu who did his level best to undermine Obama and his attempts at a peace treaty with Iran which undoubtably would have lead to war.
I'm real real real real tired of war mongers.
We have too many of them and I fear hillary subscribes a lot to the neocon type of thinking.
I'm real real real real tired of war mongers.
We have too many of them and I fear hillary subscribes a lot to the neocon type of thinking.
16
If Obama's agreement with Iran does not work, if Iran violates it, there will be no other choice but to go to war, since Obama effectively destroyed the system of sanctions.
9
Very sensational headline about a phenomenon that has been present in the Democratic party all of my 50 year lifetime: some Democratic voters are mainly supportive of Israel and others are mainly critical. Just the NYT trying to make things more interesting than they really are.
3
I read that we are currently giving Israel 1/5 of our foreign aid budget which is around $3 Billion every year.
12
@Nicholas,
$ 3 billion or 1/5 of $3 billion?
5-26-16@5:40 pm
$ 3 billion or 1/5 of $3 billion?
5-26-16@5:40 pm
It depend on how you define Foreign aid.
We spend much more in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
We give them almost 16 billion.
We give Iraq a lot of aid as well,
We give these countries aid and not only get nothing in return our soldiers get killed fighting to keep them free.
We spend much more in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
We give them almost 16 billion.
We give Iraq a lot of aid as well,
We give these countries aid and not only get nothing in return our soldiers get killed fighting to keep them free.
6
I find Netanyahu despicable, but why this “platform” focus on Israel? Why not Saudi Arabia, a country known to sponsor heinous terrorism and feeding millions to ISIS?
24
should be on both of them --
1
Palestine isn't in Saudi Arabia...
3
Because leftist politics are all about "coalition building". Demonizing Israel/Zionism/Jews has become a source of bringing together many disparate groups. Criticizing a Muslim country and/or one that is POC will cause a fracture. While the left and Muslim activists love to chant that "criticizing Israel isn't anti-semetic" any similar "criticism" towards Muslims, Islamic countries, or non-white countries will cause an immediate outrage from certain parties who will start throwing out accusations of racism, colonialism, imperialism, and Islamaphobia to silent criticism. IOW, they will stifle criticism by playing the victim card just like they complain AIPAC supporters do.
16
"Israel became America's proxy in an oil rich area of the world ..."
Not really.
Whenever there's been a problem for the US in the Middle East, the US deals with the problem itself, not through Israel. Israel's only significance has been to increase the frequency of those problems.
Not really.
Whenever there's been a problem for the US in the Middle East, the US deals with the problem itself, not through Israel. Israel's only significance has been to increase the frequency of those problems.
17
Did Israel create Saddam Hussein? Did Israel create the war between sunnis and shias? Did Israel turn Iran into a terrorist-supporting state run by mad mullahs? Did Israel make Saudi Arabia a fascist state? Did Israel create Osama ben Laden?
17
Reply to Hyphenated American:
Actually, it was the Republican party that did those things:
1) Reagan strengthened and supported Saddam Hussein even after he used poison gas
2) Republican-run CIA overthrew a pro-American democratically elected government in Iran in the 1950s because they would not give a British oil company what Britain considered a good enough deal on Iranian oil, installing the brutal regime of the Shah leading to the revolution and takeover by the Mullahs
3) After arming anti-Soviet fighters in Afghanistan, including Bin Laden, Reagan abandoned Afghanistan to its Taliban fate.
Actually, it was the Republican party that did those things:
1) Reagan strengthened and supported Saddam Hussein even after he used poison gas
2) Republican-run CIA overthrew a pro-American democratically elected government in Iran in the 1950s because they would not give a British oil company what Britain considered a good enough deal on Iranian oil, installing the brutal regime of the Shah leading to the revolution and takeover by the Mullahs
3) After arming anti-Soviet fighters in Afghanistan, including Bin Laden, Reagan abandoned Afghanistan to its Taliban fate.
2
I have no problem with Sanders position on Israel, which calls for U.S. support both of that country and the Palestinian people. I do have a big problem with his appointment of the Boycott, Divest, and Sanctions BDS) supporters Cornel West and James Zogby to the Democratic platform committee. BDS is a movement which rejects the very existence of Israel, though its leaders are not often open about saying this. It is insidiously spreading its propaganda on college campuses. It is emphatically not a peace organization, as it does not call for a negotiated peace which will leave Israel as an accepted national state within the international community, but rather seeks Israels piecemeal destruction. Bernie Sanders marvelous campaign has been built on domestic issues of economic and social justice, not on controversial issues of foreign policy. I simply don't understand why Sanders made the West and Zogby appointments. This was the first major mistake of his campaign.
31
I seriously doubt that the vast majority of supporters of the BDS movement reject the very existence of Israel. I sure do not.
12
yeah its in the bds charter, to have a one state solution, i.e. no Jewish state or Jews allowed, a typical euro solution to the Jewish problem.
16
It wasn't the first mistake of his campaign. He has supported many other questionable people such as Linda Sarsour and Shaun King.
8
Well this clinches it in my mind. Hillary Clinton can go one of two directions...embrace the far left or be moderate enough to attract moderate independents and Republicans. I was not sure until this issue came up. I hope she stays in the center, which in her case means putting forth many progressive initiatives while not going off the deep end on foreign and economic policy. That is what I am voting for and what I hope she will continue to represent. It is no accident that she has more primary votes than any other candidate in the race and I am sure that will continue to be the case as long as she continues to represent moderation and good sense.
25
Bernie Sanders continues to disappoint. What a sanctimonious person he has turned out to be. He is not a democrat, but wants to control how the Democratic Party conducts itself. He tries to mask his Jewish roots, but is eager to dictate to Israel how to conduct its domestic affairs. I am not a fan of Bibi Netanyahu and his right-wing policies, but Sanders' attempt to manipulate the Democratic Party's platform with his radical proxies in an attempt to undermine the security of Israel, cannot be tolerated.
Bernie, look at your own lack of 'menchlichkeit' before you tell others how to conduct themselves.
Bernie, look at your own lack of 'menchlichkeit' before you tell others how to conduct themselves.
25
I congratulate America for trying to come out of its “dark age” into an age enlightenment. It is time patriotic and fair-minded American were invited/installed on the platform drafting committee. It is indeed a new dawn for America. GOOD people like Cornel West, Dr James Zogby, Congressman Keith Ellison, will usher-in an age of enlightenment.
14
Frankly, most of the vocalized concern about Dr. West seems to be emanating from the hawk wing of the Democratic party. Judging from some of the comments calling Sanders and his supporters radical anti-Democrats and anti-semites, it appears these people are living in a bubble of complete denial about how their own reactionary tendencies are enabling this never ending cycle of senseless war and counterproductive intervention.
16
As a Sanders supporter, I'm sorry to see Bernie chose Cornel West for the platform committee.
West is a bomb-thrower, a clown and a few minutes of listening to West mock and insult President Obama as in 'blackface' and other obnoxious, disrespectful comments makes me not take anything else he says seriously. Obama isn't Trump or Dick Cheney or Sarah Palin and West's disrespect of this reasonable, intelligent, compassionate man we're lucky enough to have as president disgusts me.
The choice of West is the first thing Bernie's done that's made me seriously question whether he would be a good president.
Judgement matters every bit as much as having the right policies.
Cornel West seriously?
West is a bomb-thrower, a clown and a few minutes of listening to West mock and insult President Obama as in 'blackface' and other obnoxious, disrespectful comments makes me not take anything else he says seriously. Obama isn't Trump or Dick Cheney or Sarah Palin and West's disrespect of this reasonable, intelligent, compassionate man we're lucky enough to have as president disgusts me.
The choice of West is the first thing Bernie's done that's made me seriously question whether he would be a good president.
Judgement matters every bit as much as having the right policies.
Cornel West seriously?
34
fast,
sorry that you think that.
West is devoted to reversing poverty.
And on his slight on Obama:
poverty has gone up 25% from 2007 to 2014.
"a rising tide lifts all vessels", Obama 2009 to the NAACP
that is after he saved the banks.
remember Geithner & Summers?
I understand well West's frustration when he said that.
sorry that you think that.
West is devoted to reversing poverty.
And on his slight on Obama:
poverty has gone up 25% from 2007 to 2014.
"a rising tide lifts all vessels", Obama 2009 to the NAACP
that is after he saved the banks.
remember Geithner & Summers?
I understand well West's frustration when he said that.
6
What is the greatest threat to the State of Israel? It is not Iran. It is not Hamas. It is not Hezbollah. It is not ISIL. It IS the current extremist government in Israel.
Trump does not care.
Clinton does not care.
Sanders does care.
Trump does not care.
Clinton does not care.
Sanders does care.
24
Eh. Hamas wants to destroy Israel. Netanyahu obviously does not. That is illogical. That being said, Netanyahu needs to chill a bit.
9
Greg,
I was hoping/expecting to see you chip in.
I was hoping/expecting to see you chip in.
Cornel West is the black Donald Trump. He might think that's a compliment since he thinks Trump is "authentic" & "for real" but it's actually the worst insult I could think of.
Sanders' appointing a deranged Obama hater is mind boggling. Sounds to me like a declaration of war on the Democratic party. Is he going to support Clinton? I had assumed he would but now I'm doubting it. He may be able to make Trump president. But why? I guess his almost success has gone to his head. Maybe he'll come to his senses. I sure hope so.
Sanders' appointing a deranged Obama hater is mind boggling. Sounds to me like a declaration of war on the Democratic party. Is he going to support Clinton? I had assumed he would but now I'm doubting it. He may be able to make Trump president. But why? I guess his almost success has gone to his head. Maybe he'll come to his senses. I sure hope so.
26
Netanyahu is a bully. Has everyone forgotten how he came here to talk, invited only by certain members within the Senate, but not the administration, right before Israeli elections? Is that a "friend" of the U.S.? He wishes to remain the only nuclear-wielding superpower in the region to bomb with impunity any who oppose him. And the U.S. continues to support him in his crimes. To say that this isn't the time to address that issue (much like some would say it wasn't the time to address our relationship with Saudi Arabia), well, when is the time? When Trump is president?
25
That's it for me. Appointing Cornel West to his platform committee, a man who has called the PM of Israel a war criminal, is the last straw. While I am no fan of Netanyahu, what Sanders is doing nothing short of a declaration of war on the Democratic Party, which he is clearly not a member of. Trump couldn't be any happier.
43
Mountain out of a molehill. U.S. relations with Netanyahu-Lieberman are not the most important foreign policy issue the U.S. faces. Sure, Netanyahu is guided by GOP activists, is playing local politics in the U.S., and damages U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
Still, it's not anywhere close to the most important relationship for the U.S. China and even Russia are a lot more important to consider. Europe, Mexico, Canada? Also, what Israel does would be less of a problem if we ever (ever!) get our troops out of the Middle East.
Still, it's not anywhere close to the most important relationship for the U.S. China and even Russia are a lot more important to consider. Europe, Mexico, Canada? Also, what Israel does would be less of a problem if we ever (ever!) get our troops out of the Middle East.
5
Israel's failure to create an equitable space for the Palestinians - essentially a people conquered by Israel and relegated to a permanent underclass status, and a situation that will continue to breed instability and international condemnation for the foreseeable future is indeed worth closer examination. The outsize influence, or at least appearance thereof of foreign interest groups on the US political process is also worth discussion. Having said that, by digging up a potpourri of leftist talking points to score some kind of moral victory, the Sanders campaign's only real impact will be to divide the Democrats and hand the abominable Trump the presidency in November. Many on the left would be happier to see the Republicans win purely out of spite than to ally with their like minded, but more level-headed fellow liberals. C'mon Sanders people - grow up!
7
Well, the Republicans and Democrats find themselves asking the same question: for how long can the center hold? At last, common ground.
its not a matter of siding with Israel, or siding with the Palestinians...its a matter of siding with law...international law...mandate law..... the creation of Israel at the termination of the mandate created an Arab state.... Britain was the trustee "of the people" .... and terminated the mandate . If there has been any change in those borders that are acceptable under international law...I have yet to see it. Those termination borders are the first and last internationally accepted borders. That's the law.
8
"i think it is very clear via several examples, that we are seeing a transformational change in the decades old relationship between the Israeli government and the US."
Really? I think it's clear that we're not. For the past 50 years, people have been pointing out the same things, but nothing has changed. Hillary promises more of the same. When Bernie proposes to change it, Israeli supporters object and accuse their opponents of anti-Semitism.
That's been going on for decades, and I see no sign that it will change.
Really? I think it's clear that we're not. For the past 50 years, people have been pointing out the same things, but nothing has changed. Hillary promises more of the same. When Bernie proposes to change it, Israeli supporters object and accuse their opponents of anti-Semitism.
That's been going on for decades, and I see no sign that it will change.
15
The Jewish-American establishment abandoned the Democratic Party in the early days of the Vietnam War, after having a fling with Neoconservatism and acquiring a taste for it. There isn't any reason for any Democrats (including the Jewish ones remaining) to have trouble calling out the current regime in Tel Aviv. They are overseeing an apartheid system that's worse than South Africa ever was.
32
In addition to Netanyahu, Cornel West has also accused George Bush, Richard Nixon, and Henry Kissinger of "war crimes."
14
He has a pretty good track record of calling it correctly then.
31
I'd say those statements are truisms by now. Indeed, as Noam Chomsky once pointed out, most US presidents would have been executed if the laws of the land were strictly upheld.
8
It takes a vivid imagination to assert - as the article's headline does - that Israel is the number one issue threatening the unity of the Democratic party.
12
Our support of Israel is the number one reason for he existence of arab terrorists. Israel is a rogue nation, guilty of obscene violations of human rights- Oh, by the way, in case you forgot, Palestinians are human!
4
It is ironic that black American activists like West decry the pro-Jewish bias in the Israeli Palestinian conflict but have no problem with the very strong pro-black bias on a domestic level and a pro-Muslim bias from the left, in general. The Islamic community and leftist activists do not want fairness. Anti-Jewish racism is openly flaunted on the left without consequences. If the left is going to fight against biases that go in favor of Jews they need to also fight the many, many leftist biases that go against Jews due to pressure from Muslims and certain segments of the leftist population.
13
Nonsense. American Muslims have come out strongly in favor of an honest, decent fair-minded JEWISH candidate: Bernie Sanders.
9
I think what Cornell and his pals want is fairness....civil rights for all, but particularly for those who are victims.
8
Please ignore that man behind the curtain ...
"Here's a wild idea: leave any mention of Israel off the "platform" ... Why stake out a party policy position that could reasonably be subject to change next month depending on the leadership and behavior of an (arguably) independent nation?"
Regardless of who leads Israel, the US should stop funding its misconduct. If Israel cleans up its act and comes asking for US money (a turnabout I don't anticipate), we can always reconsider. For now, though, time to turn off the spigot.
It won't take much time at the convention. As several commenters mention, party platforms don't count for much anyway. Even so, it would be nice for a major party to declare an end to our immoral support of immoral behavior.
"Here's a wild idea: leave any mention of Israel off the "platform" ... Why stake out a party policy position that could reasonably be subject to change next month depending on the leadership and behavior of an (arguably) independent nation?"
Regardless of who leads Israel, the US should stop funding its misconduct. If Israel cleans up its act and comes asking for US money (a turnabout I don't anticipate), we can always reconsider. For now, though, time to turn off the spigot.
It won't take much time at the convention. As several commenters mention, party platforms don't count for much anyway. Even so, it would be nice for a major party to declare an end to our immoral support of immoral behavior.
13
For 2,000 years Jews got a bad rap. Hitler grabbed the idea of anti-Semitism, a concept shared by most of Europe and Russia. During WW II America's President told confidants when presented with data of Jewish extermination to keep the reports secret. He said it was a war for freedom; not a war to save Jews. (Lincoln transformed the Civil War into a moral war to free slaves and end slavery.)
WW II remained a war to defeat Hitler. After the war, some countries were guilt driven to help the Jewish settlers in Palestine form a new country, one where the Jews, still unwanted could be segregated into their own ghetto. The all knowing and loving R.C. Church after the war rewrote its version of history: Jesus was not killed by deicidal Jews. Jews were now to be accepted and treated individually and as a nation as God's people.
Sound sick? It is and still is and because of the way it was done, the collective guilt of those who acted in surprised when the horrors could no longer be denied, and the pain and horror remembered by the concentration survivors was still vivid.
Unfortunately, to survive the Jews acted in ways that in retrospect were not exemplary. Israel became America's proxy in an oil rich area of the world during the cold and hot wars between America and Russia.
America's support of Israel carried some real risks which were played out over the next 70 years. Then came 9/11! The cold war was replaced by jihad terrorism.
It is 2016. Welcome to the Democratic Party.
WW II remained a war to defeat Hitler. After the war, some countries were guilt driven to help the Jewish settlers in Palestine form a new country, one where the Jews, still unwanted could be segregated into their own ghetto. The all knowing and loving R.C. Church after the war rewrote its version of history: Jesus was not killed by deicidal Jews. Jews were now to be accepted and treated individually and as a nation as God's people.
Sound sick? It is and still is and because of the way it was done, the collective guilt of those who acted in surprised when the horrors could no longer be denied, and the pain and horror remembered by the concentration survivors was still vivid.
Unfortunately, to survive the Jews acted in ways that in retrospect were not exemplary. Israel became America's proxy in an oil rich area of the world during the cold and hot wars between America and Russia.
America's support of Israel carried some real risks which were played out over the next 70 years. Then came 9/11! The cold war was replaced by jihad terrorism.
It is 2016. Welcome to the Democratic Party.
4
In 1968 the pro war fascists murdered MLK, murdered Robert Kennedy, beat up both protesters and hippies as well as many regular folks who just happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time and pushed to continue both assaults on democracy and the worst war crimes in Vietnam since Hitlers invasion of Russia and yet many 'Democrats' here blame the victim hippies??
Talk about learning the exact opposite wrong lesson. We are here in this apartheid situation in the US, with a AIPAC run congress and Bibi insulting OUR POTUS in Congress and oligarchy swallowing our democracy (DNC and RNC vs the voters) BECAUSE of people thinking like you lot do.
We even have 'moderate pragmatic realists' here claiming Sanders is a self hating Jew who only wants Trump to win (despite his running since last year when maybe 1% thought Trump would be the GOP's nominee; which logically puts that theory to rest).
Combined with the pro Israeli view being that Israel is only defending itself and that any criticism of it is anti-semitic; not withstanding it's descent into theocratic apartheid and it is clear the Hillary groupies are as pro war, pro racist, anti voters rights and pro corruption as the GOP.
Go Bernie! Give em hell and don't stop speaking truth to power. More and more see the emperor (the so called democratic party leaders of both parties) has no clothes (are oligarchs helping the very rich get even more at the cost of the 99%'s humanity, liberty and quality of life!
Talk about learning the exact opposite wrong lesson. We are here in this apartheid situation in the US, with a AIPAC run congress and Bibi insulting OUR POTUS in Congress and oligarchy swallowing our democracy (DNC and RNC vs the voters) BECAUSE of people thinking like you lot do.
We even have 'moderate pragmatic realists' here claiming Sanders is a self hating Jew who only wants Trump to win (despite his running since last year when maybe 1% thought Trump would be the GOP's nominee; which logically puts that theory to rest).
Combined with the pro Israeli view being that Israel is only defending itself and that any criticism of it is anti-semitic; not withstanding it's descent into theocratic apartheid and it is clear the Hillary groupies are as pro war, pro racist, anti voters rights and pro corruption as the GOP.
Go Bernie! Give em hell and don't stop speaking truth to power. More and more see the emperor (the so called democratic party leaders of both parties) has no clothes (are oligarchs helping the very rich get even more at the cost of the 99%'s humanity, liberty and quality of life!
14
@vlad
Not sure where you're getting your information from, over there in SWEDEN.....But, it wasn't "pro-war fascists" who murdered Dr. Marin Luther King...and the last time I looked, Sirhan Sirhan, who was convicted of killing Robert Kennedy, wasn't one either.
Another thing.
Your ranting that "Hillary groupies" are: "pro-war, pro-racist, anti-voters rights and pro-corruption as the G.O.P", is not only convoluted, but embarrassingly incorrect as well.
Not sure where you're getting your information from, over there in SWEDEN.....But, it wasn't "pro-war fascists" who murdered Dr. Marin Luther King...and the last time I looked, Sirhan Sirhan, who was convicted of killing Robert Kennedy, wasn't one either.
Another thing.
Your ranting that "Hillary groupies" are: "pro-war, pro-racist, anti-voters rights and pro-corruption as the G.O.P", is not only convoluted, but embarrassingly incorrect as well.
8
Bernie will stop at nothing.
If he can't get the nomination,he'll destroy Hillary and the party.
Has the dimwit ever stopped to think -- if he were to WIN the nomination, he'd inherit a party in tatters, and just as many of OUR people (we're with HER) would sooner drown than vote for him.
He'd be stuck with his millenials who squeal and call him "adorable," don't have much money to give, probably will forget to vote.
And then after Trump savages him and his wife ... . . . .
What a truly despicable wolf in "I'm just a nice guy running a positive campaign" clothing.
As one of of the pundits observed, when he got the scent of power, he went from Jekyll to Hyde.
I'd say "our own Trump," but at least Trump never pretended to be Mr. Nice Guy.
If he can't get the nomination,he'll destroy Hillary and the party.
Has the dimwit ever stopped to think -- if he were to WIN the nomination, he'd inherit a party in tatters, and just as many of OUR people (we're with HER) would sooner drown than vote for him.
He'd be stuck with his millenials who squeal and call him "adorable," don't have much money to give, probably will forget to vote.
And then after Trump savages him and his wife ... . . . .
What a truly despicable wolf in "I'm just a nice guy running a positive campaign" clothing.
As one of of the pundits observed, when he got the scent of power, he went from Jekyll to Hyde.
I'd say "our own Trump," but at least Trump never pretended to be Mr. Nice Guy.
22
as usual Bernie takes it too far, we have a Democratic President and we have diplomatic relations with the State of Israel, which is not a perfect nation, Sanders wants us to lose all influence, his ideas are he should be both the nominee and the president, now.
He is an irresponsible man.
He is an irresponsible man.
10
i think it is very clear via several examples, that we are seeing a transformational change in the decades old relationship between the Israeli government and the US. the growing movement on campuses to divest and boycott israeli business, the viewpoitns of Sanders and West and the drive to change the longstanding democratic offical position. i palce the blame for this solely at the feet of Netanyahu and his extremist right wing government. while pretending to desire a treaty and peace they stall, burtalize and oppress the residents of Gaza and the West Bank,. pretend to negotiate the status of a people and the land while building settlements on it. The govnerment resists the advice of the US benefactor that, without which it wouldnt last a month, by claiming that they are independent, defiant, and will not be told what to do. i think more and more americans accept that, with the caveat that if the israeli government wants to go that route they should do so alone. that the US support and protection is not unconditional. the key is to recognize that we will support the Israeli PEOPLE always and rejection of a particular government is NOT anti-semitism.
16
40% of Democrats favor the Palestinians over Israel. I have long suspected this, & it has help make my decision easier as to who I will vote for.As much as, I disagree with many of Trumps positions, I am hoping that most of his comments are pandering to the extreme right for their vote, & will be greatly modified if he becomes President.I cannot vote for a Party that represents such animus for the Jewish people, yes I said the Jewish people, Israel & Judaism is synonymous.
14
Speak for yourself! There are many people within Israel, good Jewish citizens, who are appalled at the behavior of the Netanyahu government. For that reason among many others your statement is wrong.
When someone equates all the people of a particular ethnicity, race or nation as being the same, whether it be in terms of a positive or negative attribute, that person is practicing racism. As we all know, racists come in all colors, ethnicities, and political persuasions.
When someone equates all the people of a particular ethnicity, race or nation as being the same, whether it be in terms of a positive or negative attribute, that person is practicing racism. As we all know, racists come in all colors, ethnicities, and political persuasions.
5
I wonder what the Christian and Muslim CITIZENS OF ISRAEL feel about your absurd statement conflating a, supposedly, democratic state and a single religion. As a self-described ultraliberal I am sure that you also loudly and proudly advocate the, equally logically bankrupt, notion that the United States was founded as and always shall be a Christian nation where all non-Christian peoples live in military occupied ghettos. I don't imagine that you would like that, not even a little.
5
So I'm being assigned a nation and a religion because of my ethnicity? This is so "ultraliberal" that it's close to fascist. You should change your tag to "Neoliberal".
4
The times are strange indeed .... strange when the pro-Israel lobby is hell-bent on protecting a regime that is determined to destroy Israel as a liberal democracy.
28
Israel declines to let the Palestinians create a state. That would be the "two-state solution."
Israel also declines simply to incorporate the West Bank and give its Palestinian residents the right to vote in Israeli elections. That would be the "one-state solution."
That leaves Israel with what it likes best: the "no-state solution."
And we continue to support that choice. Why?
Israel also declines simply to incorporate the West Bank and give its Palestinian residents the right to vote in Israeli elections. That would be the "one-state solution."
That leaves Israel with what it likes best: the "no-state solution."
And we continue to support that choice. Why?
26
Because (1) the Palestinians rejected all offers for a two-state solution (including splitting Jerusalem, no less!), and (2) a one-state solution is indeed the "final solution" for the Jewish state. The Palestinians know that and try to market this to the world. Yet, this would result in the end of a state to the Jewish people and most likely the flight of Jews elsewhere.
While Israel can be criticized, one cannot forget the Palestinians are a side to this conflict as well. They are much to blame too for their situation today.
While Israel can be criticized, one cannot forget the Palestinians are a side to this conflict as well. They are much to blame too for their situation today.
11
Oh, boy, I never expected to see a campaign in which the Mussolini/Hitler Republican stand-in might claim to be the stronger supporter of Israel and Netanyahu.
4
I assume you mean Trump. On Israel, I'd put him in between Sanders/West and Hillary. Hillary is by far the most extreme of the three. She's long been an unconditional supporter of Israel.
7
Seems you're not cognizant of her evolving position. Unconditional, quite an accusation!
1
Yet another in a never ending series of so-called "news" articles attacking Sanders. But, once again, he's got it right.
22
What we need at this point is a financial statement showing how much the U.S. is paying to countries like Israel, Pakistan and others. This could then be balanced against how the leaders and people in those countries respond to the President and others representing the U.S. and its people. Are the benefits genuinely worth the cost?
It looks like the Democrats are tired of sending money and receiving insults in return. However, anyone thinking the Republicans will do better should consider their record in international charity, and how some of their less stable elements might react to future events.
It looks like the Democrats are tired of sending money and receiving insults in return. However, anyone thinking the Republicans will do better should consider their record in international charity, and how some of their less stable elements might react to future events.
11
we have easily given Israel over $4 billion annually....think what our school would be like if we had kept that money and invested in our schools instead of Israel's war crimes.
8
We make strange choices. Fairness should not be construed as anti-Israeli, and the PM has not been fair to Israel nor to the US. He has always shown too little respect for the President.
And Mr. Sanders judgment is not totally fair either in his selection: I believe Mr. West to have moved so far to the left that he has fallen off the continental divide & is racially biased. I make this statement as an appraisal of his talk at the New School w/ Ms. Belle Hooks (the talk is on line).
And Mr. Sanders judgment is not totally fair either in his selection: I believe Mr. West to have moved so far to the left that he has fallen off the continental divide & is racially biased. I make this statement as an appraisal of his talk at the New School w/ Ms. Belle Hooks (the talk is on line).
9
That is rich given the Obama White House calling Netanyahu "chicken...".
2
Palestinians are winning the "Battle of the Womb". Arabs already make up 50% of the country. Israeli Jews are aging like Japanese while the Arab have babies. No matter what our Israeli policy is, the Israeli government will soon have to deal with the demographic reality. Let's be patient, not preachy.
3
When US policy stops being so lopsided in Israel's favour and US politicians escape the grasp of Israeli and Jewish "benefactors" then we might see some progress towards real peace in the Middle East.
It would also require Israelis to realize that keeping ultra-right wing politicians running their country will not help in the long run as more and more of the free world recognizes the plight of the Palestinians i.e slaves in their own country.
It would also require Israelis to realize that keeping ultra-right wing politicians running their country will not help in the long run as more and more of the free world recognizes the plight of the Palestinians i.e slaves in their own country.
15
Short memory here. The US already sold Israel down the river by allowing Iran to launch long range ballistic missiles. About two weeks after the Iran nuclear deal was signed Iran launched two intermediate range missile The missiles were marked with a statement in Hebrew reading "Israel must be wiped off the Earth," Iran's semiofficial Fars News Agency reported.
Putting Israel's back up against a wall is no way to treat an ally.
Cornel 'West has called the U.S. a "racist patriarchal" nation where white supremacy continues to define everyday life." (from wiki). No wonder he says Israel is guilty of war crimes against the Palestinians.
Sanders is not capable of running the US. His policies as stated on his web site will got get anywhere. The choice of two of his Middle East advisors, West and Zogby, tell how far out there he's going. Dangerous.
Putting Israel's back up against a wall is no way to treat an ally.
Cornel 'West has called the U.S. a "racist patriarchal" nation where white supremacy continues to define everyday life." (from wiki). No wonder he says Israel is guilty of war crimes against the Palestinians.
Sanders is not capable of running the US. His policies as stated on his web site will got get anywhere. The choice of two of his Middle East advisors, West and Zogby, tell how far out there he's going. Dangerous.
17
@sa
Not that I agree with Mr. West and all he has to say, but he's right about the U.S. being a "racist patriarchal" nation where white supremacy continues to define everyday life -- How else would you describe the ascendancy of Donald Trump???
Not that I agree with Mr. West and all he has to say, but he's right about the U.S. being a "racist patriarchal" nation where white supremacy continues to define everyday life -- How else would you describe the ascendancy of Donald Trump???
2
Bumper sticker mentality. No body bothers to read the candidates websites and their positions on taxes, immigration, denfense, etc.
1
Another reason not to vote for Bernie Sanders. Dr. West and his loony opinions are best kept in the classroom. Leave foreign policy, especially as regards the volatile Middle East to the professionals, i.e. Hillary Clinton.
21
The association with Cornell West just reinforces Bernie's standing on the extremes of American politics. He hasn't come very far from his Trotskyite days of the 1980's. He's a Socialist, not a Democrat and he should have had the guts to run under that banner instead of under the cover of "a liberal Democrat". If most of the Bernie Bros knew any more history than the history of craft beer, they might understand why Bernie belongs on the fringes not in the mainstream.
22
I intend to vote for Clinton in the NJ primary and in November. But if she is not equal to this issue that is to say remaining steadfastly supportive of Israel then I may have a big problem in November.
6
I certainly will vote for Bernie, and he is not the Party's nominee, I will vote for for the Donald.
1
What do you consider "support" of Israel??? -- Does it only consist of a knee-jerk reaction in handing over a blank check ??? Or, is there something else?
5
Jamil ... huh? Sounds like cutting off your nose to spite your face. Good luck with that.
2
I'm sure many of the preceding 1300 comments have made the point, but nevertheless: it's critical to distinguish support for Israel as opposed to opposition to the policies of Netanyahu, who impresses many Americans (and Israelis) as having no sincere desire to work toward peace with the Palestinians. Add to that Netanyahu's unprecedented meddling in this country's domestic policies and his loathsome choice for Ambassador to the US and it's no surprise a shift in the tone of the US/Israel discussion has occurred.
28
Sanders lost New York during the Democratic party because of
his position on Israel. If the Demcratic party puts his position on Israel in the platform - I predict they will lose the states of New York, New Jersey and
Florida to the Republicans. Bernie Sanders has destroyed the Democratic party and they were idiots to let him in.
his position on Israel. If the Demcratic party puts his position on Israel in the platform - I predict they will lose the states of New York, New Jersey and
Florida to the Republicans. Bernie Sanders has destroyed the Democratic party and they were idiots to let him in.
20
We will lose the states of NY, NJ & FL with Bernie and they'll vote for Trump?
5
@cantu
Just for the record. It wasn't ONLY Sanders' position on Israel that cost him New York, just like it wasn't only the Jewish vote that made a difference in his defeat.
There's no doubt he's not a Democrat, but I do commend him for bringing up a topic that has long been overlooked -- And since Mr. Netanyahu's right-wing agenda is in full-operation with the appointment of Avigdor Lieberman, it is definitely something worth a closer look.
Just for the record. It wasn't ONLY Sanders' position on Israel that cost him New York, just like it wasn't only the Jewish vote that made a difference in his defeat.
There's no doubt he's not a Democrat, but I do commend him for bringing up a topic that has long been overlooked -- And since Mr. Netanyahu's right-wing agenda is in full-operation with the appointment of Avigdor Lieberman, it is definitely something worth a closer look.
2
No. The most likely explanation for New York voting for Hillary is that they actually, you know, had some acquaintance with her and her actions, since she was their senator for 8 years.
So the extravagant characterizations of her didn't resemble what they knew about her. Quelle surprise!
One of the things that has turned me against Bermie is his refusal to reject Republican opposition work on her, and his insistence on oversimplifying her position in the world as dishonest and bought.
Since their voting records are similar, and they've worked together, this can only be interpreted as him willing to exploit in order to win, rather than doing the best for all of us.
His choice of people who have offered him unconditional support, regardless of their actions and effects, shows the fame has gone to his head, and he wants to win at all costs. He's new to the game, but that doesn't make him more honest.
So the extravagant characterizations of her didn't resemble what they knew about her. Quelle surprise!
One of the things that has turned me against Bermie is his refusal to reject Republican opposition work on her, and his insistence on oversimplifying her position in the world as dishonest and bought.
Since their voting records are similar, and they've worked together, this can only be interpreted as him willing to exploit in order to win, rather than doing the best for all of us.
His choice of people who have offered him unconditional support, regardless of their actions and effects, shows the fame has gone to his head, and he wants to win at all costs. He's new to the game, but that doesn't make him more honest.
4
With a racist like Cornel West on his team, Sanders just lost my vote. I felt the Bern, but now I feel burned.
21
I tend to believe that people who call someone like West a racist...that they generally are racists themselves. West is a little extreme for me, but much of his anger is deserved. As a country, we have not done even a decent job with our minorities.
5
Interesting. The great Israeli historian Shlomo Sand calls Israel "the most racist country on earth" while apartheid victims including Desmond Tutu and Nelson mandela insist racist conditions imposed on Palestinians by Israel are far worse than what they endured in South Africa.
11
Racist? Most real racist think black folk talking about racism is racist, I see you....very clearly.
6
after being th recipient of so much vilification and destruction, one would think th jews would have more empathy toward th palestinians
of course its not on th same scale, so spare me your moral outrage, but what th jews are doing to th paelstinians is a bit like what th germans did to th jews
at least th attitude isn th same, if not th extent of th killing
of course its not on th same scale, so spare me your moral outrage, but what th jews are doing to th paelstinians is a bit like what th germans did to th jews
at least th attitude isn th same, if not th extent of th killing
8
yes-they are herding them to their death. they are committing genocide. If that is the case, why has the Palestinian population increased and not decreased? why are Palestinian arabs being treated at Israeli hospitals? Why did Israeli doctors work and succeed in cutting infant mortality by two thirds in a decade? (see article here http://elderofziyon.blogspot.com/2016/05/un-passes-resolution-singling-o...
13
I agree with you, long having held the belief that those who have suffered persecution have a special obligation to not become persecutors themselves. But I also think that you become what you hate. In that respect, the continued promotion of the Jews as a persecuted people, and of the attendant paranoia, has contributed to the unfortunate belief that anyone who opposes any policy of the Israeli government is a virulent antisemite.
8
The only logic that can be discerned from Mr Hoenlein's assertion seems to be: let us maintain status quo. In other words he wants to hold back America to "past-date", outdated thinking, which degrades some people and supports the suppressors. At the time of the Civil War, he would have pushed to maintain slavery. I find the remarks of Mr Hoenlein extremely worrying. And the fact that the NYT even bothers to quote him insulting to the dignity of America. It is time that Mr Hoenlein learns that America, a evolving democracy, does not wish to support a gang of people occupying other nations.
8
How about discussing "dignity" of your native Pakistan? Don't YOU teach us about dignity of America.
9
I wonder how the kids Bernie lied to are feeling today. He obviously doesn't even care about them if he would make any move that might enable a Trump presidency. Heartbreaking.
11
To what lies are you referring? Might you provide an example?
9
I am really irritated by this radical Bernie crowd. This fringe movement is going to ruin our chances in November. All of these Bernie fans out here remind me of the Green Party nuts that handed the presidency to George Bush and set this country (not to mention the middle-east!) back decades. GROW UP!!!
22
Fringe? Radical? Guess those mainstream democrats forgot what being one means in the first place.
At long last we are beginning to have a small but potent dialog on the government of Israel as an oppressor nation of Palestinians and what it means that the United States has supported such actions. Meanwhile many Jewish Americans including myself have moved far away from such unmitigated support of Israel, but not its right to exist in peaceful coexistence with its neighbors. I support Bernie Sanders views though I go even further, but for now, I want this nation to engage in a full discussion of the issues presented by the Israeli/Palestinian struggles. I hope my fellow citizens feel similarly. All of us who pay taxes have the right to such an open, honest debate when more than 3 billion dollars are sent to Israel by this country, each and every year . Thank you Bernie Sanders for your courage and compassion for ALL peoples on the planet. It's why I cast my California ballot for you this week. May we be so lucky as to have this man in the White House come January, 2017!
14
Reminds me of a joke.
A Jewish couple observing with amazement their 28 y.o. daughter, the apple of their eye all these years, happily serving customers at a local McDonalds.
Murray turns to Belle and says," When do you think we lost her?"
A Jewish couple observing with amazement their 28 y.o. daughter, the apple of their eye all these years, happily serving customers at a local McDonalds.
Murray turns to Belle and says," When do you think we lost her?"
Ironically, within Israel, such intense debate regarding Palestinian policies goes on daily. It is completely normal there, even heavy criticism of right-wing/Likud, etc. Interestingly, this same debate does not take place in the USA. And if criticism is leveled at Israel Govt policy, the anti-antisemitism accusations fly rather quickly. A few brave souls in the US, such as Norman Finkelstein, are not afraid to let the fireworks fly. But notice the way most of Jewish society comes down on the guy,
Oh come on! Grow up Democrats. Let's stop blaming each other for everything and face outwards. There is one serious set of enemies out there: Trump, Republicans in Congress, Republicans in States, municipalities, and the Koch and Rove and billionaire machine set up to elect them. I apologize to old-style Republicans (conservation is conservative), but they are now almost nonexistent in public office.
Meanwhile, don't you all remember that the Republicans prefer Netanyahu to Obama? Can't we help real people, not our military buddies in arms set on ruining everybody's neighborhood worldwide? Terr'ists come in all shapes and colors, and the more we blast them the more they grow. Overreaction is just what they want.
Bernie has a lot of great ideas, he's a bit of a stubborn one-note; Hillary has decades of Republican opposition work blowing up every thing they can find. Let's get together and ensure we have a future instead of supporting wealthy corporate dead enders (which Hillary is definitely not doing, despite the repetition of Republican talking points by people who should know better). Their voting records are quite similar.
Yes, please, everyone vote over the next few weeks, but remember who is really threatening to tear our country apart and ruin our environment. No more tax cuts for the rich, deregulation, and free passes for corporate pollution and exploitation.
Meanwhile, don't you all remember that the Republicans prefer Netanyahu to Obama? Can't we help real people, not our military buddies in arms set on ruining everybody's neighborhood worldwide? Terr'ists come in all shapes and colors, and the more we blast them the more they grow. Overreaction is just what they want.
Bernie has a lot of great ideas, he's a bit of a stubborn one-note; Hillary has decades of Republican opposition work blowing up every thing they can find. Let's get together and ensure we have a future instead of supporting wealthy corporate dead enders (which Hillary is definitely not doing, despite the repetition of Republican talking points by people who should know better). Their voting records are quite similar.
Yes, please, everyone vote over the next few weeks, but remember who is really threatening to tear our country apart and ruin our environment. No more tax cuts for the rich, deregulation, and free passes for corporate pollution and exploitation.
26
I love Bernie, but his tone deaf one-notism sometimes promotes people who are not effective representatives for all of us. Some of the complaints about Cornel West are valid. Do we really need this?
Cornel West on Obama: "The First Black President Has Become The First Niggerized Black President"
https://newrepublic.com/article/121550/cornel-wests-rise-fall-our-most-e...
"Cornel West’s rage against President Barack Obama evokes that kind of venom. He has accused Obama of political minstrelsy, calling him a “Rockefeller Republican in blackface”; taunted him as a “brown-faced Clinton”; and derided him as a “neoliberal opportunist.” In 2011, West and I were both speakers at a black newspaper conference in Chicago. During a private conversation, West asked how I escaped being dubbed an “Obama hater” when I was just as critical of the president as he was. I shared my three-part formula for discussing Obama before black audiences: Start with love for the man and pride in his epic achievement; focus on the unprecedented acrimony he faces as the nation’s first black executive; and target his missteps and failures. No matter how vehemently I disagree with Obama, I respect him as a man wrestling with an incredibly difficult opportunity to shape history. West looked into my eyes, sighed, and said: “Well, I guess that’s the difference between me and you. I don’t respect the brother at all.”"
Cornel West on Obama: "The First Black President Has Become The First Niggerized Black President"
https://newrepublic.com/article/121550/cornel-wests-rise-fall-our-most-e...
"Cornel West’s rage against President Barack Obama evokes that kind of venom. He has accused Obama of political minstrelsy, calling him a “Rockefeller Republican in blackface”; taunted him as a “brown-faced Clinton”; and derided him as a “neoliberal opportunist.” In 2011, West and I were both speakers at a black newspaper conference in Chicago. During a private conversation, West asked how I escaped being dubbed an “Obama hater” when I was just as critical of the president as he was. I shared my three-part formula for discussing Obama before black audiences: Start with love for the man and pride in his epic achievement; focus on the unprecedented acrimony he faces as the nation’s first black executive; and target his missteps and failures. No matter how vehemently I disagree with Obama, I respect him as a man wrestling with an incredibly difficult opportunity to shape history. West looked into my eyes, sighed, and said: “Well, I guess that’s the difference between me and you. I don’t respect the brother at all.”"
19
I'm not voting for a pro-Netanyahu, pro-Pentagon WALMART attorney. That's completely out of the question.
9
Israel/Palestine (and the rest of the middle east) is a minefield. There are no right answers. Can we please stop oversimplifying and looking for someone to blame?
We interfered in Iraq: result costly mess
We tried to help in Libya: result costly mess
We avoided Syria: result costly mess
Which of you has the answers. I love Israel, but I don't like their oppressive violence and extremism. I sympathize with Palestinians.
What we *do* have is too much hate and blame.
We interfered in Iraq: result costly mess
We tried to help in Libya: result costly mess
We avoided Syria: result costly mess
Which of you has the answers. I love Israel, but I don't like their oppressive violence and extremism. I sympathize with Palestinians.
What we *do* have is too much hate and blame.
3
Having 2 members with different views about Israel on a platform committee is not going cause a huge divide in the Democratic party. Discussing alternative points of view is what democracy is all about and is important to do at a party convention. I lean more towards supporting Israel and Hillary's position towards them, yet I do think Israel is guilty at times of human rights abuses towards Palestinians. I have no problem with Dr West representing Democrats that share his views on the platform committee - even though I don't agree with him on most issues. We need to recognize that democracy is not about demanding"my way or no way", but instead about having a dialogue with people of different perspectives and finding common ground for the common good. I like that the Democrats are discussing actual issues and allowing a variety of opinions.
19
West does not want a dialogue.
He calls Netanyahu a war criminal.
How can you have a dialogue with people like me or people like Senator Schumer who think Netanyahu is a great head of state.
He calls Netanyahu a war criminal.
How can you have a dialogue with people like me or people like Senator Schumer who think Netanyahu is a great head of state.
4
It's not a question of agreeing or not with West. Have you read what he has to say about Obama? He is a deranged Obama hater. Seriously, check it out. He hates Obama as much as any Republican does. Putting him on any Democratic committee is a calculated, intentional act of hatred for our president.
I know Sanders isn't a Democrat. I didn't know he hated our president & the vast majority of Democratic politicians. The next time he gets up to speak in the Senate every Democratic senator should stand up & turn their backs on him. And, of course, boot him out of our caucus. Harry Truman won even though there was a left-wing Democrat & a southern segregationist on the ballot. We don't need these left-wing losers.
I know Sanders isn't a Democrat. I didn't know he hated our president & the vast majority of Democratic politicians. The next time he gets up to speak in the Senate every Democratic senator should stand up & turn their backs on him. And, of course, boot him out of our caucus. Harry Truman won even though there was a left-wing Democrat & a southern segregationist on the ballot. We don't need these left-wing losers.
8
The 2012 Democratic 'convention platform' featured a highly contentious voice vote regarding the Dems approval of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The fix was in, contrary to the decibels, convention chairman Antonio Villaraigosa approved the measure.
10
Netanyahu, with his rigidity, bad judgment, and radical right wing paranoia is, historically, the second worst enemy of the long-range prospects of the Jewish people.
You know the first.
I'm the son of a Holocaust survivor.
You know the first.
I'm the son of a Holocaust survivor.
53
Thank you for saying this!
6
Netanyahu is simply perpetuating the racism, xenophobia, stupidity and hatred that have characterized the Jewish state since the outset. (My father, while not a holocaust survivor, fled the Nazis in Europe to save his life. My mother was Jewish.)
9
VoA, along with your other comments, this is relevant to the Hillary Bernie conflict how?
I can't figure out if you are a Republican provocateur or so far in the tank at Bernieland that you won't look outside your prejudice. I'm tending towards the former.
I can't figure out if you are a Republican provocateur or so far in the tank at Bernieland that you won't look outside your prejudice. I'm tending towards the former.
You have to hand it to Bernie, he is not trying to fool anyone. His so-called Democratic Socialism is now revealed to be radical radical far left. He is making George McGovern look like a right wing fanatic. The Democrats are dooming themselves to 20 years in Siberia.
33
I am skeptical of anonymous (of course!) "skeptic's" grasp on reality. In fact, I'm beyond skeptical. I'm quite sure he has no grasp whatsoever.
9
Uh, we're not nominating Sanders. The Republicans are nominating Trump. Who's going to Siberia again?
4
Because he dares to criticize any policy or practice of the current government of Israel?
6
I am generally a supporter of Israel, but by no means an Israel-right-or-wrong supporter. However, it behooves people to remember that Israel was established (depending on your point of view) by a majority of members of the United Nations. It was immediately attacked 5 Arab countries. Many Arab countries still do not recognize Israel. Israel has never launched an offensive war. All territory it holds was taken in defensive wars. Nothing but grief came to it by handing over Gaza. Bill Clinton described Arafat’s effective rejection of a settlement or partial settlement that would have given the Palestinians most of what they asked for as the biggest disappointment of his president (Google “Clinton describes Arafat as the biggest disappointment of his presidency” or words along those lines and you will find plenty of references to this). And when people ask “why can’t Israel make peace with the Palestinians” my response is that different Arab sects or streams cannot live in peace with one another, let alone different Arab countries living in peace with other Arab countries. I wish fervently that Netanyahu and his ilk would disappear from Israel’s political life, to be replaced by more centrist leaders. I don’t hold out much hope however that this would make the path to peace much easier. It is not that Palestinians want their own land, which in my opinion they are entitled to, but that they and the majority of Arab countries still simply cannot accept Israel’s right to exist.
47
What right had the so called UNITED NATIONS, then consisting of Colonial "powers" such as France, UK, Soviet Union, Holland, etc., holding human beings in BONDAGE, to expiate for thier own historical sins against the Jewish people, hand over ARAB, MUSLIM lands to colonial-minded religious extremists Zionists. I do not recognise such hand-over as legal or abiding.
5
This isn't about Israel or Palestine -- it's Bernie's easiest path to causing hatred and disunity.
Now that he knows no matter what his tax-hiding wife says, he will not win,he's out to destroy.
I hope when he walks into the Dem caucus in the Senate next winter, they shove his bony old derriere out the door.
He can caucus with himself in the hallway.
Now that he knows no matter what his tax-hiding wife says, he will not win,he's out to destroy.
I hope when he walks into the Dem caucus in the Senate next winter, they shove his bony old derriere out the door.
He can caucus with himself in the hallway.
4
So wait, who got displaced when the UN made Israel? 800,000 Palestinians. How is that fair? How is that not an aggressive initial act?
5
I grew up in NYC in the 1960s believing that Israel was as much my country/home as the US. I'd never been, my parents and grandparents had never been. But those UJA stickers adorned our apartment door for decades.
Some 60 years later (for me) and almost 70 years after the creation of Israel, I think it's time for the US to undertake a more critical analysis of Israel's policies and politics, and our relationship with them. This is not anti-Israel or anti-Semitic. It doesn't mean we will cut ties or cut all foreign aid or abandon Israel in the event of an attack. This is the kind of assessment that takes place regularly with other countries, sometimes publicly, sometimes not.
So, regardless of who Sen. Sanders has chosen as his advisers, a reassessment of our relationship with Israel, including limits of that support, is not a bad thing.
Some 60 years later (for me) and almost 70 years after the creation of Israel, I think it's time for the US to undertake a more critical analysis of Israel's policies and politics, and our relationship with them. This is not anti-Israel or anti-Semitic. It doesn't mean we will cut ties or cut all foreign aid or abandon Israel in the event of an attack. This is the kind of assessment that takes place regularly with other countries, sometimes publicly, sometimes not.
So, regardless of who Sen. Sanders has chosen as his advisers, a reassessment of our relationship with Israel, including limits of that support, is not a bad thing.
49
We should always reevaluate.
Is it possible that after reevaluating you will come to the conclusion the amount of aid should be increased.
If you can not accept this possibility you are not really reevaluating you are
really taking a position against Israel and using this idea of a reevaluation as ca smoke screen.
Is it possible that after reevaluating you will come to the conclusion the amount of aid should be increased.
If you can not accept this possibility you are not really reevaluating you are
really taking a position against Israel and using this idea of a reevaluation as ca smoke screen.
6
Exactly!!!
I've seen a Cornell West interviewed on Charlie Rose. He thinks of himself as a modern day Malcom X. It's one thing to say the kinds of things he says as a citizen, but to represent a political candidate who is running for the presidency and say that the prime minister of a foreign country should be tried as a war criminal is highly provacative. As a California Democrat, I will not consider voting for Sanders now.
54
Are you suggesting that Bibi is less of a war criminal than Assad?
6
Well, then I guess I'm worse than either Sanders or Cornell West, because I think Dick Cheney and the highly complaisant councel Yee should be tried as war criminals.
7
West figures he has a better shot getting support from black Muslims than from anybody else other than fairly, let's just admit it, unreliable would-be constituents. That's why he's coming out with the anti Israel blather. Period.
He gets a platform where he can exercise his ego, get some attention, still be a loudmouth black racist and who knows, maybe go into the history books as something other than a clown.
Sanders is on his way there as well.
And not funny clowns, either.
He gets a platform where he can exercise his ego, get some attention, still be a loudmouth black racist and who knows, maybe go into the history books as something other than a clown.
Sanders is on his way there as well.
And not funny clowns, either.
36
@801
Just for the record. There's practically nothing coming out of Mr. West's mouth that I can agree with -- But if anyone is coming across as a racist, it's you.
Just for the record. There's practically nothing coming out of Mr. West's mouth that I can agree with -- But if anyone is coming across as a racist, it's you.
3
I could take West and CO more seriously if they condemned the strong pro-black and pro-Muslim bias of the left. But instead they push strongly for it. The fact is, the black and Muslim lobby is the leftist domestic version of AIPAC- they demand to be seen as the victim is every and all instances and demand 24/7 concern and blind support. America would be a better place if there was far less pandering to the Israeli lobby, Muslim lobby, black lobby, and illegal immigration lobby. To condemn one (Israeli lobby) is considered brave by the left, to condemn the others will quickly get you slurred as a racist. They are all a pain in the butt, self serving, and dishonest.
2
He'll go down in history books as a clown. He's a has-been academic. Noone reads . his recent stuff. He's the worst argument for maintaing tenure.
3
By far, America's biggest foreign policy blunder post WWII was its blind irrational and guilt-guided support for Israeli statehood.
We will continue to live with that mistake until our congress and President realize that support for Israel is a tacit recognition of its apartheid policies.
End support now or forever be tainted by our tacit approval of Israel's blatant racism.
If it can't survive on its own, so be it. Israel has no one to blame this time but itself and its short sighted racist leadership.
We will continue to live with that mistake until our congress and President realize that support for Israel is a tacit recognition of its apartheid policies.
End support now or forever be tainted by our tacit approval of Israel's blatant racism.
If it can't survive on its own, so be it. Israel has no one to blame this time but itself and its short sighted racist leadership.
19
I don't think the title of this article sums it up correctly.
It's not "A Split Over Israel" that is threatening the unity of the Democratic Party, because a lot of people already view Israel for what it is, or more so, what it has become.
The split in the Party is coming largely from a difference ideological viewpoints, as verbalized by Mr. Sanders.
But giving credit where credit is due, he has certainly brought up a topic that is in need of open and frank discussion, even though it might cost him the support of the Jewish-American community.
It's not "A Split Over Israel" that is threatening the unity of the Democratic Party, because a lot of people already view Israel for what it is, or more so, what it has become.
The split in the Party is coming largely from a difference ideological viewpoints, as verbalized by Mr. Sanders.
But giving credit where credit is due, he has certainly brought up a topic that is in need of open and frank discussion, even though it might cost him the support of the Jewish-American community.
14
Sanders views on Israel will have more far reaching effects on the country -
it will give us President Trump.
it will give us President Trump.
7
@cantu
Needless to say, I hope you're wrong -- the thought of Trump as President is beyond distressing.
That said, aside from Mr. Sanders' views, it really is time for the U.S to reconsider its continued military and financial support of Israel.
No other country on the planet receives more allowances. And they are more than able to take care of themselves.
Needless to say, I hope you're wrong -- the thought of Trump as President is beyond distressing.
That said, aside from Mr. Sanders' views, it really is time for the U.S to reconsider its continued military and financial support of Israel.
No other country on the planet receives more allowances. And they are more than able to take care of themselves.
1
The missing element of US policy toward Israel/Palestine has always been the lack of a clear US proposal. The idea that given our history with Israel that we were playing the "honest broker" in peace talks was always a fantasy, but one that several presidents and virally all members of congress enjoyed hiding behind.
The American people deserve better, as do the Israeli's and the Palestinians. When negotiations fail, as they have repeatedly over Israel/Palestine, both sides could profit from a clear US settlement proposal. Pushing back against a US proposal is actually a sound strategy. We become the straw man, but in the process both sides can say things to us that they refrain from saying to one another.
In the end a clear US peace plan should include clear support for Israeli security, which is basically a cornerstone of existing policy. But it should also require a viable Palestinian State, with US peace keepers on the ground and western economic aid. Troops in the West Bank will achieve a lot more than many of our current deployments do.
Finally, a clear peace plan requires American politicians to abandon the meaningless "I support Israel" rhetoric and actually do their job of managing US interest in the region. Some clearly support the present Israeli policy of annexation. Others do not. All sides deserve clarity and open debate. Ultimately Israel and or the Palestinians may reject an American plan. But even that would create more clarity than what we have now.
The American people deserve better, as do the Israeli's and the Palestinians. When negotiations fail, as they have repeatedly over Israel/Palestine, both sides could profit from a clear US settlement proposal. Pushing back against a US proposal is actually a sound strategy. We become the straw man, but in the process both sides can say things to us that they refrain from saying to one another.
In the end a clear US peace plan should include clear support for Israeli security, which is basically a cornerstone of existing policy. But it should also require a viable Palestinian State, with US peace keepers on the ground and western economic aid. Troops in the West Bank will achieve a lot more than many of our current deployments do.
Finally, a clear peace plan requires American politicians to abandon the meaningless "I support Israel" rhetoric and actually do their job of managing US interest in the region. Some clearly support the present Israeli policy of annexation. Others do not. All sides deserve clarity and open debate. Ultimately Israel and or the Palestinians may reject an American plan. But even that would create more clarity than what we have now.
8
It's about time the US looks after its own interests as well as provide support for the legitimate aspirations of a stateless people. The current government of Israel is growing more and more determined to bury any hopes for a two-state solution, or even a democratic on-state solution.
28
The veto of UN Security Council resolutions mandating the creation of a Palestinian state is without any justification.
How the Land of the free and the home of the brave can continue to support the enslavement of a people by a foreign State is beyond comprehension. It is supporting the very crimes that created Israel.
Stop it, for human decency and support World Peace.
How the Land of the free and the home of the brave can continue to support the enslavement of a people by a foreign State is beyond comprehension. It is supporting the very crimes that created Israel.
Stop it, for human decency and support World Peace.
22
Enslavement? Are you sure about that?
2
The US support of Israel is also based on geopolitical considerations rather than feelings. When Israel lost the support of the Western powers (France stopped his support around 1967 while the US started to support Israel in 1973) we got two regional wars: the Six Days and Yom Kippur wars.
The US support to Israel is therefore also pragmatic -- stopping it would negatively the stability of the region. The people who want to side with the Palestinians based on feelings will simply continue the counterproductive and careless American foreign policy the world has experienced in the past years.
The US support to Israel is therefore also pragmatic -- stopping it would negatively the stability of the region. The people who want to side with the Palestinians based on feelings will simply continue the counterproductive and careless American foreign policy the world has experienced in the past years.
4
I fear a Democratic Party-less future for America. When we look back on how that could have happened, I hope we remember the old socialist.
Here's a thought experiment for the obtuse: Think about your life now in the US. Now name the many countries in the Middle East where you would be able to live your life as you do now. Israel is our friend because Israel shares our values. This doesn't mean it's perfect, but it's far better than the rest of the others combine.
Here's a thought experiment for the obtuse: Think about your life now in the US. Now name the many countries in the Middle East where you would be able to live your life as you do now. Israel is our friend because Israel shares our values. This doesn't mean it's perfect, but it's far better than the rest of the others combine.
18
@marcello
Disagree. Israel has become a right-wing escape pod for Mr. Netanyau to cling onto his own political career for as long as he can.
Why else select Avigdor Lieberman as Minister of Defense???
Another thing. Israel is "our friend" as long as the blank checks keep coming--they think very little of this country otherwise.
Disagree. Israel has become a right-wing escape pod for Mr. Netanyau to cling onto his own political career for as long as he can.
Why else select Avigdor Lieberman as Minister of Defense???
Another thing. Israel is "our friend" as long as the blank checks keep coming--they think very little of this country otherwise.
4
Thank you for pointing out (and reminding us) that America has the same values as Israel! Indeed America was founded on suppression of Native Americans, Slavery, and degradation of non-whites: only the CHOSE PEOPLE (meaning WHITES), who could exercises extreme cruelty, were deemed fit to be American. And now the Zionists doing the same in the lands of Palestine: occupying other peoples land, pushing the natives into "reservations", treating them like cattle: Are these the values you hold so dear.
1
Subjugating 5 million people, caging them up in ghettos, is not consistent with American values.?
I presume you are not an Arab. Living under Israeli rule might be a little less pleasant if you were.
I presume you are not an Arab. Living under Israeli rule might be a little less pleasant if you were.
2
It's bizarre that Sanders's rather mild position should be so controversial. He is not advocating abandoning Israel. Rather, he wants US support to be more sensible and balanced. We should have some say on what we do with our support, when Israeli policy has become so misguided and counter-productive. Sanders even prefaces his comment by saying that he has always and will support 100% Israel's continued existence and security. But apparently, America is so beholden to Israel, even that's not enough.
Why is the United States obliged to keep backing the Netanyahu government's hard-line policies when even high-ranking IDF officers and former Israeli cabinet officials have criticized those policies as unsound? It's insane. The United States is not some feudal subject of Netanyahu's government, summoned to do his lordship's bidding right or wrong.
Why is the United States obliged to keep backing the Netanyahu government's hard-line policies when even high-ranking IDF officers and former Israeli cabinet officials have criticized those policies as unsound? It's insane. The United States is not some feudal subject of Netanyahu's government, summoned to do his lordship's bidding right or wrong.
33
It's not his position, it's his goal.
He doesn't care much about these issues -- he just wants a chaotic convention that will punish Hillary for beating him.
Well Bernie, punish US -- the 3 million more people who voted for her than you.
SHE is the choice of the voters.
And you just can't choke that down.
Forget superdelegates -- SHE has the ultimate argument.
More people voted for HER than you.
He doesn't care much about these issues -- he just wants a chaotic convention that will punish Hillary for beating him.
Well Bernie, punish US -- the 3 million more people who voted for her than you.
SHE is the choice of the voters.
And you just can't choke that down.
Forget superdelegates -- SHE has the ultimate argument.
More people voted for HER than you.
8
Bernie's appointees to the platform committee belie his statement.
6
Bernie can bring morality back to US foreign policy. Would it not be nice to have American foreign policy based on human rights and international law, rather than the demands of AIPAC?
24
You do know that Bernie knows zip about U.S. foreign policy, don't you?? -- And human rights, while important, isn't all there is to it.
8
You mean nice like assisting France in taking out Gaddafi and installing democracy in Libya?
Sanders is perhaps a bit duplicitous.
Sanders is perhaps a bit duplicitous.
1
If Bernie is such a hotshot moralist then why does he attack only Israel? Don't you think that he should also lecture Russia and North Korea and other morally deficient countries about how they should behave? Bernie is no foreign policy expert but he sure knows how to ally himself with West and Zogby who have no interest in either Israel's security or preservation of the U.S. relationship with our only reliable mideast ally.
6
Could it be that the scarf has occluded Dr. West's blood flow?
12
No, I do not think so. His thinking, is lucid and limpid
1
Limp. Not limpid. Insipid, not lucid. Tactless, not fruitful.
3
What is this? Another attempt by the right wing journalists at the NYTimes to alienate the only decent man in politics - Bernie, from apartheid supporting Jewish Democrats?. Bernie is right about Israel. And he represents all that is wonderful about liberal Jewish Americans.
28
BernI is not right; Bernie is narrow and naive, and he certainly does not represent me.
9
Please explain calling Sanders a liberal and Sanders' position promulgating guns in the US? Reconciling his extreme views on guns is akin to reconciling his extreme views on other subjects about which he appears totally ignorant.
7
Yes - we'll withdraw our support for Israel. Then one of two things will happen. The Arab states that consider that Israel has no right to exist will destroy it, or Israel will defend itself and destroy them. I don't think we really want either of those things.
6
Might sound extreme, but is seems that
Nazi oppression of the Jews culminated in a mass migration to a chosen homeland.
Cut to
Jewish leadership are now the oppressors. And proud, and vehement about it.
Somehow tho, I don't think this is the will of the people. Only the leadership thinks so.
Nazi oppression of the Jews culminated in a mass migration to a chosen homeland.
Cut to
Jewish leadership are now the oppressors. And proud, and vehement about it.
Somehow tho, I don't think this is the will of the people. Only the leadership thinks so.
20
Are you for real.
There was no mass migration to Israel because of the Nazi oppression.
The Nazis and the Arabs didn't give them that choice.
The Nazi tried to exterminate them.
They had to leave Eastern Europe because there was no place safe for them to live.
If you go to Israel you would see the Muslims are not being exterminated .
You will see they do well.
They have more rights in Israel than they have in their own countries.
They can vote in Israel.
Gay men are in danger of being killed in Moslem countries.
This is why many actually come to Israel.
Women have few rights in those places.
They do in Israel.
There was no mass migration to Israel because of the Nazi oppression.
The Nazis and the Arabs didn't give them that choice.
The Nazi tried to exterminate them.
They had to leave Eastern Europe because there was no place safe for them to live.
If you go to Israel you would see the Muslims are not being exterminated .
You will see they do well.
They have more rights in Israel than they have in their own countries.
They can vote in Israel.
Gay men are in danger of being killed in Moslem countries.
This is why many actually come to Israel.
Women have few rights in those places.
They do in Israel.
14
Nazi oppression culminated in the extermination of 6 million Jews. You seem to be blithely skipping over that part. If you want to put it this way, Jews bought Israel with the blood of six million dead Jews.
The Jews may have evicted many Palestinians, but so far they haven't exterminated them.
The Jews may have evicted many Palestinians, but so far they haven't exterminated them.
10
How can you even compare what Israel is doing to the Nazis and claim that they are in a double standard? When Jews were living in Europe during that time, they were arrested and placed into concentration camps just for being Jewish. Before the Holocaust occurred, the Jews had no intentions to kill anybody let alone overthrow governments. All they did was just act as law abiding citizens even though in some of them they were being treated as second class citizens. When WWII ended, none of the Jews that were imprisoned in the concentration camps called for revenge on members of the Nazi party especially after what they have been through. They just wanted to start a new life wherever they would wind up after the war ended and that was it. Your comparison is completely bogus and the Gaza Strip is by no means a concentration. If anybody made it like that, you can thank Hamas. If you plan to talk about the Zionists calling for the arrest of the head of the Grand Mufti for his collaborations with Hitler, they never did that, it was the British Parliament that wanted him taken in for treason and conspiracy.
4
The problem: Support for Israel used to equate with supporting justice. That no longer is true in the regime of Likhud/Netanyahu Israel. And I am every bit as Jewish as Likhud/Bibi -- damnation by more-Jewish-than-thou Jewish right wingers notwithstanding.
17
I guess we would have been in real trouble if we'd all been judged this way because we supported Bush.
1
Mr Steinberg, Support for the Zionists was support for fake-justice. Justice would have been if (i) the Europeans had given Picardy, or Amsterdam, or Gdansk, or Niedersachsen for the creation of the Zionist Entity. Or America should have given California, or Hawaii or the Zionist Entity. What JUSTICE is there in robbing Peter to pay Paul? This is an aberrant justice, it is an abuse of Justice. Only those BEREFT of the SENSE OF JUSTICE could make such assertions. Palestine is Arab land FOREVER. It was occupied by crusaders for more than a hundred years, and then Richard the chicken hearted sailed into the sunset.
1
Palestine has not been Arab land "forever". Arabs arrived as conquerors in the 7th century AD.
3
Who needs extremist freaks to split Democrats over Israel?
Alas, Bernie Sanders is an irresponsible nut-case. Yikes.
Alas, Bernie Sanders is an irresponsible nut-case. Yikes.
24
I just consider what would happen if the people in Palestine and Israel switched places. With Hamas in control of that military capabilities, the Jews wouldn't last a day.
20
Now. Have you ever wondered WHY is that??
1
Dear Liberal Democrats: stick American issues: accessible health care, abortion rights; gay rights; minority rights; fair hoursing; fair minimum wage, etc, etc
Leave Israel alone. You look like a bunch of hypocrites.
Leave Israel alone. You look like a bunch of hypocrites.
22
Hey John -
We here in the US would be happy to leave it alone. Can we have our billions back?
We here in the US would be happy to leave it alone. Can we have our billions back?
8
that would make sense, if we didn't give Israel billions of dollars every year and enable their weaponry. Nice try though.
4
They are people. Palestinians are. Israelis are. How can the people of Israel believe that they have a right to all that they want, and that the Palestinians do not. The crimes of Germany against the Jewish people during WW II do not justify their crimes against the Palestinians.
What the nation of Israel refuses to recognize is that they have done to the Palestinian people what they say should never have been done to the Jews. The lives of at least 3 generations of Palestinians have been crushed. Poverty, suffering, and military attacks. I support the right of Israel to exist. I am angered by the arrogant spread of settlements. I am also one who has slid to the side of the Palestinians. Israel is no longer "poor, helpless Israel." It is now "arrogant, aggressive Israel".
And do we really allow their leader to go over the head of our leader to Congress??
What the nation of Israel refuses to recognize is that they have done to the Palestinian people what they say should never have been done to the Jews. The lives of at least 3 generations of Palestinians have been crushed. Poverty, suffering, and military attacks. I support the right of Israel to exist. I am angered by the arrogant spread of settlements. I am also one who has slid to the side of the Palestinians. Israel is no longer "poor, helpless Israel." It is now "arrogant, aggressive Israel".
And do we really allow their leader to go over the head of our leader to Congress??
24
Steve, melodrama isn't a substitute for truth. Was the 67 war a crime against Palestinians? Before that, some Palestinians were Fedayeen; terrorists who snuck into Israel proper to do their murders, but they were not the armies who fought against Israel. Israel offered to return the West Bank to Jordan, and Gaza to Egypt (both whom occupied illegally); both offers were turned down. So began the long occupation. BUT, whose legal land is the West bank? There was never a state called Palestine, and all of mandated Palestine was bequeathed in several legally binding decisions (like the League of Nations) to the Jewish people/Israel. Palestinians are not poor/helpless, except that their leaders betray them by making false promises and by promoting genocide as the means to rid Israel of its Jews. You have to see the other half of the story to get the truth.
8
Not sure where the melodrama is. But anyway, always there are two sides, but we have had precious little attention given in the US to the Palestinian side. Regardless of what has transpired since, Israel came into existence based on what to them is their historic claim. How does this outweigh the claim of those living there? If it does, we better hope Native Americans don't start establishing their historic claims. And I do not mean that to sound frivolous.
2
Uh huh. Try telling this spiel to the people of the Israeli towns along the Gaza border who are under constant murderous threat from an area those "arrogant" Israelis gave up to the Palestinians lock stock and barrel. And as far as those poor crushed Palestinians, maybe if they actually agreed to compromise and actually accepted and finalize one of a score of peace offers made to them giving them their own state since 1937 instead of brainwashing themselves into believing the Jews have absolutely no historical rights or ties to this land, and that they'll wipe the Jews out sooner or later once and for all, maybe they wouldn't have all these problems. No?
By the way, the only reason the Palestinians didn't do to the Jews what the Nazis did as you say is because they and their brother Arabs lost every war they started. If you read any of their war declarations at the start of the 1948 war, the 1967 war and the 1973 war they were openly calling for another extermination of the Jews. And that's not counting their national hero the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem who was an ally of Hitler and even helped recruit Balkan Muslims into the Waffen SS. Yugoslavia tried to bring him in on war crimes charges, but the Mufti fled to Lebanon and couldn't be extradited. The Jews defeated them, they refused to be slaughtered again and on their own historical land, and they owe no one an apology especially to people like you.
By the way, the only reason the Palestinians didn't do to the Jews what the Nazis did as you say is because they and their brother Arabs lost every war they started. If you read any of their war declarations at the start of the 1948 war, the 1967 war and the 1973 war they were openly calling for another extermination of the Jews. And that's not counting their national hero the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem who was an ally of Hitler and even helped recruit Balkan Muslims into the Waffen SS. Yugoslavia tried to bring him in on war crimes charges, but the Mufti fled to Lebanon and couldn't be extradited. The Jews defeated them, they refused to be slaughtered again and on their own historical land, and they owe no one an apology especially to people like you.
5
Netanyahu is all but licking his chops at the prospect of a resumed green light from Washington, and Lieberman is basically the bib before the barbecue. Clinton or Trump, it doesn't matter. It's going to be awful either way, though probably worse with Clinton than with Trump.
7
@eric
If you think this country can fare better with a racist demagogue who has earned the endorsement of a former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, then we already know which side of the wall you'll be standing on when he builds it.
Good Luck with that.
If you think this country can fare better with a racist demagogue who has earned the endorsement of a former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, then we already know which side of the wall you'll be standing on when he builds it.
Good Luck with that.
1
Pseudo intellectual West is a hate monger and demagogue of an order even lower than the Donald. Bernie should steer clear if he seeks to establish executive credibility.
20
Bernie doesn't know anything other than breaking up the banks and free college tuition will lead us to paradise. He is clueless when it comes to foreign policy (like a broken clock being correct twice a day, he got the second Iraq war correct) which is why he didn't even know the actual casualty figures from the Gaza war during his NY Daily News interview -- grossly overstating the numbers to a point even Hamas wouldn't have the nerve to make the same claim. So now we have the specter of the first viable Jewish presidential candidate in US history recommending a shill from the antisemitic BDS movement whose dream is to strangle Israel economically to its destruction to sit on the Democratic platform committee regarding the Israel/Palestinian conflict. The Bern is clueless. Luckily, there is a perfect word in Yiddish for such a person like Sanders. Putz.
10
Its a chimera if the authors seriously believe this issue will threaten party unity. Dr. West will express his views as will others. But you will not see a party platform shift.
3
Realistically,Bernie Sanders' positions on Israel, right or wrong ,are not going to make much of a difference. He could however, as he has done all through his campaign , cause irreversible damage to the United States by making it possible for Donald Trump to become president.
17
american morons everywhere re making it possible for dt to be pres
3
An uncomfortable truth. What is it with our reluctance to denounce the reactionary right turn in Israel's government? I for one found nothing offensive in the comment of Dr West and what is so criminal about call Pres Obama a Rockafeller Republican? This is the appeal of Bernie Sanders. FINALLY we have someone who is willing and able to declare that the Emperor Has No Clothes. Netanyahu is the worst thing to happen to Israel since it's founding. And that's saying something.
I'm sick of tiptoeing around the truth. I can hardly stand the Democrats anymore precisely because they are so scared of standing up and saying what needs to be said. Unfortunately there is no other party here that I can join that has any power. Even Bernie had to run as a Democrat and even so, look how difficult it was to get any media attention. Until now.
I'm sick of sacred cows. So are a lot of people.
I'm sick of tiptoeing around the truth. I can hardly stand the Democrats anymore precisely because they are so scared of standing up and saying what needs to be said. Unfortunately there is no other party here that I can join that has any power. Even Bernie had to run as a Democrat and even so, look how difficult it was to get any media attention. Until now.
I'm sick of sacred cows. So are a lot of people.
22
If we're taking a poll, I am registered as an independent but have always voted for a democratic president. I have for a long time been horrified by the Israeli goverment's actions. My deep unease does not come from anti-semitism but from respect for Palestinians, and recognition that the policies pursued by the Israeli government are both inhumane and ineffective.
We should not continue to enable the status quo.
We should not continue to enable the status quo.
20
What about the illegal occupation of Iraq by the US?
How many refugees from Iraq does the US take annually?
How much compensation does it pay the Iraqi people for destroying their lives?
Who dares to call those who fabricated evidence war criminals? Or take them to court? Or hold accountable those politicians who supported that war?
The scale of destruction and suffering in Iraq is at a much larger than the whole Israeli Palestinian conflict.
What shocks me about the political left in most countries is that it conveniently ignores the terrible acts of their own country and the responsibility for those acts.
How many refugees from Iraq does the US take annually?
How much compensation does it pay the Iraqi people for destroying their lives?
Who dares to call those who fabricated evidence war criminals? Or take them to court? Or hold accountable those politicians who supported that war?
The scale of destruction and suffering in Iraq is at a much larger than the whole Israeli Palestinian conflict.
What shocks me about the political left in most countries is that it conveniently ignores the terrible acts of their own country and the responsibility for those acts.
19
You mean the fasist media that control the American minds and the zionist who own congress and office of the president of the U.S. of israel. They World dpes not call America the zionist headquarters. for nothing.
One would think that a persecuted country like Israel would be the LAST country on earth to crucify the Arabs in Gaza.
14
Well, maybe because they don't like the idea of people surrounding them still bent on wiping them out. Just consider: at no time did Nazi Germany or Japan actually call for the annihilation of the US or Britain, but that did not stop us and the British from firebombing them to the ground killing up to a million civilians in the process. But the Palestinians still call for Israel's annihilation and Israel goes out of its way to minimize civilian casualties even in very messy urban conflicts in which its enemies deliberately embed military positions in civilian areas to cause civilian deaths so people like you will swallow the propaganda hook line and sinker, and mindlessly blame Israel for the outcome.
7
Mr. Hoenlein fails to notice his own bigotry. If someone were to say the Jewish presence on the council meant they could "adopt positions that could be seen as hostile to Israel", that would be seen as anti-Semitic. But when it's said in reference to a Muslims (Keith Ellison in this case) it's fair game, apparently.
12
When London was ablaze from nazi bombings the allies retailed by leveling the cities of Hamburg and Dresden among others. Some 42,000 died and 37000 wounded in Hamburg alone. Think of it …the men were off to war… the vast majority of these numbers were women and children. Where was the world outcry against these victims? Off to war…for what? To preserve their countries,and their way of life. Oh, I see…but…
when Israel retaliates after over 4500 rockets were launched from Gaza into Israel…the world condemns Israel, says Israeli response to 4500 rockets "disproportionate". Think of it this way…let’s say you’re president of the country of Arizona and Mexico launches 4500 rockets into your country, what would you do? Oh...one more thing...would you drop leaflets the day before your counteroffensive warning people to vacate? Israel did, but won't when Hezbollah launches the 150,000 rockets in the next war.
when Israel retaliates after over 4500 rockets were launched from Gaza into Israel…the world condemns Israel, says Israeli response to 4500 rockets "disproportionate". Think of it this way…let’s say you’re president of the country of Arizona and Mexico launches 4500 rockets into your country, what would you do? Oh...one more thing...would you drop leaflets the day before your counteroffensive warning people to vacate? Israel did, but won't when Hezbollah launches the 150,000 rockets in the next war.
24
You're absolutely right, but tragically, facts don't matter.
10
I've grown weary of Malcolm Hoenlein as John Bachelor's weekly radio guest. Israel can and will largely take care of itself. Their armed forces, arms industry, and intel are second to none. When they soup up their F-35-I fighters, they'll be better than those that Bernie made sure will get based in Vermont. Israel plays no small part in the "security" industry that sprawled around D.C. faster than their homeland housing. And we could probably put our failed commonwealth of Puerto Rico back on its feet for a fraction of Israel's annual aid package.
Nonetheless, our elite consider Israel our 51st state, and it's perception of the platform that counts. The last thing Bernie needed was someone taking a hard line at this stage. Make it to office, first. Then you can change policy and let the right-wing radio pundits whine away.
Nonetheless, our elite consider Israel our 51st state, and it's perception of the platform that counts. The last thing Bernie needed was someone taking a hard line at this stage. Make it to office, first. Then you can change policy and let the right-wing radio pundits whine away.
9
Once again, Sanders is long on criticism and short on solution. What, exactly, is his proposal for peace in the Middle East? He didn't even come close to knowing how many people lost their lives in Gaza during "Operation Protective Edge." What did he say to the Daily News? 10,000? And the actual number was closer to 2200. And what, pray tell, are Cornel West's qualifications to weigh in on this? With all due respects to his earlier works, does anyone serious take him seriously anymore? Is he now an expert on the Middle East? The situation in Israel/Palestine is *deplorable* and *complex*, and the residents of the area need a real solution. Sanders shows once again how he panders to his base who, in all their radical chicness, love to love Cornel West, but in the end he has no clue how to actually make anything better in the real world.
20
I question Sanders judgement. West is a man who called President Obama a "Republican in blackface" and also once described him as n**##ized. There is no way any individual who so denigrated President Obama should be within 100 miles of Philadelphia.
21
West speaks for many if not most black Americans (and plenty of white folk like me). We did not expect the first black president to spend his time terrorizing the planet with drones and golfing with vermin like Larry Summers.
Trump and Clinton are prepared to support the Israeli governments blatant human rights abuse and violations of international law .....some say criminal.
What a welcome breath of fresh air. Bernie seems to be the only choice for the ethical voter.
What a welcome breath of fresh air. Bernie seems to be the only choice for the ethical voter.
15
Who would send the USA into a tailspin quicker Trump or Bernie? That's the real question. This is the year of self-hating Americans (USA). Is your life really that bad that you're willing to risk it all on with one of these fools?
16
tough call
2
the answer to your question of course is Crooked Hillary. Beholden to income inequality wall street driven status quo while masquerading as a champion of "us", she doesnt want to initiate any real change, simply say the correct platitudes to get elected then mlik the systme for eight years and fatten the company foundation. what we are going to find is that, excepting an HRC indictment, she will lose badly to Trump, half pof Sanders' supporters will either stay home and not vote, or defect to Trump,viewing him as a kindred Disruptor in this year of the anti-establishment furor.
1
I am so tired of the "crooked" Hillary tag. What is so "honest" about Donald Trump? Who knows what he really intends to do--and he doesn't have a clue what he can or can not accomplish within a political system that is not a monarchy or dictatorship.
4
Over the years, I have participated in numerous Democratic Party conventions at the county, district and state levels. The most contentious and divisive activity is always the drafting of platform provisions. Various factions fight fang and claw over planks pro this or con that as if their lives and the fate of civilization depend on getting their way. When the actual elections begin and candidates hit the campaign trail, the only mention of the platform, if there is any mention, will come from the opposing party in order to attack our candidates for something they themselves had nothing to do with. In my experience, party platforms range in value from irrelevant to destructive. It would seem that Sanders's appointees are committed to the destructive end of the scale.
7
It's amazing that Sanders appointed Cornel West to the committee, after the many controversial remarks West has made in recent years.
For example, he once called President Obama "a global George Zimmerman" and referred to "the Obama plantation." He has also said Obama was "a black mascot of Wall Street oligarchs and a black puppet of corporate plutocrats. And now he has become head of the American killing machine and is proud of it."
Last summer West tweeted, "Brother Bernie and Brother Trump are authentic human beings in stark contrast to their donor-driven opponents." Um, what? Granted, this was before many of Trump's "greatest hits" of offensive comments, but years after Trump challenged Obama's legitimacy as POTUS with his extensive "birther" campaign.
Does Sanders really want to help the Dem. party, or is he just a bomb-thrower hired by Trump to blow up the Democrats and insure their defeat? (Mostly kidding, but Sanders's campaign/statements/behavior/etc. are certainly questionable for someone who claims to be a member of the party.)
For example, he once called President Obama "a global George Zimmerman" and referred to "the Obama plantation." He has also said Obama was "a black mascot of Wall Street oligarchs and a black puppet of corporate plutocrats. And now he has become head of the American killing machine and is proud of it."
Last summer West tweeted, "Brother Bernie and Brother Trump are authentic human beings in stark contrast to their donor-driven opponents." Um, what? Granted, this was before many of Trump's "greatest hits" of offensive comments, but years after Trump challenged Obama's legitimacy as POTUS with his extensive "birther" campaign.
Does Sanders really want to help the Dem. party, or is he just a bomb-thrower hired by Trump to blow up the Democrats and insure their defeat? (Mostly kidding, but Sanders's campaign/statements/behavior/etc. are certainly questionable for someone who claims to be a member of the party.)
21
Yahoo who is this Cornell West I like him already. The truth shall set you free free free the internet is here.
Neither. Bernie is simply a know-nothing putz who doesn't know anything other than "break up the banks and free college for all."
6
Former Professor of African American Studies at Princeton; now at Union Theological Seminary, I believe. Longtime professor/philosopher/activist. Also has made at least one hip-hop album.
Appointing Cornel West to the platform committee -all you need know about Bernie Sanders and where he stands
40
Bernie sanders is a complete joke. West? Is s crazy loon toon. Go Hillary!!
21
Dump Trump ...... and Hillary is a risky bet.
1
Israel has promised to use their illegal nuclear arsenal to end all life on earth, should they feel threatened. Their blueprint for Armageddon is officially known as The Samson Option. It has been repeatedly upheld by Israelis, including heads of state.
We CAN NOT permit this menace to humankind to continue. Israel's leaders must be shipped to the hague and Israel must be forcibly disarmed, if our species is to have a future.
We CAN NOT permit this menace to humankind to continue. Israel's leaders must be shipped to the hague and Israel must be forcibly disarmed, if our species is to have a future.
8
Where has Israel promised this? What are you talking about? Israel has had nuclear weapons for decades and has also felt threatened for decades. You propose disarming Israel surely because you know that would be the end of Israel. I'm sorry that your comments passed the New York Times editor and wonder why they did.
9
Seymour Hersh has written an entire book about the Samson Option. Golda Meir declared that she would make use of it to destroy the entire earth, should Israel face defeat on the battlefield. I'm sorry, but it is a fact.
1
Voice,
One of the frailties of the human race is the need of a Scapegoat to pile all their anger upon. The Jewish people will no longer accept this infamous distinction.We have our spiritual homeland back, & we have the ability to stand up to bigots like you, & yes I believe it’s God’s plan.
One of the frailties of the human race is the need of a Scapegoat to pile all their anger upon. The Jewish people will no longer accept this infamous distinction.We have our spiritual homeland back, & we have the ability to stand up to bigots like you, & yes I believe it’s God’s plan.
8
Has anyone been reading the news from Israel? It is very obvious that their current political leaders have absolutely no interest in a two-state solution. Isreal hides behind "security" for its expansionist policies. Thus, US foreign policy in the region will not overcome the resistance of Isreal, regardless of the strength of the position of our next leader. Move onto more meaningful discussions.
12
Why is Bernie trying to sabotage the Palestinian cause? His approach will make the Israeli right clam-up and strengthen Netanyahu - the least friendly to the Palestinians of all 8 million Israelis.
Easy for Bernie to shout and threaten from afar in the US, while those in the Gaza strip and West Bank will continue to suffer.
Easy for Bernie to shout and threaten from afar in the US, while those in the Gaza strip and West Bank will continue to suffer.
9
"At the 2012 Democratic convention, delegates booed officials who reinstated in the party platform a recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a view at odds with the United States’ official position that the city’s status must be negotiated between Israelis and Palestinians."
This is remarkably untrue. Israel's capital is in the Western half of Jerusalem, which is land that is within the so-called "green line" that is undeniably under Israeli governance. It is the fate of Eastern Jerusalem that is hanging on negotiations. Sadly, this error is clearly the product of a campaign of demonization that is leveled against Israel by organizations such as BDS.
BDS is built on a lie, that Gaza, namely how Israel and the West Bank are a single state, with Israel governing the whole but not giving rights to the Arabs. It is that lie which allows the claim of "apartheid" despite the fact that the Arab citizens of Israel have full rights, and which is then used to justify destroying the state to give the Arabs "justice". No one questions why Fatah and Hamas don't have to give rights to the Jews.
Prof. West can say whatever he wants about recognizing the ancient hatred against the Jewish people, but it is meaningless in light of his support of a movement that calls for the dissolution of the Jewish state. The idea that he, and Mr. Zogby, will provide "balance" to the party platform is absurd. One might as well appoint Hamas, which happens to provide support to BDS.
This is remarkably untrue. Israel's capital is in the Western half of Jerusalem, which is land that is within the so-called "green line" that is undeniably under Israeli governance. It is the fate of Eastern Jerusalem that is hanging on negotiations. Sadly, this error is clearly the product of a campaign of demonization that is leveled against Israel by organizations such as BDS.
BDS is built on a lie, that Gaza, namely how Israel and the West Bank are a single state, with Israel governing the whole but not giving rights to the Arabs. It is that lie which allows the claim of "apartheid" despite the fact that the Arab citizens of Israel have full rights, and which is then used to justify destroying the state to give the Arabs "justice". No one questions why Fatah and Hamas don't have to give rights to the Jews.
Prof. West can say whatever he wants about recognizing the ancient hatred against the Jewish people, but it is meaningless in light of his support of a movement that calls for the dissolution of the Jewish state. The idea that he, and Mr. Zogby, will provide "balance" to the party platform is absurd. One might as well appoint Hamas, which happens to provide support to BDS.
16
It's unfortunate, but Sanders is showing his true colors. The left is becoming increasingly anti-Israel, not that it truly understands why that is. The NYT has played a large role in this, with its constant drumbeat of negative Israel articles. I for one figure I will just have to vote Republican, and not just in the Presidential election.
17
Bernie is the only candidate working to SAVE Israel from self-destruction. Smarten up.
9
Sorry Bernie and Trump- peas in a pod- self righteous and arrogant. T
tell Bernie that his nasty children owe Senator Boxer an apology.
tell Bernie that his nasty children owe Senator Boxer an apology.
5
the Hamas covenant which spells out the anathema "Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it" (The Martyr, Imam Hassan al-Banna, of blessed memory). " http://avalon.law.yale.edu/20th_century/hamas.asp
Bernie wants revolution everywhere in the world what he lacks in brains he makes up for with his mouth. His Michael Vick form of foreign policy pitting dogs of war against each other and placing bets on the outcome is not sanity nor a path to peace.
The good people of the world wish for a brokered peace and our shared humanity to rise up over our religious differences, struggles for resources. All mothers share in the struggle of birth and bringing precious lives into our world. Perhaps it is appealing to our sameness and the fear for our children which should be the coming together of our shared experience. Drawing lines in the sand making hollow pronouncements and making enemies like Bernie does is counter productive.
God help us all Inshallah.
Bernie wants revolution everywhere in the world what he lacks in brains he makes up for with his mouth. His Michael Vick form of foreign policy pitting dogs of war against each other and placing bets on the outcome is not sanity nor a path to peace.
The good people of the world wish for a brokered peace and our shared humanity to rise up over our religious differences, struggles for resources. All mothers share in the struggle of birth and bringing precious lives into our world. Perhaps it is appealing to our sameness and the fear for our children which should be the coming together of our shared experience. Drawing lines in the sand making hollow pronouncements and making enemies like Bernie does is counter productive.
God help us all Inshallah.
9
The victim card is stale old and worn out.
The only card in Bernie's deck is the victim card..
All of the things he coulda, woulda, shouda done if the billionaires had not conspired to stand in his way.
It amazes me that a man who has been sitting on his thumb in Washington for a quarter century is now expected to pullout a plumb.
good luck with that.
All of the things he coulda, woulda, shouda done if the billionaires had not conspired to stand in his way.
It amazes me that a man who has been sitting on his thumb in Washington for a quarter century is now expected to pullout a plumb.
good luck with that.
2
Thank you, Dr. West, for recognizing the need to provide security to the Jews. So nice of you. I'm sure the Israelis feel terrible about forcing Hamas to shoot rockets at them on a daily basis. Maybe, just maybe, Dr. West, you could convince the Palestinians to stop shooting those rockets? Maybe if that happened, a more constructive dialogue could be attained? Perhaps you and Dr. Zogby could also add to the platform a plank that denounces rocket attacks on civilians. Don't those count as war crimes too?
17
In 2014 Netanyahu intentionally provoked the rocket launches from independent militant groups in Gaza. The Hamas leadership tried to stop the militias, as was reported in the Israeli newspapers at the time.
“I have always and will always be 100 percent supportive of Israel’s right to exist and live in peace and security,” Mr. Sanders wrote in a statement. “I also believe that lasting peace in the region will not occur without fair and respectful treatment of the Palestinian people.
Thank you Senator Sanders. Finally some balance and sanity in our policy. It might even lead to peace, as former President Jimmy Carter and others have suggested.
Thank you Senator Sanders. Finally some balance and sanity in our policy. It might even lead to peace, as former President Jimmy Carter and others have suggested.
12
The Palestinian's were offered a two-state solution, which they famously turned down in 2000.
13
Finally some politicians with some ethics and brave enough to call a spade a spade.
9
I did a quick search: Egypt. Nowhere to be found. Does anybody know the role that Egypt plays regarding Gaza? From any point of view being either economical, military, social .... humanitarian! All that while Israel delivers hundreds of trucks of supplies ....DAILY! And electricity....which is hardly paid for.
Does anybody how many thousands of Gazans go "free of charge" to get medical care in Israel.....including Hamas relatives?
And, if we need to base our judgement of the article characters, shouldn't we assume that the NYT will use reputable sources and well learned figures while people like Sanders said that Israel's response to Gaza's rockets created 10,000 deaths when the real number was just 10% of that?
How long will take for everybody to really get serious and understand that it is fashionable....again! to bash The Jews? Sorry, Israel.
Does anybody how many thousands of Gazans go "free of charge" to get medical care in Israel.....including Hamas relatives?
And, if we need to base our judgement of the article characters, shouldn't we assume that the NYT will use reputable sources and well learned figures while people like Sanders said that Israel's response to Gaza's rockets created 10,000 deaths when the real number was just 10% of that?
How long will take for everybody to really get serious and understand that it is fashionable....again! to bash The Jews? Sorry, Israel.
18
I'll swear, I'm getting less liberal every day. Actually, the liberals I hang around with are probably getting lost in a leftward version of the tea party. Cornel West? That sanctimonious self-promoter who always has all of the answers whether they are asked or not? And Bernie appointed this guy? I get tired of Israel too, but Cornel West is not the guy I want carrying water on the issue of Israel, or come to think of it, any other issue. Bernie needs to rein in some of his way liberal instincts because Cornel West is not the liberal I want in any sort of position that the media will examine.
This is the whole reason, even with all of Hillary's problems, that I wish Hillary didn't have so many problems. Bernie's way-left stargazing will be a natural target for the Trumpster; heck, Trump is operating in such a target-rich environment now.
If the Dems are unleashing Cornel West (shades of 1968 Dems!) they are in real trouble... what's next, Michael Moore as Bernie's VP candidate?
This is infuriating. No wonder Trump has all the momentum.
This is the whole reason, even with all of Hillary's problems, that I wish Hillary didn't have so many problems. Bernie's way-left stargazing will be a natural target for the Trumpster; heck, Trump is operating in such a target-rich environment now.
If the Dems are unleashing Cornel West (shades of 1968 Dems!) they are in real trouble... what's next, Michael Moore as Bernie's VP candidate?
This is infuriating. No wonder Trump has all the momentum.
20
Extremist Bernie chose Cornball West as his advisor? Then to heck with Bernie Sanders.
8
Bernie is a socialist, period. It is disgraceful that anybody should be allowed to switch parties to run for the presidency.
5
One thing I noticed about extreme liberals, as I have a Marxist in my family, is that they never cook dinner or do the dishes.
3
"Now is the time for the [Democratic] party to [focus] on the inequality that's depriving families of opportunity, not by arguing over Israel."
We shouldn't have to "argue" over Israel. No argument is needed. What we're doing is simply wrong and should be stopped immediately. That should take about 3 minutes at the convention. That will leave the delegates plenty of time to talk about "the inequality that's depriving families of opportunity" -- or whatever else they want to talk about.
We shouldn't have to "argue" over Israel. No argument is needed. What we're doing is simply wrong and should be stopped immediately. That should take about 3 minutes at the convention. That will leave the delegates plenty of time to talk about "the inequality that's depriving families of opportunity" -- or whatever else they want to talk about.
5
If you want to know what Trumpism looks like in practice, just visit Israel. You want a wall, they got a wall. You want to persecute Muslims and darker skinned migrants, ditto. You want a public discourse overrun with racist demagoguery? Israel is your place. Torture and reckless saber rattling likewise. Indeed, by Israeli standards, Trump is probably too cautious as evidenced by his opposition to the U.S. adventure in Iraq.
A Democratic Party that wants to beat Trumpism in the United States can't do so while chained to Trumpism in the Middle East. Kudos to Sanders, West, Zogby and everyone else with the courage to finally stand up to Israel's bullies and say what so many of us have known for a while about its ugly treatment of the Palestnians living under its boot.
A Democratic Party that wants to beat Trumpism in the United States can't do so while chained to Trumpism in the Middle East. Kudos to Sanders, West, Zogby and everyone else with the courage to finally stand up to Israel's bullies and say what so many of us have known for a while about its ugly treatment of the Palestnians living under its boot.
13
Wow! Goodby Bernie Sanders, you just sounded the death knell.
21
Bye bye Bernie and his rowdy children followers Please take Jane with you and see if you can repair the damage done to Burlington College and Jane's mismanagement of the funds
5
Critics of Sanders POV point to Clinton's long term support for the 2-State solution as sufficient. Now any honest view of the situation will know that the 2-State solution is a sham, a useful fiction that allows Israel to continually steal and build on more Palestinian land while forcing Palestinians into smaller ghettos. Its also the fig leaf that allows Obama, Clinton, every other administration to continually provide military and financial support to Israel pretty much unconditionally. I am not a big fan of Sanders, but kudos to him for being brutally honest about the issue and wiping aside the fig leaf that every other politician cowers behind.
14
The only country in the middle east that supports equality for men and women, gay rights, women's rights. That gave back land for peace with Egypt, Lebanon, and the Palestinians? That heals Syrian soldiers under the cover of night? Never forget UN resolution 181 that created Israel and a Palestinian state. Shame on Bernie.
18
"Israel has never been of any strategic value to U.S."
I've never understood why many Israel supporters insist otherwise. We don't have a single military base in Israel, and I don't believe we ever have. All of the surrounding countries hate us for our blind support for Israel -- is THAT "strategic value?"
And Israel is hardly a "democracy," as its supporters often claim. Far from it. If, for example, we simply declared that Florida and California and New York are mere "territories" and so their residents aren't allowed to vote in US elections, would we be justified in calling ourselves a "democracy?" That's exactly what Israel does with the West Bank -- and it even arrests life-time residents who drive on Israeli-only roads built through the West Bank "territory."
If this weren't actually happening, and someone asked Americans whether they'd like it to start happening, most Americans would assume that that someone was simply joking. But it IS actually happening. Every day, and we're supporting it with billions and billions of US dollars, dollars that could and should be spent here instead. Hard to believe, perhaps, but true.
I've never understood why many Israel supporters insist otherwise. We don't have a single military base in Israel, and I don't believe we ever have. All of the surrounding countries hate us for our blind support for Israel -- is THAT "strategic value?"
And Israel is hardly a "democracy," as its supporters often claim. Far from it. If, for example, we simply declared that Florida and California and New York are mere "territories" and so their residents aren't allowed to vote in US elections, would we be justified in calling ourselves a "democracy?" That's exactly what Israel does with the West Bank -- and it even arrests life-time residents who drive on Israeli-only roads built through the West Bank "territory."
If this weren't actually happening, and someone asked Americans whether they'd like it to start happening, most Americans would assume that that someone was simply joking. But it IS actually happening. Every day, and we're supporting it with billions and billions of US dollars, dollars that could and should be spent here instead. Hard to believe, perhaps, but true.
15
I think the NYT should edit content and eliminate blatent falsehoods instead of simply looking for curse words or whatever they look for which prevents people from responding in real time. "My Three Cents" and other anonymous liars ought to be banned from these comment boards.
5
So one of conventions will be rife with discord, disdain and disillusionment. And it won't be the one nominating Donald Trump. You gotta love this country...
4
The NYT fanning the angst of the "if you critique Israeli state policy, you must be anti-Semitic" crowd, and laying the foundation for the "It was all Bernie's fault!" narrative. Yawn.
There are a lot more issues on the platform than middle east policy. Thankfully, there will be a broader mix of opinions included in that discussion, and amazingly a handful who are not lobbyists, or beholden to corporate interests and the military industrial complex.
There are a lot more issues on the platform than middle east policy. Thankfully, there will be a broader mix of opinions included in that discussion, and amazingly a handful who are not lobbyists, or beholden to corporate interests and the military industrial complex.
8
The simple truth is that we are not, and should not have to be the world police. First of all, the creation of the entity called Israel in 1945 was one of the most heinous acts of imperialism in the modern era. Now, as we move into the post-modern world, we must allow Israel and Palestine to settle their own differences, without influencing or helping either. The time has come for us, Americans, no matter what color or creed, to stand for peace and harmony. In the post-modern era, we as a nation have to stand up for OURSELVES; and, stop letting the rest of the world bully us into being the "big brother" that their puny, weak nations have been seeking since the glory days of Darius, Pericles, Alexander the III, and Julius Caesar. The truth is, we are not your big brother, World. World, if you would like to self destruct, then GO AHEAD. We will, at the same time, be traversing the GALAXY, instead of fighting useless wars over man's ideology.
7
As an American, Donald Trump is an embarrassment to our country. As an American Jew, Bernie Sanders is equally shameful. Israel is a foolish fight for Sanders to pick, especially now. Sander’s main goal is moving the Democratic Party as far left as possible, when it should be defeating Trump.
20
Thank you, thank you, Bernie! Politicians and the MSM can't even consider discussing Israel's treatment of the Palestinians, as well as settlers who are stealing land in the West Bank. They also won't consider how much money we send to Israel, when our schools and infrastructure are crumbling.
This may be the beginning of the first honest conversation about Israel and Palestine in the past 60 years. I am thrilled.
This may be the beginning of the first honest conversation about Israel and Palestine in the past 60 years. I am thrilled.
21
Whatever one thinks of Israel this is just a small part of a big picture. Bernie is a Jew in name only because he rejects everything Jewish and bends over backwards to do so.
20
No. He's a thinking Jew.
11
Bernie is a Jew who cares deeply about the future of Israel and is trying to prevent the State of Israel from self-destructing. You?
8
Will JSIL be crushed before they start a nuclear WWIII?
That's the big question right now.
That's the big question right now.
1
The article states: "Dr. West accused the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, of “war crimes” and said that “the role of money and lobbies makes it difficult for there to be a candid dialogue” on Israel."
If that's what Dr. West says when he is speaking guardedly, goodness knows what he says when he is speaking "candidly." (Actually, I can imagine what he says.)
If that's what Dr. West says when he is speaking guardedly, goodness knows what he says when he is speaking "candidly." (Actually, I can imagine what he says.)
7
And why does he not say the same for Putin or even Obama.
What did Netanyahu do that justifies calling him a war criminal that Putin or Obama have not done.
What did Netanyahu do that justifies calling him a war criminal that Putin or Obama have not done.
4
Ah, the old "Poor Israel is only 6 miles wide" argument!
"However what most people on the left don't seem to understand is that Israel cannot return to the 1967 borders. It would leave the country 6 miles wide at one point and is completely indefensible if Israel is under attack."
This argument (among others) was put forth to justify the Israeli seizure of the West Bank in 1967. That gave Israel a huge buffer. Until, that is, Israel started filling up the West Bank with Jewish settlements -- to within a mile or so of the Jordanian and Syrian borders.
So much for that buffer. And so much for that "Poor Israel is only 6 miles wide!" argument.
"However what most people on the left don't seem to understand is that Israel cannot return to the 1967 borders. It would leave the country 6 miles wide at one point and is completely indefensible if Israel is under attack."
This argument (among others) was put forth to justify the Israeli seizure of the West Bank in 1967. That gave Israel a huge buffer. Until, that is, Israel started filling up the West Bank with Jewish settlements -- to within a mile or so of the Jordanian and Syrian borders.
So much for that buffer. And so much for that "Poor Israel is only 6 miles wide!" argument.
13
What settlement are you referring to that stretches to one mile from The Jordanian border.
1
In addition, the number of miles is irrelevant. We are no longer marching with horse-drawn cannons.
2
Incredible shiet! Man, you need treatment. A single RPG missile will permanently stop the international airport. Seek help, serious....
2
I am a Zionist supporter but that does not prevent me from taking an objective view of what Israel does to Palestinians and in turn what Palestinians have to do to secure a nationhood.ever since Bernie sanders started campaigning for presidential nomination 2016 Israel has been at the receiving end.whatever may the faults of Israel and its citizens it continues to be only democratic country in that part of the world with a vibrant press and a hoary Democratic tradition despite the fact that military dominates every aspect of life.any alienation of Israel will result only in united states losing its leverage over Israel .hence let us support Hillary over Bernie sanders.
5
Hillary has been bought and paid for by the Jewish/Zionist lobby. Maintain the status quo and eventually Israel will reap the whirlwind. Negotiate and live in peace or keep stealing land and sleep with a gun under your pillow. Your choice. No in between.
3
Americans seem to conflate Israel -- all Jews, eve -- with the Netanyahu government. If Trump is elected, will all Americans be fascists?
8
No; but the U.S. will be governed by one.
4
It's long past the time when the relationship between the US and Israel is examined critically. I have an article today at CounterPunch about this issue.
20
Bernie Sanders apparently thinks a brit is a kind of cheese or someone from Liverpool.
4
Here's a wild idea: leave any mention of Israel off the "platform" and stick to the basics, like reducing the cost of higher education, lowering the cost of child care, and promoting more fairness within the tax code (an alternative minimum tax for corporations would be a nice starting place). Why stake out a party policy position that could reasonably be subject to change next month depending on the leadership and behavior of an (arguably) independent nation?
22
On the platform question.....it is probably on the Platform for the same reason our Congress votes unanimously a non-binding resolution supporting Israel from time to time...control.
1
Cornel West is a well know posturing fool. Sanders is demonstrating that he is really on the fringes on the Democratic Party. The Media may love this but it won't divide real Democrats.
24
Yup. This article is just to scare "real Democrats" about Sanders. Again. Because Clinton is in a heap of hurt as a candidate and can't be allowed to run her campaign without serious help.
4
What this article discusses is further evidence of the blatant anti-Semitism of the far left class. There is only one question and one answer. Of all the problems in the World (including the Middle East), why is the far left so concerned, nee obsessed with Israel? What about Darfur, Boko Harem (sic.), other distressed and embattled parts of Africa, Syrian refugees. Ukraine, North Korea, Venezuela? Are these problematic areas in the Democratic platform or screamed about on Facebook as Israel is the moment it harms a Palestinian? No, only big, bad Israel. The only answer: anti-Semitism. If it was merely concern for a troubled people, we should hear an outcry for the many other troubled peoples around the World, but we do not. Why? Hatred (as West himself puts it) of the Jews.
28
Because the far-left loons love to pick on those that don't hit back. Why the left defends or ignores the seeming endless parade of Muslim atrocities is obvious, they'll come after you. It's safer to pick on Catholics and Jews.
1
And as Sanders himself is technically Jewish, at least by birth although not by lifestyle, the haters will say that as he is supporting the anti-Israel measures, how can that be antisemitism?
1
I'm pretty middle of the road politically, kind of a capitalist, definitely not a communist… but to you I suppose I'm an extreme-left anti-semite, because I want my government to put a lot of pressure on Israel to behave like the good guys in the region. Israel currently is NOT acting like that these days; they have the upper hand and they are barely restraining themselves when it comes to how harshly they use that upper hand.
The USA gives billions of dollars in cash and arms to Israel, our relationship with Israel completely distorts our relationships with every other nation in the region, and on top of that is the implicit guarantee that American soldiers will go to war for (and die for) Israel - apparently even if Israel provokes that war! NONE of those things apply to any of the other nations you mentioned or our relationships with them, and you know it.
The USA gives billions of dollars in cash and arms to Israel, our relationship with Israel completely distorts our relationships with every other nation in the region, and on top of that is the implicit guarantee that American soldiers will go to war for (and die for) Israel - apparently even if Israel provokes that war! NONE of those things apply to any of the other nations you mentioned or our relationships with them, and you know it.
4
Finally, the Democratic Party, in foreign affairs, is becoming the party of the American political left. This Israel move, along with Obama's rapprochement with Cuba, means that the Democratic Party wants the US to be a helpful and productive member of the international community, not just its dictator and bully.
I wonder how Hillary feels about this. She would go a long way in winning my progressive vote if she endorsed a more even handed approach to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict along with endorsing Obama's efforts with Cuba.
Now if the Democrats could become the party of the left in domestic affairs by endorsing single payer healthcare, dealing with climate change with an immediate carbon tax which grows larger every year, taxes on the wealthy much higher than current ones, tuition free public post secondary education, massive infrastructure projects, eliminating big money in politics (eg, superpacs), the Democrats would then deserve the progressive vote this year.
I wonder how Hillary feels about this. She would go a long way in winning my progressive vote if she endorsed a more even handed approach to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict along with endorsing Obama's efforts with Cuba.
Now if the Democrats could become the party of the left in domestic affairs by endorsing single payer healthcare, dealing with climate change with an immediate carbon tax which grows larger every year, taxes on the wealthy much higher than current ones, tuition free public post secondary education, massive infrastructure projects, eliminating big money in politics (eg, superpacs), the Democrats would then deserve the progressive vote this year.
12
I thought from your first sentence you intended a condemnation. You are correct, the Dems are becoming the party of the radical left; Bernie is becoming more honest and letting his truly radical side shine through.
3
Debbie Wasserman-Schultz was an enthusiastic supporter of President Obama’s Iran deal. Bernie Sanders has major problems with Israel’s currently elected leader, the same one who has now been elected Prime Minister by the people of Israel four times and still counting. Cornel West is, of course,
Cornel West.
I’m planning to conceal my great distress over all of their Imminent departures by pretending that I am deliriously happy.
Cornel West.
I’m planning to conceal my great distress over all of their Imminent departures by pretending that I am deliriously happy.
11
"Arabs are the victims of their own vicious, bloodthirsty, uncompromising mentality."
ALL Arabs? If so, sounds a tad racist. If only SOME Arabs are that way, might those Arabs be the ones whose land was just handed over to Israel without even asking them?
How would you feel if someone came to where you live and announced: "We've just given a big chunk of your land to some other group because some bad people somewhere else in the world did some bad things to that group. You might think it made more sense to give them some of those bad people's land, but the bad people need that land. We decided to give them your land instead because it doesn't seem to us that you really need it. Hope you don't mind!"
If that happened to you and you got upset, would you consider it fair for others to call you (and all other members of your group) "vicious, bloodthirsty, uncompromising?"
ALL Arabs? If so, sounds a tad racist. If only SOME Arabs are that way, might those Arabs be the ones whose land was just handed over to Israel without even asking them?
How would you feel if someone came to where you live and announced: "We've just given a big chunk of your land to some other group because some bad people somewhere else in the world did some bad things to that group. You might think it made more sense to give them some of those bad people's land, but the bad people need that land. We decided to give them your land instead because it doesn't seem to us that you really need it. Hope you don't mind!"
If that happened to you and you got upset, would you consider it fair for others to call you (and all other members of your group) "vicious, bloodthirsty, uncompromising?"
15
I don't think I'd get that upset. I have no religious attachment to any land. I'd be just as happy living in Westport as living in Greenwich.
Imagine that the US Government gave North Dakota to the native Americans, and the current non-native American residents of North Dakota started shooting Native Americans.
Imagine that the US Government gave North Dakota to the native Americans, and the current non-native American residents of North Dakota started shooting Native Americans.
2
Of course, you somehow admit that "that group" had been resident in the area for hundreds of years before the Arabs
3
It is unfortunate but the media is certain to report the unusual to gain audiences' interests, but it tends to create a public discourse about the world that is distorted and misrepresentative like the images one used to see in carnival mirror exhibits. Israel has, like every other nation has, made mistakes or acted poorly based upon misapprehensions about circumstances about which they are very sensitive. That does not mean that Israel is bad actor in the world in the overall context of events over time. Since that country's founding, American and European populations have tended to sympathize with Israelis, especially in the aftermath of WWII. It often has been the case that criticism of Israeli behaviors have been met with accusations of bias against Israel and/or Jewish peoples. This prevented reasonable discourse about the reality of what happens in the Middle East in regards to Israel and to what Israel does that affects what happens, and whether supporting Israel unconditionally is helpful or not.
2
I'm a Jewish atheist and a democrat. As a Jew, I know one thing: Jews will NEVER allow the Holocaust to happen again. I understand that the problems discussed here are bad PR for Israel and tend to alienate other nations. But you've got to remember that, to Jews, the Holocaust happened last week, and Jews will do anything and everything that it never happens again. If you get that "never again" is in many ways the core sentiment of modern Jews, you will, I think, have a much easier time communicating with them.
13
Yes. And the current Israeli government will take that all the way to forced genocide of an enemy who will rather annihilate themselves than make peace with the nation they expected to push into the sea. It will be horrible to watch Israel commit slow motion genocide against those poor and poorly led fools. Maybe the West Bank can save themselves, but Gaza will be a slaughter. Like native Americans all over again.
i know many jews who do not feel th holocaust was last week, and they hardly ever speak of it unless its in th news somehow
and how is bombing Palestinians staving off th next holocaust ?
and how is bombing Palestinians staving off th next holocaust ?
4
Ethnic cleansing must never happen again ...... and this includes the Arab population of Palestine.
4
This is clearly Netanyahu's making. He is the one who injected nasty partisanship into the U.S.-Israeli relationship with his megalomaniacal confrontation with a democratic American president. He made Israel much more the weaker for it, but he doesn't seem to care as long as his personal political needs are satisfied.
However, Bernie seems to have gone too far on this issue as well. I am not willing, yet, to punish Israel for Netanyahu's recklessness.
It's up to Hillary now. She must show political courage to tell Netanyahu to grow up! But if she fails to do that, and instead proceeded to reward his megalomania, then it would be really difficult for a lot of democrats to differentiate between arrogant Netanyahu and the whole state of Israel!
However, Bernie seems to have gone too far on this issue as well. I am not willing, yet, to punish Israel for Netanyahu's recklessness.
It's up to Hillary now. She must show political courage to tell Netanyahu to grow up! But if she fails to do that, and instead proceeded to reward his megalomania, then it would be really difficult for a lot of democrats to differentiate between arrogant Netanyahu and the whole state of Israel!
14
Bernie isn't Bernie anymore. He's turned into Trump. His once seemingly noble position has become nasty, and he's blackmailing the democrats the same as Trump blackmailed the republicans. What's his slogan now, Let Bernie Be Trump? I'm going with Hillary, because she's a thinking adult and not an angry little child or an arrogant con kid. There may be alot wrong with Hillary, but look at what she's handling now ... do you think she couldn't handle Putin better than Trump with the ego and arrogance of Putin himself, or Bernie with the great ideas, many of which cannot be implemented. As senator, what'd he do toward accomplishing these goals?
26
I'm going with Hillary, because she's a thinking adult and not an angry little child or an arrogant con kid.
==================
She's a thinking adult who somehow made a $100 million fortune giving "speeches" to companies that she regulated. She's a thinking adult that runs a "foundation" that money-launders contributions from foreign governments she negotiated with as Sec of State.
==================
She's a thinking adult who somehow made a $100 million fortune giving "speeches" to companies that she regulated. She's a thinking adult that runs a "foundation" that money-launders contributions from foreign governments she negotiated with as Sec of State.
5
There are still some sectors of stability left in the Middle East. We shouldn't change our Middle East policy until those sectors of stability are destroyed. Or maybe we can transfer the Palestinian population to ISIS controlled areas? What we need is more of the same.
-Absurd Hillary
-Absurd Hillary
4
“I have always and will always be 100 percent supportive of Israel’s right to exist and live in peace and security,” Mr. Sanders wrote in a statement. “I also believe that lasting peace in the region will not occur without fair and respectful treatment of the Palestinian people. I believe that most Democrats agree with that position and that a strong consensus will be achieved at the Democratic National Convention.”
Bernie says everything that needs to be said. I would prefer going further as Dr West has done. Israel continues to receive aid and support with no strings attached at a cost of billions to the taxpayer. I think they can defend themselves at this point.
For a real look at this policy see:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/chase-madar/israel-military-aid_b_4759159....
From this article:
"Arming and bankrolling a wealthy nation acting in this way may, on its face, seem like terrible policy. Yet American aid has been flowing to Israel in ever greater quantities. Over the past 60 years, in fact, Israel has absorbed close to a quarter-trillion dollars in such aid. Last year alone, Washington sent some $3.1 billion in military aid, supplemented by allocations for collaborative military research and joint training exercises."
Bernie says everything that needs to be said. I would prefer going further as Dr West has done. Israel continues to receive aid and support with no strings attached at a cost of billions to the taxpayer. I think they can defend themselves at this point.
For a real look at this policy see:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/chase-madar/israel-military-aid_b_4759159....
From this article:
"Arming and bankrolling a wealthy nation acting in this way may, on its face, seem like terrible policy. Yet American aid has been flowing to Israel in ever greater quantities. Over the past 60 years, in fact, Israel has absorbed close to a quarter-trillion dollars in such aid. Last year alone, Washington sent some $3.1 billion in military aid, supplemented by allocations for collaborative military research and joint training exercises."
26
While the vast majority of American aid to Israel is spent in America, what happens to the aid money that is sent to the Palestinian Authority and Hamas? Where does it go? What does it get used for?
As can be seen here, tens of millions of dollars go to paying salaries to those Arabs who have killed Jews. The more they have killed, the higher their salary is.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/nov/11/british-american-ai...
It is all wonderful to talk about the dignity of the Palestinian Arab people, but we also need to hold them accountable to the agreements that they have already signed as well as to the manner in which they are working towards (or against) peace.
While Yasir Arafat officially recognized Israel's right to exist, he was found making public statements affirming for Arab audiences that any treaty was just a phase or step towards the goal of creating a single Arab state. Mahmoud Abbas also says that he recognizes Israel's right to exist, but his Fatah party members continue to speak of their goal of a single Arab state. More importantly, every child in the Palestinian Arab school system is taught that the entire region is a single Arab state, and that martyrdom and violence against the Jews is admirable.
Arabs want to be able to go into Israel for jobs, healthcare and family, but will not give up violence. If there were no suicide bombers or attackers, there would be no checkpoints. It is that simple.
As can be seen here, tens of millions of dollars go to paying salaries to those Arabs who have killed Jews. The more they have killed, the higher their salary is.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/nov/11/british-american-ai...
It is all wonderful to talk about the dignity of the Palestinian Arab people, but we also need to hold them accountable to the agreements that they have already signed as well as to the manner in which they are working towards (or against) peace.
While Yasir Arafat officially recognized Israel's right to exist, he was found making public statements affirming for Arab audiences that any treaty was just a phase or step towards the goal of creating a single Arab state. Mahmoud Abbas also says that he recognizes Israel's right to exist, but his Fatah party members continue to speak of their goal of a single Arab state. More importantly, every child in the Palestinian Arab school system is taught that the entire region is a single Arab state, and that martyrdom and violence against the Jews is admirable.
Arabs want to be able to go into Israel for jobs, healthcare and family, but will not give up violence. If there were no suicide bombers or attackers, there would be no checkpoints. It is that simple.
7
Israel has not been realistic in taking for granted its influence in the United States. Its relation with the USA has been growing increasingly abnormal in recent years. The tendency to accuse any critic of Israeli policy as anti-Semitic and to even call American Jews and Israeli Jews "self-loathing" can not last. Palestinians are human beings and there are Ann Franks among the Palestinians.
Israel has lost its way. It is a nation under siege since its beginnings. The pathology is understandable but it is pathology nevertheless. Israel can not continue to nourish a fascistic nationalism and apartheid and expect the world to support it.
What is happening in the Democratic Party is just a sign that the wise should study and learn from. Israel must stand for democratic ideals and the values of the Western Enlightenment if its people are to flourish in security. Palestinians are human beings as are Israelis. Children are children and they must be loved. "I have put before you life and death, chose life that your children may live." Please, Israel, live up to the ideals of your founders. -Rudy
Israel has lost its way. It is a nation under siege since its beginnings. The pathology is understandable but it is pathology nevertheless. Israel can not continue to nourish a fascistic nationalism and apartheid and expect the world to support it.
What is happening in the Democratic Party is just a sign that the wise should study and learn from. Israel must stand for democratic ideals and the values of the Western Enlightenment if its people are to flourish in security. Palestinians are human beings as are Israelis. Children are children and they must be loved. "I have put before you life and death, chose life that your children may live." Please, Israel, live up to the ideals of your founders. -Rudy
25
Intresting. Do you know what the Arabs on the other side of Israel teach their "children"? Do you know to what use Hamas puts their children in Gaza?
Please, Google or Youtube that and the come back.
Please, Google or Youtube that and the come back.
5
We all know the hatred that is taught "on the other side of Israel." That does not change anything I wrote above regarding the abnormal relationship that has developed between Israel and the USA. There is no shortage of knowledge on that score. It is overwhelmingly part of our news here.
That pathology can also be understood. That pathology feeds on the other pathology. And people literally die. Dreams die.
We must never be cynical...if we do evil is nourished. We must believe in ourselves, love our children (and all children are our children).
Fascism and fanatical religious and national narcissism leading to apartheid is not the answer. Yes, I know and the world knows the evil on the "other side." And I also know "I am human and what is human is not alien to me. I am Jew, I am Arab. Our family is Mankind. Go Google it. -Rudy
That pathology can also be understood. That pathology feeds on the other pathology. And people literally die. Dreams die.
We must never be cynical...if we do evil is nourished. We must believe in ourselves, love our children (and all children are our children).
Fascism and fanatical religious and national narcissism leading to apartheid is not the answer. Yes, I know and the world knows the evil on the "other side." And I also know "I am human and what is human is not alien to me. I am Jew, I am Arab. Our family is Mankind. Go Google it. -Rudy
1
Yes, the Israeli right wing has blood on its hands, but how can you reasonably expect Israel to lower its weapons in the face of the visceral hatred it meets from the other side? Not until a true Palestinian leader develops who can lead his or her people toward non-violent protests will Israel be shamed into changing its policies.
9
I recommend that you read the statements by Israelis that also show visceral hatred. If you go by the voices on side, you should also read and listen to the voices on the other side. If you do not you reveal your conclusion before you mention it.
Israel doesn't have to lower their weapons, but the USA doesn't have to bankroll those weapons either. Such an expensive military relationship with Israel does almost nothing good for the USA. It pretty much sullies our reputation with the rest of the world, and, I'm sorry to report to you, that matters a great deal.
2
"Cornel West and James Zogby, on Wednesday denounced Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza"
If this is not an error by the NYT, these two clowns don't even have their facts correct. Israel hasn't occupied Gaza since 2005. Rediculous
If this is not an error by the NYT, these two clowns don't even have their facts correct. Israel hasn't occupied Gaza since 2005. Rediculous
38
Actually, technically Israel is still the occupying power in Gaza because it controls it completely, including electricity and almost all supplies. It prohibits shipments to Gaza, etc.
5
Israrli troops may only enter Gaza episodically, but Israel's control over its airspace, waters, electricity, and access to the rest of the world coupled with its periodic punitive massacres of hundreds of civilians means it remains under Israeli occupation in the eyes of the world. West and Zogby's use of the term is correct.
3
Worse. Gaza was egyptian same as that Samaria and Judea was jordanian before their respective "occupation" till 1967 when the term Palestine did not apply to a race or religious persuation, but.... shhhhhh, don't say anything to the Jew Haters, please....
2
Israel has never been of any strategic value to U.S. Nice to see younger people, especially Jews, no longer willing to rubber stamp nauseating fealty to a state run by terrorist thugs.
36
Sean,
Have you ever been to Israel? What gives you the right to say unequivocally that "Israel has never been of any strategic value to the U.S."? Why would you say that the Israelis are "terrorist thugs", when Hamas is the entity that is actively promoting terrorism?? Reality check. Know the real facts and not the myth.
Have you ever been to Israel? What gives you the right to say unequivocally that "Israel has never been of any strategic value to the U.S."? Why would you say that the Israelis are "terrorist thugs", when Hamas is the entity that is actively promoting terrorism?? Reality check. Know the real facts and not the myth.
6
@adam
You don't have to go to Israel to know that it is thoroughly capable of taking care of itself -- And it is also able to retain its strategic importance without continued U.S. financial and military support.
Those are the real facts.
You don't have to go to Israel to know that it is thoroughly capable of taking care of itself -- And it is also able to retain its strategic importance without continued U.S. financial and military support.
Those are the real facts.
Sanders actions are distressing Instead of dealing with inequality at holme, he has chosen sides in the Israeli Palestinian confrontation on the wrong side/ What Sanders represents has been a a looming, growing threat hanging over the Democratic Party. The party has made itself into a home for Arabists and antiSemites. Sanders just put another nail in Hillary's coffin.
17
@kessler
I take great exception to your incorrect generalization about the Democratic Party becoming a home for "Arabists and anti-Semites".
This is STILL a Democracy, where Freedom of Speech is allowed --even if you personally disagree with what is being said.
I take great exception to your incorrect generalization about the Democratic Party becoming a home for "Arabists and anti-Semites".
This is STILL a Democracy, where Freedom of Speech is allowed --even if you personally disagree with what is being said.
2
People who support Israel should wake up to the fact it's apartheid like policies are causing the ground underneath it to shift digging itself deeper into a hole. Democracy? The people living with land confiscation, home destruction, walls, checkpoints, skewed justice and indiscriminate mass punishment don't appreciate it's "democratic values". Where do the Israeli people think they are headed? A single state with a subjugated minority. Nice democracy.
33
your comments are nonsense..........Arabs serve in every branch of government.....hold positions in education and in medicine etc...attend all the universities and are as integrated into society as in any democracy including our own.
9
The level of wht you don't know about what you don' know is so staggering that my advice to you is: go visit Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Iraq. Then come back and let's talk. If you were to mantain your skewed ignorance, then you will not be able to read my response. NYT will censor it.
6
@hekter
You do realize that visiting Gaza, Syria, and Iraq is easier said than done these days, don't you???
You do realize that visiting Gaza, Syria, and Iraq is easier said than done these days, don't you???
The Hamas Charter basically says that it's the duty of Muslims to kill all the jews. "The Prophet, Allah bless him and grant him salvation, has said: 'The Day of Judgement will not come about until Moslems fight the Jews (killing the Jews), when the Jew will hide behind stones and trees. The stones and trees will say O Moslems, O Abdulla, there is a Jew behind me, come and kill him. Only the Gharkad tree, (evidently a certain kind of tree) would not do that because it is one of the trees of the Jews.' (related by al-Bukhari and Moslem)." (Hamas Charter, Article 7.)
Israel is, if anything, far too lenient in treating those that actively seek to kill its people.
Israel is, if anything, far too lenient in treating those that actively seek to kill its people.
29
Ever read the Likud Charter? It states that there will never be a Palestinian state, while Israel's abominable Knesset is openly exterminationist. These psychpaths are bristling with hundreds of TOTALLY ILLEGAL nuclear weapons.
Israel has no case. None.
Israel has no case. None.
6
Doug: you have made a very salient point. However, can history substantially move forward without real dialogue between the two peoples? Indeed, the Hamas charter is inexcusable and unforgivable. It is an insult to humanity. How do we obtain a two state solution then? The situation will not change on the ground until you can begin to change the mindset of the people involved. Any suggestions?
1
Oh, Bernie! Recall Zogby and West now, please!
They are reactionary and hold positions way beyond your statements on the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict.
They are presenting as single issue advocates.
This is a divisive stance that muddies the waters beyond your movement.
"hated" people through the ages? not dog whistle, but fog horn racism.
Such a complicated issue does not fit neatly on the Democratic platform.
A democracy goes through all sorts of leaders and governments like us going from a Carter to a Bush. The US has its history of wrong wars and supporting murderous authoritarian regimes yet we haven't prosecuted anyone for war crimes. We have our history of slavery and persecution. The poor Black ghettoes in the US is de facto apartheid.
The Palestinian governments have survived by keeping their people downtrodden and adversarial. How do we guarantee Israel's security and survival and at the same time support Palestinians whose credo is the destruction of Israel?
Complicated and a distraction from the issues that your movement professes.
Keep It Simple Stupid.
Don't do stupid things.
Replace Zogby and West or get them to back off their hardline pro-Palestinian demands for the Democratic platform.
Unless he has withdrawn from his Presidential campaign, these appointments by him require a loud and clear statement from Senator Bernie Sanders on what his Palestinian-Israeli position is!
They are reactionary and hold positions way beyond your statements on the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict.
They are presenting as single issue advocates.
This is a divisive stance that muddies the waters beyond your movement.
"hated" people through the ages? not dog whistle, but fog horn racism.
Such a complicated issue does not fit neatly on the Democratic platform.
A democracy goes through all sorts of leaders and governments like us going from a Carter to a Bush. The US has its history of wrong wars and supporting murderous authoritarian regimes yet we haven't prosecuted anyone for war crimes. We have our history of slavery and persecution. The poor Black ghettoes in the US is de facto apartheid.
The Palestinian governments have survived by keeping their people downtrodden and adversarial. How do we guarantee Israel's security and survival and at the same time support Palestinians whose credo is the destruction of Israel?
Complicated and a distraction from the issues that your movement professes.
Keep It Simple Stupid.
Don't do stupid things.
Replace Zogby and West or get them to back off their hardline pro-Palestinian demands for the Democratic platform.
Unless he has withdrawn from his Presidential campaign, these appointments by him require a loud and clear statement from Senator Bernie Sanders on what his Palestinian-Israeli position is!
32
To the palestinians (assuming that Hamas, Fatah and Hezbollah ever ...agree):
- Recognize Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state.
- Stop teaching children the beastie lessons you do
To the coward, opportunistic and "politically correct" others:
- Check what Radical Islam is doing, you choose where.
- Check what the other peace loving Muslims do regarding the previous point.
- Come on!... Make an effort: imagine you live in Israel facing those 2 points.
THEN, PEACE AND PROSPERITY WILL REIGN.
- Recognize Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state.
- Stop teaching children the beastie lessons you do
To the coward, opportunistic and "politically correct" others:
- Check what Radical Islam is doing, you choose where.
- Check what the other peace loving Muslims do regarding the previous point.
- Come on!... Make an effort: imagine you live in Israel facing those 2 points.
THEN, PEACE AND PROSPERITY WILL REIGN.
4
I think he has just declared what his position is on the Palestinian-Israel conflict loud and clear with these appointments. 'Nuff said.
4
American Jews are still voting for Roosevelt( not a friend to the Jews either).
The Democratic Party was never good for the Jews but they keep on voting for Roosevelt their parents and grandparents.
The Democratic Party was never good for the Jews but they keep on voting for Roosevelt their parents and grandparents.
10
Maybe what's "good for Jews" isn't good for Americans.
7
american jews arent americans ?
4
Spoken like Henry Ford, and Charles Lindbergh.
5
Cornel West's proposal is NOT that the US "order" Israel to cut a deal with the Palestinians. He's proposing simply that we Americans stop funding Israel's doing of exactly the opposite. If Israel wants to keep stomping on the Palestinians, at least we Americans shouldn't finance the stomping.
That's all he's saying, and I have no doubt that most Americans agree. Israel is a rich country. It can pay for itself, and it's time it started doing so. We can't afford to keep handing billions of dollars every year to the Israelis. We need that money here.
That's all he's saying, and I have no doubt that most Americans agree. Israel is a rich country. It can pay for itself, and it's time it started doing so. We can't afford to keep handing billions of dollars every year to the Israelis. We need that money here.
24
Nor can we afford to give any support to the muslim extremists in Palestine. Send them back to their countries of origin and destroy their tunnels into Israel.
3
Democratic politicians and Hillary in particular have been well paid by Israeli lobbyists for decades to support the "Israel can do no wrong" approach to foreign policy. In the meantime, Israel has moved far away from its original noble beginnings. Remarkably, even its military leaders have begun to worry aloud about the Nazi like aspects of the occupation.
If the Democratic Party has any desire to attract the younger generations of voters, it needs to change it's views. I am sure I am not the only person refusing to vote for Hillary because of her Zionist attitudes.
If the Democratic Party has any desire to attract the younger generations of voters, it needs to change it's views. I am sure I am not the only person refusing to vote for Hillary because of her Zionist attitudes.
19
Binary thinking has gotten us into the politcal war that we are in. You can be antiabortion and prochoice. You can be for a strong military and not a runaway military budget. You can be for less taxes but want sufficent tax receipts to pay for the common good. You can be for the human rights for the Palestinians and be a friend and supporter of Israel. The republicans have exploited binary thinking since President Reagan and the democrats, ever weak in the spine, have been complicit in the narrative.
9
It's mesmerizing watching the Democrat's slow-motion train wreck. Trump doesn't have to lift a finger while the Democrats savage each other. Who needs Willie Horton when you've got the utterly odious Cornell West in the house?
By this time next year, Melania Trump will be fitting out the White House with Louis XVI furniture and hordes of illegal Mexicans will be streaming for the southern border.
By this time next year, Melania Trump will be fitting out the White House with Louis XVI furniture and hordes of illegal Mexicans will be streaming for the southern border.
15
Mr. Netanyahu and his associates have dug themselves into a deep hole in which they have lost the support of most of the civilized world. Let Mr. West and Mr. Zogby have a chance to air the crimes of the Netanyahu extremists as they see them. We have had enough of the U.S. bowing and scraping to every whim of the Netanyahu extremists. Everyone, even Mr. Netanyahu and his followers, have to answer to humanity for the evils they have done.
27
There is an old Vulcan saying, "Only Nixon could go to China." I guess only a Jewish candidate could call for the suicide and demolition of the State of Israel. This Jew and proud Zionist has maintained that Bernie is a total lunatic. My recent ancestors were proud Communists and Stalinist supporters. Their younger descents had the basic sechel to roll their eyes and abandon such insanity. Alas, Bernie and his friends apparently missed the boat. There is no way on earth that this Jew would EVER consider voting for that idiot hippie. So please, split the Democratic-Socialist party into what it actually is. And clear the way for Mr Trump to start restoring a modicum on sanity to the United States foreign policy!
16
That's exactly the problem with discussing this issue. People are mixing Zionism with Judaism. I guess you are both a Zionist and Jew, and most Jews are not. Please do not talk about the destruction of Israel - the country is not going to be destroyed. However, I was in Palestine in November, and I can tell you the Palestinians are not leaving either. Time for some real discussions - thank you to Bernie.
4
Shellie
There IS no country named Palestine. And I'd suggest that you speak for yourself but not other Jews when you say most Jews are not Zionists.
There IS no country named Palestine. And I'd suggest that you speak for yourself but not other Jews when you say most Jews are not Zionists.
5
greenie,
you don't want to hit the revisionists with too many facts. Unfortunately to be a Jew and not believe in Israel is as close to denying reality as you can get.
you don't want to hit the revisionists with too many facts. Unfortunately to be a Jew and not believe in Israel is as close to denying reality as you can get.
3
I get the impression that some of the pro-Israel American commenters have no clue just how bad it is over there, for Palestinians.
Do you know, for example, that a Palestinian who's lived in the West Bank all his life can (and probably will) get arrested for driving on an Israeli-only road built in the West Bank? Even if that road was (as it will have been) paid for with taxes on Israeli citizens that may well include his relatives living in Israel proper?
Do you know that US taxpayer dollars are being used, by the billions, to help Israel to keep doing this?
Do you know that Israeli bulldozers often flatten Palestinian villages to make room for new Israeli settlements -- on at least one occasion crushing and killing a young American woman who objected to that?
I get the impression that many Americans don't know any of this. If they did, I doubt they'd continue to think we should send US taxpayer money to Israel rather than use it here.
Do you know, for example, that a Palestinian who's lived in the West Bank all his life can (and probably will) get arrested for driving on an Israeli-only road built in the West Bank? Even if that road was (as it will have been) paid for with taxes on Israeli citizens that may well include his relatives living in Israel proper?
Do you know that US taxpayer dollars are being used, by the billions, to help Israel to keep doing this?
Do you know that Israeli bulldozers often flatten Palestinian villages to make room for new Israeli settlements -- on at least one occasion crushing and killing a young American woman who objected to that?
I get the impression that many Americans don't know any of this. If they did, I doubt they'd continue to think we should send US taxpayer money to Israel rather than use it here.
39
Do you know that Arabs live more freely in Israel then in any Arab state? My impression is that you are not educated on this entire subject.
4
I was in the West Bank in November (Ramallah, Nablus, and Jenin). You are right, people don't know and people don't want to know about the wall, Israeli prisons where Palestinians are held without charge, etc.
I was beyond hoping that things could really change, but maybe Bernie is inching toward the start of a dialogue to help the wonderful Palestinians I met.
I was beyond hoping that things could really change, but maybe Bernie is inching toward the start of a dialogue to help the wonderful Palestinians I met.
6
Rachel Corrie. God bless that poor, well intentioned girl and her innocent spirit.
The US media didn't even cover her death. The injustice and cover up pains me to this day... and I don't even know her personally.
It's time for a balanced, honest, and open debate on our Israel policy.
The US media didn't even cover her death. The injustice and cover up pains me to this day... and I don't even know her personally.
It's time for a balanced, honest, and open debate on our Israel policy.
2
The far right in this country, Ted Cruz- et al, is convinced without a secure Israel, the impending biblical apocalypse will never manifest and the final day of judgment will never come. And that's completely fine by me. This tiny nation state is costing the U.S. taxpayer billions of dollars in foreign aid [mainly in weapons deals]. The GOP with their radical religious convictions somehow manage to keep shelling out the free money while our infrastructure at home continues to deteriorate. Somebody needs to tell these fire and brimstone politicians that the apocalypse is already happening here with our falling bridges, aging damns, decimated roadways and rail systems.
29
At last - voices of sanity on our economy, casino capitalism, and destructive one sided blind support for right wing extremist governments in Israel. Yes, the king has no clothes - say it loud and in public. This is a democracy and the people are speaking.
30
Bernie-
You just lost my vote.
You just lost my vote.
30
Which vote are you talking about...are you still in a primary state?
Cornell West is a clown.
Zogby is an obsessive Israel hater.
Why are these people advising anyone?
Zogby is an obsessive Israel hater.
Why are these people advising anyone?
34
Who says they're "advising anyone"?
"They said they would try to get their views incorporated into the platform, the party’s statement of core beliefs, at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia in July."
Translation: Anyone who votes for Hillary Clinton is signing on to the "party's statement of core beliefs". Anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian.
"They said they would try to get their views incorporated into the platform, the party’s statement of core beliefs, at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia in July."
Translation: Anyone who votes for Hillary Clinton is signing on to the "party's statement of core beliefs". Anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian.
3
I guess I never understood why the other Arab states don't just absorb the Palestinians.
I am not attached to the street under my feet. I live in the Financial District. If you relocated me to the West Village, I wouldn't be up in arms about it. Israel is so very tiny and the Middle East is so very large.
I am not attached to the street under my feet. I live in the Financial District. If you relocated me to the West Village, I wouldn't be up in arms about it. Israel is so very tiny and the Middle East is so very large.
23
they ll hate each other
Avery - you have hit the nail on the head. A very brief history: In the late 40's the UN partitioned the land currently "under dispute" so that the Palestinians and Jews would have their own countries. A gang of neighborhood Arab countries declared that they didn't want any Jews living in their midst and attacked the tiny Jewish state (and it is tiny - see New Jersey.) They lost. They tried a couple times again over the next decades. In 1967 they lost big time and Israel took back East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, and the Golan Hts. The Arab nations have been forcing the Palestinians through their proxies to continue to hold onto their dream of wiping Israel off the map. Looks like Bernie Sanders, with the help of Cornel West, Zogby and others, are trying to do what the Arab nations could not due alone.
2
The Palestinians love the land that their fathers and forefathers lived on. I was there in November - it is a beautiful haunting land - and I would never want to leave it either. It is their heritage and their homeland. As an example, we saw olive trees that are hundreds of years old, and that families have been tending for generations. I can tell you, you can bank on it, the Palestinians are never leaving that land.
And why did Jews get sent from Europe to the MIddle East? I don't understand why they weren't given land in Germany (a big section) since the Germans murdered millions of them. I don't buy that God gave them that land - anymore than God gave land to others in this world.
And why did Jews get sent from Europe to the MIddle East? I don't understand why they weren't given land in Germany (a big section) since the Germans murdered millions of them. I don't buy that God gave them that land - anymore than God gave land to others in this world.
Sanders's cohorts and vile, and I regard Cornel West's fig leaf regarding the suffering of the Jews over millenia, to be nothing more than a sop to those who may choose to support Sanders. As for me I regret having sent contributions to the Sanders campaign, and his bumper sticker will be removed from my car forthwith.
19
Me, too. We have to hope Hillary wins the nomination. Neither of the other two candidates is minimally acceptable any longer. Trump has his David Duke, Sanders his Cornel West.
4
I recently heard Prof. Norman Finkelstein give a lecture on why Jews cannot and should not use the Holocaust to justify the horrible things they do to Palestinians. He said it is a false equivalency. I never understood why the Jewish people weren't given land in Germany (the country that killed millions of Jews) instead of going to land that people who did nothing to them were living on. And no, God didn't give Jews that land anymore than he gave land to any other group in the world. Enough.
1
Shellie
God did indeed give the land of Israel to the Jews; do you wish to rewrite the Bible and history now too? Sorry if you don't like it. And the Jews were there first, way before the so-called "Palestinians" who are mainly Jordanians anyway.
God did indeed give the land of Israel to the Jews; do you wish to rewrite the Bible and history now too? Sorry if you don't like it. And the Jews were there first, way before the so-called "Palestinians" who are mainly Jordanians anyway.
3
Just a question for NYT, doesn't someone who is appointed to the Democratic Platform committee and other symbolically important position in the Democratic Party has to be a registered Democrat? Are the people appointed by Bernie Sanders registered Democrats for at least a year? Or are they like Bernie? They only became Democrats when it is convenient and advantageous for them?
10
Cordell West is correct. We must hold Israel to at least the same standard as we do other countries, and ourselves as well. We are giving Israel way too much latitude, even a pass.
26
How is that true.
What standards do you referr to.
Are you referring to the standard of treating people with respect and dignity.
Have you been to Jerusalem.
You will see that Moslems have the same rights as Jews.
Go to Syria.
Jews are not even allowed there.
So tell me which standards are you referring to.
The kind the Jews have or the kind the Moslems have.
What standards do you referr to.
Are you referring to the standard of treating people with respect and dignity.
Have you been to Jerusalem.
You will see that Moslems have the same rights as Jews.
Go to Syria.
Jews are not even allowed there.
So tell me which standards are you referring to.
The kind the Jews have or the kind the Moslems have.
9
Let's include the palestinian leaders in that statement also.
2
Yes, I agree with you, but civil behavior has to start somewhere, and Israel thinks it's God's promised land, so I think they should go first. It's not a competition to see who can behave worse.
Unfortunate move by Bernie. While Cornel West speaks about fair treatment of Jews, he yells and screams about treatment of Palestinians. Just yesterday, Mahmoud Abbas said to erase Israel. I'm very disappointed in this - Cornel West is indeed brilliant, but he is far from unbiased.
14
Me West needs to concentrate his brain on the murder of hundreds of Black youth each year. Set his priorities in order.
4
I'm Jewish and agree mostly with the democratic platform of Israel. I believe that there should be a fair and just solution to the Palestinians. However what most people on the left don't seem to understand is that Israel cannot return to the 1967 borders. It would leave the country 6 miles wide at one point and is completely indefensible if Israel is under attack. This is a matter of self-preservation. Certainly Netanyahu has been terrible at advancing peace, but a solution needs to be sorted out whereby Israel's security isn't undermined. Lest we forget that this is a western democracy, technologically advanced country. The Jews have been viciously persecuted throughout history and it is our obligation to find a solution without jeopardizing their security.
13
I'm jewish. I feel the same way. I consider myself a democrat, and I am an atheist, but the Jewish blood in my veins courses more calmly knowing that Jews have a standing army and a nation. It will take 1000 years to remove the Holocaust from the memory of the world's Jews. Never before and never since has such a rapid, mechanized extermination of a people been carried out.
What most commenters seem not to consider that on the timeline of Jewish history, the Holocaust happened yesterday.
What most commenters seem not to consider that on the timeline of Jewish history, the Holocaust happened yesterday.
6
The Palestinians didn't have anything to do with the Holocaust, so why should they be pushed from the land they have been living on for generations??? I don't believe God gave Jews that land anymore than he gave land to anyone else in this world. When the Europeans wanted to find a place for the Jews, they sent them to Palestine and then the Palestinians got displaced. I would think as Jews you wouldn't want to do to anyone else what was done to you. I've never understood that.
1
It's truly sad that the fate of Israel should be such an important issue in an American election.
6
The problem with the people Bernie has appointed to the platform drafting committee is they are extremists. BDS bullies want to treat Israel the way the Tea Party bullies wanted to treat Iran (sanctions, aggression, justification of violent overthrow, etc.) and such antagonistic harshness is immoral and ineffective.
We can see quite plainly that in the UK and in Europe, that anti-Zionism is a cover for antisemitism and for fascism and empowers isolationists and Islamists in those countries overseas.
If we want progress we need to smash antisemitism, reject Boycott Divestment Sanctions, and embrace a 2 state solution.
We will need to root out the right wing religious extremism from Israeli politics, and we'll need to clean up the corruption and antisemitism from the Palestinian authority, but in so doing, achieving a 2 state solution is going to be the most equitable source of peace and progress for the two peoples, and I hope that the party platform drafters embrace the third way on Israel. Say NO to anti-zionism and antisemitism, say no to right wing Islamist politics, and say YES to left-wing liberal Zionism. Because a state for both sides is the only way to guarantee justice and security for both people.
Instead of rejecting Israel in its entirety, the Left in America should support the Zionist Union party, and with it a leftist liberal coalition, and support the efforts to unseat Netanyahu and replace him with a Prime Minister who REALLY wants peace.
We can see quite plainly that in the UK and in Europe, that anti-Zionism is a cover for antisemitism and for fascism and empowers isolationists and Islamists in those countries overseas.
If we want progress we need to smash antisemitism, reject Boycott Divestment Sanctions, and embrace a 2 state solution.
We will need to root out the right wing religious extremism from Israeli politics, and we'll need to clean up the corruption and antisemitism from the Palestinian authority, but in so doing, achieving a 2 state solution is going to be the most equitable source of peace and progress for the two peoples, and I hope that the party platform drafters embrace the third way on Israel. Say NO to anti-zionism and antisemitism, say no to right wing Islamist politics, and say YES to left-wing liberal Zionism. Because a state for both sides is the only way to guarantee justice and security for both people.
Instead of rejecting Israel in its entirety, the Left in America should support the Zionist Union party, and with it a leftist liberal coalition, and support the efforts to unseat Netanyahu and replace him with a Prime Minister who REALLY wants peace.
14
Arabs are the victims of their own vicious, bloodthirsty, uncompromising mentality. The Palestinian leaders don't want a country of their own - they want to rob the Jews of their country. The Palestinian refugee camps problem was created by the Arab states, Israel merely inherited it. In 1948 the Jewish refugees were given full citizenship by Israel, but Arab refugees were put in camps by Arab countries. And it's not Israel who holds the biggest slice of land that was offered to the Palestinian Arabs in 1948 - it's Jordan. They annexed the biggest chunk of Palestinian territory to themselves, killing 10,000 Palestinians in a single weekend and expelling the rest, but you don't see anyone asking the Jordanians to give it back.
Because it's not about the land for Palestinians, and it never was. But Comrade Sanders and his left wing cohort aren't going to acknowledge it. They will gladly befriend any terrorist or bloody dictator as long as he comes from a proper "oppressed" and preferably non-White and non-Jewish background.
Because it's not about the land for Palestinians, and it never was. But Comrade Sanders and his left wing cohort aren't going to acknowledge it. They will gladly befriend any terrorist or bloody dictator as long as he comes from a proper "oppressed" and preferably non-White and non-Jewish background.
20
Now BS is considering a debate with DT? Probably on fox so-called news or CNN. The press is salivating over this one. They don't care that both egotistical, selfish, greedy men care nothing about strengthening America's democracy for 99% of us.
8
Please, Trump, name Sanders as your running mate.
2
How could Sanders run with Trump when they don't have the same ideas or platform? Has Sanders suddenly decided to build the wall and over turn same sex marriage? Anybody who thinks that Supporting Trump is the same as supporting Sanders is going by personality. It's called cult of personality voting.
Lets accept it, democrats are the weirdest bunch of politicians driven by their own goals more than the party's.
Remember in 2008/2009.. how many budgets were passed and how obamacare finally passed and why they did not do any "gun control" then !
They do not care about us the 99% .,. So Sanders is winning our hearts and votes.. of the 99%.. These dems may shame us into now loosing the White House .. I am just scared of that day.
Remember in 2008/2009.. how many budgets were passed and how obamacare finally passed and why they did not do any "gun control" then !
They do not care about us the 99% .,. So Sanders is winning our hearts and votes.. of the 99%.. These dems may shame us into now loosing the White House .. I am just scared of that day.
3
Within that 99% are the 51% of us who pay taxes to keep the 1% and the 48% who pay no taxes afloat. While some of Bernie's ideas might look good on paper the taxes on the middle class tax payer will go up to pay for his programs I am sick and tired of seeing my taxes go up
1
You'll be happy to have back the money we give to Israel then. I'd like to get back our money from the Saudis and Pakistanis too.
1
It's perfectly reasonable for democrats to disagree strongly on the issue of Israel, on many other issues as well. But differences over a foreign state do not supercede issues that define America, and this election must be about America, not some distant minor nation.
4
Oh, the law of slow learning and fast forgetting. In the late 90's the then leader of the PLO Yasser Arafat and Ehud Barak had a deal for Palestinian statehood, that Arafat walked away from. The reason that Arafat walked away from that deal was because once signed there could no longer be a grievance towards Israel therefore removing them from victim status therefore no more need for Arafat. It was simply about Arafat retaining power.
There were elections after Israel removed itself from Gaza and the people of Gaza elected Hamas and continue to suffer under Hamas, meanwhile though not perfect those living in the West Bank have far better lives than those in Gaza. There are even business partnerships between Jews and Palestinians in the West Bank.
If you continue to believe that Israel is the problem then you're either naive or an idiot.
There were elections after Israel removed itself from Gaza and the people of Gaza elected Hamas and continue to suffer under Hamas, meanwhile though not perfect those living in the West Bank have far better lives than those in Gaza. There are even business partnerships between Jews and Palestinians in the West Bank.
If you continue to believe that Israel is the problem then you're either naive or an idiot.
22
Berfnie Sanders should be ashamed of himself appointing people like Cornel West and Zogby. With Trump as the Republican nominee for our president, we should not be so quick to rave against Netanyahu. We don't live in Israel. We don't have to live with rockets and tunnels that scare us and our children. We as a nation are always very superior when judging other countries. Think for a moment how we have always mistreated our native Americans. Do we have the right to tell others how to live?
13
We have a right not to support them, arm them and pay their way
4
Yes, we have the right to tell Iran it is a human rights violator. Yes, we have the right to say ISIS is a barbaric organization.
Yes, we have the right to say Israel's subjugation of the Palestinians is wrong.
Yes, we have the right to say Israel's subjugation of the Palestinians is wrong.
7
Then you also have a right to say Palestinian murder and constant terrorizing of Jews is wrong too right?
3
"Perhaps, and only perhaps, a Democratic President and consistent friend of Israel, H.R. Clinton, can generate some change in Tel Aviv."
Why in the world do you even imagine that Hillary would "generate some change in Tel Aviv?" She's never done anything but cave in to whatever Israel has demanded. It's absurd to think she'd ever change.
Why in the world do you even imagine that Hillary would "generate some change in Tel Aviv?" She's never done anything but cave in to whatever Israel has demanded. It's absurd to think she'd ever change.
18
Israel may not be perfect (neither is the US with Clinton or Trump the next POTUS), but lets be honest here. Israel is always held to a higher standard than its neighbors. Syria has killed 100,000 of its own people and the Mr West's of the world don't seen to be troubled that.
18
Brother West works for far greater objectives than human lives.
3
What's any of that got to do with the issue of whether its in our interest to fork over $3 billion a year in armaments to Israel?
6
If not now, when? If not Bernie, who?
17
Now and a DEMOCRAT, not a nonDemocrat. It's clear that Bernie was funded to undermine the Democrats, not to help in any way. We've never trusted him or believed the hype about him, he's a Trojan horse pushed into the Democrats by Karl Rove, and its yet another way the GOP continues to work to destroy this country.
5
I'm a nice guy but not the brightest fellow on the elevator but even I can see unfairness of the treatment of Palestinians by the outside group given Palestinian land by 3rd parties after WWII. I see the one-lopsidedness support of Israel by the U.S., who until Obama loved Israel right or wrong. I see the death score sheet proving that 1 Israeli is killed & 20 Palestinians die in retaliation.
I don't have a dog in this hunt, having Jewish friends but having never met a Palestinian as far as I know. But for all my 60 years the war in Israel has been going on....longer than I've lived. I like to see that stop for the sake off the innocent people on both sides. I live in a small city where 29 languages are spoken in our public schools. I'm white & my neighbors as far as I can see are other colors, other cultures, other religions but we live in peace. Why can't this be so in Israel & the Gaza Strip? Why wait 200 more years for a solution.
A 2 state solution will never work, might work better but will never work. It will just provide another line in the sand for terrorists of both side to launch missiles over. There is ZERO reasons these 2 peoples can't live together like I can with the apartments to my left, filled with Hispanic families or the household of Asian living to the right of my house.
The problems of the 21st century are the same as the 20th. Adults aren't really adults yet. Greed & Hate are rampant. My Democrats have Super Delegates. The GOP has worse.
I don't have a dog in this hunt, having Jewish friends but having never met a Palestinian as far as I know. But for all my 60 years the war in Israel has been going on....longer than I've lived. I like to see that stop for the sake off the innocent people on both sides. I live in a small city where 29 languages are spoken in our public schools. I'm white & my neighbors as far as I can see are other colors, other cultures, other religions but we live in peace. Why can't this be so in Israel & the Gaza Strip? Why wait 200 more years for a solution.
A 2 state solution will never work, might work better but will never work. It will just provide another line in the sand for terrorists of both side to launch missiles over. There is ZERO reasons these 2 peoples can't live together like I can with the apartments to my left, filled with Hispanic families or the household of Asian living to the right of my house.
The problems of the 21st century are the same as the 20th. Adults aren't really adults yet. Greed & Hate are rampant. My Democrats have Super Delegates. The GOP has worse.
15
A "hot zone" with multiple nations, peoples, religions, needs and ambitions requires a careful approach to mobilize and stir to a better place. It's not only Israel or Palestine, but the others around (Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Egypt,...). Long-term and sustainable peace in the region, and justice for the saga of the Palestinians, requires hard, true diplomacy, dealing with social, political and economic ramifications, and tons of patience and finessing, so that you can end-up in some state of affairs that works and is perdurable. Neither Sanders, nor West, seem to have the qualities to make the above happen.
4
Nominees have never been constrained by party platforms -- they may pick a few things to champion but they mostly ignore platforms. In 1996, the Republican nominee Bob Dole openly said he hadn't even read the GOP platform. The ultimate impact of a party platform, then, is practically nil. I hope the Democrats understand voters want them to talk about the economy and rebuilding America's middle-class. Now is the time for the party to reclaim working- and middle-class voters by focusing on the inequality that's depriving families of opportunity, not by arguing over Israel.
7
Nope, we need a big debate about Israel.
4
Do the math. When the U.S. budget takes into consideration the support of other countries rather than its own, it has an effect on the economy.
3
Amidst this so-called anti-establishment revolution, Trump supporters have revealed themselves to be not so much patriotic as they are driven by their own self-interests. They were the driving force behind the war in Iraq and they claim to be the only true Americans who "support the troops." Now, Trump says Bush lied about the war and they say nothing! As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict lies at the heart of the trouble in the Mid-East and as 40% of liberals sympathize more with the Palestinians, as compared to 33% who favor Israel, I think there is no better time to discuss the issue. In case you haven't noticed, the situation in Iraq and Syria has grown especially alarming and I don't think there is going to be a way out and certainly not an easy way out.
Notice the absurd assumption in this statement:
"Those of you who don't support Israel and want either less funds or less political support..."
If we opposed sending US money to Germany, would that mean we don't support Germany? Or would it mean simply that we think Germany can pay for itself?
Israel is not some poor third-world country. It's one of the richest countries in the world. It should pay for itself, just like other rich countries do. We shouldn't be sending US money to Israel, period.
"Those of you who don't support Israel and want either less funds or less political support..."
If we opposed sending US money to Germany, would that mean we don't support Germany? Or would it mean simply that we think Germany can pay for itself?
Israel is not some poor third-world country. It's one of the richest countries in the world. It should pay for itself, just like other rich countries do. We shouldn't be sending US money to Israel, period.
36
80 to 90 percent of what we send to Israel is spent in the USA. Consider all the aviation, military equipment, and defense analysis infrastructure in the United States that Israel supports. If Germany were surrounded by countries pledged to boycott and destroy it, we would send them out monetary support.
4
We send them some money, but mostly we send them weapons or, to be precise, US funds emanate from ether, flow through Israel, emerge in the coffers of the arms industry, and are ultimately transformed into weaponry for the IDF and campaign bucks for American pols...
5
I'm not arguing the politics either way here but want to point out that most of our "aid" to Israel - which is huge - is in the form of military grants that stipulate that the money has to be spent on US made defense material and technology. So in effect, it helps Israel defend itself but is also a huge subsidy to the military industrial complex. I'm not sure how much pure aid we give to Israel for other needs. Certainly they don't need that kind of aid.
3
Does any one believe that in all of Islam their one person that believes Israel has the right to exist? That should give anyone pause.
11
Nearly 30% of Israeli citizens are Arab Muslims, some are Christian, yet we're told Israel must be called the "Jewish state". Why can't Israel be a non-theocratic state with a constitution that grants majority rule and minority civil rights protections?
African-Americans represent only 14% of the population of the United States. Calling themselves the Jewish state is akin to calling the United States the "White State"?
How would Jews feel if the United States decided to call itself the "Christian State"? The double standards and hypocrisy is so obvious, it hardly bears worth mentioning. You're either a liberal, pluralistic state, or you're not. Israel isn't. The media often focuses exclusively on the "occupation" of the West Bank or the blockade of Gaza without even mentioning the rights of the indigenous Muslims that live inside Israel proper.
If the Israelis stop the two state solution, all that will be left is a one state solution with equal rights for all, as perhaps it should be. Israel had many chances to right this wrong.
African-Americans represent only 14% of the population of the United States. Calling themselves the Jewish state is akin to calling the United States the "White State"?
How would Jews feel if the United States decided to call itself the "Christian State"? The double standards and hypocrisy is so obvious, it hardly bears worth mentioning. You're either a liberal, pluralistic state, or you're not. Israel isn't. The media often focuses exclusively on the "occupation" of the West Bank or the blockade of Gaza without even mentioning the rights of the indigenous Muslims that live inside Israel proper.
If the Israelis stop the two state solution, all that will be left is a one state solution with equal rights for all, as perhaps it should be. Israel had many chances to right this wrong.
11
Many so-called supporters of Israel would LOVE to make Christianity our state religion, and they are the same ones who think Bibi is doing everything right, including continue to deny the two-state solution, and continuing to steal other peoples' land. They are the no-rules bunch, who always says it's a "free country" except for the poor, the different, and the vulnerable.
2
This notion that Israel was only responding to Hamas rocket attacks is very deceiving. Israel had already killed scores of innocent Palestinians along with Hamas officials in the weeks leading up Hamas firing rockets in 2014. The NYT continues to peddle the meme that Israel is only responding to Palestinian violence, when Israel never stops its violence against Palestine. And do explain how Palestinian "terrorists" kill such a lower percentage of civilians than does Israel
16
What Sanders seems to be incapable of understanding is that throwing this Molotov cocktail during the election may remind him of the good old days of '68, but it does nothing to advance either his personal struggle for the nomination or the Democratic struggle to win the election. Is it deliberate or is he just naive? Or has he lost control of his own message? What ever the case it raises doubts about his true desire to lead more than a Bernie movement.
11
Maybe he cares about justice for Palestine and can see was well as anyone honest that for this cause, Clinton would be as bad as or worse than Trump. Should we all just shut up and accept injustice of various forms because we are scared of a Trump presidency? He has some leverage and he is using it for good. The election is not the be-all and end-all.
7
Deliberate or naive? I think they call it HONESTY, so please don't insist on calling it a Molatov cocktail. A little more honesty would suit me very well, thanks.
3
Nothing else has worked - sticking with the establishment is more of the same. If regime change is good for other countries, maybe it is needed here.
1
I fully support the Democrats evaluating their support for the Israeli government. I have been appalled (for years) that my hard earned tax dollars support apartheid. That said, Cornell West is a fool and Bernie Sanders has not only now alienated millions of Black Americans (the majority of whom do not like him), but he is now also risking alienating the Jewish vote. Trump cannot win this election and it appears to me that Sanders is doing everything in his power to make sure that happens.
11
I can't (and won't) say that Black Americans don't "like" Sanders -- who can actually speak for other people, anyway?? ... Besides that, this whole "likability" factor has become so over-rated, because it has little, or nothing to do with a person's ability to get the job done.
That said, the real problem for Sanders is that he has had very limited visibility within the Black community, aside from courting their votes.
Hence the "alienation". Period.
That said, the real problem for Sanders is that he has had very limited visibility within the Black community, aside from courting their votes.
Hence the "alienation". Period.
Bernie Sanders is a zombie Ralph Nader acting to destroy America's liberal thoughts and institutions. At least Nader ran on the Independent party and, from the outside, destroyed Gore and damaged America's liberal and enlightened dreams. Sanders, not a Democrat but pretending to be one, spends the vast majority of his time and speeches attacking Hillary Clinton rather than Trump, and working to destroy liberal Democrats from the inside. Try to wrap around your head that Sanders has, with great zest, joined the 25 year effort of conservative and reactionary Republicans in viciously and relentlessly attacking the Clinton's. Shameful.
2
It is well past time for us to reconsider our blind support of war-mongering Israel and the hundreds of billions of dollars we have given them. Once again, Bernie is right!
11
The concept of "zero daylight" between two nations is absurd. Even close allies have interests that may conflict at times. In that vein, recognizing that American Democrats may have different interests than Israeli Likudniks is nothing more than common sense.
While certainly anti-Likud, nothing in the proposed platform changes is anti-Semitic or anti-Israeli. The West Bank and Gaza are indeed occupied by Israel, and Palestinian folks living in those areas do indeed have different rights than Jewish Israelis.
These are undisputed facts. As an American Jew (who is not self-hating) I for one welcome a platform that recognizes the rights of Palestinian people. Such recognition is in the interests of the United States, is in accord with my Jewish values and upbringing, and is frankly the right thing to do.
I applaud Senator Sanders' position and hope that the Democratic Party considers this nuanced point of view.
While certainly anti-Likud, nothing in the proposed platform changes is anti-Semitic or anti-Israeli. The West Bank and Gaza are indeed occupied by Israel, and Palestinian folks living in those areas do indeed have different rights than Jewish Israelis.
These are undisputed facts. As an American Jew (who is not self-hating) I for one welcome a platform that recognizes the rights of Palestinian people. Such recognition is in the interests of the United States, is in accord with my Jewish values and upbringing, and is frankly the right thing to do.
I applaud Senator Sanders' position and hope that the Democratic Party considers this nuanced point of view.
14
Israel does not occupy Gaza, as Prof. West and Mr. Zogby allege. The Israelis completely withdrew. Hamas was elected there, in the last election held, and it runs the place. Which is why Israelis have had to put up with so many rocket attacks, etc. Is it an "occupation" to patrol ones borders in order to keep out terrorists as best one can?
14
It's maddening how rarely the subject of Israeli Palestinian relations is publicly discussed in the US given the direct impact they have on our people. The media won't talk about it and has failed to inform and educate the public about this vitally important issue. It was inevitable that someone, in this case Bernie, would bring it up. That's what happens in a meaningful election campaign.
16
God forbid that a Muslim (Keth Ellison) be appointed on the committee. It must be "really concerning" to have to deal with people who support the rights of Palestinians.
No one is saying that Israel should not be supported. Only that the approach to the issue be more balanced. Denying fundamental rights to Palestinians only makes Israel less safe.
No one is saying that Israel should not be supported. Only that the approach to the issue be more balanced. Denying fundamental rights to Palestinians only makes Israel less safe.
19
Two Sad stories today:
1) Palestinians want/deserve more consideration from the USA.
2) Huge lines at the airports, as we try to protect ourselves from Islamic terrorists.
Don't the BERNIES understand that the reason we are obsessed daily with security issues against our planes being blown out of the sky might possibly be related to our concern about the creation of another HAMAS dominated nation on the globe. I worry about both!
1) Palestinians want/deserve more consideration from the USA.
2) Huge lines at the airports, as we try to protect ourselves from Islamic terrorists.
Don't the BERNIES understand that the reason we are obsessed daily with security issues against our planes being blown out of the sky might possibly be related to our concern about the creation of another HAMAS dominated nation on the globe. I worry about both!
7
"As a candidate, Mrs. Clinton has been less inclined to criticize Israel, emphasizing that it had a right to defend itself."
As a Sanders supporter, I'd like to help unify the Democratic party and get behind Hillary, but she keeps talking....
As a Sanders supporter, I'd like to help unify the Democratic party and get behind Hillary, but she keeps talking....
2
There is a lot of confusion and mis information about Israel.
1.The only country in the Middle East open to criticism is Israel. Notice how there is no criticism from within other Middle eastern countries about their Government? Why is that? Because you would be in jail or dead is the answer.
2. An old story: when Jesus walked the cobble stoned streets of Jerusalem and he looked around him at all the houses of worship, do you know what he saw? Synagogues. Relating to a Jewish history in Jerusalem.
3. Another old story: if the Arab nations and Palestinians put down their weapons today, there would be peace with Israel, but if the Israeli's put down their weapons today, there would be no more Jews. The Palestinian leaders are not looking for peace. Tragically, they are using their own people as cannon fodder to further the receipt of more donations that they steal. Most of the Palestinian leadership live in Qatar, doesn't that tell you something? Look at their wealth. These people have wealth in the billions. This is a crime against a nation. What a tragedy and Israel bashing is a side show to 'show me the money'.
Dont mix up support for Israel with straight out anti semitism. General anti Israel arguments are so poor that you can see through them. Israel (and jews) dont hate anyone, they want to live in peace and to get peace you need a partner/s that wants peace too.
Israel pulls its weight in a respectful relationship with the USA.
1.The only country in the Middle East open to criticism is Israel. Notice how there is no criticism from within other Middle eastern countries about their Government? Why is that? Because you would be in jail or dead is the answer.
2. An old story: when Jesus walked the cobble stoned streets of Jerusalem and he looked around him at all the houses of worship, do you know what he saw? Synagogues. Relating to a Jewish history in Jerusalem.
3. Another old story: if the Arab nations and Palestinians put down their weapons today, there would be peace with Israel, but if the Israeli's put down their weapons today, there would be no more Jews. The Palestinian leaders are not looking for peace. Tragically, they are using their own people as cannon fodder to further the receipt of more donations that they steal. Most of the Palestinian leadership live in Qatar, doesn't that tell you something? Look at their wealth. These people have wealth in the billions. This is a crime against a nation. What a tragedy and Israel bashing is a side show to 'show me the money'.
Dont mix up support for Israel with straight out anti semitism. General anti Israel arguments are so poor that you can see through them. Israel (and jews) dont hate anyone, they want to live in peace and to get peace you need a partner/s that wants peace too.
Israel pulls its weight in a respectful relationship with the USA.
9
Israel does not pull its weight. Our policy regarding Israel has done nothing but increase the number and ferocity of our enemies.
3
Disaster for the democrats. I guess Bernie wants to burn down the house.
9
This "split" in the party's platform drafting committee illustrates the choice between Clinton's style of governance and Sanders' style.
Clinton needs control (email problems for example) and predictability. Her standard approach to social, economic, political, foreign policies shows she doesn't know how to manage the possibility of unpredictable results. She sticks to what is known fearing social instability if existing institutions are questioned. She relies heavily on elite advice because they reassure that the status quo must be protected if risk is to be avoided. When she is challenged, she doubles down in stubborn bureaucratic mode. This is why her judgement is often called into question because she won't look at all angles equally.
Sanders has been swimming upstream for decades shaking establishment precepts at every stroke. He is fearless and straightforward and he does not fear change because he believes not changing is more dangerous to social stability.
He might just run the country off a cliff if his plans don't work but then is the country already on that edge? Will Hillary's more cautious approach push us over or save us from falling?
Israel and the US right now seem to favor staying the course as the safer path. Clinton and Netanyahu both advise no changes to approach. Yet the majority of people in both countries want something different (not necessarily a united whole). Can democracies afford not to listen to those pressures.
Clinton needs control (email problems for example) and predictability. Her standard approach to social, economic, political, foreign policies shows she doesn't know how to manage the possibility of unpredictable results. She sticks to what is known fearing social instability if existing institutions are questioned. She relies heavily on elite advice because they reassure that the status quo must be protected if risk is to be avoided. When she is challenged, she doubles down in stubborn bureaucratic mode. This is why her judgement is often called into question because she won't look at all angles equally.
Sanders has been swimming upstream for decades shaking establishment precepts at every stroke. He is fearless and straightforward and he does not fear change because he believes not changing is more dangerous to social stability.
He might just run the country off a cliff if his plans don't work but then is the country already on that edge? Will Hillary's more cautious approach push us over or save us from falling?
Israel and the US right now seem to favor staying the course as the safer path. Clinton and Netanyahu both advise no changes to approach. Yet the majority of people in both countries want something different (not necessarily a united whole). Can democracies afford not to listen to those pressures.
3
israel is supposed to be our best friend.
friends do things for other friends.
my question: what has israel done for us lately?
i mean, besides deploy spies in our country and commit war crimes in their country, and meanwhile whine because they're not getting enough money and weapons from congress.
friends do things for other friends.
my question: what has israel done for us lately?
i mean, besides deploy spies in our country and commit war crimes in their country, and meanwhile whine because they're not getting enough money and weapons from congress.
10
Hating Israel is de rigueur in the Sanders camp - hating Israel seems to be the new Pabst Blue Ribbon or man-buns of the young and woefully uninformed.
If there is to be a debate, let there be a debate. An honest, balanced and informed debate. A debate that actually recognizes the challenges that both Israeli *and* Palestinian leadership bring to the table. That looks twoard a two-state solution. That recognizes that Palestinians are raised to hate and kill Jews. That recognizes Israel's right to exist in safety as a Jewish state. That recognizes that 95% of cement designated for Gaza gets siphoned by Hamas for terroristic purposes. That recognizes that the majority of Israelis would welcome a two-state solution if their security could be guaranteed.
Let's start there.
If there is to be a debate, let there be a debate. An honest, balanced and informed debate. A debate that actually recognizes the challenges that both Israeli *and* Palestinian leadership bring to the table. That looks twoard a two-state solution. That recognizes that Palestinians are raised to hate and kill Jews. That recognizes Israel's right to exist in safety as a Jewish state. That recognizes that 95% of cement designated for Gaza gets siphoned by Hamas for terroristic purposes. That recognizes that the majority of Israelis would welcome a two-state solution if their security could be guaranteed.
Let's start there.
12
Good going, NYT, with the photo you selected to post of Dr. West. Some of us have become wise to how the news media chooses which photos to post so as to give a certain impression.
US support of Israel - rather the right-wing policies of AIPAC and Netanyahu - are indeed "lopsided". The devastation wrought by Israeli bombing is Gaza two years ago was indeed overdone with so many innocent civilians paying the price.
US support of Israel - rather the right-wing policies of AIPAC and Netanyahu - are indeed "lopsided". The devastation wrought by Israeli bombing is Gaza two years ago was indeed overdone with so many innocent civilians paying the price.
9
Suppose Trump minions infiltrated the Democratic party apparatus in an effort to stir up internal discord and anarchy. Tactical objective #1: open up a debate on Israel at the convention.
2
Bibi, Lieberman et al. are most dangerous and will probably ruin Israel with war and ethnic violence, and half the Jews and Arabs will be turned into refugees, begging to enter the US and Canada.
5
This is a highly divided nation where the GOP stonewalling will continue if a Democratic victory is not overwhelming, and where Republican dismantling of the democratic process will go unabated if Trump is elected. What is Bernie's strategy for getting anything accomplished? Fragmentation to elect Trump? Polarization to elect himself? Diminishing any chances of the significant victory margin required to break gridlock?
Does Bernie have a strategy? Or is he just "playing it by ear" like the Donald? We can all agree with so much of what Bernie has said about economic injustice and Wall St. but it is clear that faced with finding a path to making real political progress he has chosen to follow the Sartre philosophy: "No Exit".
Does Bernie have a strategy? Or is he just "playing it by ear" like the Donald? We can all agree with so much of what Bernie has said about economic injustice and Wall St. but it is clear that faced with finding a path to making real political progress he has chosen to follow the Sartre philosophy: "No Exit".
11
How is this relevant?
1
The question demonstrates the problem.
2
So, is Dr. West calling for an end to honor killings in Gaza? Or is just justice for male Palestinians?
18
In response to your non sequitur question, do the supporters of Israel condemn declarations by the state-paid Rabbinate that condemns relationships between Jewish women and Arab men? Or saying it is a sin to rent an apartment to an Arab?
http://www.haaretz.com/safed-rabbis-urge-jews-to-refrain-from-renting-ap...
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2008/sep/21/israelandthepalestinians.mi...
http://www.haaretz.com/safed-rabbis-urge-jews-to-refrain-from-renting-ap...
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2008/sep/21/israelandthepalestinians.mi...
1
I have always considered Cornel West a dingbat (and still do) which makes it so difficult to agree with him on anything.
But in this case it's hard not to. Not only has our unquestioning support for Israel & all its apartheid policies cost us friends around the world, it has also cost us a fortune. In today'd very NYT we speak of an unbudgeted cost of $85 billion just to cover deferred maintenance of the subway systems of NYC, Boston & Washington. Almost half of it, $40 billion, is sitting there in the proposed aid to scarcely impoverished Israel over the same 10 year period.
Let's get our priorities straight!
But in this case it's hard not to. Not only has our unquestioning support for Israel & all its apartheid policies cost us friends around the world, it has also cost us a fortune. In today'd very NYT we speak of an unbudgeted cost of $85 billion just to cover deferred maintenance of the subway systems of NYC, Boston & Washington. Almost half of it, $40 billion, is sitting there in the proposed aid to scarcely impoverished Israel over the same 10 year period.
Let's get our priorities straight!
19
I luv that dingbat for who he is and what he does. More dingbats like him and we can make the world safer for people like Richy Huber.
So the article asks if criticism of Israel is a problem for the Democratic Party.
Let's see. The Israeli government just was joined by an extremist political party whose leader is now Defense Minister. That minister, Mr. Lieberman, openly advocates ethnic cleansing of Israel's own citizens. He even called for beheading, you know, like ISIS, of "disloyal" Israeli citizens.
Besides which, he makes of point of living in territory that Israel occupied and then annexed after the 1967 war, an occupation and annexation not recognized by any country, even the United States. Why? Because it is illegal by any reading of international law.
No room for criticism there?
This is cause for disunity? How about this? Clinton used a private email server (that was hacked) when she was Secretary of State, violating security rules and Department protocol, only to lie about asking for permission to do so and then refusing to hand over the contents of that email server.
Ask yourself if you work in a corporation where security is paramount and you use a private email account that is hacked. And then you lied about asking permission for it? Is this the act of a responsible executive? What would be the consequences if you had done so? And if an auditor asked you for said private emails and you refused to hand them over. In what possible context is this ok?
Hilary has negative ratings because she does untrustworthy things. That undermines unity.
Let's see. The Israeli government just was joined by an extremist political party whose leader is now Defense Minister. That minister, Mr. Lieberman, openly advocates ethnic cleansing of Israel's own citizens. He even called for beheading, you know, like ISIS, of "disloyal" Israeli citizens.
Besides which, he makes of point of living in territory that Israel occupied and then annexed after the 1967 war, an occupation and annexation not recognized by any country, even the United States. Why? Because it is illegal by any reading of international law.
No room for criticism there?
This is cause for disunity? How about this? Clinton used a private email server (that was hacked) when she was Secretary of State, violating security rules and Department protocol, only to lie about asking for permission to do so and then refusing to hand over the contents of that email server.
Ask yourself if you work in a corporation where security is paramount and you use a private email account that is hacked. And then you lied about asking permission for it? Is this the act of a responsible executive? What would be the consequences if you had done so? And if an auditor asked you for said private emails and you refused to hand them over. In what possible context is this ok?
Hilary has negative ratings because she does untrustworthy things. That undermines unity.
16
Ask yourself this: WHY would State Department IT Security "not know", or willingly ALLOW email communication travel to private servers? WHY? If those IT Security personnel did not know, they should all be fired! And if they did know and did nothing, what does that say about THEM?
2
They were browbeaten by the political leadership, that's why. It is shameful, and clearly there is way to much of that. The public bureaucracy should not cave to expediencies of their political masters. In any case, Clinton did lie about asking for permission.
Moreover, she should have handed over all email connected to the account to show transparency. She didn't. That's not acceptable.
Moreover, she should have handed over all email connected to the account to show transparency. She didn't. That's not acceptable.
1
Another millstone for Hillary and another gift for Trump.
12
Those of you who don't support Israel and want either less funds or less political support for her are entitled to their opinion and I salute you for expressing your opinion in a non-delegitimizing and non-demonizing manner. The objection here is to the million of Americans who contend they are Zionists but refuse to accept that one political party no longer shares their values.
You may not like Natanyahu's speech to Congress but the reality is the Iran deal was not in Israel's interest and failed to gain the support of the majority of US Senators. You may not like statements Natanyahu has made but the fact is he won the only democratic election in the Middle East fairly and has a mandate from the Israeli people to represent their views. Because he didn't like the outcome, President Obama's reaction was to criticize Natanyahu for his rhetoric as though polarizing rhetoric is unique to Israeli political campaigns.
If the new Democratic platform does not support the will of the Israeli people, so be it, but let's be honest about where Israel's friends are and where they are not.
You may not like Natanyahu's speech to Congress but the reality is the Iran deal was not in Israel's interest and failed to gain the support of the majority of US Senators. You may not like statements Natanyahu has made but the fact is he won the only democratic election in the Middle East fairly and has a mandate from the Israeli people to represent their views. Because he didn't like the outcome, President Obama's reaction was to criticize Natanyahu for his rhetoric as though polarizing rhetoric is unique to Israeli political campaigns.
If the new Democratic platform does not support the will of the Israeli people, so be it, but let's be honest about where Israel's friends are and where they are not.
11
Thanks for your honest and thoughtful words
Even Israeli intelligence has said the deal was good for Israel. Iran doesn't even have a nuclear weapon program, but Israel sure does, with zero international inspections.
4
As I recall, he politicized the event as a way to help in his own election.
Bibi is a bit if a bully.
Bibi is a bit if a bully.
Well...there goes Manhattan and Brooklyn, eh?
2
Recent history has shown how republicans will always be cozy with Israel and anyone from the Democrats who isn't asks for trouble (President Obama, for example). Perhaps, and only perhaps, a Democratic President and consistent friend of Israel, H.R. Clinton, can generate some change in Tel Aviv.
3
No president has been more generous to Israel than Obama. I think Obama has been too generous.
3
To understand how ridiculous this relationship has become, yesterday, Congressman Mac Thornberry, R-Texas was interviewed on cspan and he was ranting about how the lack of funding for the military was putting our pilots at risk. He was talking about this right after the house approved a $600 Million additional funds for Israel.
Pandering to Israel seems to be the ONLY thing Congress can come together for, as demonstrated by another hearing yesterday on the Iran agreement. All of the attendees, be Republican or Democrat attacked the deal and Iran, from human rights to support for hesbollah, then gleefully left the room to hit the phone banks to their donors. These folks are perfectly happy to ignite a war just to get their checks from the pro-Israel donor community.
Ignoring the 98% for the 2% isn't going to work. for Hillary or anyone else. Support for Israel has made an utter mockery of our democracy.
Pandering to Israel seems to be the ONLY thing Congress can come together for, as demonstrated by another hearing yesterday on the Iran agreement. All of the attendees, be Republican or Democrat attacked the deal and Iran, from human rights to support for hesbollah, then gleefully left the room to hit the phone banks to their donors. These folks are perfectly happy to ignite a war just to get their checks from the pro-Israel donor community.
Ignoring the 98% for the 2% isn't going to work. for Hillary or anyone else. Support for Israel has made an utter mockery of our democracy.
17
Recall that the Palestinians and nearby Arabs have still not been willing to give the state of Israel the right to exist. One way or another, those in Israel realize that they must fend for themselves here. Support from governments outside Israel may be fickle or politically expedient. Notice that an American government composed of oil plutocrats continued to support Saudi Arabia even after 9-11, and that many black leaders in the U.S. have been anti-semitic to lukewarm about supporting Israel.
13
The PLO has recognized Israel's right to exist twice -- 1988 and 1993. It was in all the newspapers at the time. I'm surprised you missed it.
4
When has Israel been willing to recognize Palestine? Try looking at the issue from the Palestinian side for once please. And the Palestinians are Semites too.
3
Bernie is closer to right than Ms. Clinton, who is closer to wrong. Israel needs to make peace. The war was in 68. They do not want to make peace because they feel they will eventually lose their identity as Jews, as Israel become a cosmopolitan, of sorts. Eventually, they will be overrun and that is what it is all about in reality, not giving in to reality, and maintaining a degree of delusion about today and tomorrow, which is totally Jewish, and their only hope of warding off change. We do not as a country need to support this kind of lunacy.
18
What is Hillary's position on the Palestinians? She favors strong support for Israel. We know that. Does she favor equally strong support for the Palestinians? I wan to know before I can back her.
17
She has always supported a 2 state solution. The information is readily available. It is a mistake to oversimplify as Sanders often does on so many issues. No doubt because of his lack of experience.
1
The reason why so many Americans Dem or Repub support Israel and the $3 Billion PLUS in aid that is given to them each year by Americans is simply because they are brainwashed. If every American, especially Congressmen, were forced to watch a presentation by Israeli and son of a famous Israeli General Miko Peled , or read the book "The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine" , by Israeli historian Illan Pappe, they would have a MUCH different opinion of Israel and believe me it WOULD NOT BE GOOD.
16
And if more knew about Israeli false flags, including the attack on the USS Liberty. And don't forget the dancing Israelis and their failed polygraphs, their contradictory statements. their false timeline of events.
2
And if you're not familiar with "one of the world's sloppiest historians", start here:
https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=ilan+pappe+anti-semite
https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=ilan+pappe+anti-semite
2
Pecan, you show your TRUE colors with your link. You are obviously a Zionist thru and thru. Both Peled and Pappe are RESPECTED Israeli's who promote the TRUTH and want JUSTICE for the Palestinians. They are honorable and not biased. You should strive for these qualities.
1
I would also like to point on that Bernie Sanders is Jewish, so it's not an ordinary case of crazy liberal picked crazy guy who dislikes our Israel policy.
Also, Cornel West is actually quite popular and could probably give most liberals a run for their money. He's not afraid to speak his mind, and in many ways, is similar to Bernie Sanders. I also think that West is going to be a strong supporter for the rest of Bernie's agenda and a strong ally on the committee.
You might not like it, but it's quite possible that this is actually a shrewd and effective political move by Sanders.
Also, Cornel West is actually quite popular and could probably give most liberals a run for their money. He's not afraid to speak his mind, and in many ways, is similar to Bernie Sanders. I also think that West is going to be a strong supporter for the rest of Bernie's agenda and a strong ally on the committee.
You might not like it, but it's quite possible that this is actually a shrewd and effective political move by Sanders.
11
Or perhaps more shockingly, Bernie took his position because it is the right position that eventually could lead to peace in Israel someday.
3
Of course it's a shrewd and effective move by Sanders. He accomplishes his main goal -- punishing Hillary, the Democratic Party, and the United States of America for rejecting his bid for the presidency.
He knows that putting the "intellectual", Cornel West, on the platform committee will ensure Trump's election.
He knows that putting the "intellectual", Cornel West, on the platform committee will ensure Trump's election.
4
Cornel West is not popular, even among people who respect him. He doesn't want to be popular. He wants to agitate. Not a real good guy for committee work.
5
Please read Thomas Freidman's column in this newspaper about Israel and Benjamin Netanyahu in yesterday's paper. I think it is time we used our influence in Israel instead of just passively watching the developments there. We might have a huge mess in Israel the way things are going and the decisions that are being taken there.
20
Our on wavering support of Israel at times has been right. But given the toxic nature of Netanyahu's politics and his policies, not to mention his total disregard for any compromise anywhere its time to call the Israelis to task. If your with the US, stop the settlements, get serious about a two state solution or.... risk no aid. As a taxpayer I'm tired of our support getting thrown in our face.
18
unwavering? Why should we support a state that refuses to comply with international law?
1
The point of contention if not the Palestinians per se - the point of contention is the demagogue who is currently running the state of Israel. HE is the one who should be denounced by the platform committee, all other issues between the terrorists re-digging the tunnels to bomb Israel and the Israelis bombing Gaza can be solved once this monomaniac is removed from office. He is the single factor responsible for the rise of anti-Semitism in the West .
14
The blind "lockstep" support of Israel has much to do with Evangelical Christians who fervently believe in The Book of Revelation. The Middle east is where the battle of Armageddon is to take place and the strife in that part of the world is "Gods Plan." Speak against Israel and you blaspheme God.
14
Christian Zionism is a distorted and fairly recent theological strain.
1
as bret stephens said: "i believe in a two state solution, as long as the second state is Canada"
as for mr. west, he is a classic hater of the Jewish People pretending he is a professor.
as for mr. west, he is a classic hater of the Jewish People pretending he is a professor.
20
Oh please, enough histrionics. Cornell West does not hate Jewish people. If you knew anything about him, you'd realize that that he has spent a lot of time working with liberal Jewish leaders like Michael Lerner to discuss these issues. And all West and others are saying is repeating what has been the position of the US for many, many years--pre-dating Obama's Presidency: That the US supports a two state solution with Israel ending it's 50-year occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. This is not controversial, but Americans seem very scared of holding onto this position. So long as the US continues to spend billions in military aid protecting Israel, we have a right to dictate some terms.
4
but seriously, the hair has to go
This election year is tectonic in so many ways -- this is just one more moment whose time has come. Whether we're good enough to have meaningful conversations about tough issues (not reducible to bumper stickers and slogans) leading to genuine solutions, or too distracted by the merger of Reality TV and Cable News (oh, and ubiquitous digital competition), remains to be seen.
20
People say this every election. All issues are tough.
I believe the democrats will need all its traditional allies in November to avoid a catastrophe. I believe some 70-80% of Jews voted with Obama. There is a better way to approach the issue than needlessly antagonizing them. Just think about what the Nader runs in the past have done to the union cause by causing republicans to get elected. Unions have been decimated in the last 40 years. People like Sanders are unabashed idealist who effect destruction of the cause they are trying to promote.
17
Actually, if you do some research, you'll see that the Clinton administration did much to destroy the power of unions during the 8 years they were in office. Nader didn't lose the election for the Democrats, they lost it by moving farther and farther to the right and by courting big money interests over the needs of the middle class and the unions.
4
What proof do you have that the American Jewish community agrees with Netanyahu's right wing expansionism? I'm inclined to believe that most American Jews can see Netanyahu's right wingers for what they are?
3
As Americans, the entire Israeli/Palestinian conflict should be unfathomable to us.
Why? Because our Constitution clearly states that a nation should not be entwined with a particular religion; which is totally antithetical to the Israeli position, that the State of Israel must be a "Jewish State".
And the Palestinians? They find themselves following leadership that who believe that "all Jews must leave or die" so that they can create their own religious state. Clearly, this is in violation of the very American concept, that all people are, "...endowed with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness", and also violates our Separation of Church (or Mosque) and State concept as well.
Conclusion: As Americans, we can not "support" a solution without abandoning our own principles, and should not pretend that we are helping - any party that makes this claim, is merely "shopping" for the ballots of voters with strong opinions on this issue.
Why? Because our Constitution clearly states that a nation should not be entwined with a particular religion; which is totally antithetical to the Israeli position, that the State of Israel must be a "Jewish State".
And the Palestinians? They find themselves following leadership that who believe that "all Jews must leave or die" so that they can create their own religious state. Clearly, this is in violation of the very American concept, that all people are, "...endowed with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness", and also violates our Separation of Church (or Mosque) and State concept as well.
Conclusion: As Americans, we can not "support" a solution without abandoning our own principles, and should not pretend that we are helping - any party that makes this claim, is merely "shopping" for the ballots of voters with strong opinions on this issue.
14
False equivalency on two fronts:
I have not noticed any antipathy towards democratic nations that are considered Christian nor I have notice any antipathy towards authoritarian nations that are undeniably Muslim.
When nations have historically persecuted a people due their religion, I submit that those persecuted have a moral right to their own nation, especially if these people were the original founders, no matter how long ago or how many wars have been fought to deny them nationhood.
I have not noticed any antipathy towards democratic nations that are considered Christian nor I have notice any antipathy towards authoritarian nations that are undeniably Muslim.
When nations have historically persecuted a people due their religion, I submit that those persecuted have a moral right to their own nation, especially if these people were the original founders, no matter how long ago or how many wars have been fought to deny them nationhood.
2
As much as I would like to agree with you, it's simply not true that the U.S. has no familiarity with the complications that arise from a government that is intertwined with a religion. In fact, we're experiencing many of them in this campaign; arguments about social issues such as gay marriage or birth control access arise because one person's choice offends another's religious sensibilities. Sessions of Congress are opened by a chaplain who has ALWAYS been a Christian (see http://chaplain.house.gov), and no President yet has been elected without claimed that he supports Christian family values. Obama was attacked as being "a Muslim", as if this would somehow disqualify him for office. Now, whether or not the U.S. is qualified or has the right to negotiate between Israel and Palestine is a separate issue; many have tried, and none have yet succeeded, partially, I expect, because there is a long history of clashing values and old, unaddressed slights that negotiators have failed to fully understand. But note that Theodore Roosevelt negotiated the Treaty of Portsmouth between Japan and Russia in 1905 without sharing the religion of either side.
I was following live coverage of the debate in which Howard Dean suggested “…a more balanced policy in the Middle East...” when Senator Lieberman immediately pounced. It didn’t take long for AIPAC and the media to select the so-called “Dean Scream” (uttered on a separate occasion) as grounds for disqualifying Howard Dean as a presidential candidate.
The “Dean Scream” media mantra of thirteen years ago quickly and effectively buried Dean’s grassroots reform movement .
Today the burgeoning Sanders reform movement echoes much of the Dean agenda with this difference: It will NOT be suppressed.
The “Dean Scream” media mantra of thirteen years ago quickly and effectively buried Dean’s grassroots reform movement .
Today the burgeoning Sanders reform movement echoes much of the Dean agenda with this difference: It will NOT be suppressed.
33
How well I remember how our media carried on about Dean's "scream" for at least 2 weeks, effectively bringing him down. It seemed like a deliberate calculation on the part of the media to use it to make Dean seem unqualified and undesirable to the voting public.
5
I completely agree. For too long we have backed Israel while the Palestinian people have been subjogated for three generations. We need to get this albatross off of our necks. We are on the wrong side
43
Guess you are not too worried about the 100, 000 Syrians killed by their own leaders.
3
We should put pressure on the PA to come to the peace table and stop demanding things they know Israel can not agree to.
They can not demand Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is part of Israel.
When the Moslems had Jerusalem they let it become a slum and didn't allow Jews to live there.
Now it is a treasure and all religions can worship there.
They can not demand a right of return.
Israel is a Jewish state like most Arab countries are Moslem.
Israel is also a Democracy unlike those Arab countries and because of this if a majority of it's population is Moslem it can no longer remain Jewish.
Jews should have the right to live in the west bank as Moslems live in Israel.
If they are not allowed to then Israel has the right to do the same with their Moslem population.
So I believe a peace treaty can be had if the PA actually wanted peace.
They don't and by the comments supporting the Palestinians you cans see they still believe Israel has no right to be.
They still want the land and people leaving comments make it clear they will accept no Jewish state.
This is why the pa commemorates Nakba.
The USA should back peace and that means the PA has to stop demanding things they will never get.
They can not demand Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is part of Israel.
When the Moslems had Jerusalem they let it become a slum and didn't allow Jews to live there.
Now it is a treasure and all religions can worship there.
They can not demand a right of return.
Israel is a Jewish state like most Arab countries are Moslem.
Israel is also a Democracy unlike those Arab countries and because of this if a majority of it's population is Moslem it can no longer remain Jewish.
Jews should have the right to live in the west bank as Moslems live in Israel.
If they are not allowed to then Israel has the right to do the same with their Moslem population.
So I believe a peace treaty can be had if the PA actually wanted peace.
They don't and by the comments supporting the Palestinians you cans see they still believe Israel has no right to be.
They still want the land and people leaving comments make it clear they will accept no Jewish state.
This is why the pa commemorates Nakba.
The USA should back peace and that means the PA has to stop demanding things they will never get.
2
Absolutely irrelevant
There is nothing wrong with wanting to take a more balanced position on Israel unless those are code words for wanting Israel to cease to exist as a Jewish state. My fear is that is exactly what Sanders supporters want rather than a two state solution.
20
Jake pretty much says it all. The end of Israel as a Jewish state is exactly what Cornel West desires and I expect by the end of this political process you will hear him say it in public. That will be followed by a claim that he was misquoted by the "Zionist press."
9
what is a "Jewish" state? Is the US a "christian" state?
11
Jake,
Considering that the BDS movement - widely supported by the fringe left - does not support a two-state solution, but a one-state solution with the right of return, it is reasonable to assume that many of his supporters probably would like to see Israel cease to exist as a Jewish nation.
That is pure hatred.
Considering that the BDS movement - widely supported by the fringe left - does not support a two-state solution, but a one-state solution with the right of return, it is reasonable to assume that many of his supporters probably would like to see Israel cease to exist as a Jewish nation.
That is pure hatred.
7
Seems like your headline writer hasn't paid much attention to the Democratic presidential race if this is what he/she sees as the biggest threat to unity at the convention. As noted, the sky is not falling, and Dr. West is correct.
22
Its the upcoming Supreme court nominees that should matter people.
Mr. West wishes to hand the Donald 5 of them. This election should have been a gimmie for the dems, but for reasons unknown, they are throwing it.
Mr. West wishes to hand the Donald 5 of them. This election should have been a gimmie for the dems, but for reasons unknown, they are throwing it.
16
because many far-left Berners really just hate America; they have no interest in making it better. Thats why they think even Obama is a "neolib neocon," they see Israel is an extension of American "imperialism" in the world, and nothing is ever good enough for them, other than unattainable goals of perfect class equality.
10
Note to Hillary: Cornel West is not and should not be the face of the Democratic Party. You gave Sanders a seat at the table, and this was what he did with it? He will create a platform so far left that you can't win. You are very popular among Democrats. Create the platform that you believe in and that best represents the Democratic party that voted for you. Don't let Bernie throw your campaign under the bus for his own gratification. The majority of Democratic primary voters voted for you and what you stand for. Bernie's high profile surrogates will sink the campaign. Let's have a revolution of our own, where you take back your campaign and your party and we set out to defeat Trump, reduce income inequality and protect the Supreme Court from conservative radicalization.
39
Hilary doesn't give anyone a seat at the table. The millions of Democratic voters who supported Bernie gives him the right to seat people there. It's not the Hilary party.
5
Thanks for your input, Wall Street!
4
Bernie is the voice of many and is leading the other revolution. He deserves to be heard even though I won't vote for him. Of Hilary and Trump, I find them equally distasteful and will not vote for either
1
"“For us, the concern is that it legitimizes and potentially puts into a major party platform” a point of view “that undermines the principles of the Israeli-U.S. relationship that have been bipartisan for decades,” Mr. Hoenlein said."
Mr. Hoenlein surely is aware of the fact that Netanyahu put an end to that with his unacceptable disrespect for our President and nation.
The relationship, which has done untold damage to our nations image and respect, to date was based on pandering to pro-Israel donors. Voters rightful reject it and are no longer supportive of a relationship based on an exception for Israel when it comes to values we preached globally, such as human rights. If there is a doubt,in his mind, perhaps we should put the entire issue to a national referendum.
Mr. Hoenlein surely is aware of the fact that Netanyahu put an end to that with his unacceptable disrespect for our President and nation.
The relationship, which has done untold damage to our nations image and respect, to date was based on pandering to pro-Israel donors. Voters rightful reject it and are no longer supportive of a relationship based on an exception for Israel when it comes to values we preached globally, such as human rights. If there is a doubt,in his mind, perhaps we should put the entire issue to a national referendum.
22
Reading these columns brings home how very sharply divided Democrats are on this issue.
Raising this issue at this time was not a smart call. We really need to focus on defeating President Trump rather than poking at this very sore subject now.
Raising this issue at this time was not a smart call. We really need to focus on defeating President Trump rather than poking at this very sore subject now.
26
You could say the same thing about the Obama Justice Dept. deciding to insert a major wedge issue (transgender bathrooms in public schools) at this point in the election cycle. What were they thinking? Let's just say Democrats are sometimes amazingly bad at politics and leave it at that.
2
Neo-conservatism, economic neo-liberalism, the future role of the U.S. military in regions of the world, and the issue of whether any American president should yield to the will of an Israeli leader are certainly subjects that should be raised.
Actually, we will focus on making sure our representatives do what's right for our nation, and that includes altering this ridiculous unbalanced relationship that works against our national interest.
If it takes electing Donald Trump to free ourselves, so be it.
If it takes electing Donald Trump to free ourselves, so be it.
Israel is the unspoken 800 lb. gorilla in the American political closet, because AIPAC wants it left there. As Netanyahu and the ultra-right wing parties increase their stranglehold on Israeli politics, the problem only gets worse.
32
I support Dr. Cornell West!
22
you and 11 other people it seems
2
I'm sorry. I voted for him by mistake. That's ten other prople.
1
After spending most of the last year talking about unequal income distribution in the U.S., his focus at the convention will be on Israel? Is this because, as most of us have been saying, the differences between Clinton and Sanders on the domestic front are minuscule? I am open to rethinking U.S. policy towards Israel -- for one thing, I think the current policy is enabling slow motion self-destruction. But Cornel West, the guy who hates Obama because Obama wouldn't make him his Svengali, is his preferred choice for this role? Sanders is looking more and more like a guy who lives to create conflict and have something he can shout about. I wish we had a better progressive standard bearer than Sanders.
42
Sanders is revealing his immaturity and lack of judgment daily. The party platform is not the place to raise this issue. This move is just grandstanding and stonewalling.
4
I doubt this will be his sole "focus" at the convention.
3
Barbara,
Despite the NYTimes, the appointment of the two has to do with American poverty and our conflicts in the ME.
It is not a conspiracy to destroy Israel.
Despite the NYTimes, the appointment of the two has to do with American poverty and our conflicts in the ME.
It is not a conspiracy to destroy Israel.
2
Bernie Sanders' suggestions are hardly radical. I see very few comments here that seem to understand that this is NOT a zero-sum game; there will either be two winners (Israel and Palestine) or two losers (by continuing the course Israel is currently pursuing). A two-state solution is the only way to ensure the survival of Israel as a state that is both Jewish and democratic. To achieve such a solution means taking into consideration the security needs of both sides, not just Israel's. Sanders gets this.
29
Israel is NOT both Jewish and democratic. It is a theocracy created through genocide!
2
You mean the genocide that Hitler tried to perpetuate against the Jews? If you have ever been to Israel and seen Arab teenagers walking down the main streets of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa you would see that there is no genocide against the Arabs.
4
Israel, as a long-standing U.S. ally, is always the absolute focus of any discussion about the Palestinian dilemma. I believe the Palestinians (all parties) and their allies are partners in the problem and their actions need to be discussed with the same vigor applied to Israel, and they need to be held accountable as part of any resolution toward a two state solution.
Changes to U.S. policy will have little impact on the situation if Palestinians (and Israelis for that matter), continue to act without a single voice, and continue to demonstrate an unwillingness to compromise in negotiation.
Using Mr. West is at best a cynical approach to policy making as Bernie evolves from a plain spoken candidate into a barn burner similar to Trump. Both appear to have an insatiable desire for attention and they pander to their base by demonizing any contrary point of view.
Changes to U.S. policy will have little impact on the situation if Palestinians (and Israelis for that matter), continue to act without a single voice, and continue to demonstrate an unwillingness to compromise in negotiation.
Using Mr. West is at best a cynical approach to policy making as Bernie evolves from a plain spoken candidate into a barn burner similar to Trump. Both appear to have an insatiable desire for attention and they pander to their base by demonizing any contrary point of view.
17
The same vigor as applied to Israel? Do you think we should engage the Palestinians from a position of meek acquiescence as we do Israel?
2
GB, none of this will happen until the west starts looking at the Palestinians objectively instead of people who happen to brown.
1
This is way overdue and I don't expect the Republican Party to ever move toward even-handedness in the Mid-east. The Green Party and the Libertarian Party however long ago chose the right approach on the Mid-east; hands-off, let the countries chart their own futures without US interference no matter how painful that may be. Even the term "Mid-east" is based on relation to Great Britain which always played God in international affairs until it was forced to no longer do so.
28
"Since then, some Jewish Democratic leaders have warned that a growing willingness to criticize Israel from within the party could pose a danger to its security in perilous times, and could chase Jewish voters away."
Let's be real. Democratic leaders aren't worried about losing votes. They're worried about losing money. Same goes for Wall Street.
Let's be real. Democratic leaders aren't worried about losing votes. They're worried about losing money. Same goes for Wall Street.
22
right, because swing states like Florida and Pennsylvania have no Jewish voters....
1
Me West should
Focus his energy on stopping Black crime. Has he noticed our young men are dying in critical numbers. Treat to most critical issues first. Israel is not in immediate danger. Our neighborhoods are.
Focus his energy on stopping Black crime. Has he noticed our young men are dying in critical numbers. Treat to most critical issues first. Israel is not in immediate danger. Our neighborhoods are.
18
Obama represented Illinois and Chicago in congress. Wouldn't you think, that as a black person, that the KILLING of black people in His "home" state would be a serious matter for Him? No it isn't. I don't think He ever sponsored a bill to attempt to get a handle on this. I am not aware of ANY activity as president to stop this murdering within the black areas of the country. A thug gets killed after robbing a (minority-run) store, and attacking a cop in his patrol car, and trying to take his gun, and then charging the cop.... and Obama is all over this "racial police terrorism" and send in the AG to try to find an issue. Geesh, democrats, get a grip.
1
Supporting Netanyahu and his right wing zealots is like voting for Trump and his Aryan supporters. It is OK to support elements of Zionism, without supporting religious Zionists. Netanyahu and coalition are war mongers who want to rebuild the temple and cause war, they are no different than the far right right here in America, who want to rebuild the temple and cause war. You can be a staunch supporter of Israel, as I am, without having to be a blind supporter of everything Israel. I do not personally support the BDS movement, but I am vehemently opposed to language in the platform that punishes entities that are for the BDS movement. Those Democrats that are trying to insert anti BDS language in to the platform or even pushing for legislation like AB2844 in California are engaged in the most un democratic thing I have ever heard! The language, as it stands now, is grossly unconstitutional and so misguided that it could be used for other divestment movements, say, like in China, if that country decided to crack down on their populace, which we know happens all the time there! The Un Democratic Movement in the Democratic Party needs to be stopped. It is OK to be against right wing zealots, no matter what country they are in. A majority of Israeli Voters are not even supporters of blindly following Netanyahu and his right Wing Zealots. All sides of this need to be represented in the Platform, there is room!
26
If these appointments stand, Dems are essentially giving the GOP not only a lot more Jewish vote than they normally get, but a lot of non Jewish vote as well.
Gallup and Pew's polls on Israel/Palestinians the aggregate American populace show Americans support Israel over Palestinians anywhere from 54-19 (Pew) to 62-15 (Gallup), and they do thru the lens of the war on terrorism, and the prior Cold War in which Israel fought against Soviet armed Arab states and PLO guerillas.
Not to mention, those polls show aggregate Democrats (moderates/conservative Dems) still favor Israel by 53-23 (Gallup) or 43-29 (Pew); 2.3:1 and 1.6:1 ratios.
The ratios of aggregate Americans who support Israel over Palestinians, and even Democrats, would win 50 states in the EC in an election with such ratios.
The Dems have a problem in their left wing. It's broken and could bring down that bird.
Gallup and Pew's polls on Israel/Palestinians the aggregate American populace show Americans support Israel over Palestinians anywhere from 54-19 (Pew) to 62-15 (Gallup), and they do thru the lens of the war on terrorism, and the prior Cold War in which Israel fought against Soviet armed Arab states and PLO guerillas.
Not to mention, those polls show aggregate Democrats (moderates/conservative Dems) still favor Israel by 53-23 (Gallup) or 43-29 (Pew); 2.3:1 and 1.6:1 ratios.
The ratios of aggregate Americans who support Israel over Palestinians, and even Democrats, would win 50 states in the EC in an election with such ratios.
The Dems have a problem in their left wing. It's broken and could bring down that bird.
22
Sanders and his people are determined to hand the election to Donald Trump et al, aren't they?
Sanders is a Socialist, not a Democrat. For that reason alone he should never have been allowed to run for the Democrat Party's presidential nomination. The Peace and Freedom Party's nomination, of course, was his for the taking. He would have won it handily, been suitably ignored by the media and garnered maybe 2% of the vote in November. But they let him pretend to be something he's not and he attracted many who proudly occupy what my late father called the "Commie-Pinko" edge of our political spectrum. That might be acceptable, or at least tolerated, in New England and on the West Coast. But they and their ideology are loathed and despised where it matters most: in Middle America, especially in the handful of Middle South and Midwestern states that will decide the 2016 election.
If they continue their destructive and self-destructive antics the future they rue will be their own under a reactionary authoritarian Trump presidency.
Sanders is a Socialist, not a Democrat. For that reason alone he should never have been allowed to run for the Democrat Party's presidential nomination. The Peace and Freedom Party's nomination, of course, was his for the taking. He would have won it handily, been suitably ignored by the media and garnered maybe 2% of the vote in November. But they let him pretend to be something he's not and he attracted many who proudly occupy what my late father called the "Commie-Pinko" edge of our political spectrum. That might be acceptable, or at least tolerated, in New England and on the West Coast. But they and their ideology are loathed and despised where it matters most: in Middle America, especially in the handful of Middle South and Midwestern states that will decide the 2016 election.
If they continue their destructive and self-destructive antics the future they rue will be their own under a reactionary authoritarian Trump presidency.
19
The Dem establishment thought they could breeze by that eccentric Uncle Bernie. Now look what they unleashed! People talk about Trump destroying the Republican party. Folks, look to your left a few inches and tell me what you see.
4
@Roger:
"Establishment"?
Sir, there's the middle -- the political center -- and two wings, still labelled "right" and "left" after the peacekeeping seating arrangements adopted by the French National Assembly in the 1870s to keep Bourbon Monarchists, Bonapartist Restorationists, Agrarian-Socialists and Communards from throwing chairs at each other and brawling in the aisles. The French political center of that day sat between them, ruling by default.
In the Here-&-Now, many in the American political middle often don't even bother to vote because they don't care. It's the wings (and wing-nuts) that drive the rancid beast, the infernal political process, towards its illogical ultimate conclusion and fruition.
Elections aren't fair because electoral systems aren't fair, however structured and styled. Systems aren't fair. Systems are set up by faceless political insiders "in quiet rooms" (one of Mitt Romney's infamous formulations) to benefit themselves at others' expense. But it has always been so, and always will be. It's the nature of the beast, the rancid beast, the self-interested political beast.
Sanders, his close associates and supporters are no different from the rest. Should they win, should their coup succeed, they will go forth and conquer, becoming the "Establishment". And in due time they will rig the game in their favor going forward simply to retain the power they had just won; that simple.
Always best to be clear-eyed about such things ... .
"Establishment"?
Sir, there's the middle -- the political center -- and two wings, still labelled "right" and "left" after the peacekeeping seating arrangements adopted by the French National Assembly in the 1870s to keep Bourbon Monarchists, Bonapartist Restorationists, Agrarian-Socialists and Communards from throwing chairs at each other and brawling in the aisles. The French political center of that day sat between them, ruling by default.
In the Here-&-Now, many in the American political middle often don't even bother to vote because they don't care. It's the wings (and wing-nuts) that drive the rancid beast, the infernal political process, towards its illogical ultimate conclusion and fruition.
Elections aren't fair because electoral systems aren't fair, however structured and styled. Systems aren't fair. Systems are set up by faceless political insiders "in quiet rooms" (one of Mitt Romney's infamous formulations) to benefit themselves at others' expense. But it has always been so, and always will be. It's the nature of the beast, the rancid beast, the self-interested political beast.
Sanders, his close associates and supporters are no different from the rest. Should they win, should their coup succeed, they will go forth and conquer, becoming the "Establishment". And in due time they will rig the game in their favor going forward simply to retain the power they had just won; that simple.
Always best to be clear-eyed about such things ... .
Now we see how Sanders thinks - or doesn't think very clearly. I have always felt that Netanyahu was bad for Israel, the peace process, and for relations with the diaspora, but who does Sanders think he is going to win over by trying to incorporate the anti-Zionist opinions of Cornel West and James Zogby? Is he now going for the Klan vote? This is how Sanders is going to establish his "revolution"? The Democratic Party will never incorporate these viewpoints and if Sanders is not doing this just to have some "bargaining chip" about the platform, he is just plain crazy. It appears that he has gone off the deep end and become delusional in his megalomania. It would be appropriate for him to debate Trump - can you imagine all the pointless shouting devoid of any plan?
43
Intramural politics is always messy, but sometimes necessary.
West & Zogby are irrelevant to the election, sops to the hard core leftists just as many equally onerous discussions and platform planks are sops to the Republicans' hard core tea partiers.
Besides, it all makes for Grand Kabuki...
West & Zogby are irrelevant to the election, sops to the hard core leftists just as many equally onerous discussions and platform planks are sops to the Republicans' hard core tea partiers.
Besides, it all makes for Grand Kabuki...
2
The nerve of Senator Sanders. Doesn't he understand that palms have been greased, rigged wagers have been placed and the well oiled machine is ready to trudge down the same well worn road?
22
THANK YOU, Mr. West & Mr. Zogby !!!!! Your views are most welcome, and way past due.
Israel is a wealthy Country, yet, Netanyahu whined that "over One BILLION dollars a year, for 40 years, in JUST military aid ... was not enough". That is the largest aid package ever, historically, from the US to any Country. But, its not good or fat enough for Netanyahu. What arrogance. What greed!
Israel has been the root cause of most of the trouble in the Middle East for decades. They threaten to pick fights, and then whine for protection. They don't help at all in the fight against ISIS. They bully and bulldoze the hobbled people of Gaza and the West Bank.
It is beyond encouraging to see major Politicians view Israel as the greedy and troublesome thug that it is. I applaud the Sanders campaign.
Israel is a wealthy Country, yet, Netanyahu whined that "over One BILLION dollars a year, for 40 years, in JUST military aid ... was not enough". That is the largest aid package ever, historically, from the US to any Country. But, its not good or fat enough for Netanyahu. What arrogance. What greed!
Israel has been the root cause of most of the trouble in the Middle East for decades. They threaten to pick fights, and then whine for protection. They don't help at all in the fight against ISIS. They bully and bulldoze the hobbled people of Gaza and the West Bank.
It is beyond encouraging to see major Politicians view Israel as the greedy and troublesome thug that it is. I applaud the Sanders campaign.
28
The root cause? what an ignorant opinion. This sounds like someone who wants to recognize the Nakba and have Israel apologize for not having genocide commited against it back in the late 40s and 60s by Arabs who were only too happy to say pout loud and in public that this was their stated goal.
And, because you seem ill informed. Much of this aid went directly back to the US in the form of a subsidy to the US arms industry, keeping people employed in the US and also via tech share agreements that keep our boys and girls in the military safe
You sure sound like you support Bernie. Much is his platform is dreaming by his constituency that 'feels' things but isnt quite informed on the issues.
And, because you seem ill informed. Much of this aid went directly back to the US in the form of a subsidy to the US arms industry, keeping people employed in the US and also via tech share agreements that keep our boys and girls in the military safe
You sure sound like you support Bernie. Much is his platform is dreaming by his constituency that 'feels' things but isnt quite informed on the issues.
6
What Hitler did to Jews is horrible and unforgivable.
What Netanyahu is doing in Gaza and the West Bank is equally horrid and unforgivable.
I am not ill-informed. I AM sick and tired of Billions of dollars continually going to over-priced Defense Contractors. That money would be better spent drilling wells for clean water, or sending farm equipment to grow food.
I am grateful for a Political Candidate who sees beyond making the World "safe" for just Big Oil and Defense Contractors.
What Netanyahu is doing in Gaza and the West Bank is equally horrid and unforgivable.
I am not ill-informed. I AM sick and tired of Billions of dollars continually going to over-priced Defense Contractors. That money would be better spent drilling wells for clean water, or sending farm equipment to grow food.
I am grateful for a Political Candidate who sees beyond making the World "safe" for just Big Oil and Defense Contractors.
1
If your issue is a dialogue on where tax dollars are better spent, that's fine. There are enough buckets to go around to re-purpose monies you wish to spend on what you mentioned. We can also work to limit special subsidies to various interests to move money around the board too. You dont like it as a defense subsidy, fine but there are many who work in those industries and who protect the US and its interests that would disagree with you considering the ROI on this particular aid package. Potato, potahto.
As for equating lunatics hiding behind their own populace, putting their command bunker under Shifa Hospital in Gaza and haphazardly firing rockets at civilians in Israel, digging tunnels under sovereign territory (I'm sure you believe the armistice lines are a border...you'd be wrong as a matter of law of course) and a host of other actual war crimes, you're equating 1100 unfortunate and regrettable Arab civiian deaths while defending Israel with the systematic killing of of 6 million European Jews, gypsies, etc who has no one standing up for them? This is not even disingenuous....its the stuff of fantasies and ignoring actual facts. It'd be laughable except you arent joking. If this is what a typical Bernie supporter believes, heaven help anyone with actual facts.
As for equating lunatics hiding behind their own populace, putting their command bunker under Shifa Hospital in Gaza and haphazardly firing rockets at civilians in Israel, digging tunnels under sovereign territory (I'm sure you believe the armistice lines are a border...you'd be wrong as a matter of law of course) and a host of other actual war crimes, you're equating 1100 unfortunate and regrettable Arab civiian deaths while defending Israel with the systematic killing of of 6 million European Jews, gypsies, etc who has no one standing up for them? This is not even disingenuous....its the stuff of fantasies and ignoring actual facts. It'd be laughable except you arent joking. If this is what a typical Bernie supporter believes, heaven help anyone with actual facts.
1
Looks like this Democrat will be voting Republican. Wait that would mean voting for Trump, huh. That is crazy, but not as crazy as Zogby and West. -
18
Interesting. All of the top comments here, each with hundreds of upvotes, seem to unequivocally support this move in light of Israel's actions. A move which would not be happening without Bernie Sanders continuing to run his campaign, pushing for a greater influence in the Democratic Party, and bucking the DNC's current stance on Palestine. And this, of course, couldn't have happened without his supporter's refusal to "get in line" behind Clinton and stop voting for and donating to Bernie's campaign.
Yet when we move away from policy and talk about the actual primary election, Sanders is just a sore loser who's not even a "real" Democratic, and his "Bernie Bro" followers are a bunch of misogynists who are going to give Trump the White House. Seems like the real threat to Democratic Unity is the self proclaimed Democrats themselves -- their chosen candidate and the comments they've made as of late stand in stark contrast to the policy stances they claim to believe in.
Bit hypocritical, no?
Yet when we move away from policy and talk about the actual primary election, Sanders is just a sore loser who's not even a "real" Democratic, and his "Bernie Bro" followers are a bunch of misogynists who are going to give Trump the White House. Seems like the real threat to Democratic Unity is the self proclaimed Democrats themselves -- their chosen candidate and the comments they've made as of late stand in stark contrast to the policy stances they claim to believe in.
Bit hypocritical, no?
11
Cornel West and other voices of the left need to be heard more often, not less, in the debates over Israel policy. We are constantly hearing the mainstream opinions coming out of the Democratic Party, that never waver in their support for Israel, while in Israel even the military and intelligence communities are fighting the policies of the right wing government there. The voices of opposition to Israel's policies vis-a-vis the Palestinians is welcome relief from the lopsided views expressed by Washington career politicians.
23
I guess the somebody in the Democratic Party thinks they need to fight a cartoon with a cartoon. Or a loudmouth with a loudmouth. Trump and Cornel West? Please. Both of these people are so dated and absurd it's not even remotely interesting.
12
I am a proud Jewish Democrat. I am generally not a "one issue" voter. Even though I am going to vote for Hillary--because a Trump presidency terrifies me and eventually she will have enough delegates to secure the nomination, I have been energized by Bernie Sanders' focus on issues that are important to me. No more. He has lost my respect because he, like so many others in our government, hold Israel to an impossibly high standard that they don't demand from anyone else.
40
Perfectly put.
1
On which side of that standard does Illegal Land Annexation and Occupation reside?
2
Impossibly high standard!?! Do you know who has just joined the Israeli government? That should scare you at least as much as a Trump presidency.
Lieberman makes Trump look like a moderate.
Lieberman makes Trump look like a moderate.
2
I did not think it humanly possible for me to even consider supporting Donald Trump, but if the Democrats are going to vilify Israel in such a loony, crass way I will have to consider the unthinkable. How ironic that the first Republican I ever support in my 42 years of voting will be the dumbest one.
15
It's about time. Bravo!
17
So in American politics, it's worse to accuse Israel of War Crimes than even our own "exceptional" country? The Junior Bush Reign of Error, used a failing rationale written by John Yoo, approved by Jay Bybee, that waterboarding was acceptable practice. Our own successful prosecution and execution of Japanese officers after WWII for the CAPITAL WAR CRIME of waterboarding our troops says otherwise.
President Peace Prize Obama's (my daughter calls him Broccoli Obombbomb) "kill list" and drone warfare fail woefully the due process requirement, and when innocents are killed, as the USG has admitted has happened, veer into the realm of state sponsored terrorism.
But goodness gracious, don't say anything mean about Israel...
President Peace Prize Obama's (my daughter calls him Broccoli Obombbomb) "kill list" and drone warfare fail woefully the due process requirement, and when innocents are killed, as the USG has admitted has happened, veer into the realm of state sponsored terrorism.
But goodness gracious, don't say anything mean about Israel...
10
Once again, Bernie Sanders' campaign demonstrates its integrity and seriousness.
He's LEADING like a leader. A leader worth following.
Look at the other two candidates. Seriously. Neither of them would DARE lead on this subject. Doing so risks winning.....and to them, winning is all that matters. Leading is a "nice to have" but unequivocally not critical.
If America would wake up, we might be alright. Sadly, we prefer sleeping to the tired monotony of the status quo. So sad.
He's LEADING like a leader. A leader worth following.
Look at the other two candidates. Seriously. Neither of them would DARE lead on this subject. Doing so risks winning.....and to them, winning is all that matters. Leading is a "nice to have" but unequivocally not critical.
If America would wake up, we might be alright. Sadly, we prefer sleeping to the tired monotony of the status quo. So sad.
17
Why are we labeled Anti-Semitic or Self-Hating when we criticize Israel's policies? Cornell West and Bernie Sanders are just two of the millions of people who simply feel compassion for those suffering under Israeli occupation. Can't we be for Jews AND Palestinians?
17
not according to Hamas
3
Safe to say that nothing Cornel West has said hasn't been said before by any number of patriotic Israeli Jews.
16
I Support Israel. I Support Hillary. I have voted in every election since I could vote (1976?). If the Democratic Party moves away from supporting Israel, I will have to change to voting Republican. It is as simple as that. I am named for my Grandmothers brothers who the Nazis shot in the woods, in what is now the Ukraine.
I will never forget.
Israel is a democracy. Israel is not perfect. No place is perfect.
If any portion of the U.S. was attacked the way Israel constantly is, the U.S. would obliterate the source of the attack - Israel is much more restrained.
There is much in the Republican platform that I do not support. I would much prefer to be able to continue to support the Democrats - but, if the Democrats reduce their support for Israel - I will support the Republicans.
I will never forget.
Israel is a democracy. Israel is not perfect. No place is perfect.
If any portion of the U.S. was attacked the way Israel constantly is, the U.S. would obliterate the source of the attack - Israel is much more restrained.
There is much in the Republican platform that I do not support. I would much prefer to be able to continue to support the Democrats - but, if the Democrats reduce their support for Israel - I will support the Republicans.
14
Let me get this straight...
Your great uncles, regrettably, were executed by Nazis for being Jewish and that somehow justifies Israel's right to forcefully push Palestinians out of their homes to create a land for people who hadn't occupied it up until that point. I wonder if your great uncles would approve of the crimes against humanity their unfortunate deaths have somehow legitimized.
Your support (for any cause) should be earned by ethical conduct and moral justification, not unconditionally squandered because of some misplaced sense of revenge or righteousness. After all, what did the Palestinians have to do with the Holocaust?
Your great uncles, regrettably, were executed by Nazis for being Jewish and that somehow justifies Israel's right to forcefully push Palestinians out of their homes to create a land for people who hadn't occupied it up until that point. I wonder if your great uncles would approve of the crimes against humanity their unfortunate deaths have somehow legitimized.
Your support (for any cause) should be earned by ethical conduct and moral justification, not unconditionally squandered because of some misplaced sense of revenge or righteousness. After all, what did the Palestinians have to do with the Holocaust?
3
The Israeli government now includes Lieberman, a man who other Israeli politicians have called a "fascist". If you can't criticize that, you are in no position to call yourself a democrat.
4
Cornel West is no more an "intellectual" than Donald Trump. They're peas in a pod who thrive on being too provocative to ignore. But if the Democratic party ever does abandon Israel it will have left me, too.
11
King Salman Al Saud's cousins might donate millions to the Clinton Foundation, and President Hillary Clinton might reduce aid to Israel. Ayatollah Khamenei's minions might donate millions more to the Foundation, and President Hillary might reduce aid even further.
See, no problem weaning the Israelis off US dependency. It will just take a bit of time, and a good deal of secrecy.
See, no problem weaning the Israelis off US dependency. It will just take a bit of time, and a good deal of secrecy.
4
The Clintons aren't the only culprits here. Do a bit more research, and open your box a little wider to include all the dark millions you don't see -- you'll probably be greatly surprised.
This move will definitely chase Jewish voters away! I see this all too much in my family, where so many vote Republican for one reason only: Because they perceive the GOP as unwaveringly pro-Israel!
But to me, the more overarching consideration is this: Every Palestinian organization is sworn to wipe Israel off the map! How can anyone negotiate with that intransigence?!?!?
Why can't the Palestinians recognize Israel and its right to exist and thereby create a platform on which negotiations can commence?
Does anyone think their attitude of "I hate you, I want to kill you all" makes Israel more apt to cede territory???
Come on -- get real!
But to me, the more overarching consideration is this: Every Palestinian organization is sworn to wipe Israel off the map! How can anyone negotiate with that intransigence?!?!?
Why can't the Palestinians recognize Israel and its right to exist and thereby create a platform on which negotiations can commence?
Does anyone think their attitude of "I hate you, I want to kill you all" makes Israel more apt to cede territory???
Come on -- get real!
12
We - in the world - have tired of the Arab-Israeli "problem".. as a position plank
- other than to those in the land - it has become total political hot potato football
that serves as only a tool of differentiation.. revealing colors of allegiance .. the same is true of abortion -- gun rights -- climate change - LGBT - etc.. The abscess of world spot terror as the outgrowth-- only confirms the indecisive stance of the US and others .. with no action there is no solution.. toss a coin???
- other than to those in the land - it has become total political hot potato football
that serves as only a tool of differentiation.. revealing colors of allegiance .. the same is true of abortion -- gun rights -- climate change - LGBT - etc.. The abscess of world spot terror as the outgrowth-- only confirms the indecisive stance of the US and others .. with no action there is no solution.. toss a coin???
Throughout most of my life there was only one type of "liberalism". Pro labor, pro civil rights, anti-militaristic, anti-nationalistic, pro-environmental, egalitarian, collective etc. Then in 1967 something began. Liberalism was being split into two types. Gentile liberalism and Jewish liberalism. Jewish liberalism was the same EXCEPT where Israel was concerned. War was still to be avoided EXCEPT where Israel's interests were concerned. Civil rights were to be maintained EXCEPT when it involved Palestinians. Equality, egalitarianism, ditto. Nationalism (which always brought about anti-Semitism) was now justified where Israel was concerned. I am beginning to get the distinct impression that Jewsih liberalism and leftist sympathies were applicable ONLY to the extent that they served Jewish interests in host countries. Now that a nation called Israel exists, ultra nationalism, class distinction, military might, bullying, discrimination, etc. are now something to be desired. So the Democrats whose liberalism helped the Irish, Italians, Poles, Slovaks, Asians and Jews achieve a piece of America, now find not only the Irish, Italians, Poles etc turning right and abandoning them-but alas-the Jews as well. Look hard at the "Trump-Sanders" rebellion against these special interest lobbyist groups. One day, as has happened throughout history, that extremely large group of forgotten people that Archie Bunker referred to as "your regular Americans" will rise up. Then look out!
7
"the principles of the Israeli-U.S. relationship that have been bipartisan for decades,” Mr. Hoenlein said. That was before Bibi tore up the playbook. It was Netanyahu that turned to nasty, divisive, and partisan attacks working so diligently to undermine and disrepect the US President.
Mr. Hoenlein should take up his argument with him.
Mr. Hoenlein should take up his argument with him.
12
There is a lot of talk about how Americans support Israel, yet oppose her democratically elected Prime Minister. Is Netanyahu and his right-wing likud party bad for the peace process and Israel's greater overall security? Perhaps... and then again, no one here seems to be asking the question: why do the Israeli public consistently feel the need to vote Netanyahu into office? Maybe it's because they live in fear of being stabbed to death, or blown-up while taking the bus to work, or having daily life interrupted with continual rocket attacks, or having their playgrounds uprooted from underneath by Hamas terror tunnels. Netanyahu is certainly not a likable guy, and his matter-of-fact attitude about the impossibility of a two-state solution is deplorable. His racist rhetoric and self-righteousness is despicable, as are his government's policies of settlement expansion and lack of empathy for Palestinian aspirations of independence and statehood. And it is also true that he takes a hardline approach when it comes to his people's security concerns, which obviously strikes a chord with a vast number of Israeli citizens. Maybe we are better served if we take a more complex and nuanced view of the plight of both Israeli's AND Palestinians; consider their underlying fears and concerns and use those as our starting point. Instead of choosing one side over another, let us instead please choose peace and security for everyone.
8
Cornel West’s rightly points to Israel’s war crimes. Why should Israel’s crimes against on Palestinians be treated with delicacy? Why must every candidate acknowledge first the right of Israel to exist before offering a critique of the way in which this right has manifested itself? Why not begin with the Palestinians who have been victimized from the start, first by their displacement and exile, and second by the continued violations of their right to statehood. My vote is with Bernie.
20
What about the crimes committed against the Palestinian people by their leadership, especially Hamas? If you are gay, or female or seem to be trying to make a living for your family (read: collaborator) you might be subject to extra judicial execution. Isn't that a war crime when it is perpetuated and support by the government?
3
Sanders is clueless on foreign policy. That's been true since Day 1, but now bringing in Cornel West to advise him on the Middle East is not just ignorant, it's dangerous.
22
Who will be patriot enough to lead a 3rd party in this election? The country needs an alternative to the GOP clown and the DNC liar (or the Socialist comrade). This election needs to end up in the House come January where this yet unknown 3rd party patriot would be elected.
1
The right wing of the GOP, cheered on by the Religious Right, are all hung up with the silly end-times mantra which melds them together with Jews in some bizarre plot that should not be allowed to impact sound and essential international decisions and policies.
11
Woe is me( and I suspect many other liberal ,Sanders supporters)! Where to go now? Fascism in the disguise of megalomania and narcissism, or dishonesty, self serving, money questing, elitism in the guise of gender revolution, and quasi third term Obamism? Woe is America that we have to make Sophie's Choice this election cycle.
Notice I do not include the far leftist, and 1930's style Socialist in the list of choices. Happily, Mr.Sanders, whom I was looking forward to supporting to the very end, has revealed himself before the end of the primaries in his selection of Zogby, and West as his platform delegates. You are known by the company you keep.
I firmly believe in fairness in America's approach to the Middle East mess,but not at the cost of the security of my people. West and Zogby are anti Isreali extremists in their own right. Besides the conflict has no place at this time in the political platform of an American Political party. Is Darfur, or Syria, or, Libya or China or Russia or North Korea in the platform or specifically represented by delegates to the platform committee. NO.
So dear Mr. Sander's, thank you for showing your colors before the final bell.
I sincerely hope that no self respecting Jew ,especially those of us who remember the Holocaust, supports you any longer. You have made your bed ,now sleep in it. Give me Wall Street, before the radical left and those two,Zogby and West any time. I think you just pulled a 'Palin'.
Notice I do not include the far leftist, and 1930's style Socialist in the list of choices. Happily, Mr.Sanders, whom I was looking forward to supporting to the very end, has revealed himself before the end of the primaries in his selection of Zogby, and West as his platform delegates. You are known by the company you keep.
I firmly believe in fairness in America's approach to the Middle East mess,but not at the cost of the security of my people. West and Zogby are anti Isreali extremists in their own right. Besides the conflict has no place at this time in the political platform of an American Political party. Is Darfur, or Syria, or, Libya or China or Russia or North Korea in the platform or specifically represented by delegates to the platform committee. NO.
So dear Mr. Sander's, thank you for showing your colors before the final bell.
I sincerely hope that no self respecting Jew ,especially those of us who remember the Holocaust, supports you any longer. You have made your bed ,now sleep in it. Give me Wall Street, before the radical left and those two,Zogby and West any time. I think you just pulled a 'Palin'.
19
My sentiments entirely.
6
Re: "Woe is America that we have to make Sophie's Choice this election cycle."
Sophie had to choose between two beloved children, saving only one. I don't think you (or many others) feel quite that way about the Trump/Hillary choice.
Sophie had to choose between two beloved children, saving only one. I don't think you (or many others) feel quite that way about the Trump/Hillary choice.
1
As a Vermonter, I have watched with horrified fascination as Bernie walked away with primaries. No surprise to me what he has done now; this is indeed just who he is.
2
One can fully support Israel, completely believe in its right to exist and do everything to provide security for its people, both Jewish and Arab. One can despise Bib, believe he is a war criminal, terrible for the future of US - Israeli relations, and believe that he is more interested in perpetuating his hold on power than in the interests of his people or peace.
Those two statements are not contradictory, and criticism of the Israeli Government and Israeli politicians is not anti-Semitism. That is a false equivilancy.
Those two statements are not contradictory, and criticism of the Israeli Government and Israeli politicians is not anti-Semitism. That is a false equivilancy.
18
Does one defend itself by running concentration camps in Gaza and the West Bank ? Oh, and how about the 7 out of 10 Palestinian civilians murdered in 2014-(not to mention the 500 children killed)....and maybe we should just chalk it up to "self defense" when Israel bombed all the UN designated shelters and hospitals in 2014. Thank you Dr. West for speaking the truth. Speaking the truth about what is happening to the Palestinians does not make one racist.
20
7 out of 10 Palestian civilians killed? Wow, even Hitler didn't manage that percentage of Jews killed...
4
There is just one problem with your argument--none of it is true. The killing of innocents is a tragedy, but the numbers you site have no basis in truth except in ant-Israel Hamas driven media. Go ahead-look for actual reports. You won't find them.
5
7 out of 10 civilians were NOT murdered in 2014. Get your numbers straight.
5
What Netanyahu has done for Israel and the world can only be matched by President Donald Trump...
6
This is not your Grandparent's Israel. The Government and the Israeli Defense Forces have taken a giant step to the right. The settlements on the West Bank are immoral. Netanyahu follows his Father's ideaology. Rabin's assassination was probably the result of vicious and hateful speech by Netanyahu. Someone needs to nurture a moderate position with the Palestinians or this apartheid will continue indefinetly. Somewhere in that country, there are a majority of good decent people on bith sides who desire peace. However, the power brokers and opportunists have them out maneuvered. The USA is losing interest in supporting a immoral regime. Somehow, we must appeal to the Israeli citizens and create a Groundswell for change. On the other side, the USA can negotiate with other Mideast Nations to help quell the violence from the Palestinians in order to start a peace process. Te future does not look Promising.
13
Let's not be absurd. An argument about Israel/Palestine is not going to "split" the "Democrats' Hope for Unity." Why not? Because most people don't care much about this issue.
4
I like Mr. Zogby and Dr.West. Dr.West is a very good human being but extremely left wing stubborn. I agree 100 percent with them about Israeli/Palestinian issue but we should not do anything to divide ourselves . This presidential election is very crucial . How much we like Hillary is not important , we have to make that Trump will not be our president . I think everybody regardless of their party affiliation, should vote against Trump for the sake peace and humanity in America and the world.
5
The Middle East will not be a central issue in this election cycle. That being said, Hillary needs the Jewish vote to win Florida. A call for an unoccupied Palestinian State and continued peace talks on the platform should suffice.
Dr. West, an activist with extreme views, is not ready to play nice at the adult table and should not be part of the drafting committee. He just brings fuel for fodder without a game plan.
Israel is our staunches ally in a region filled with hate, violence and extremism. The US needs to show consistency in it's unequivocal support of Israel.
Jerusalem should remain as part of the state of Israel, perhaps without making it the capitol. Israel is the only power in the region which will play a secure, respectful, even hand regarding access to the holy sites for all faiths.
Dr. West, an activist with extreme views, is not ready to play nice at the adult table and should not be part of the drafting committee. He just brings fuel for fodder without a game plan.
Israel is our staunches ally in a region filled with hate, violence and extremism. The US needs to show consistency in it's unequivocal support of Israel.
Jerusalem should remain as part of the state of Israel, perhaps without making it the capitol. Israel is the only power in the region which will play a secure, respectful, even hand regarding access to the holy sites for all faiths.
3
As a progressive Jew, AND a progressive Democrat, supporting Hillary Clinton, the Times is a little late to the game here. We Democrats, especially those of us who are liberal Jews, have had differences on Israel for decades, exacerbated since Israel’s sharp turn to the Right following the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin. A dozen years after my conversion to Judaism, I had the great honor of meeting Rabin in person and discussing his commitment to peace when I worked with Mario Cuomo. All subsequent leaders of Israel, particularly Olmert and Netanyahu have abandoned the high principles for public service and world peace advanced by Rabin, at the cost of his life. As long as there are Jews and Democrats--and Progressive Jewish Democrats--there will be disagreements over the meaning and direction of the State of Israel, and the proper qualities of leadership. But, there is NO question among us of Israel’s right to exist--only what kind of country it should be, similar to the healthy debate going on about the future of the Democratic Party, and the United States, right now.
10
What's the problem? that one or two of the people on the panel will disagree? Let's not get carried away, here. Democracy allows for dissent as well as majority rule. And besides, a lot of people on the left here and in Israel believe Netanyahu is too reactionary.
2
Exactly what about the term, "Never Again" does Mr. West, Zogby and Sanders not understand?
Exactly what about the war of independence, the war's of 1950's, 1967, 1973, South Lebanon and Gaza doesn't Mr. West, Zogby and Sanders not understand?
Exactly what about Hamas, Hezboullah, the Arab world and Iran ;whom have all pledged to wipe out Israel and kill all the worlds Jews does Mr. West, Zogby and Sanders not understand?
Exactly what about the war of independence, the war's of 1950's, 1967, 1973, South Lebanon and Gaza doesn't Mr. West, Zogby and Sanders not understand?
Exactly what about Hamas, Hezboullah, the Arab world and Iran ;whom have all pledged to wipe out Israel and kill all the worlds Jews does Mr. West, Zogby and Sanders not understand?
11
Granted that Hillary's daughter is married to a Jewish man and Trump's daughter is a practicing Jew, Bernie Sanders is Jewish himself by birth. He lived in Israel. Of all candidates he is the one I would expect the least to work against Israel's (and America's) best interest in the Middle East.
What are the expectations regarding Israel? Is it because Jews are a chosen people and expected to behave like God? Israelis are humans. Jews are humans.
No matter what people think of Israel it is neither a perfect government nor a perfect society. Yet, it is the country where Arabs and Muslims have the most freedom in the entire Middle East.
What are the expectations regarding Israel? Is it because Jews are a chosen people and expected to behave like God? Israelis are humans. Jews are humans.
No matter what people think of Israel it is neither a perfect government nor a perfect society. Yet, it is the country where Arabs and Muslims have the most freedom in the entire Middle East.
4
Bernie spent time when he was young volunteering on a Socialist kibbutz in Israel. That does not make him an Israel supporter or embodied with any special feelings for Israel. He married a non-Jewish woman (or 2?) and doesn't practice Judaism in the least.
1
greenie, but he is proud to be a Jew.
Let's put aside the hand-wringing and pearl-clutching and acknowledge that this debate within the Democratic party is healthy and long-coming.
And at the very least, credit Bernie Sanders for the courage to follow up on his beliefs about the tragic situation in the Middle East.
Just contrast that with the pandering on the Republican side to the Israel lobby, not so much because of what the GOP really believes about the Middle East, but because they want that steady stream of campaign dollars offered by the very powerful pro-Israel establishment in the US.
And at the very least, credit Bernie Sanders for the courage to follow up on his beliefs about the tragic situation in the Middle East.
Just contrast that with the pandering on the Republican side to the Israel lobby, not so much because of what the GOP really believes about the Middle East, but because they want that steady stream of campaign dollars offered by the very powerful pro-Israel establishment in the US.
7
While I don't think the Democratic Platform is the place for this discussion, I would like the U.S. to stop rubber stamping Israel policy and actions. After all, Israeli policy basically reflects the views of Netanyahu and his conservative allies. Perhaps we should follow Bibi's lead and insert ourselves into Israeli politics by supporting the parties that further U.S. interests.
6
The cat is out of the bag. Expect a vigorous and contentious debate over Israel and Palestine going forward for Democrats. It is what it is.
4
If Cornell West speaking the truth about the role of money in US-Israel relations is deemed "provocative," we might as well all shut up. Meanwhile, Clinton's views are "well-documented" indeed. After the war in Gaza, she wrote a letter to a major Jewish donor:“Quite frankly, Israel didn’t teach Hamas a harsh enough lesson last year. As president, I will give the Jewish state all the necessary military, diplomatic, economic and moral support it needs to truly vanquish Hamas – and if that means killing 200,000 Gazans, then so be it.”
Her staff later claimed the number was a "typo." Typical.
It's about time the Democratic Party and mainstream Americans got both sides of the story about the Palestinians and the Israeli government.
Her staff later claimed the number was a "typo." Typical.
It's about time the Democratic Party and mainstream Americans got both sides of the story about the Palestinians and the Israeli government.
9
Current American policy towards Israel and the Palestinians is due for a change to reflect the reality of Israeli occupation and especially settlement of the West Bank, infringement of Palestinian rights, and the continued humanitarian crisis resulting from the blockade of Gaza. The Democratic establishment including Hillary Clinton has for far too long been in the pockets of pro-Israel donors and AIPAC at the expense of what is right. A Hillary Clinton presidency would be disastrous for the peace process and any hopes for an independent Palestine.
However, one has to question Bernie's judgement over the inclusion of Dr. West in his campaign, let alone the party platform committee. This is a guy who once found a silver lining in the 9/11 attacks by saying that "white Americans will now know what it's like to be the victims of random violence." Calling him a public intellectual is sort of like calling The Onion a newspaper; technically true but ... come on. Bernie's pandering to the far left wing is a mistake in my opinion, especially since his campaign is largely predicated on his claim that his positions are really not all that radical (which they're not). Political extremism on either side of the aisle is a slippery slope, and the desire for change should not overcome rationality.
However, one has to question Bernie's judgement over the inclusion of Dr. West in his campaign, let alone the party platform committee. This is a guy who once found a silver lining in the 9/11 attacks by saying that "white Americans will now know what it's like to be the victims of random violence." Calling him a public intellectual is sort of like calling The Onion a newspaper; technically true but ... come on. Bernie's pandering to the far left wing is a mistake in my opinion, especially since his campaign is largely predicated on his claim that his positions are really not all that radical (which they're not). Political extremism on either side of the aisle is a slippery slope, and the desire for change should not overcome rationality.
5
Cornel West has been defending the poor in this country for years.
That is the primary reason why he's been appointed.
Poverty rose 25% from 2007 to 2014.
That is the primary reason why he's been appointed.
Poverty rose 25% from 2007 to 2014.
3
Israel is an insignificant country that should play no part in any political debate in the US. West is correct; charges with war crimes is not out of the realm of truth------when can you settle the Palestinian problem after sixty-five years?
8
I've been a life long supporter of Israel and the Democratic party including the current nominee to be. Now, with a black anti semite and an Arab on the platform committee my loyalty to the Democrats will be tested.
9
Criticizing Israel does not make one an anti-semite. The settlements are illegal and immoral and pointing that out is behaving morally. Obama has increased the amount of money given to Israel. As a Jew it is our responsibility to behave ethically. I suggest you read Ha'aretz.
5
The problem is that the Palestinians won't recognize Israel. They want it all so Israel has to protect itself. Israel pulled out of Gaza and what happened. Power was given the Hamas terrorists who arebuilding tunnels and plans to start another war. What antisemites don't like (aside from Jews themselves) is that the Jews plan to protect themselves THIS TIME.
1
wrong again they have recognized Israel s right to exist, as long as they respect the boundaries of 1967. Israel, who desires greater Israel has been the aggressor and has violated every single UN resolution. Get your facts right, only Hamas and certain extremist advocate for the destruction of Israel, much like the Jewish extremist who burn babies while they sleep
2
There is no split. Bernie does not have the wide support from the Jewish community and never had. Most of the Jewish community in US supports Senator Clinton.
There are fringes in any group, there are even Jewish people that, G-d knows how, support Trump; and I thought that was not possible....
There are fringes in any group, there are even Jewish people that, G-d knows how, support Trump; and I thought that was not possible....
6
I support maintaining aid to Israel, the recognition of Israel's annexation of the Golan, a two-state solution that gives Israel defensible borders against the Arab nations that surround it and that calls on Egypt and Jordan to cede territory for the Palestinian state as well.
Basically I support an Israel that will exist in perpetuity, not a weakened 15-mile wide state that the powers that be in 1945 determined was sufficient for the Jewish refuse of the world.
Weakness breeds conflict and only a strong, defensible Israel will ensure peace in that part of the region.
In that vein, Sanders' wavering support for Israel is apt to result in more death and destruction, as Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran and others will be emboldened to strike again.
Basically I support an Israel that will exist in perpetuity, not a weakened 15-mile wide state that the powers that be in 1945 determined was sufficient for the Jewish refuse of the world.
Weakness breeds conflict and only a strong, defensible Israel will ensure peace in that part of the region.
In that vein, Sanders' wavering support for Israel is apt to result in more death and destruction, as Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran and others will be emboldened to strike again.
24
Claiming that Sanders's position on Israel is "anti-Israel" is a good example of the black-and-white thinking that has allowed the Israel-Palestine conflict and similar conflicts to persist for so many years.
7
It's the either/or mentality, based on ignorance and prejudice. Either the Israelis live in security, or the Palestinians. Until the latter admit the former not only exist, but have a right to defensible borders, are a legitimate sovereignty, that Palestinians have no legal right to storm Israel proper but should work out a statelet that must co-exist comfortable with Israel, there will be no peace or resolution.
4
What's all the nonsense about Bernie destroying unity and handing the election to Trump. He is simply advocating for his and his supporters point of view. That's what he's supposed to do, and the Dems need to at least examine and consider the views of a vast # of voters. If there is a fire in your house and Bernie yells "fire," he's not trying to disrupt. He's trying to save the house. He's not handing Trump anything. Trump is an odious narcissist with nothing intelligent to say about anything. If she loses to him it's because she handed it to him. Stop blaming Bernie and stop pandering to the few special interests. Jeez, she should beat this nut job with her eyes closed.
8
I am all for frank, fair discussion about Israel Palestine and holding Israel accountable for its actions. But I think Sanders actions will not advance that discussion. I was taken aback when he sloppily and greatly over-estimated Israeli-caused deaths in his New York Daily News interview (10,000 versus the 3000 claimed by Hamas) and never really apologized for that. And now appointing West? I respect the man's views on some issues, but he is a bull in any china shop. If the desire was to create chaos he was a great choice. But if the desire is for dialog (which is the only way forward) this was not a productive choice. To me this illustrates why Sanders is not a leader fit to be president.
15
It is surprising that without intending to do so, Bernie a Jew from Brooklyn is allowing his surrogates West and Zogby to blow the anti-Semitic dog whistle. Is this leadership?
11
Why do you think Sanders makes his moves "without intending to do so"?
He totally intends to do what he's doing. Punish Hillary, punish the Democratic Party, and punish Americans for rejecting his bid for the presidency. He WANTS Trump to win. West and Zogby will ensure that outcome.
He totally intends to do what he's doing. Punish Hillary, punish the Democratic Party, and punish Americans for rejecting his bid for the presidency. He WANTS Trump to win. West and Zogby will ensure that outcome.
1
jeffiz,
enough with the victim card, okay?
enough with the victim card, okay?
It is not a victim card - whatever that is supposed to mean- it is merely recognizing the facts on the ground. What works for Trump can work for Bernie.
1
We must always keep in mind that Senator Sanders is NOT now and NEVER will be a Democrat.
11
Jack,
Is N Carolina the epicenter of the party?
I ask, because, having started passing out Dem flyers since the mid-sixties in Michigan, Sanders resembles the party I was born in to.
Is N Carolina the epicenter of the party?
I ask, because, having started passing out Dem flyers since the mid-sixties in Michigan, Sanders resembles the party I was born in to.
3
The Dems are going back to the future: Cornel West back to Stockely Carmichael--divisive, ignorantly anti-Israel, and mired in an time warp of identity politics and meaningless polemics. Bernie just handed the election to Donald Trump. God help us all. Wake me up in 8 years when it's over.
15
Israel gets away with murder because they cloak their daggers in a cloth of gold. I am sick of Christians for the same reason. If anyone needs their moneyed tables turned over, it's the Establishment's plate passers!
Aquarius is bringing the water cannons! Good thing, because Picses is stinking to be gotten gone for good.
Aquarius is bringing the water cannons! Good thing, because Picses is stinking to be gotten gone for good.
1
I am tired of opinions that reduce the complexity of the Israeli/Palestinian problems to minimalist catchy statements treating this tragic human condition like a bad football referee call. This side is unfair or that side is unfair. This highly complex problem has a deep history, to some starting in 1948, early 20th century, biblical times and other opinions to be sure.
The saddest human condition is how the innocent are often victimized. I wish I had the answer but definitely do not see Cornell West and other such critics as that answer. Illuminating wrongs of one side or the other plays well for publicity but does little to help the problem. It's easy for Cornell to point out wrongs by Bibi as can half the population of Israel and many Americans. I have no illusion about depth of this conflict which includes not just Israelis and Palestinians but Arab countries and global interests such as Syria or Russia.
Israel's relinquishing and evacuation of Gaza did not free the Palestinians but allowed Hamas to take control using horrific violent tactics. Hopefully, It is the people themselves who will end up finding common ground in shared contexts like the arts, common business interests, or like in today's NYT article, Israeli and Palestinian women sharing within a hair salon. Am I naive? Sure, but no more than these quick easy solution comments by Cornell West. How long did it take for the (not yet fully realized) American civil rights to take shape?
The saddest human condition is how the innocent are often victimized. I wish I had the answer but definitely do not see Cornell West and other such critics as that answer. Illuminating wrongs of one side or the other plays well for publicity but does little to help the problem. It's easy for Cornell to point out wrongs by Bibi as can half the population of Israel and many Americans. I have no illusion about depth of this conflict which includes not just Israelis and Palestinians but Arab countries and global interests such as Syria or Russia.
Israel's relinquishing and evacuation of Gaza did not free the Palestinians but allowed Hamas to take control using horrific violent tactics. Hopefully, It is the people themselves who will end up finding common ground in shared contexts like the arts, common business interests, or like in today's NYT article, Israeli and Palestinian women sharing within a hair salon. Am I naive? Sure, but no more than these quick easy solution comments by Cornell West. How long did it take for the (not yet fully realized) American civil rights to take shape?
9
The way things have played out, "supporting Israel" really means supporting Israel's right to exist as a separate political entity for Jews, just like Ireland is the State of the Irish and France is the State of the French. Like the French and the Irish and the Italians, the Jews are a People, a Nation. When Jews had no state and they were strangers in other Peoples' lands they got kicked around a bit. That need not the case anymore.
That said, just because you support Israel as a State for Jews does not mean that you need to support every asinine policy that they come up with.
That said, just because you support Israel as a State for Jews does not mean that you need to support every asinine policy that they come up with.
8
Why in heaven's name is occupation in quotes. Israel occupies the West Bank. It does not occupy Gaza but it does have a siege of it, limiting what supplies and materials can go in.
4
Party unity should not be about maintaining positions that don’t work.
The growing danger to Israel comes from Israel's right wing militant government that we keep supporting, not from a more even-handed Democratic party position. If Hillary Clinton’s own stated views prevail,there will be no settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
We have been helping Israel maintain a brutal occupation and taking of lands that were designated for a Palestinian state. Two states are practically impossible now. While we have been saying the words and conducting negotiations, have not been even-handed and so produced no end to the conflict. We have only really helped Israel’s stalling tactics. The Israeli government’s nsincerity is clear as day.
This kind of “support” of Israel is more about corruption here: our own leaders bowing to pressures in exchange for contributions and support of this ever weakening position. This “pro-Israel" position is no way to insure the survival of Israel even if that is the only thing that matters or that one cares about.
5/27/16 11:06
The growing danger to Israel comes from Israel's right wing militant government that we keep supporting, not from a more even-handed Democratic party position. If Hillary Clinton’s own stated views prevail,there will be no settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
We have been helping Israel maintain a brutal occupation and taking of lands that were designated for a Palestinian state. Two states are practically impossible now. While we have been saying the words and conducting negotiations, have not been even-handed and so produced no end to the conflict. We have only really helped Israel’s stalling tactics. The Israeli government’s nsincerity is clear as day.
This kind of “support” of Israel is more about corruption here: our own leaders bowing to pressures in exchange for contributions and support of this ever weakening position. This “pro-Israel" position is no way to insure the survival of Israel even if that is the only thing that matters or that one cares about.
5/27/16 11:06
3
The article is right on target: there is a growing rift in the Democratic Party between those who support Israel and those who really would not shed a tear with its destruction but who pretend to seek "balance". There cannot be balance between Hamas which is pledged to destroy Israel and backs it up with rockets and terror and Israel which has always been ready to negotiate a peace that genuinely protects Israel and allows Palestinians to have their own demilitarized state. Since Israel did, in fact, negotiate peace with Egypt and Jordan their sincerity should not be doubted.
Sanders and his ilk will surely gain a few crumbs to keep him in the fold but it would be suicidal to have major changes in the platform. Hillary knows this, the DNC knows this and Bernie will learn it pretty soon.
Sanders and his ilk will surely gain a few crumbs to keep him in the fold but it would be suicidal to have major changes in the platform. Hillary knows this, the DNC knows this and Bernie will learn it pretty soon.
9
This news story is sad as it opens up a scenario where Trump will be our next president.
While criticism of Israel is often warranted, it also often masks hidden anti semitism which is not politically correct any other way.
Post Holocaust, most Jews consciously and subconsciously, are focused on their survival , and vicariously via Israel , even if they don't live there and/or don't have relatives there.
Sanders who was born Jewish, does not practice his religion, and married a non Jew, nevertheless feels he has a right to criticize Israel without negative repercussions.
If the Democrat party buys this , they will lose most of their Jewish voters, financial support and impact. Hence as mentioned before clearing the way for a demagogue to be our next president, as it will engender a historical shift where for the first time a majority of Jews will vote Republican or sit out the election.
While criticism of Israel is often warranted, it also often masks hidden anti semitism which is not politically correct any other way.
Post Holocaust, most Jews consciously and subconsciously, are focused on their survival , and vicariously via Israel , even if they don't live there and/or don't have relatives there.
Sanders who was born Jewish, does not practice his religion, and married a non Jew, nevertheless feels he has a right to criticize Israel without negative repercussions.
If the Democrat party buys this , they will lose most of their Jewish voters, financial support and impact. Hence as mentioned before clearing the way for a demagogue to be our next president, as it will engender a historical shift where for the first time a majority of Jews will vote Republican or sit out the election.
12
Dr. Cornell West, a champion of the liberal cause for decades has not changed his stripes nor do we expect him to. What a poor choice for the democrats to pick for their platform committee. If he only understood the struggles that Israel endures everyday for the past seven decades he might not be a hater of Israel. Does he understand that the Palestinians are the most fortunate of Arabs in the Middle East. They have a better standard of living, higher life expectancy and a far greater level of literacy than Arabs in the surrounding nations. When Dr. West speaks of Gaza as " the hood on steroids" I think he needs correction. The whole Middle East is a "hood" in turmoil and Israel is lone democracy in that "hood". Dr. West also should stick to what he knows best and not meddle in international affairs. He is an outspoken supporter of black rights in America and his foray into Middle East affairs is something he knows little about.
10
It's quite shocking how thoroughly West, Zogby and Sanders have failed to appreciate the game changing impact of the Arab Spring and its aftermath. The old story line of the European left and to a lesser extent its American counterpart was that the Israeli/Palestinian conflict was the root cause of instability in the Middle East and that if only the "intransigent" Israelis would stop building their settlements stability would ensue. But the Israeli/Palestinian conflict pales in comparison to the Syrian and Iraqi conflagrations. Jordan, Turkey, Israel and Egypt are surrounded by unstable failed states. Half of Jordan's population consist of refugees. In light of this, does it really make sense at this juncture to create a Palestinian state which is likely to quickly degenerate into a Hamas proxy? Why are Zogby, West and Sanders fixated on the 1000 fatalities in Gaza when 500,000 have perished in Syria leading to the greatest refugee disaster in Europe since WW II?
17
Jews are making disastrous decisions when it comes to Israel. Sanders, the first Jew to get this far in a Presidential campaign, who actually volunteered on a kibbutz, has chosen a path that will endanger Israel's existence, while Benjamin Netanyahu, another Jew who has great political power, has assembled a new government that creates a real threat to Israel's continuity. Yikes!!
9
PM Netanyahu is the Churchill of our time
3
Many of us who deeply support Israel have reservations about Netanyahu's policies and the settlements, but the rhetoric condemning Israel so viciously while siding with the Palestinians who are portrayed as hapless victims in this intractable situation now appears to be little more than another manifestation of anti-Semitism. Certainly Israel has made mistakes and continues to do so, and the government has moved uncomfortably to the right, but anyone who has any understanding of the history of Israel and its significance to the Jews will recognize that Israel's behavior, over the years, has been largely motivated by self-defense. While I support Bernie because he addresses the very issues that this country needs to address, I will be sorry to see his platform manipulated to satisfy the prejudices of those to whom the only good thing Israel could ever do would be to disappear.
15
I am a liberal Democrat who is devastated by the hypocrisy of many of my fellow liberals. Can't abide Israel's current prime minister and his cabinet, however, they will not be in office forever. But even with that government, gay men flee the West Bank and Gaza to Israel so they will not become victims of honor killings. There's an Arab on Israel's Supreme Court, the director of surgery at Hadassah Hospital is Arab, there are non-Jewish Israeli diplomats and on our recent visit to Israel our Arab taxi driver told us he loves his country and would never leave even though a cousin who has a thriving restaurant in the US invited him to become a partner. I'm all for a 2 state solution, but not until hate stops being taught by the leadership of the Palestinians. Read the textbooks, watch the kiddy shows on TV--particularly the adorable perhaps 4 year old girl wielding a knife while shouting the let's kill the Jews mantra-- and by all means, enjoy the Hamas Covenant which implores its readership to kill the Jews; it's blood curdling. From South Pacific, "you've got to be taught to hate and fear, you've got to be taught from year to year, to hate all the people your relatives hate, you've got to be carefully taught." Just sayin'...
42
I take it you haven't read the Likud Charter.
that's the best you can do?
The lands we call Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, historically the Kingdoms of Israel, Kingdom of Judah and the Philistine States have been occupied by one power or another for almost 3000 years: by the Babylonians, by the Persians, by the Greeks, by the Romans, by the Byzantine Empire, by the Caliphates, by European Crusaders, by Egyptian Sultans, by the Ottomans until WWI then by Britain as a mandate until 1947, then between the 1948 and 1967 wars, by Jordan and Egypt.
So the question of who holds legitimate claim to the area is complicated: Iraq? Iran? Turkey? Egypt? The Vatican? Italy? Britain? Jordan? Palestinian Jews? Palestinian Arabs?
Most pro-democracy Americans would probably agree that the answer is "those who reside there," but we seem to be split on who, exactly, that is. Those who state that the answer is simple, that we need only look at the borders today, or prior to 1967 or prior to 1948 are generally not being anti-Semitic, they are being short-sighted and over-simplifying an extraordinarily complicated situation.
So the question of who holds legitimate claim to the area is complicated: Iraq? Iran? Turkey? Egypt? The Vatican? Italy? Britain? Jordan? Palestinian Jews? Palestinian Arabs?
Most pro-democracy Americans would probably agree that the answer is "those who reside there," but we seem to be split on who, exactly, that is. Those who state that the answer is simple, that we need only look at the borders today, or prior to 1967 or prior to 1948 are generally not being anti-Semitic, they are being short-sighted and over-simplifying an extraordinarily complicated situation.
93
Extraordinarily complicated? If you steal a man's car, the victim will have a simple and straight-forward complaint. The perpetrator's explanation will be extraordinarily complicated.
1
Yes, it is quite a story to determine who is the rightful owner of that land. I believe the current occupants of israel relied on the concept of "right of return." Which by definition means they weren't the latest (current) inhabitants at the time. But this is of course all nonsense, because anyone who accepts the "right of return" would immediately need to declare the native americans as the true owners of most of the continental usa. It's convenient terminology for what is just the exercise of raw power.
1
"...an extraordinarily complicated situation"
What is so complicated? Is it not fact that much of the land called Israel was home to hundreds of thousands of Arabs prior to 1948?
Is it fact that these same Arabs aka Palestinians are denied the right to return to their former homes, farms?
Is it fact that Israel continues to build settlements on land belonging to Arabs prior to 1948?
Property rights are not "extraordinarily complicated" to me.
What is so complicated? Is it not fact that much of the land called Israel was home to hundreds of thousands of Arabs prior to 1948?
Is it fact that these same Arabs aka Palestinians are denied the right to return to their former homes, farms?
Is it fact that Israel continues to build settlements on land belonging to Arabs prior to 1948?
Property rights are not "extraordinarily complicated" to me.
1
"“My concern is that the Democratic platform is not the venue in which to litigate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” said Robert Wexler, a former congressman from Florida and Clinton supporter who served on the platform drafting committee that year."
Not surprised that Hillary doesn’t want to litigate her policy towards Palestine in public, because, beyond getting hundreds of millions of dollars from several of Palestine's “haters”, she has nothing to justify it’s aggressive, one-sided nature, and it also lays bare why we so badly need campaign finance reform.
Not surprised that Hillary doesn’t want to litigate her policy towards Palestine in public, because, beyond getting hundreds of millions of dollars from several of Palestine's “haters”, she has nothing to justify it’s aggressive, one-sided nature, and it also lays bare why we so badly need campaign finance reform.
5
Why is this even an issue, a talking point, and most of all a front page story? Of all the horrible things in the world, of all the abject failures of the federal government and the Democratic party, of Hilary's blunders and Bernie's delusions, Israel is a top issue? Really? Israel is doing just fine by the US. Do we have to say for the millionth time that Israel remains the only democracy in the middle east and treats its minorities with more respect than ANY other country in the region and serves as an early warning system for US interests world wide. The Democratic party platform committee cannot issue statements on Assad or Putin or China or Turkey or ISIS, or Europe's migrant problem, they find more compelling what Israel is doing? Meanwhile Israel is chugging along and developing new high tech and pharmaceuticals at a rate the US can only dream of. Out of touch and infantilizing at a fast rate, the Democrats only talent now seems to be popping some left wing pacifiers for West and the other overgrown children of the party to use to get to sleep. By the way I dont see Elie Weisel commenting on Ferguson, Mr. West can keep his opinions on the mideast to himself thank you. This once loyal Democrat and now fierce independent is being pushed further and further away from the Democratic party. Sleep well children when you wake up you may be alone.
141
Sitting in NY easy peasy. An attitude problem that won't bring peace to the region--peace that the Israelis want.
1
Have you been to Israel? Your comments take a decidedly rosy view of "democracy" and "respectful treatment of minorities" in Israel. The post-Rabin increase in right-wing political and media expressions of bigotry and insightment, and support for unequal treatment under the law, unequal access to the ballot box, and illegal expansion of settlements are all why the global regard for the Israeli occupation is comparable to apartheid era South Africa. US support of Bibi's right-wing positions continue to put us on the wrong side of history and make our citizens vulnerable to terrorists acts and terrorists recruiters who hold our "special relationship" up as evidence of our racism, corruption, and hypocrisy.
2
"The Democratic party platform committee cannot issue statements on Assad or Putin or China or Turkey or ISIS, or Europe's migrant problem, they find more compelling what Israel is doing?"
Your screed seems to be all over the place. Did you, amidst your rage, read the article?
Israel is a major point of contention because there are few countries in the world to which the US is so closely tied. Its status is essentially unique in American diplomacy. You can't really write a US foreign policy platform without addressing Israel, and that's what happened here. It's one part of a platform.
It's the NYT focusing on this part of the Democratic platform, not because the Sanders campaign think it's so worth talking about beyond anything else. As the article pointed out, Sanders position is not even one that has universal acceptance within the Democratic Party.
But even so, your strangely dismissive attitude about what's happening in Gaza and the West Bank suggests a certain willful blindness. We can disagree about whether and what the US position may be about that ongoing conflict, but to dismiss the whole thing by saying "Israel is doing just fine" suggests you simply have blinders on about issues you don't want to deal with.
Your screed seems to be all over the place. Did you, amidst your rage, read the article?
Israel is a major point of contention because there are few countries in the world to which the US is so closely tied. Its status is essentially unique in American diplomacy. You can't really write a US foreign policy platform without addressing Israel, and that's what happened here. It's one part of a platform.
It's the NYT focusing on this part of the Democratic platform, not because the Sanders campaign think it's so worth talking about beyond anything else. As the article pointed out, Sanders position is not even one that has universal acceptance within the Democratic Party.
But even so, your strangely dismissive attitude about what's happening in Gaza and the West Bank suggests a certain willful blindness. We can disagree about whether and what the US position may be about that ongoing conflict, but to dismiss the whole thing by saying "Israel is doing just fine" suggests you simply have blinders on about issues you don't want to deal with.
Independent Socialist Bernie Sanders "Mr. I have never ran a negative campaign in my life" has shown his raw ambition, greed, ingratitude and inability to be reasonable.
I am a Democrat but at this time I wish most of the so called Progressives like Cornel West who has been so disrespectful to President Obama leave the Democratic Party NOW and join with the TEA Party folks on the Right.
It is fine to debate the Israeli-Palestinian issue but it is certainly not appropriate and totally divisive to use the Democratic Platform to try resolve this long standing conflict. What good will come from this exercise in futility?
Bernie Sanders who is not even a Democrat ought to be ashamed of himself for advocating a "messy" Democratic Convention in July and failing to forcefully condemn his supporters for disrespecting Senator Boxer in Nevada.
Also, selecting people like Cornel West and James Zobgy who want to cause confusion and continue to divide the Democratic Party to the Party's Platform Drafting Committee to advance Bernie Sanders selfish ambition is totally in bad taste and must be condemned.
Enough already!!!! We are sick and tired of Mr. holier than thou Bernie Sanders shenanigans and it is time for Mr. "Feel the Bern" aka St. Bernard to keep stepping..............
Hillary 2016!!!!!!!
I am a Democrat but at this time I wish most of the so called Progressives like Cornel West who has been so disrespectful to President Obama leave the Democratic Party NOW and join with the TEA Party folks on the Right.
It is fine to debate the Israeli-Palestinian issue but it is certainly not appropriate and totally divisive to use the Democratic Platform to try resolve this long standing conflict. What good will come from this exercise in futility?
Bernie Sanders who is not even a Democrat ought to be ashamed of himself for advocating a "messy" Democratic Convention in July and failing to forcefully condemn his supporters for disrespecting Senator Boxer in Nevada.
Also, selecting people like Cornel West and James Zobgy who want to cause confusion and continue to divide the Democratic Party to the Party's Platform Drafting Committee to advance Bernie Sanders selfish ambition is totally in bad taste and must be condemned.
Enough already!!!! We are sick and tired of Mr. holier than thou Bernie Sanders shenanigans and it is time for Mr. "Feel the Bern" aka St. Bernard to keep stepping..............
Hillary 2016!!!!!!!
16
He would say, hopefully, more grammatically correctly, "I have never run a more negative campaign in my life". Stella, that wasn't a stellar performance--more like a "Hellar" scream.
1
Amen!
I'm so sick of turncoat Bernie!
One of the most dangerous people in American politics today.
And Trump enabler!
I'm so sick of turncoat Bernie!
One of the most dangerous people in American politics today.
And Trump enabler!
5
Why is it that saying much the same thing about the policies of Benjamin Netanyahu as was recently said by top officials in the Israeli military is called decisive? How is it not OK to have a discussion about this in the USA, when the same debate is happening in Israel? Just this week the NYT published an article condemning the nomination of Avigdor Lieberman as Defense Minister. Is it not OK to express similar thinking at that Democratic convention?
And I'm not a Sanders supporter.
And I'm not a Sanders supporter.
2
What a brilliant way to make good Democrats vote Republican....
7
I don't have any problem with legitimate criticism of Israel but Zogby has a history of poisonous attacks against the country. He's not just "anti-Bibi." He adheres to the Palestinian narrative that Israel has no legitimate right to exist as a sovereign state. That's a major difference. The man served as a propagandist who conveniently kept silent whenever Arafat and then Hamas deployed terror as a pressure tactic against Israel. It's clear what his agenda is. The guy represents a fringe and should not be involved in the DNC platform.
11
The growing danger to Israel comes from Israel's right wing militant government, not from a more even-handed Democratic party position, long overdue. If Hillary Clinton's views prevail, as surely they will if she is our next president, there will be no settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The US will not be blameless because we are helping Israel maintain a brutal occupation and the taking of lands. This goes to make two states impossible. The reality is more like one-state anyway by now.
So we are supporting a long oppression agreeing the calling of resistance to that terrorism We are demanding that the resistance stop with no promises for a viable state for Palestinians. More and more, the public, is not buying this and knows the game. Politicians are beholden to this so-called support of Israel Israel for their own campaign needs. It's corruption. This has gone on with hollow words and fruitless negotiations offering little for our billions of tax money that goes to support Israel. This is no way to insure the survival of Israel if that is the only thing that matters.
The US will not be blameless because we are helping Israel maintain a brutal occupation and the taking of lands. This goes to make two states impossible. The reality is more like one-state anyway by now.
So we are supporting a long oppression agreeing the calling of resistance to that terrorism We are demanding that the resistance stop with no promises for a viable state for Palestinians. More and more, the public, is not buying this and knows the game. Politicians are beholden to this so-called support of Israel Israel for their own campaign needs. It's corruption. This has gone on with hollow words and fruitless negotiations offering little for our billions of tax money that goes to support Israel. This is no way to insure the survival of Israel if that is the only thing that matters.
3
Hillary's uncritical support for Israel will bring her campaign funding from rich Jewish donors, but will cost her the election. It also endangers Americans by being regarded as the enabler of the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Hillary has always been AIPAC's handmaid, and voted for the Iraq war for political reasons. No sensible person believed Iraq harbored WMDs.
4
Very disappointed that Bernie would appoint an ignorant anti-semite to the committee. Any of these so-called "intellectuals", who rail against Israel when it defends itself, but remains silent when Hamas murders Jews is, by definition, an anti-semite and an anti-intellectual.
My child has to change colleges, because it has become so anti-Semitic. The other day, when a student asked why Bernie is lagging behind Clinton in votes, a professor said it was because Bernie is a Jew, and Jews used to be racist. This was at a major university.
My child has to change colleges, because it has become so anti-Semitic. The other day, when a student asked why Bernie is lagging behind Clinton in votes, a professor said it was because Bernie is a Jew, and Jews used to be racist. This was at a major university.
12
The dam of blind Democratic support of Israel ,denial of basic Palestinian rights, occupation etc, is fissured and is cracking but not yet breaking and the ripples we witness now re Palestinian rights will soon be overshadpwed by the major issue of inordinate and anti American Israeli/Zionist influence on America's strategic outlook. ie its security and interests, that is when it will break flooding and uncontainable in the USA in particular and the Western world in general
4
Well, couldn't anyone see this coming given the partisan preference of the Israeli government for just one of the American political parties? What did anyone expect would happen within the other party??
2
It's sort of difficult to negotiate with Hamas in which their written constitution calls for the destruction of Israel and the death of all Jews worldwide. When Hamas launched thousands of rockets into Israel the response of the supporters of these so called palistinians was that Israel over reacted. Across college campuses and now the liberal politicians is a new anti semitism. This is no longer the Democratic Party of our parents. If the Jews in the US don't wake up to these anti Semites they'll be the next target.
16
When losing scream anti Semite. It's not working. The Israelis, a majority, want peace and accommodation. You live in NYC, in your cozy and tell the Israelis to stand up to anti Semetism. Nice try.
2
Bernie's appointment of Dr. West as one of his representatives to the Democratic Platform Committee also reminds us of Sanders' past calls for replacing President Obama. While Dr. West's questions about Israel's policies in the occupied territories are making the headlines; his record of attacking the President raises serious questions about Sanders' judgement in the selection of his representatives.
10
I was very disappointed to read the word that the otherwise brilliant Professor West used to describe our President.
Can we have a national dialogue about the duty of voluntary public figures to show some responsibility and accountability in the things that they say? What if a child heard that and thought it was OK?
Can we have a national dialogue about the duty of voluntary public figures to show some responsibility and accountability in the things that they say? What if a child heard that and thought it was OK?
2
So now Bernie has turned the democratic party on its head.
It rivals the Israel-Palestinian conflict: Bernie vs Hillary in order
for all to be losers. Whoda thunk it?
It rivals the Israel-Palestinian conflict: Bernie vs Hillary in order
for all to be losers. Whoda thunk it?
3
One of the truly magnificent things about the Sanders campaign is the principled alliance that the first serious Jewish presidential candidate in American history has forged with Muslims, Arabs and young Jews of conscience. This scares the heck out of establishment figures like Wasserman-Schultz and Hillary Clinton because Sanders represents the future of the Democratic Party and the Israel-Can-Do-No-Wrong Dems represent the past.
7
It's disheartening how many commenters are fine with the one Jewish state under constant attack by Muslim terrorists. Muslims have 50 + countries to call their home. Jews have one, the size of New Jersey (the 4th smallest state in the US). Netanyahu would not have been elected, if Hamas didn't murder Israeli school children and start a war against Israel…again. Hamas did not stop bombing Israel, until Israel gave it a reason to. Several broken cease-fires by Hamas was a clear indication of this.
12
Look Stella, you live in MN and you don't undergo what the folks there do. Peace cannot come with obduracy. It seems when peace comes Americans Jews will be disappointed and the Israelis will rejoice. It is easy to keep the arguments and the enmity going when one has no skin in the game. The American Jews should get out of the way and make peace possible.
Bernie Sanders will not get any more concessions from the Democratic Party. He is like a friend or relative that you have no choice but to invite him to the Party, and he spend his time dissing all the other guests plus the host and hostesses. And if you don't agree with him, he will threaten:" I will huff, I will puff, and I will blow your house down."
7
I rooted for Israel in the '67 war. Big mistake. The nation that became a haven for some of the world's most abused people has become one of the world's worst abusers. Perhaps we are only now approaching the time when the trauma of the Holocaust can be exorcised by open debate regarding the fact that Israel has no right to continue to usurp Palestinian lands and oppress Palestinian people. No doubt, some Palestinians will continue to treat Israel abusively, as the Palestinians have become the primary victims of Israeli policies, and the cycle of abuse is very hard to break. But the U.S. must begin to deal with realities that do not conform to political and religious ideologies.
It may seem ironic that it has taken a Jewish Presidential candidate to raise the question of Israeli policy and practice, but history is full of such "ironies" -- it's too easy to dismiss and scapegoat those who are seen as interlopers, but one must take seriously one's own "internal" critics (which, btw, have long existed within Israel but have not been widely heard in the U.S.).
As for the Democrats' hope for unity, we're in some uncharted territory, where old verities are being exposed as false. Clintonians, in particular, face a steep learning curve. One must hope that all factions of the party can at least recognize that they must be united in denying the Presidency to Donald Trump.
It may seem ironic that it has taken a Jewish Presidential candidate to raise the question of Israeli policy and practice, but history is full of such "ironies" -- it's too easy to dismiss and scapegoat those who are seen as interlopers, but one must take seriously one's own "internal" critics (which, btw, have long existed within Israel but have not been widely heard in the U.S.).
As for the Democrats' hope for unity, we're in some uncharted territory, where old verities are being exposed as false. Clintonians, in particular, face a steep learning curve. One must hope that all factions of the party can at least recognize that they must be united in denying the Presidency to Donald Trump.
5
This might be the only mistake that the Democrats could make that would make me vote for Trump. The liberal base of the Democrats have succeeded the far right in embracing anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiments. We see this liberal sentiment on college campuses and in England and Europe. Those of us with experience in life know it for what it is. If Clinton allows anti-semitism to get into the platform the Jewish vote will leave her and the Democrats forever. It is a shame that with so much injustice in the world, that liberals want to glom on to the one issue that unites anti-semites to their cause.
6
Idle threats. 2% of the votes? And a juggernaut political influence. Your bluff is being called.
Here we go. I guess we should start getting used to the words, President Trump.
1
Like all communities, the American Jewish community is as diverse in its opinions about Israel as are the evangelical, Catholic and Protestant communities. There is dissent among the faithful of all religions, and that is why America stays great, even when it is, as both Bernie and Donald say, not so great right now.
I do not believe that this is lost on Bernie Sanders any more than it is on Donald Trump. And why?
Because both of these two candidates differ from Clinton, Bush, and Cruz in one especially crucial way: they have received virtually no campaign contributions from SuperPACs and other PACs.
While Sanders and Trump have collectively taken less than 1.2 million (Sanders less than 200,000 dollars) from PACs, the other three candidates have taken $276.7 million of PAC money for their campaigns. (NYT - May 24, 2016)
After fighting the use of PAC money of all types for over 25 years, and I do not intend to stop now. It corrupts, and it has corrupted Hillary Clinton in uncountable ways.
Blind support of Israel or for that matter, any supposed ally, is not in the best tradition of American democracy, but with the vicious PAC web prevalent in every corner of the Capitol, the entire political structure is corrupt, and only Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders can get rid of it.
Be it through socialism or a high rise oligarchy of sorts, I'll take either if it means the effective destruction of the political class.
I look forward to a debate between Sanders and Trump!
I do not believe that this is lost on Bernie Sanders any more than it is on Donald Trump. And why?
Because both of these two candidates differ from Clinton, Bush, and Cruz in one especially crucial way: they have received virtually no campaign contributions from SuperPACs and other PACs.
While Sanders and Trump have collectively taken less than 1.2 million (Sanders less than 200,000 dollars) from PACs, the other three candidates have taken $276.7 million of PAC money for their campaigns. (NYT - May 24, 2016)
After fighting the use of PAC money of all types for over 25 years, and I do not intend to stop now. It corrupts, and it has corrupted Hillary Clinton in uncountable ways.
Blind support of Israel or for that matter, any supposed ally, is not in the best tradition of American democracy, but with the vicious PAC web prevalent in every corner of the Capitol, the entire political structure is corrupt, and only Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders can get rid of it.
Be it through socialism or a high rise oligarchy of sorts, I'll take either if it means the effective destruction of the political class.
I look forward to a debate between Sanders and Trump!
3
I encourage any who believe that the Palestinians are being treated humanely and justly to travel to the West Bank. See for yourselves the conditions being endured by millions of Palestinians with no access to running water or electricity, with no ability to earn a decent living due to very restrictive work permit, travel and movement requirements imposed by the Israeli government. See the huge areas where Jewish settlements have been built with all the modern conveniences and unrestricted travel is the rule, made possible by Israeli government land confiscation and home demolition of the Palestinians. Experience the dividing wall and all of the checkpoints that separates Palestinian families and free movement throughout the West Bank. Witness the vast devastation, and learn of the thousands of casualties wreaked upon the Palestinian residents of Gaza numerous times now, with weapons and technology supplied to Israel by the U.S. government over different presidential administrations. These experiences should include as many U.S. legislators and government officials as possible. See first hand how lopsided the ridiculous balance of power is between Israel and the Palestians. Then say how humane and just the existing situation really is, and justify how the continued unquestioned military and political support of Israel is right.
5
Never underestimate the Democrats' ability to blow an election they should win in a breeze. Only the Dems could figure out a way to lose ground to a shallow blowhard like Donald Trump.
7
I'm staunchly with Hillary, but I agree that she needs to go left on the Israel issue, and I'm not alone. Posting this here in hopes that her campaign reads the comments and recognizes that even some of her most dedicated supporters see room for improvement on this issue.
145
"RToom for improvement"? Yes. Room for the anti-Semitic demagoguery of Cornel West, or the obvious bias of James Zogby? No. It remains a mystery to me how any country, Israel in this case, can negotiate a solution between itself and its enemies when the enemies are sworn to its destruction. I share the detestation fo Netanyahu and his anti-Arab bigotry. But I also believe Israel has an undiluted right to exist.
The so-called leftward move toward the "rights of Palestinians" is a clarion call to anti-Semitism, and it is one all-too-familiar to those of us educated enough to have learned the history of the rise of European anti-Semitism and its consequences.
Ironically enough, it isn't Al Qaeda or ISIS who "popularized" blowing up passenger planes. It was the Psalestine Liberation Front led by Yasir Arafat and his chief lieutenant who is currently the leader of the Palestinians pushing for recognition as a state; namely, Mahmoud Abbas. I suppose Palestinian terrorism is a better flavor of anti-US and anti-Israel terrorism than ISIS's.
The so-called leftward move toward the "rights of Palestinians" is a clarion call to anti-Semitism, and it is one all-too-familiar to those of us educated enough to have learned the history of the rise of European anti-Semitism and its consequences.
Ironically enough, it isn't Al Qaeda or ISIS who "popularized" blowing up passenger planes. It was the Psalestine Liberation Front led by Yasir Arafat and his chief lieutenant who is currently the leader of the Palestinians pushing for recognition as a state; namely, Mahmoud Abbas. I suppose Palestinian terrorism is a better flavor of anti-US and anti-Israel terrorism than ISIS's.
2
Completely agree Jen! It is quite honestly the biggest issue I have with supporting her, though I do for now. I should mention in case they are indeed reading that I am also Jewish and over 40 and believe it high time to end the apartheid state there and have Israel- Palestine. Maybe my conscious will finally allow me to visit there as a proud Jew.
Why does this issue belong on the DNC platform? Is China there? Perhaps some other human rights violator? It is absolute nonsense to make this an election issue.
1
Both Israel and the Arab states are guilty of perpetuating the never-ending bloodshed in that region. And the answer to why is quite simple: because they both believe in silly superstition. They think that they are entitled to a tiny strip of land because an ancient desert deity said they could have it.
And it will go on this way until the end of time, because of religion.
And it will go on this way until the end of time, because of religion.
1
Yes, because they both believe in different religious dicta and because money is made from war...lots of money..so, for our owners, peace is not the goal.
1
Why are people surprised that Bernie chose a person who talks and talks and talks but has no idea how to compromise in order to get anything accomplished in the real word (kind of like Bernie)? Add to to that a fragile ego, a penchant for caustic rhetoric and extremely poor people skills and you get a disaster. West is only an impressive choice within the far left echo chamber...
9
Cornell West is honest to a fault & very funny, but you're right, he's no politician.
1
This article incorrectly implies that sympathizing with the plight of Palestinian families and opposing the Likud Party's plan to keep the lands captured when Egypt and Syria were preparing a simultaneous multi-front invasion, does not mean all of them want any change in American policy. Hamas is the majority elected government, and it refuses to negotiate at all. El Fatah refuses to negotiate until after Israel agrees in advance to concede all the biggest issues. Until the Palestinian people find leaders who will negotiate meaningfully and acknowledge that they must make some compromises, there is no one to negotiate with. Unilaterally giving up control of Gaza shows how the current Palestinian leaders would respond to giving up security control of any other areas, without a negotiated peace agreement. That is and should remain American policy. Press both sides to reduce tensions and sit down together to really negotiate. Most Americans, Democrats and Jews believe that.
6
West Said:
“Rockefeller Republican in blackface” about Obama? Coarsely racist if from a white person and still deeply inappropriate from Dr. West. He is an interesting iconoclast but utterly wrong for this platform comittee. Sanders appointments appear to be badly radical and show little attempt to help the party in the fall.
This fits with my opinion that he is not an appropriate candidate for the Democratic party. The Sanders appointments are a bad sign for Party unity.
“Rockefeller Republican in blackface” about Obama? Coarsely racist if from a white person and still deeply inappropriate from Dr. West. He is an interesting iconoclast but utterly wrong for this platform comittee. Sanders appointments appear to be badly radical and show little attempt to help the party in the fall.
This fits with my opinion that he is not an appropriate candidate for the Democratic party. The Sanders appointments are a bad sign for Party unity.
11
Why are people acting to surprised at Sanders' actions. He's a committed leftist Socialist, very much in the "capital letter" sense.
And, Cornel West is just such a joke, a perfect representative of left-abiding, capitalist-slamming, tenure-dependent, smug, elitist, polysyllabic word using phony antagonist in the guise of an educator. Everything that is now wrong with an Ivy education is summed up by his name.
And, Cornel West is just such a joke, a perfect representative of left-abiding, capitalist-slamming, tenure-dependent, smug, elitist, polysyllabic word using phony antagonist in the guise of an educator. Everything that is now wrong with an Ivy education is summed up by his name.
9
Land grabs are not only unfair but also counter productive in the long run. Being fair is a compulsory way (even if not sufficient) for Israel to merely exist in the future in what the Middle East is becoming.
Most American citizens understand that in the 21st century.
Just plain common sense a part of the Democratic Party endorse reality.
Most American citizens understand that in the 21st century.
Just plain common sense a part of the Democratic Party endorse reality.
2
Progressives love totalitarian governments. That is because their whole basis is that the elite need to govern us dumb masses.
4
It was clear when the campaign started that Bernie Sanders had no clue about the rest of the world. His focus was nearly entirely domestic - veering overseas only when pressed hard. And now? He's flexing his muscles like the expert he isn't. While there is merit to his point of view as there is to any citizen's, let's be real. He didn't win his support based on foreign policy. So, whether his positions make sense or not (and at least in superficial ways, some actually do) why is he throwing his weight around in that area? Because he can. But that doesn't mean he should.
131
Let's be real. Israel is a millstone around America's neck. No Israeli has ever stood next to American soldiers in Iraq, Syria, or Afghanistan. The debate hides the real issue, with the Russian bear breathing down the necks of Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland, and is actually on the neck of Ukraine, why are we sending military aid to Israel, which is in no danger whatsoever?
1
> "It was clear when the campaign started that Bernie Sanders had no clue about the rest of the world"
I am no fan of Bernie Sanders {although I have contributed twice@ $25}
I read & study foreign affairs closely and have for decades.
IMHO, nothing that Bernie has ever said has EVER supported the claim that he doesn't know anything about Foreign-Affairs
DITTO for Trump
** When Trump was asked about Nuclear Weapons in Europe, he simply said: "Nothing was off the table" {This IS, and has been the standard position of EVERYONE in diplomacy for 70 yrs on almost everything}
HOWEVER, establishment-media types immediately translated this SOP position into: "Trump says he would/might use nuclear weapons in Europe"
Reality-Check: Trump never said that, the media said that
** When Howard Dean was leading the Dem-POTUS run, the beginning of the end for him was triggered by JoeLeiberman, when he correctly & intelligently pointed out that the US was made no safer by US soldiers pulling Saddam Huessain out of a spider-hole
** Obama was pronounced as naive, when he said he would talk with Iran & N-Korea without preconditions
*
For me, there are only 2 major groups that are disasters on foreign affairs
1) NEOCONS, the folks that cheer-led the country into the sand-trap known as Iraq back in 2002. They want all war, all the time. {where do we invade next}
To be sure, these folks aren't stupid, they know exactly what they are doing
They are dangerous, and dishonest
2) Runaway Peaceniks
I am no fan of Bernie Sanders {although I have contributed twice@ $25}
I read & study foreign affairs closely and have for decades.
IMHO, nothing that Bernie has ever said has EVER supported the claim that he doesn't know anything about Foreign-Affairs
DITTO for Trump
** When Trump was asked about Nuclear Weapons in Europe, he simply said: "Nothing was off the table" {This IS, and has been the standard position of EVERYONE in diplomacy for 70 yrs on almost everything}
HOWEVER, establishment-media types immediately translated this SOP position into: "Trump says he would/might use nuclear weapons in Europe"
Reality-Check: Trump never said that, the media said that
** When Howard Dean was leading the Dem-POTUS run, the beginning of the end for him was triggered by JoeLeiberman, when he correctly & intelligently pointed out that the US was made no safer by US soldiers pulling Saddam Huessain out of a spider-hole
** Obama was pronounced as naive, when he said he would talk with Iran & N-Korea without preconditions
*
For me, there are only 2 major groups that are disasters on foreign affairs
1) NEOCONS, the folks that cheer-led the country into the sand-trap known as Iraq back in 2002. They want all war, all the time. {where do we invade next}
To be sure, these folks aren't stupid, they know exactly what they are doing
They are dangerous, and dishonest
2) Runaway Peaceniks
Let's get this straight. You actually believe that a contender for the Democratic nomination shouldn't have a view concerning Israel? A state that the US supports like no other but which treats more than half the population under its control as less than full citizens? There really is a disconnect between what Americans perceive and what the rest of world perceives.
2
Of all the issues facing America, Sanders chooses to fight over the Dems platform regarding U.S. policy toward Israel! Is this really the issue that is turning out all those huge crowds at his rallies? I doubt it.
After a year of galvanizing voters with a message of economic inequality, criminal justice reform, free tuition at public colleges and health care for all, Sanders now chooses to use his hard-won opportunity to influence the Democratic Platform by focusing on an issue that is hardly at the core of his supporters' passion.
Even the media has finally recognized what is driving the clamor for change: "It's The Economy Stupid!"
After a year of galvanizing voters with a message of economic inequality, criminal justice reform, free tuition at public colleges and health care for all, Sanders now chooses to use his hard-won opportunity to influence the Democratic Platform by focusing on an issue that is hardly at the core of his supporters' passion.
Even the media has finally recognized what is driving the clamor for change: "It's The Economy Stupid!"
99
It is very important for his supporters. The tide is shifting in the world, now the internet is there. Sanders has an instinct for what is important, for what is true, for what is right - he is visionary.
*Peace for all*
*Peace for all*
2
He just wants a FIGHT.
To hurt Hillary.
To hurt Hillary.
2
"The Arabs have never missed the opportunity to miss an opportunity"--Abba Eban
As dismayed as I am by Israel's rightward turn, and as opposed as I am to the settlement policies of the Netanyahu government, I cannot see political or moral reasons for Bernie to bet almost all his chips on the platform committee on one-sided, far-left critics on Israel, including one, Cornel West, who all but calls Barak Obama a race traitor ("Rockefeller Republican in blackface") because his narcissistic ego has not been sufficiently stroked by the Obama administration.
Danl is right. After this election, Eban's quote may likely morph to
"The Democrats have never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity."
As dismayed as I am by Israel's rightward turn, and as opposed as I am to the settlement policies of the Netanyahu government, I cannot see political or moral reasons for Bernie to bet almost all his chips on the platform committee on one-sided, far-left critics on Israel, including one, Cornel West, who all but calls Barak Obama a race traitor ("Rockefeller Republican in blackface") because his narcissistic ego has not been sufficiently stroked by the Obama administration.
Danl is right. After this election, Eban's quote may likely morph to
"The Democrats have never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity."
2
Netanyahu's adding the bigoted Lieberman as Defense Minister has taken him beyond cynicism. See yesterday's editorial by T. Friedman. The Democrats are totally wrong in their continued uncritical support of the Netanyahu regime, which is little more than a reactionary settler gov't.
7
The Democratic party, unfortunately, is turning hard left; not unlike 50 years ago when the hard right (movement conservatives) pushed out the "Rockefeller Republicans" and took over the Republican party. We all know how well that has turned out for the Rs. Moderation, centrism and good governance is gone; replaced by more radical move to the left.
The crackpots have taken over.
In a few years, the Dem party will be unrecognizable.
The crackpots have taken over.
In a few years, the Dem party will be unrecognizable.
5
Who are the "crackpots"?
There is just staggering arrogance in the implication that the U.S. has no interest in a two state solution. HRC is committed to this, and others before her have worked really hard to broker one. Once again - Bernie tries to paint himself and his cronies as the only progressives in the room by going off the rails with divisive committee member picks. He's essentially a Benedict Arnold to the Democratic Party.
164
To AM,
However, both the Israelis and the Palestinians, in the form of their leadership, must also be truly committed to a two-state resolution. That's why the hard work, for which I give Secy. Clinton and others great credit, has failed.
However, both the Israelis and the Palestinians, in the form of their leadership, must also be truly committed to a two-state resolution. That's why the hard work, for which I give Secy. Clinton and others great credit, has failed.
2
The Democratic Party is hardly the main concern here. Sanders can be seen as naive, or minimally informed about the world, or more accurately perhaps, as a well-known picture of that hoary caricature: the self-hating Jew. There really is no other way to depict his selecting an avowed anti-Semite like West (some of his best friends are Jewish) to represent his positions for the Democratic Platform -- or his shocking ignorance of any issues other than redistribution of income or single-payer health insurance. That he has mobilized an army of the young and uninformed should be a clarion call to those of us over the age of maturity to mobilize voters for Hillary Clinton who at least has experience and is well-informed about our economy, our place in the world, and our need to push back against all forms of bigotry.
5
The 2-state solution is a sham, a useful fig leaf that allows Israel to continue stealing and building on Palestinian land and allows the US to provide unconditional military and financial support for Israel. Netanyahu pretty much said so in the last election and just reinforced it with his appointment of the new defense minister.
1
There are democrats, like myself, who trust neither the israelis the palestinians. too many treaty violating "settlements" by israel and too many knife and bomb terror attacks by the palestinians. i am sure there are good people in both groups, but i'm not sure either deserves our allegiance as they do little to stop the bad guys.
Congratulations Bernie-you are handing the election to Donald Trump. When will you stop being so self serving and realize how dangerous the stakes are. Donald Trump as President is frightening, and you may be the one responsible for his Presidency! Causing great division in the Democratic Party only helps Donald Trump-NOT BERNIE SANDERS and the world!!!
2
The media, lobbyist, and politicians make it appear as if Israel is telling the U.S. what to do, but it is the U.S. secret policy that they are carrying out, when they commit daily atrocities and are rewarded with U.S. arms every year.
That's the problem with our Israeli foreign policy. We play good-cop-bad-cop with Israel and the fascist Zionists playing bad cop, and the U.S. both criticizing and defending the "bad cop" but but secretly satisfied with Israel's right wing doing what our State department, lobbyists, and politicians, wants them to do.
And it is atrocious in real life.
That's the problem with our Israeli foreign policy. We play good-cop-bad-cop with Israel and the fascist Zionists playing bad cop, and the U.S. both criticizing and defending the "bad cop" but but secretly satisfied with Israel's right wing doing what our State department, lobbyists, and politicians, wants them to do.
And it is atrocious in real life.
The Palestinians and their terrorist followers have not and will never recognize Israel's right to exist. They also continually call for the destruction of the country. Who in their right mind would support Israel giving back this land that they won after being attacked and threatened with annihilation? Cornel West and Zogby are racists so them being anti Israeli is certainly not surprising. Shame on anyone adopting the anti Israel line.
6
Israel used to embrace the Arab communities in their country. Now that is almost gone and Israel is less secure.
Trump's show that includes this idea of Muslim segregation will only endanger US security because it fires up a small segment of the population who want someone to blame other than themselves.
Israel's troubles are prophetic. Trump and Netanyahu have much in common. Both use fear to create an atmosphere where injustice is seen as necessary and righteous.
However, the US does have an obligation to see that the every day Israelis and Palestinians are victims of extreme views and politicking. The Dems changing the trajectory is important but the issues of Jews and Arabs will take generations to remodel.
Trump's show that includes this idea of Muslim segregation will only endanger US security because it fires up a small segment of the population who want someone to blame other than themselves.
Israel's troubles are prophetic. Trump and Netanyahu have much in common. Both use fear to create an atmosphere where injustice is seen as necessary and righteous.
However, the US does have an obligation to see that the every day Israelis and Palestinians are victims of extreme views and politicking. The Dems changing the trajectory is important but the issues of Jews and Arabs will take generations to remodel.
1
These peace negotiations have only been going on for 28 years now ... the Palestinians, especially those born in Lebanon, Jordan and Syria, are not interested in any peace that includes live Jews in the middle east. Now the jihad has reached the DNC.
After 5000 years of being tossed under the bus, we are not surprised.
After 5000 years of being tossed under the bus, we are not surprised.
7
Every time Clinton tries to triangulate it comes back and bites her. It is hard for both her and Bill to grasp that this time around people aren't going quietly into their woodshed.
3
This is Netanyahu's fault. He tried to embarrass President Obama and now he must pay a price.
3
Welcome president Trump!
Being morally right and strategically stupid,
may work in academia (though even there it doesn't),
but it is no way to manage a political party.
There is an election to be won and a party to be unified.
All members of Sanders' team, and Sanders himself, must recognize this.
It is completely fair and appropriate to fight against Jewish extremists like Malcolm Hoenlein, who disparage a US Congressman as inappropriate to serve on the Democratic Party platform committee, because this Congressman is "a Muslim" and "has supported the rights of Palestinians." Horrors! What's next? Justice?
For too long, Jewish extremists have been allowed to warp the agenda and platform of the Democratic Party.
Correcting that wrong can be done without extremism and contentiousness from the other end.
The country and Democrats are developing a much more balanced view of the Palestinians and Israel.
That proper evolution can be leveraged for more balanced statements, policies and platforms.
And all that can be done, without blowing up the Democratic Party.
Being morally right and strategically stupid,
may work in academia (though even there it doesn't),
but it is no way to manage a political party.
There is an election to be won and a party to be unified.
All members of Sanders' team, and Sanders himself, must recognize this.
It is completely fair and appropriate to fight against Jewish extremists like Malcolm Hoenlein, who disparage a US Congressman as inappropriate to serve on the Democratic Party platform committee, because this Congressman is "a Muslim" and "has supported the rights of Palestinians." Horrors! What's next? Justice?
For too long, Jewish extremists have been allowed to warp the agenda and platform of the Democratic Party.
Correcting that wrong can be done without extremism and contentiousness from the other end.
The country and Democrats are developing a much more balanced view of the Palestinians and Israel.
That proper evolution can be leveraged for more balanced statements, policies and platforms.
And all that can be done, without blowing up the Democratic Party.
3
War crimes or not, this country needs to push a two state solution.
Yes, we can do without the accusations if we can achieve peace between Palestine and Israel. I want my country to accept Palestine as a free state just like the rest of the free world.
Yes, we can do without the accusations if we can achieve peace between Palestine and Israel. I want my country to accept Palestine as a free state just like the rest of the free world.
1
Bernie is speaking what many citizens already know. You only say what's really on your mind when you have nothing to loose. Israeli settlements is a slap in the face to US taxpayers. Return the land Israel, don't bulldoze the settlements on you way out, that's US dollars! Palestinians could use a home with running water. Palestinians are human and you're no better.
4
How is calling Obama a "Rockefeller Republican" a provocation?
Certainly Rockefeller would have been at home with the leadership of today's so-called "centrist" Democratic Party.
The numerous Cornell West references in the article implies there is some extremist element in the Democratic Party. What constitutes this extremism? Criticism of Israel? Calling the occupied territories "occupied" (what's with the quotation marks, it is an occupation. That's the official US position.)
Let's remember that the Israeli government now includes an actual provocateur and hatemongerer (unlike Cornell West) who has called for the beheading of disloyal Israeli citizens and the ethnic cleansing of Israel of Arab citizens. Why isn't the Democratic Party more critical of Israel?
Certainly Rockefeller would have been at home with the leadership of today's so-called "centrist" Democratic Party.
The numerous Cornell West references in the article implies there is some extremist element in the Democratic Party. What constitutes this extremism? Criticism of Israel? Calling the occupied territories "occupied" (what's with the quotation marks, it is an occupation. That's the official US position.)
Let's remember that the Israeli government now includes an actual provocateur and hatemongerer (unlike Cornell West) who has called for the beheading of disloyal Israeli citizens and the ethnic cleansing of Israel of Arab citizens. Why isn't the Democratic Party more critical of Israel?
5
I think it was the blackface part of the comment that was offensive.....
3
While I have always supported Israel's right to exist as a democratic independent Jewish majority state, the current elected leadership of Israel, under the baton of Netanyahu, has lost the support of many American (and mostly Democratic) voters like myself. I find the politics of "J Street" closer to my political philosophy and cannot support the ignorant concept of "Israel, right or wrong". As Trump, if elected, may be the start of the decline of the American democracy. Netanyahu is already the beginning of the decline of the Israeli democracy. I bet Golda Meir and Ben Gurion are writhing in their graves today.
3
If American Jews are so dedicated to Israel, then does that mean Chinese Americans should be routing for China, Japanese Americans for Japan, Italian Americans for Italy instead of the US and so forth and so on?
2
Thanks Bernie Sanders for helping to bring this issue out in the open for debate. I am tired our "occupied" Congress and their blanket support for both Israel and Saudi Arabia that makes our country look so hypocritical to those in the rest of the world. I vote for a change in policy now.
3
As a supporter of Israel from it's inception until essentially the Netanyahu regime, I ask: Why the does the NYT put quotes on "occupation"?
Unfortunately, I think I know the reason: The NYT is folding the "Greater Israel" position into a news analysis as if that is the generally accepted view of the situation.
Sorry, but many of us who worked hard to get Israel into existence and through the first really difficult 30 years, consider that viewpoint far from acceptable.
In fact many of us think that by pursuing the piecemeal annexation of territories taken in War, the Israelis have are not only violating a basic concept of the United Nations (one learned from centuries of bitter experience) but are sowing the seeds of Israel's own eventual destruction.
The original dream of a Secular Democratic State led by Jews has already begun to morph into a Theocratic Jewish State where non-Jews are not welcome and full democracy is reserved only for Jews. From what I have seen there, eventually, "democracy" will be limited to Religiously Orthodox Jews only.
After that, one way or the other, the end will come. You see, there really are anti Semites out there who might ignore other theocratic dictatorships, but not a Jewish one.
Of course, by that time the Israel of our dreams will already have vanished.
Unfortunately, I think I know the reason: The NYT is folding the "Greater Israel" position into a news analysis as if that is the generally accepted view of the situation.
Sorry, but many of us who worked hard to get Israel into existence and through the first really difficult 30 years, consider that viewpoint far from acceptable.
In fact many of us think that by pursuing the piecemeal annexation of territories taken in War, the Israelis have are not only violating a basic concept of the United Nations (one learned from centuries of bitter experience) but are sowing the seeds of Israel's own eventual destruction.
The original dream of a Secular Democratic State led by Jews has already begun to morph into a Theocratic Jewish State where non-Jews are not welcome and full democracy is reserved only for Jews. From what I have seen there, eventually, "democracy" will be limited to Religiously Orthodox Jews only.
After that, one way or the other, the end will come. You see, there really are anti Semites out there who might ignore other theocratic dictatorships, but not a Jewish one.
Of course, by that time the Israel of our dreams will already have vanished.
3
Bernie bros miss the point entirely. The critical battle is not between Hillary and Bernie. It is a fight for the last chance for our flawed democracy to survive and be strengthened.
If the battle is lost to the Republicans there will be no way to end Citizen's United and stop the flow of the dark money into local elections that has bought many GOP-controlled state legislatures, congressmen and governors; no way to stop the Supreme Court-assisted assault on voters' rights; no way to put an end to systematic and highly effective Republican REDMAP gerrymandering engineered by Karl Rove.
If the battle is lost to the Republicans there shall be a descent into the bottomless pit of fascism and with all three branches of government in the hands of Karl Rove, the Koch brothers and the Freedom Caucus There will be no way back..not ever. If Bernie supporters ever want to have another shot at the revolution we desperately need ...then there is no option but to fight for a Democratic win in 2016.
Fostering a split in the Democratic Party is to throw away everything Bernie has fought for. There will be no way back from a Trump presidency.
If the battle is lost to the Republicans there will be no way to end Citizen's United and stop the flow of the dark money into local elections that has bought many GOP-controlled state legislatures, congressmen and governors; no way to stop the Supreme Court-assisted assault on voters' rights; no way to put an end to systematic and highly effective Republican REDMAP gerrymandering engineered by Karl Rove.
If the battle is lost to the Republicans there shall be a descent into the bottomless pit of fascism and with all three branches of government in the hands of Karl Rove, the Koch brothers and the Freedom Caucus There will be no way back..not ever. If Bernie supporters ever want to have another shot at the revolution we desperately need ...then there is no option but to fight for a Democratic win in 2016.
Fostering a split in the Democratic Party is to throw away everything Bernie has fought for. There will be no way back from a Trump presidency.
1
Please, Bernie advisors: let the platform make a statement like the one Bernie articulated in the debate, but not to get embroiled in a platform debate/debacle. No one thinks about the platform after the convention. The crisis is whether the super delegates can come to see that Bernie's time has come and switch to him, trusting that he has the ability to lead the country in a new direction, safer and saner. He has shown that kind of strength and steadiness In this grueling and surprising primary year.
This is just another tactical move in Bernie's shock and awe March to Victory at the Convention campaign. Bernie does not understand the difference between the forest and the trees, a part from it's whole and the interdependencies. He thinks activity (lots of yelling, noise and declarations) = results. Bernie is like the Republican Party, unwilling and unable to govern even when they control Congress and the Supremes . Bernie might consider flipping again to the Repub Party, with this piece I suggest Sec. Of State for Trump.
2
Important for people to understand that if Trump gets into the White House the Israel/Palestine conflict will far and away be a very minor foreign policy issue compared to the upheavals that Trump will cause by having the US leave NATO, the trade war with China, the nuclear arming of Japan, allowing Putin to continue Russia's march across Europe and God knows what other nightmare's Trump will unleash.
3
No one takes a back seat in blind subservience to AIPAC than the likely nominee of the Party, and given how much else she will have to answer for, in a campaign which already will try to tar her as unreliable in every commitment she makes, it does seem gratuitous to use the platform to expose the Party's willingness to listen to common sense on a 7-decade crisis. Implacable intransigence is the safer position, and heaven knows, this candidate does cherish the safer position.
1
Mr. Sanders would rather tear down Mrs. Clinton and elect Donald Trump than concede his "revolution" is anything but. Perhaps he and his followers would feel differentlly if they saw the Democratic Party as anything beyond a vehicle to be used for their own purposes and then discarded after they're done.
Indeed, I tremble for my country when I reflect on the left's ability to eviscerate itself. As it did in 1968 (welcome, Richard M. Nixon), 1972 (Nixon's The One! Again), 1980 (howdy, Ronald Reagan), 1984 (Morning in America meets Mourning for Mondale) and 2000 (ascension of the most disastrous president in our lifetime - before Donald Trump.)
Indeed, I tremble for my country when I reflect on the left's ability to eviscerate itself. As it did in 1968 (welcome, Richard M. Nixon), 1972 (Nixon's The One! Again), 1980 (howdy, Ronald Reagan), 1984 (Morning in America meets Mourning for Mondale) and 2000 (ascension of the most disastrous president in our lifetime - before Donald Trump.)
7
This is a discussion which is futile. Elections or not, the politicians and lobbyists decide what is to be done. Whatever comes out of the Democratic convention does not matter. Democracy is a word that does not mean much. Israel will continue to do what it has been doing for decades. So, next subject.
James Zogby has long been saying what the Israeli peace movement has been saying, None of it is anti-Israel, but all of it is aimed at seeking peace and not unquestioningly supporting an Israeli president who came to our Congress to influence our foreign policy. I have met Zogby and found him to be an intelligent and compassionate man, not the crazed Israe-hater some comments think he is.
2
Those Jews! I guess it is true! While barely two percent of the population of our nation, they indeed have too much power! And what good have they done for us?! A third of our Hospitals seem to have been started by Jews or are named in something referenced to them! They pretty much created Hollywood, which historically had its' beginnings in that Brooklyn place, where they use to be found all over they place, and really shined in our great Public Schools, which they once frequented ! And all our Nobel Prize winners?! Sometimes it sounds like half of our laureates are from that tribe of former desert nomads! And what good have they done for our national pastime, or any sports for that matter?! Aren't they a clumsy lot?! Forgetting the fact that form their ranks have come arguably the greatest pitcher who has ever thrown a ball from the mound, a Tiger Homerun hitter who was not only awesome, but probably would have had more feats had the anti Semitic owners of his team let him play more, and a guy who seems to hit like a Hammer, even when he is not on questionable drugs! And isn't it true, when two of them gather, they have three different opinions of things?! And in World War II didn't over six hundred thousand of them, take up arms for thir American nation, like their fellow countrymen, while barely two percent of our population then, that represented only six percent of Americans who were in our Armed Forces?! As for Israel, why do more live here?! And those comedians.
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In healthy families and among friends frank discussions can be held about differences of opinion, viewpoints, and above all perceptions of facts. In politics it gets a little more dicey. That the Democratic Party can even be having this discussion is indicative of health and realistic appreciation for the reality of daily life in Israel and Palestine. The alternative reality of much of political life is money. Would anyone posit that each and every republican candidate sought an audience with Sheldon Adelson seeking wisdom and enlightenment? Similarly, every candidate but one spoke this spring before AIPAC, all voicing effusive support including increased American taxpayer funded aid. Sen. Sanders did not address that conference, but the text of his speech was delivered and is available on line. Recommended reading. Ms. Clinton has said she would invite the Israeli PM to the White House her first month in office. I don't believe it will be for tea; and I don't believe she'll tell him to 'just cut it out.' Americans overwhelmingly support Israeli democracy. Colonial occupation, expansion, and extreme nationalistic radicalism, not so much.
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So, a country that is not our country threatens to fracture one of our country's major political parties.
Makes sense. One quick question though: who's more our daddy; is it Israel, or is it China? I always forget...
Makes sense. One quick question though: who's more our daddy; is it Israel, or is it China? I always forget...
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The US pours billions of dollars into Israel -- money we could use for what we need here at home! And with the help of Republican todies, the right wing extremist Netanyahu deliberately and repeatedly disrespects the President of the United States. How long are we going to continue to support Israel without calling them out on their crimes against humanity? I guess as long as AIPAC is around and Sheldon Adelson pours money into Republican coffers.
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Abrahmam Foxman and Alan Dershowitz have both pointed out the disgraceful increase in anti-Semitic activity in the US. Cornell West proves this. May he be removed from his academic post for these disgraceful views that threaten Israel!
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I do not trust what was reported and want to know how Dr. West placed his comments. While Netanyahu should be condemned as much as Cheney, it is unwise to call him a “war criminal” and just wrong to call the Jews a "hated people,” because:
1. In the cauldron of the Middle East it is paramount to unequivocally champion the rights of all people, as has Bernie Sanders, and not just the rights of Palestinians. West's reportedly one-sided statements raise the specter of the same old anti-Semitism which the left has indulged in, and Sanders has criticized. As a "left-winger" I well know that the evil hate of other people can also hide behind a liberal mask as well as any other.
2. After the still recent Holocaust, and non-Jewish leaders in the Middle East rabidly and heinously fomenting anti-Semitism, such reportedly one-sided statements can only encourage them. There is criticism of people on both sides in the Middle East, but no reason to talk this way about a people as a whole. Labeling the Jews as a “hated people" even implies there is some basis for anti-Semitism which is heinous nonsense which should be unequivocally rejected as untrue. West could have just as well said that even if the Jews were persecuted, there is never a reason for a Jewish leader to hurt innocent others.
3. While I have appreciated West’s outspokenness, his statements, as reported, can be misused by the "Clinton camp" and the MSM to distract attention from the revived e-mail scandal.
1. In the cauldron of the Middle East it is paramount to unequivocally champion the rights of all people, as has Bernie Sanders, and not just the rights of Palestinians. West's reportedly one-sided statements raise the specter of the same old anti-Semitism which the left has indulged in, and Sanders has criticized. As a "left-winger" I well know that the evil hate of other people can also hide behind a liberal mask as well as any other.
2. After the still recent Holocaust, and non-Jewish leaders in the Middle East rabidly and heinously fomenting anti-Semitism, such reportedly one-sided statements can only encourage them. There is criticism of people on both sides in the Middle East, but no reason to talk this way about a people as a whole. Labeling the Jews as a “hated people" even implies there is some basis for anti-Semitism which is heinous nonsense which should be unequivocally rejected as untrue. West could have just as well said that even if the Jews were persecuted, there is never a reason for a Jewish leader to hurt innocent others.
3. While I have appreciated West’s outspokenness, his statements, as reported, can be misused by the "Clinton camp" and the MSM to distract attention from the revived e-mail scandal.
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Pre-1948, the Arabs rejected two partition proposals: the Peel commission (1937) and the UN Partition Plan (1947).
In 2000, President Clinton proposed a reasonable partition plan, but in his book "My Life" (p.944) he stated "Arafat's rejection of my proposal after Barak (Israel's PM) accepted it was an error of historic proportions."
In 2008, Israeli PM Olmert offered to the Palestinians about 94% of the West Bank, about 6% of Israeli territory, Gaza and joint control over religious sites in Jerusalem. Abbas rejected that offer.
A permanent, peaceful resolution will happen only when there are courageous leaders on both sides who are willing to compromise. Netanyahu may not be such a leader, but when have the Palestinians had one?
In 2000, President Clinton proposed a reasonable partition plan, but in his book "My Life" (p.944) he stated "Arafat's rejection of my proposal after Barak (Israel's PM) accepted it was an error of historic proportions."
In 2008, Israeli PM Olmert offered to the Palestinians about 94% of the West Bank, about 6% of Israeli territory, Gaza and joint control over religious sites in Jerusalem. Abbas rejected that offer.
A permanent, peaceful resolution will happen only when there are courageous leaders on both sides who are willing to compromise. Netanyahu may not be such a leader, but when have the Palestinians had one?
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The single greatest threat to Israel's security is the Netanyahu and his government. It is worth remembering that in 1917 with the Balfour Declaration the British gave the Zionists a homeland, not a state, on someone else's land. Modern Israel was created by Zionists through terrorism and occupation of Arab lands. So, it is not unreasonable to recognize that the Palestinians, forced to live under apartheid, have a legitimate grievance. It is time for the US to put serious pressure on the Israeli government to implement a two-state solution.
God did not give the Jews the Levant. The Brits did. And it wasn't theirs to give away.
God did not give the Jews the Levant. The Brits did. And it wasn't theirs to give away.
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The UN did.
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The United Nations formed in 1945. The Brits agreed to a Zionist homeland in 1917. The UN essentially accepted a fait accompli.
Foreign policy is precisely why I support Bernie Sanders.
First: Americans need to be able to hold two thoughts in their minds simultaneously; it is possible to be both very concerned about Israel's safety and security AND be critical of Israel's continuous expansion in the West Bank. Lots of people assume that any criticism of Israel is automatic evidence of anti-semitism.
Let's understand once and for all that this is complete nonsense.
I believe that the West Bank expansion undermines Israel's security as opposed to strengthening its position.
Secondly: Netanyahu wants the U.S. to bomb Iran, and ideally, Lebanon too. Everyone who has been watching Hillary closely knows very well that she grovels in front of Netanyahu, and will do whatever it takes to keep AIPAC happy.
This is the issue that terrifies me.
One of Obama's greatest accomplishments (IMO) is the Iran treaty that John Kerry worked so diligently to make happen. Make no mistake, Hillary was reluctantly brought onboard to support this agreement. I should also point out that the Persian Gulf monarchs also want to see Iran decimated, and Hillary is very loyal to those despotic leaders.
There is massive mistrust on both sides of the U.S./Iran conflict dating back back to the 1953 CIA overthrow of the FIRST EVER DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED LEADER OF IRAN.
Bernie wants to cautiously move forward to begin healing this relationship, and he is the only (current) candidate with the wisdom to make it happen.
First: Americans need to be able to hold two thoughts in their minds simultaneously; it is possible to be both very concerned about Israel's safety and security AND be critical of Israel's continuous expansion in the West Bank. Lots of people assume that any criticism of Israel is automatic evidence of anti-semitism.
Let's understand once and for all that this is complete nonsense.
I believe that the West Bank expansion undermines Israel's security as opposed to strengthening its position.
Secondly: Netanyahu wants the U.S. to bomb Iran, and ideally, Lebanon too. Everyone who has been watching Hillary closely knows very well that she grovels in front of Netanyahu, and will do whatever it takes to keep AIPAC happy.
This is the issue that terrifies me.
One of Obama's greatest accomplishments (IMO) is the Iran treaty that John Kerry worked so diligently to make happen. Make no mistake, Hillary was reluctantly brought onboard to support this agreement. I should also point out that the Persian Gulf monarchs also want to see Iran decimated, and Hillary is very loyal to those despotic leaders.
There is massive mistrust on both sides of the U.S./Iran conflict dating back back to the 1953 CIA overthrow of the FIRST EVER DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED LEADER OF IRAN.
Bernie wants to cautiously move forward to begin healing this relationship, and he is the only (current) candidate with the wisdom to make it happen.
2
Has anyone ask why Israeli policy and government is the way it is today? How did we get here? Does it have anything to do with maybe, just maybe, Palestinian leadership? The disastrous legacy of Yasser Arafat or Hamas? I remember when the Israeli army forcibly removed Israeli settlers from Gaza. What did the Palestinians do? They attacked Israel repeatedly with rocket attacks, not at military targets, but at innocent civilians. What did they do with the tons of building material allowed into Gaza? Did they build housing, sewers, hotels with it? No. They diverted it to building a massive tunnel complex into Israel. The apologist like West and others never seem to state these facts as a possible reason for the hard line Israel takes. I hope the Palestinians move on from the past and recognize Israel's right to exist, and establish their own country in what's left of the West Bank.
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Americans have no right to criticize a democratic society unless they live there, vote there, walk the streets there and participate in its economy and debate. What right do we have to pick Israeli policy and boycott it when there are many countries that do similar things. To be intellectually honest you must be throwing away your iPhones made by China because China has minorities it punishes, land areas it has seized. Maybe because the Chinese have a right to their land, but Jews do not have a right. To me these people (whether Jewish or or not) are anti-semites
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I take your point about criticizing Israeli policy from the relative safety of the United States, but your characterization of critics as anti-semites is quite frankly ludicrous. Unlike China, Israel receives massive military and financial support from your tax dollars and mine. For decades we have enabled Israeli policies (West Bank settlement, as one salient example) that treat the Palestinian people as less human than Israelis. As an American taxpayer, I find this to be really and truly criminal. I do not want to fund Likud's violent embrace of settler-colonialism and the notions of ethnic supremacy on which its based. As a taxpayer and a voter, I have every right to make my voice heard on this issue.
Chris.
We don't pay for Likud, we pay Israel because it is the Canary in the mid-East Coal Mine. It tests our weapons, it provides intelligence, and it is a viable ally visited by our citizens of all religions.
The reason I used the term Anti-Semite, is because it is classically defined as using a multi-causal judgement on a mono-causal target.
Thanks for your comment.
We don't pay for Likud, we pay Israel because it is the Canary in the mid-East Coal Mine. It tests our weapons, it provides intelligence, and it is a viable ally visited by our citizens of all religions.
The reason I used the term Anti-Semite, is because it is classically defined as using a multi-causal judgement on a mono-causal target.
Thanks for your comment.
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The incessant war drums by all sides of the aisle in defense of Israel has been one of the epic disasters of successive governments in the US. Funded by AIPAC and other conservative entities, Congress and the Presidency have absconded power to Israel. Bernie is absolutely spot on regarding Israel. We taxpayers are sick and tired of funding wars to cement Israeli hegemony over the Middle East. Palestine has been reduced to a ever smaller ghetto by Israel. This has resulting in the rise of Al Qaida, ISIS and all other extremist anti-west groups. The blind support of Israel by our bureaucrats has been disastrous. Let's see where the NYT editorials take us, as if we don't know...
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Cornell West on the platform committee! A breath of fresh air this morning.
Israel is a foreign country. What is good for Israel is not automatically something that we MUST support.
Unless, of course, AIPAC rules this country instead of the people of America.
Unless, of course, AIPAC rules this country instead of the people of America.
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Zogby & West are filling a huge vacuum in the party, since the DLC was created by the likes of Koch Industries, Philip Morris, DuPont, and Chevron.
The elephant in the room is that a small but real portion of our last 13yrs of US casualties has been due to Likud policies.
The elephant in the room is that a small but real portion of our last 13yrs of US casualties has been due to Likud policies.
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This article, by totally ignoring them, grossly insults the many decent and brave Israelis who fully concur with Senator Sanders.
Like many Americans — and a majority of Democrats — these individuals and groups fully recognize that the real existential threat to Israel today comes not from Hamas rockets, but from the occupation, the awful policies of Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the failure to forge a just peace with the Palestinians.
This failure is reinforced — and the downward spiral in Israel/Palestine is tightened — by the slobbering pandering of U.S. politicians, individuals who put their lust for campaign cash and immediate electoral goals above the search for peace. Such politicians ask not what is right, nor how can we achieve co-existence between two people who both deserve peace and justice, but what will the big campaign donors think of my policies — a cowardly calculus.
Senator Sanders, to his infinite credit, and with the moral authority to do so, has broken with this slavish pattern — but another reason why he towers over the rest, particularly the calculating Hillary Clinton, who would throw anyone under a bus, so long as it advanced her relentless quest for power.
Shame on the writers for completely ignoring this, the heart of the story here.
@ricfouad
Like many Americans — and a majority of Democrats — these individuals and groups fully recognize that the real existential threat to Israel today comes not from Hamas rockets, but from the occupation, the awful policies of Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the failure to forge a just peace with the Palestinians.
This failure is reinforced — and the downward spiral in Israel/Palestine is tightened — by the slobbering pandering of U.S. politicians, individuals who put their lust for campaign cash and immediate electoral goals above the search for peace. Such politicians ask not what is right, nor how can we achieve co-existence between two people who both deserve peace and justice, but what will the big campaign donors think of my policies — a cowardly calculus.
Senator Sanders, to his infinite credit, and with the moral authority to do so, has broken with this slavish pattern — but another reason why he towers over the rest, particularly the calculating Hillary Clinton, who would throw anyone under a bus, so long as it advanced her relentless quest for power.
Shame on the writers for completely ignoring this, the heart of the story here.
@ricfouad
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It is sad that the political left is under the delusion that only pressure on Israel will bring peace. This is baffling to many people. Even a cursory study of Israel's history and conflict with the Palestinians shows that one-sided pressure by outside parties will bring more conflict. It will not lead to peace. When the Palestinians come to the table to negotiate peace, like Egypt and Jordan before, there will be an agreement.
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