| The tough love is absolutely necessary if America is to act within a broader vision of its national interest, as well as Israel`s. There was a piece recently, I think in this very paper, that stated flatly, based on historical fact, that the Presidents that have shown Israel the toughest love-from Bush I to Jimmy Carter--have done it the greatest good. The Madrid conference,the first direct dialogues with its Arab neighbors, and peace with Jordan, peace with Egypt--where would Israel be without these events? In a far worse position than today, for sure. Complacent presdiencies like that of George W. Bush only do Israel great harm by indulging its worse instincts--that of a greedy bully. If Obama can cajole Israel (and, yes, the other Arab players) into making the necessary concessions, then it will serve future Israeli generations great good to see Israel no longer surrounded by enemies, but by partners in trade and culture. |
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