ANALYSIS: The clear loser from Ahmadinejad's visit is Israel

Couldn't agree with Rosner more - this little Iranian packs a powerful punch and more and more people are supporting him - and righfully so! The world will slowly start to see Israel for the terrorist state is really is! After all, he's right, the poor innocent Palestinians should not be responsible for Germany's crimes against the Jews or the Holocaust - why are they suffering this way? If Germany owns up to it, why don't they give us Jews some land so we can stop killing a nation that has been there for over 2000 yrs? What's wrong is wrong and we should own up to our mistakes. Zionism has NOTHING to do with the Jewish religion, and I want the whole world to know that!!!

This happened before. When Germany invaded many European countries, many locals got the impression that Nazis were primarily after the Jews. As a result, the locals imagined that by cooperating with the Nazis to annihilate the Jews, they could actually improve their own situation. Now back to the future: In the year 2020, will the world sell Israel in order to buy the peace, if there is a major international crisis involving the danger of nuclear war when an emerging extremist block is armed to the teeth? You already know the answer...

walt was always an subjective player. I am suspecting that Palestinian or Iranian lobby is behind their job, even if WM is not suspecting it. The disguised spark was planted in their mind, probably coated with some financial or carrier advantage. On the other hand, all justified facts of the book should be really corrected and the Likud orientation of some angry American organizations must be cleaned up. Let the Israeli diplomat have a voice in the American life, and refrain from anything that can hurt the ordinary Palestinian people. For a change, let us build a bridge to the suffering Palestinians and Iranians.

hi of course Pals have suffered. Of course their needs should be addressed. The problem remains that they want it all - they do not want to compromise or be reasonable. So, while the majority of Israelis would be willing to make painful compromises for peace & a 2 state solution - what should we do with a people who are holding out for it all at any cost to themselves or others ? Israel is in a real moral quagmire. The Pals quite simply want it all at any cost&are willing to suffer if it furthers their ultimate goal.The world, by pitying them ¬ making them fully responsible for their choices have made the strategy worthwhile. Ah...is a crafty lunatic who mixes a lot of emotionally attractive ideas in with a few evil ones - once again a good tactic. Another Hitler in the making while the world ponces around debating values that will be worthless once this man has more power. It is time to wake up, stop philosophizing and act.

Persia [Iran] and Israel [anciently and presently]have been allies. The US and Iran were allies up to the Shah. This therefore demonstrates that we are not natural enemies. Uncorrected, bad US foreign policy towards Iran has caused most of this including the overthrow of the Shah and subsequent bad relations. Israel for its part has blindly followed the recent US line, never demanding what many there must know is a failed policy be changed. The best place to start getting better relations among this religious people [Iranians]is to inform them of their glorious Biblical history with the Israelites that culminated in the crowning of three Israelite Persian Viceroys: Daniel, Queen Esther and Modecai. The secularists are ruining US and Israeli life and our internal and external relations with atheistic and agnostic ideologies that take the religious meat of history away from the table of mankind. The extremist mullahs etc., hope and pray that these forces will win in the US and Israel.

Rosner's analysis, unfortunately, rings true.

Well i think Ahmadinejad has a point.The holocaust was one of the most dreadful events that happened i totally agree. But as a black man i think the slave trade is far more devasting than the holocaust.more than 6million people killed and millions more degraded to animal status. Yet today nobody gives a damn.America and britain wont even apologise! my quetion is 'is a jewish life worth more than an african life? take a moment and think about this.

There is no propaganda as good as Israeli propaganda...they have all of Israel on the "lets get Iran' bandwagon... Hardly any dissenting voices....

Please. Cool down look wisely. Look a round you and see who is the real problem. Who yet has consumed the large part of the American taxes for nothing grown on the western flush like cancer? Suck your blood. If you do not a wake now you will defiantly be totally consumed Nasir

And how pray will America fund "TWOT" if they attack Iran...? You say Iranian Oil stops, and Venezuelan. Remember Iraq? Think there is any oil in Iraq? A recent report admitted that at least 300,000 barrels a day are missing. iraq is in chaos, perfect for oil smuggling/theft. but the cat isnt out of the bag yet so they aren't taking anything like the amount they could. yet. And you miss the big picture again, the caspian. these are all moves to secure first the ME oil and then the caspian reserves. Control the energy and you control the world. Ally that with controlling food a la monsanto and their GM crops that dont reproduce, forcing farmers to buy seed every year, and you have a scary scenario. And we wonder why bush and co aren't pushing renewable energy. Cos its free!

Mate are you deliberately playing dumb? In what language in the world does vanish equate to destroy or annihilate? Not English anyway. Get a dictionary and a thesaurus. Vanish means disappear, go away, get off the scene. Destroy and annihilate speak for their selves. And anyway you dont even read YOUR own quotes: "The IMAM said.." EXACTLY, not Ahmadinejad.

Ahmadinejad is not a holocaust denier. I don't think ANYBODY denies the holocaust. The problem is that people who throw down the 'holocaust denier' label fail to understand the difference between the phrase 'some of it didn't happen' and 'it didn't happen.' I'm not a holocaust denier. I think calling the holocaust "unique" is stupid. I doubt there was a master plan by Nazi Germany to exterminate the Jews, six million Jews weren't killed and nobody died in a gas chamber. But I'm not denying it happened. I'm saying SOME of it didn't happen. If you have proof of homicidal gas chambers at Auschwitz, show it to me. Don't label me a 'denier' and have me arrested for asking the question.

So as long as Iran only annihilates JEWS, that's alright is it???? What about the world saying after the Holocaust "this must never be allowed to happen again"? Looks like it is doing.

And how pray will America fund "TWOT" if they attack Iran...? Firstly, Iranian oil will cease to flow westwards, not only cutting out the US but any of the countries allied to the US will find the taps run dry. Secondly, the moment Iran is hit, Chavez stops supplying America and sells it to the Chinese for Bills of Exchange. So there we have the western world deprived of a huge portion of needed oil, America is also deprived of a badly needed amount of oil revenue, Saudia Arabia cannot supply the west on its own. And so the dollar begins to shrivel, China then bails out of the dollar, oil producing countries change their bourse to the Euro or Rouble... and no amount of threats or coercion will stop that happening. China has tremendous power to break America, it is called the "economic nuke" and gives Fed officials nightmares and they pray daily that today is not the day it explodes. Hitting Iran, China and Russia's friend is not the best thing to do.

Tom, the meaning and intent were the same no matter how you mince words with translations. Also, Words in the US for a US audience are oft time far different than words he speaks to his own countrymen.

Well Shmuel, I have red the full text of Pres. Ahmadinejad's speechand you are wrong and biased. Oh God is there a Jew alive today who dares to take the other side's opinion seriously, or will it be forever the dialogue of the deafs?

You're right..peaceful solution will not be had until there is a reasonable settlement of the issues...for Israelis AND Palestinians. Israelis were willing to return the land IN EXCHANGE for a TRUE peace. Sadly, this offer was refused...repeatedly. So, Israel is the unwilling occupier AND PAWN of the Arab nations who want the conflict to continue. The question is what will be a true and just settlement? Considering what happened to the Western Wall and other Jewish sites between 48 and 67, I have doubts that Israel will give up its' HOLIEST religious site. not 2nd...not 3rd holiest, but HOLIEST..like Vatican City to Catholics or Mecca to Muslims. Of course, to be fair to al..perhaps Israel would give up claim t Wailing Wall if Catholics give them Vatican City, and of course, Muslims can give Mecca to Catholics! Sounds like a reasonable trade, right?

Rosner's claim that Israel is the only nation adorned with a bullseye in the event of a nuclear-empowered Iran ignores Ahmedinejad's overtures to Hugo Chavez in recent years. Increased cooperation between Iran and Caracas could have drastic implications in a post-Castro Cuba. Based on the increasingly inevitable -direct hostilities against Iran- the US combat theatre will be expanded eastward. Unlike the IDF who has never enjoyed a real peacetime and learned to fight a guerilla war through years of casualities and practice, US forces are entirely dependent on 'contractors' like Blackwater to do the dirty work. As long as the US are able to fund the 'War on/of Terror' Israel will never stand alone despite myths to the contrary.

At least he made some people think about what is going on by telling them to ignore the Palestinian problem. Reverse psychology tells me hes playing with words to drive several messages into the minds of many people all at once. The Gaza-W.Bank problem can't be solved without taking care of the inhabitants AND the occupiers of the surrounding land. Reality is that even some soldiers have lost the will to fight on both sides. The greatest danger is when soldiers begin to think-wars are lost that way.

It is neither Israel nor Ahmadinejad the loser, rather the President of the University, who out of his hateful heart took a childish aim at a visitor. Nobody supports Ahmadinejad, but as a visitor to the university, he should have been treated with at least mild courteousy. He is even more courageous than that President.

"The truth is that Zionist and Muslim fanatics are being exploited by those who want ME oil and real estate. You will all see all too soon it`s not about you. Wake up." now you said it. This is your current reality folks. Not very nice is it? This debate is heartening.The real people of the world, muslim, christian, jew, it DOESNT matter, do not want this. We must WAKE UP! We are all being exploited and used by people with a long term plan, which is being exposed day by day. Another world really is possible, we need to get rid of the people leading us down the path of inhumanity. In your bones you know this is true, all of you. This doesnt mean destroying any one people or race, people are the same everywhere. Its regimes, the people in power in certain countries are doing this and we need to rise from our apathetic slumber and say no. There is enough wealth and resources for all on this planet and they are ours, all of us. Join the debate, get your friends involved. WAKE UP!!

And where does it say: Israeli people, the state of Israel, Jews? But you do raise a fair point in that certain aligned media's as well as the White House who propagated the lie have changed "Vanish" to "destroy" etc. You see, they do the thinking for you, they take something, twist it, put it back on the shelf and wait for people like you to bite, swallow it whole and spread the word. Virtually every country on this planet has an issue of what Israel does to the Palestinians, as seen recently in the UN and elsewhere, they would like the bad things to stop happening and maybe when they are in America's crosshairs, there will be more "mistranslations" as well for you to eat up. Man, you must be a propagandists dream...

Actually it wasn't the American one I was quoting. But mention of the American one or should we say "Cheney's fondest pipe" to quote another US Senator today, it is noted that Congress lifted the final brake off Bush today and given him legality to attack Iran. The US has a pre-emption doctrine that allows for nuclear attack on countries that "harbour" terrorists and maybe now, people with an eye for the whole picture can see how its all going to be pulled off. Has it not occurred to you that Israel is being used as a tool, a fatted calf to throw at the Iranians, if you or America attack Iran, who will pay??? Iran can't hit mainland America but it can hit YOU. Those Patriot missiles cannot stop a loud fart on a cold morning, it has an atrocious failure rate and Iran has SunBurn missiles, missiles that CANNOT be shot down, evaded or destroyed, s300 AA defences that WILL shoot down anything up to the latest F class fighter and Stealther... man how you lot have been lied to.

this is a frenzied response. Ahmadinejad did not hurt Israel at Columbia Univ. He hurt himself and his regime in Iran. Those who would believe his comments are already neo-Nazis or KKK. The man is dangerous as long as he leads Iran but, frankly, how much power does he really control in Iran? Thus, the author and others opposing Ahmadinejad' visit and comments attacking a puppet figure and "wedge" issue.

Please provide reference to this interesting news. I haven't heard or read anything from any politicians in US saying Iran must be destroyed....I'd be very interested to read this. Mark-

Thank you for clarifying the quote to read as follows: "The Imam said this regime occupying Jerusalem must vanish from the page of time." Now PLEASE tell me how this is different in intent??? One could replace a word..say vanish with Destroy, annihilate, etc...it all means the same thing. Mark-

However, when Lieberman or others state in the last fortnight that "Iran must be destroyed" the world sits silently... What is most disturbing now is that it seems an internal mutiny by US armed forces foiled a Bush plan to preemptively strike Iran with nuclear weapons from this B-52 leaving Minot. We are now talking nuclear war against a nation that still has no nuclear weapons nor has physically attacked either America or Israel, the first casualty in the escalation will be Iran, then maybe Israel by Russia or China in retalliation as it escalates. Are you all so ready to die for lies? American and Israeli politicians are playing with your very existance, sure Iran will be glass but America cannot defeat Russia, an ally of Iran...

For those of you carrying around sentiment towards this "quote", this may be for you: So what did Ahmadinejad actually say? To quote his exact words in Farsi: "Imam ghoft een rezhim-e ishghalgar-e qods bayad az safheh-ye ruzgar mahv shavad." The full quote translated directly to English: "The Imam said this regime occupying Jerusalem must vanish from the page of time." "So this raises the question.. what exactly did he want "wiped from the map"? The answer is: nothing. That's because the word "map" was never used. The Persian word for map, "nagsheh" is not contained anywhere in his original Farsi quote, or, for that matter, anywhere in his entire speech. Nor was the western phrase "wipe out" ever said. Yet we are led to believe that Iran's president threatened to "wipe Israel off the map." despite never having uttered the words "map." Full Article: http://antiwar.com/orig/norouzi.php?articleid=11025

Truth and Freedom, Thank you for writing what I feel about the majority of posts on here. I'm glad Ahmadinejad accepted the opportunity to speak at Columbia Unversity. Although I didn't catch Colombia, I did read the translation for his remarks at the UN General Assembly Meeting. The President of Iran makes a lot of good points. We don't have to agree with everything the Iranian President has to say. But #574 makes a good point about taking in information and thinking for ourselves. Look at the big picture of what is being said and don't get caught up on a few lines you disagree with. Otherwise, you are giving up your right to think. If you took out the Isreal issue and gay remark, then what would you talk about? How about the speech as a whole? The President of Iran is an intellectual man. You should want to hear what is being said before you jump to criticize...a weakness in our American culture. I'm not perfect but I try to be open-minded.

Great post! Thank you. I always enjoy watching the Zionists and their lackeys flailing. Changing the argument is merely one of their failing strategies. I believe most of them realize their filthy agenda is doomed but they are determined to fight to the bitter end. Well then, the bitter end it shall be. Please keep on posting. You have allies!!! (a.k.a.- the TRUTHSEEKERS)

..of the "complexities" of the region. Quit lying to yourselves. We invite you to Islam. Save yourselves before there isn't time to save yourselves. Israel is illegal and it is OVER.

Yesterday I was in a state of shock, because I read Mr.Ahmadenijad's UN-speech in the JP, which Ha'aretz for some reason ... or just for that reason that it was so shocking(!) did not publish. Here in Scandinavia they gave no spotlight to Ahmadenijad...NONE whatsoever, we're living here in complete darkness of his U.S.-visit!!!! This complete silence troubles me. Anyway, dear Johnboy....I summed up that all these arguments and explanations we have in these forums about the ME-situation mean nothing anymore after Ahmadenijad's speech: all of a sudden everything is crystal clear! Besides what do you think he meant by saying:"the nuclear-pr. is closed"! He would not have dared to hold such a bold speech, threatening the whole world with one-way solution: convert to Islam.....or ELSE! This is extortion on LIFE! I'd like to know what G-D has to say about his speech, after all it is G-D, who has given us not only life but the rich diversity of life, which sends us a message: tolerance.

I thought that when someone addresses a post to me in talkback I was supposed to reply on-topic to that person's post, as I did in #792 in reply to your post #776. I didn't realize that I was supposed to spin-off into cloud-coo-coo-land and rant and rave about "God-blessed Non-Muslims", new-Hitler just like the old-Hilter, and other such nutty-as-a-fruitback religious babble. Do me a favor, Alice, and go tell it to your Rabbi, coz I'm not particularly interested in religious rag-baggery. In other words, "go nuke yourself, luvvie", coz Iran has no interest in nuking anyone. Iran hasn't, in fact, started a shooting war with anyone these past several hundred years. Wish I could say the same about some OTHER nations in the region.....

Continuing. At the very least, keeping these facilities open is costing the American taxpayer a very pretty penny, wouldn't you agree? The legislation enacting the Program refers specifically to a sudden influx of illegal immigrants. Did they expect half of Mexico to suddenly cross the border? And why is there a facility outside Fairbanks, Alaska with the specific ability to hold over "two million" of the "mentally ill"? Sounds suspiciously like the old Soviet gulag, don't you think? In summary, beware Mark. We live in very dangerous times.

Thanks for the intelligent question. I don't get many of those on these forums. First, you are correct in your assertion that the Program began in 1984, during the Reagan Admini- stration. But if you know your American history, you should also recognize that these were the beginning times of our loss of civil liberties and the gradual demolition of the Republic. Second, perhaps you really are more up-to-date than I. For my own clarification, could you please cite some examples of "similar trials". Please understand: I'm not calling you a liar. I honestly don't know about these and I would like to be educated. Oh, and please don't say the McCarthyite Era, as that was a horse-of-a- different-color. Thirdly, ask yourself a question, Mark. If the government really has no intention of ever implementing the Program, why do 600+ prison facilities with NO PRISONERS (but plenty of guards) and abilities to house an average of 20,000 inmates sit idly by? (out of space, to be continued)

What Adhamanijad says does not matter one jot. Israel's many abhorent, racist, violent actions makes the case against Israel. When Israel matures and deals with its neighbours and the rest of the world in a spirit of humbleness and gentleness, then the case will be made for Israel. Wake up Israelis, your attitudes and actions make others turn against you. No good blaming anyone else.

Quite. Whats happening is the lumping of the 2 together. Jews are part of our fantastic mix of races, always have been and always will. As noted by others here Jewish people contribute enormously to our lives culture and society. The problem is the insidious and downright unacceptable contribution that SOME of them play. The treatment of the palestinians is unethical, inhuman and must stop. The beating of war drums in the Middle east likewise. And the coercion of the USA for the above reasons along with simple greed and power hunger, in the name of Israel and under the shield of the holocaust, must also STOP! A better world is possible folks. Don't all sane people, of every race colour and creed just want peace? A two state solution, its the only answer and it can work. Better to do it now than in the ashes of a nuclear war cos thats whats gona happen.

You made my point 100% The Palestinians sarted the violence with the Intefadeh.Clearly, after 20 years, the Intefadeh and related violence on the part of the Palestinians has NOT worked to help them gain a country. Instead, it has brought economic collapse on them, Palestinian violence upon other Palestinians, and, Israeli military responses to the violence. The Palestinians have been claiming they are the victims, when they have promulgated the violence! I agree, the buck has to stop! The Palestinians MUST stop their violence on Israelis as well as on each other if peace is to be achieved. They WILL not achieve a country of their own if they continue the violence. Period. This is exactly what I have been trying to get across to people. Mark-

Interesting you should mention that... BEFORE the Intifadeh, and not so long before...only a 3-5 years, MANY Palestinians wanted to be true Israeli citizens. Heck, many Jordanians wanted to be Israeli citizens. Of course, the Arab world leaders would never allow something like that; they would never permit a single state solution unless that single state was NOT Israel. They have stated this numerous times in the past.

While I am by no means a supporter of this corrupt US administration, Rex 84 was exercised in 1984. Similar trials have occurred throughout US history. that in no way means something like Rex 84 would actually be implemented.

Like do you even know what you are writing. RPG29, Russian made for a start, developed nearly 20 years ago. I bet there are Iranian weapons in use, Iran is right beside the most lawless chaotic country in the world right now, with all sorts of weapons, fighters, mercenaries and troops floating about. I bet you could buy a tank. So Iran is responsible for sealing its border under these conditions and ensuring no weapons get smuggled across? USA, worlds most advanced and powerful army mind, can't stop Mexicans coming across to wash dishes for a living. And anyway, why should Iran? They didn't invade Iraq, not their mess.

"On Nov.4,1979 a mob of Iranians attacked and took over the US embassy in Teheran.Technically, this was an act of war.The government supported the invasion of the embassy.Iran has used its proxies in Syria - the Hezbollah- and in Gaza-Hamas- to carry out acts of violence against the state of Israel.In addition,Ahmadinejad has promised to "wipe Israel off the face of the earth.You seem to have a very selective memory.' Ok, that would be right after America admitted the Shah of Iran, the guy removed by the Iranian revolution of that year because he was a US puppet completely at odds with real Iranian interests. here, read this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iranian_Revolution#Background_of_the_revolution Hamas and Hizbollah are fighting extreme violence and prejudice perpatrated against them by Israel. Look into it. Finally, read Ahmadinejads's actual quote here. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahmoud_Ahmadinejad_and_Israel

Right, and what about the entire Iraqi army, disbanded right after the occupation (but never disarmed, hmm). Who do you think the so called foreign insurgents are? Saudi Al-Queda nuts or disgruntled, fully armed ex soldiers pissed off at the ruination of their country, murder of their people and theft of their oil. Oh yeah, 200,000 AK-47s and other small arms 'lost' by Americans supplying the Iraqi security forces, along with 300 tonnes of high explosives. Oops! And did you ever stop to think about what you would do in their situation? Sit back and wait for the reconstruction that never comes, while your country burns? And also, did you ever consider that chaos in Iraq means US troops have to remain there indefinitely? Handy when you want to invade Iran. And as a final small point, did you ever consider that the same people who invented the WMD story in Iraq wouldn't fabricate evidence of Iranian IEDs as an excuse to attack?

In every country there are people with different views. Israel also has some who do not want to give the WB and Gaza to a Palestinian state. But Israel also has a very loud and active Peace Now Movement. Israel has some very brave leaders like Ehud Barak who unlike Arafat would risk his life to make a just peace. For Israel peace means good friendly relationship where both communities will cooperate and prosper together. Arabs will be able to come and work in Israel while Jews will be able to visit holly sites in West bank peacefully. In 1980 ies I personally heard Netanyahu describing a peace in such an environment and a detailed plan to help Arab neighbors economically to reach this environment. Sometimes those that seem too tough in talking war can be the toughest to bring peace. Menahem Begin is an Israeli example while Kemal Ataturk is the Turkish example.

Continuing: The Zionists, of course, are quaking in their boots. For they know full well, that if the light of day and the TRUTH is exposed to the good American people, the howl for war with Israel will be deafening. And that's actually a shame, for many good and decent Jews will suffer horr- ibly for the crimes and lies of their Zionist masters. Guilt-by-association, unfortunately.

I guess you agreed that most Israeli's are for a peaceful 2 state solution and you are for it too. This is good. The rest that we call the fringe will change too when the circumstances are ripe for peace. Netanyahu is also going to support the 2 state solutions when he is sure that the West bank and Gaza will not turn into a launching pad for terrorist activities. As far as American creativity and ingenuity in every discipline you are ill informed. I live here since 1980, I have a son at Princeton following a Dr. degree in electronics. I myself studied at NYU. My uncle was one of the contributors to the development of the transistor at AT&T Bell labs and I know a lot about research in the US. I met many very bright American scientists. No country in the world can match American ingenuity .maybe because it is a society that consumes therefore people are motivated to create.

We can all agree that Ahmadinejad is a yokel and talks like one. And perhaps we might think of Hitler as having been a yokel too, but far more powerful over a far more sophisticated country in the heart of Europe, where at the time Jews lived amongst non-Jews in various states of liberty depending on the country. Iran is not Germany. This is not the 1930's. It is a unique time, with unique societies in place. There's a lot of easy pickings of oil in the Mideast, a great oil slick covered lightly in sand. The other oil is in the deep ocean. This has not escaped the notice of the oil companies. My recollection is that rednecks aren't especially tolerant of Jews unless there's something financial in it for the rednecks, so that's where the love for Israel is coming from at the moment. As well as some millennial delusions. Israel is a tiny strip of land on the Med. War with Iran closes off the Persian Gulf and causes back pressure on Israel. Dumb. Smart: single state solution, hum rgts.

Thank you for the absolutely brilliant post! One of the finest I have read on an Haaretz board. Succinct, to the point, and above all, TRUTHFUL. I, as a fellow American, feel your pain. This Orwellian government of ours must, and WILL go. I fear it will not be at the ballot box, though. After the shams of the 2000 and 2004 "elections", it is already apparent to me that the next president has already been decided. That is, if King George doesn't at some point, create a diversion (another 9/11?) and in "the name of the American people" declare himself "President for Life". Unfortunately, no amount of violence will overthrow this utterly corrupt cabal. They have for all intents and purposes, destroyed the "Posse Comitaitus Act" and intend to sic the Armed Forces on us. If you don't believe me, Google "Rex 84 Program" and you will see what they have in store those who would speak out. (out of space, to be continued)

My dear fellow - Let's say I run a red light in Massachusetts (don't know about Maine), and the cop pulls me over. Is it a valid defense to point to the guy driving speedily away in front of me who also ran the red light? The cop has his hands full with me, in this instance (not that I admit to ever having done such a thing). Yes, there's sin, sin all around. We are all sinners. But when someone actually does something and I point it out, all hell breaks loose. I'm supposed to let them plead to the being victims when they victimize others? Nah. It isn't a valid defense. The buck has to stop. The Nazis are dead. Let's not bring them back by emulating them. And being a Jew does not make you so perfect you are incapable of atrocity or even rudeness. That's what I tell my kids, anyway. And they are descendants of survivors.

or annihilate, a common synonym. 1 a : to cause to be of no effect : NULLIFY b : to destroy the substance or force of 2 : to regard as of no consequence 3 : to cause to cease to exist; especially : KILL 4 a : to destroy a considerable part of // bombs annihilated the city // b : to vanquish completely : ROUT //annihilated the visitors 56-0// Ahmadinead said he looks forward to a world where Israel does not exist. ie works toward annihilation of Israel, or destruction thereof. But you already know that from all translations of his speeches.

and so does rational, reasonable and respectable Israelis. But people like Netanyahu would never allow it to happen Davis Israel, this I am saying not to anger you, I hope I am wrong but this seems to be the case. Well I do know there are several very able Americans, I have been there several times and saw with my own eyes but I can not say they are very creative apart from market-related stuff.

Guess what? Israel did quite well witout US support right through 1967, the first 20 YEARS of existence. It prospered even with massive immigration, much coming in emergency airlfts from Muslim states that kicked them out or threatened to kill them. While US support has helped Israel ver the last 30 years, it has also been a hindrance. f not for US interference, Israel would likely have it's own domestically built, advanced fighter. It hasn't had one since Kfir in the 70's and 80's. AND, lets not forget that the US benefits GREATLY from ISraeli support...military intelligence, miltech, such as reactive armor, new radar sstems missile tech, etc. I doubt the US will stop supporting Israel any time in the near future. Meanwhile, the economic and military partnerships continue to get closer. Mark-

You are absolutely right. NY Jews over-reacted, NY academics sounded like real medieval dictators, Americans mocked at democracy and Ahmadinejad was triumphant in the world public opinion. Because most of his words were correct, except for 'gay' thing.

I do not agree that Israel was the "loser" from Ahmadinejad's appearance at Columbia "on substance". I do think, however, that efforts to squelch "offensive" speeches in any public forum are counter-productive. While I fully understand Jewish (not only Jewish, of course) anger over "Holocaust denial", any attempt to prohibit such offensive comments in speech or print simply plays into the hands of historical revisionists. Perhaps if Iranians and other Holocaust "skeptics" did conduct actual historical research, they would soon realize that their current position is without merit. The freedom of speech and of the press which we Americans enjoy, will become meaningless if we refuse to allow those we disagree with to speak in public forums.

Again: Quote the said clarion call please? Where in his speech did he utter this? Hitler indeed DID spew out countless such calls.Ahmadinejad said "The Zionist regime" that persecutes so many innocents and causes so much damn trouble in the world should go. If it is an offence worthy of a nuclear assault to call for regime change then why don't we all blow America to kingdom come? Bush and co's favourite catchphrase is 'regime change'. You may recall a country that once existed called Iraq....(For those of you who may struggle with sarcasm that was it, right there.)

Well said.

Actually the predominant issue when Israel was brought up indeed was the Palestinians. Besides, America is not Israel. I wish Israel would quit imposing its agenda on us as well as propagating the load of lies about the Palestinians that they do.

Read Fikret Bila's comment at Milliyet today. http://www.milliyet.com.tr/2007/09/26/yazar/bila.html Try to understand what General Ilker Basbug us trying to say with his words. They are very interesting words and expectations which he expects Turks like you to understand. Once you really understand his words and its implications you will also be able to better understand Israel just like General Basbug understands. Of course this is if you have the ability to really understand him.

I was going to thank you for the post but hadn?t had time to put the other things together that I wanted to say. Anyway, thanks. I had to continue with Cipora on the other board http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/906472.html. She finally left in a huff and an insult. It was interesting; I came to the same conclusion as before. She has no understanding of America but presumes to know a lot and tried to lecture me about constitutional law. Although I am sure she has read the Constitution, I realized that she doesn?t understand it. That is why I posted to S. I realize we have a difference of opinion concerning American support for Israel, but at least he does understand much more about America, our perspective and values. About Ahmadinejab. Actually didn?t see it. Read the transcript. I think Israel lost also. The ADL is fundamentally un-American but what else is new? I think Israel lost. Adj presented himself better than expected and the homo remark was a major blooper. But the rest of his answers weren?t bad. It is to be expected that he is against Zionism. Many people in the west, America and Europe are also. It isn?t a crime. But his thing about the Jewish holocaust maybe due to lack of books about it in Arabic, and also the Muslim world being less aware of modern history due to being more of a closed society and high illiteracy rate. Ignorance is preferable to stupidity, as ignorance can be corrected. His comment about Iran?s nuclear program was new. I thought much more important than the other stuff. Anyway, I am really riled at the American Jews that attempt to control freedom of speech here. More later Interesting post at http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/906924.html #205 by Coli n Wright

There are thousands of engineers in the USA space program and the majority is born and raised Americans. However it takes a very bright person to pick up the best from around the world. The first Internet (ARPANET) was implemented by the US military. There were many Jews in Germany before the Nazis. Some of them did support the Nazis at the beginning not knowing what was coming and had to face a rude awakening. American ingenuity have already stopped the smog and pollution in Los Angeles and all the big cities in USA. Today China is the biggest known polluter however having lived in Ankara for a year I have to say that I have never seen pollution as bad as that in my life. The only solution that I spoke here is a two state solution. If you think this is brutal I would guess you support the destruction of Israel as a Jewish state which I believe this is brutal.

My family in Morocco lived as second class citizens under the Muslim dhimmi system. Cousins were burned alive in a pogrom. My family fled in 1968 with few possessions. In Yemen the Jews were so poor, schoolchildren huddled around one book and learned to read text upside down. Muslim law forbade Yemenite Jews to play instruments so they sang in their basements and beat on tin cans. There were almost 1 million Jewish refugees from Muslim countries after 1948. No one offered them any kind of assistance and no one said they had a "right to return" - after centuries of residence in those countries. Hear excerpts from other Jewish refugees at http://www.theforgottenrefugees.com/

Each minute that passes, more time is wasted. The people of Israel need to realize that when American support disappears, and it will disappear, you will be left to your own devices. We Americans are not all ignorant. Many of us are well versed in the so-called complexities of the Middle East. Your base of support consists of the political elite, who are proving themselves to be criminals on a daily basis. When the day arrives, the American government will have a new face, and a new direction. Get your house in order prior to that day. The Iranian president does not possess as much power as your masters would have you believe. The daily murder of Palestinian children, the apartheid wall, the suffocation of Gaza, and the lack of any true peace making has harmed your nation and people more than any speech at Columbia University ever will.

(I go on, presuming that you may be interested. Forgive me if I give you advices directly though I don't know you ; that doesn't mean I take you for a fool; on the contrary,I write because I think you have common sense ; take what you like from my message).The Israeli-Arab conflict also has connections with identities,memories,traumatic events (such as western world-domination in the 19-20 centuries, pogroms,shoah,nakbah), culture and religion (Judaism,Christianism,Islam),etc...These things have impact on the vision of the people concerned, and on the way they react or not react.And study especially each thing that seems either too simple, or a paradox. It's often very interesting.

Samuel, Syria has already shown it is *above the law* by acquiring nukes against NPT and IAEA which it is a signator of. Israel is not so is not bound by their rules. Syria has also shown it's colors in it's supply of Hezbollah AGAINST Israel, using Hezbollah as a proxy to attack Israel indirectly. Whether indirectly or directly, that is still an act of war, so Israel is within it's rights to respond to that act of war.

Labhras, the occupation is not illegal. The occupation is legal until such time as a true and lasting peace is achieved. That hasn't ocured and Israel is not required to end the occupation until such time as it happens... 242 asets the following: Affirms that the fulfillment of Charter principles requires the establishment of a just and lasting peace in the Middle East which should include the application of both the following principles: * Withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from territories occupied in the recent conflict; * Termination of all claims or states of belligerency and respect for and acknowledgement of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of every State in the area and their right to live in peace within secure and recognized boundaries free from threats or acts of force; You can't expect one without the other. This is the underlying issue. Israel cannot be expected to withdraw without a guarantee of security from terrorism.

There are thousands of engineers in the USA space program and the majority is born and raised Americans. However it takes a very bright person to pick up the best from around the world. The first Internet (ARPANET) was implemented by the US military. There were many Jews in Germany before the Nazis. Some of them did support the Nazis at the beginning not knowing what was coming and had to face a rude awakening. American ingenuity have already stopped the smog and pollution in Los Angeles and all the big cities in USA. Today China is the biggest known polluter however having lived in Ankara for a year I have to say that I have never seen pollution as bad as that in my life. The only solution that I spoke here is a two state solution. If you think this is brutal I would guess you support the destruction of Israel as a Jewish state which I believe this is brutal.

Well, it's no use for you to speak out and be imprisoned. Use your courage for useful things, and don't waste your life. About Israel and Zionism, fo course you are free to study these topics, but beware of the sources. Most of the sources are not perfect, but some are actually wrong and evil, even if they sometimes look respectable ; the best thing is, IF you are very interested, to keep apart all pre-conceived idea (that may be widespread in some countries) and to study using many different sources, thinking and comparing, and taking history and psychology into account, and without trying to come to a conclusion, but just to dig further towards "the truth". If you do this for years, no wonder you'll get to a quite good knowledge of the topic. As for what's happening in the world, it can explain just a few things, like the part of the iceberg that one can see. Because what happens is rooted into the Time that passes by. See next message.

Indeed...if you are going to lambaste these two people, I suggest you do the same to those on the other side of the issue calling Israel and Israelis all sorts of disgusting names, and spouting CLEAR lies and misperceptions...ver and over and over again. When People do that it is no wonder either Peter r Connie get frustrated with them and stop even bothering discourse.

So, Ahmadinejad has a right to spout his lies and vitriol and nobody has a right to peacefully protest that? Hmmm...interesting concept. Mark-

You have fallen into the propaganda trap of Hezbollah, etal. I feel for you. Perhaps you will one day realize your mistake and come to the realization that it takes TWO to make a true peace...or in this situation.. MANY, with Israel being 1 and the rest of the Arab world being the many. If you tink Israel should sit by and be attacked, repeatedly, I suggest you look at Israel as it is on a MAP. The entire situation is CONTROLLED by the Militants and terrorists and their violent actions. Israel, in many ways, is just a pawn..unwilling, but with no real choice in the matter, since the militants have no interest in peace WITH Israel.. only peace WITHOUT Israel. Get that through your head. Understand it. Learn to DEAL with it. Mark-

Scary, isn't it Alice? You hit the nail smack dab on the head.

The rise and fall of nations sits on a tiny text in the Scriptures that says in part, "Righteousness exhalteth a nation..."

Either translation in end result is the same. A world without and wiped off thema. What's the difference? Nothing, especially when taken in context.

The two most accepted translations are 1. Wipe off the map 2. A world without In either case, h is romoting the Destruction of, or a *word without* Israel. Semantically they are the same. Stop spinning and trying to see it otherwise. You cannot because it was clearly meant as the above. Mark-

OK John, WHAT have you been smoking?!?!?! Please stop it! You're only hurting yourself by smoking that stuff..and it's making you sound...well...stupid! Seriously....I suggest you look at the FACTS of both Zionism AND the history of the region. There have ALWAYS been Jews living in the region....while many Eastern European Jews did indeed move into what is now Israel, many Western Jews did a well. The whole immigration was 1. a boon to the local ARAB economy 2. a boon to local and immigrant Jews UNTIL the Mufti and Imams determined that those pesky Jews were increasing faster than the Arabs and Arab population was stagnating in size. Oh my! ews went from 20-25% of the population to 35-40%! The Mufti didn't like the Jews turning the garbage land they bought from Turkish absentee owners into productive land. While Zionism promoted the Jewish movement back to their roots, it never promoted violence. Instead, it promoted peaceful coexistence for all.

From whence do you make such a brilliant conclusion???!!?? You came to the truth of Al Jazeera that 9/11 was a Jewish/Zionist conspiracy!! I knew someone else believed it! And the terrorist attacks throughout the world are ALL Jewish COnspiracy...promulgated by the ewish LIBERAL media which hates eh peace loving Arabs! Yeah...that's it! LOL aND IF YOU ACTUALLY BELIEVE THAT kind of tripe...I have bridge I'd like to sell you...over the Beautiful River Kwai.

the Israelis' 6 September bombing raid into northern Syria, Peter Beaumont notes that the 'message being delivered from Tel Aviv is clear: if Syria's ally, Iran, comes close to acquiring a nuclear weapon, and the world fails to prevent it, either through diplomatic or military means, then Israel will stop it on its own'. ('Was Israeli raid a dry run for attack on Iran?' News, last week.) Article continues But if this can be explained away as a harbinger of Israel acting 'on its own' to 'stop' other states from 'acquiring a nuclear weapon', are other states then permitted to act on their own to cause damage to Israel's nuclear weapons programme and capability? How about to the United States's nuclear weapons programme and capability? And if not, why not?Does this right to engage in a breach of the peace under the United Nations charter apply to all states when nuclear weapon are at issue? Or only to some states on a highly selective basis?

I've read in multiple posts here today of how certain criticism of Israel's policies are always slammed by some as being "anti-semitic"! This is completely false and wrong. I know Israelis and Jews obviously run hand in hand but if someone criticizes Israeli state policy, it is absurd to call that person anti-semitic! Its time the Israeli's stop using the Holocaust and anti-semitism for protective cover every time some one attacks their policies. its getting really old and we know one doesnt equate to the other!

1. "prophecy" Prophecy??? Who are you, Nostra- damus? Or are you merely quoting from your "Great Book of Hebrew Tribal Mythology"? 2. You dare to call Ahmadinejad a terrorist? Tell me, maia, WHO is dropping bombs on innocent Iraqis? And, WHO is killing innocent Palestin- ian men, women and children almost daily. Let me give you a little hint: THOSE are the REAL terrorists! (and I'm an American.)

ahmedinejad is not even an arab.israel doesn`t belong to the arab world.muslims whether arab or what,they have the same mentality.their main goal is to destroy the land flowing with milk and honey. you are right he is Persian, and why wouldthey destroy THIER LAND? they just want the occupiers gone from THIER LAND.

Vote for Ron Paul 2008!

it was the fulfillment of prophecy when israel was reborn in 1948.I can't believe it,that you're supporting a terrorist president.

As an American taxpayer who is tired of sending money to a country such as Israel I think he made a lot of sense. I guess now I will be called Anti Semite and that is to be expected because anyone who does not believe Israel is the greatest country in the world and blindly follow the aggressive politics the Israeli govt pursues is always called anti Israeli or some god awful name. Wake up how the hell can us taxpayers be called such names as we pay for your country to exist. Without us you would not be so arrogant and obnoxious to the rest of the world. Ahmadinjads visit proved one thing Israel is the true problem in the middle east and without dialog there will not be a solution. Lets not forget who Vetoes all the negative resolutions condemning the Israeli govt actions - yep that is right US American anti - Semite tax payers. We are tired of Israel always being the victim I would like to keep my hard earned tax dollars here in USA and help my fellow citizens for a change.

Id like to see Gay Rights activists who approve of Ahmadenijad and his anti-Western views move to Iran. Maybe they can create a gay population in Iran, to create diversity. LOL

This average American views our support of Israel as the problem. It's like the girlfriend who sucks the life out of you and then looks for someone new. Israel and Israeli's don't care about us, the stupid Goyim who give them money and weapons. They view us as idiots and fools. Time to cut the cord.

Ahmadinejad is working for his agenda. Israel is working for her agenda. That is human nature. As a typical American "white" guy I can tell you this. I no longer support Israel in any way. The treatment of the Palestinians is dispicable. The Palestinans had had lived peacefully with the Jews for centuries before the invasion of aggressive Eastern European Zionists. The rest is history as they say. It's time let Israel go it's own way. Stop military aid, stop foreign aid. What's the point? They use this money to blackmail and influence our own politics here in the US. It must stop.

Ahmedinejad NEVER stated that he wanted to destroy Israel , to "Wipe Israel off the Map " , it was spun like that by people like you . Here is a translation of the quote where he clearly states that the REGIME , NOT the People of Israel , is what he is refering to : http://antiwar.com/orig/norouzi.php?articleid=11025 People like you , Rosner , are the Clear and Present Danger in this World . The rest of Us just want to live in Peace . This Man is well aware that his entire Country of Iran would be turned to dust should he ever try something against Israel , so this further talk of another pre-emptive strike like the disaster in Iraq , is a pure resource-grab . You are a clear liar .

Sorry my friend. I don't agree with you. You seem not to know about the history of creation of Zion regime and their continued crimes in the holy lands. easygofar

We already know all the things he said - plus we already know he did NOT say he wanted Israel wiped off the map. Yes the big losers in this are Israel - because by attacking him he gains publicity and gives those of us who know he is right the opportunity to engage our friends in conversation on this subject.

anything to us anymore. Last night the world witnessed the birth of a new Hitler, who did not threaten only Israel with his speech, but the whole western world, Jews and Xians alike! We heard him, loud and clearly. We've got the message! May G-D help us all NON-Moslems! Iran ALREADY has the Bomb and he WILL use it!

And to think the beliefs of the U.S. were created by statements made by right-wing fanatics leading to the Iraq war. All based on lies through the Office of Special Plans and now the drumbeat is heard loud and clear by the same providers of intel as before - Israel, toward Iran. If they lied about Iraq how could anyone believe they would tell the truth about Iran? At the end of the day, they are all people wanting to just live their lives and instead the U.S. government, Britain and Israel won't let them. While Israel refuses to sign the non-proliferation treaty...and is NOW trying to work deals with the U.S. and India to have direct access to nuclear materials dealers!!! Israel - get real, get a Constitution, sign the NPT. U.S., Israel and Britain - get the hell out of Iraq. Just stop it would you? The world laughs at you while you cock your feathers and your supporters stuff their pockets with gold. The emperors have no clothes.

People are always talking about 'Protecting Israel' - The truth is that Israel is an illegal nation formed by Western powers to 'pay' for the Holocaust. If this is the case, why didn't they give part of Germany to the Jews? Ahmadinejad brings up plenty of interesting points. He's not denying the Holocaust, he's just questioning the facts. There's a big difference between both ideas. Many people died in the Nazi camps, not only Jews. Some numbers have been bloated to support a corrupt 'holocaust marketing' - Which benefits businessmen more than the actual victims. It's always disgusting when people use victims in such a way. It reminds me of how the victims of 9/11 were used to justify needless war. The dead need more respect than being paraded around for the benefit of the living! One more thing - Israel's policy is not the 'Jewish Policy'! I support fully the right for Jews to live happy and prosper, but Israel's survival is not needed for this.

Sorry to send a contribution written in french, but the information it contains may be imho capital for the history of Israel and occident. I found a post in a forum in France at: http://www.rue89.com/2007/09/25/ahmadinejad-a-columbia-au-nom-de-la-liberte-de-parole under the very first topic inside the forum named: "LE SOIT DISANT RAYER ISRAEL DE LA CARTE" to resume it: the translation of Mr Ahmadinejad words about Israel existence is a lie. He only talked about the necessity to change the actual political direction of Israel, to close the page of history they are writting. In any case he said Israel has to disappear. That version of his words is an interrested lie. NYtimes and BBC already recognized the "mistake". And the story goes on as the best translaters in the world are consulted actually and that lie is discovered as the shame it is. What a big shit are we eating before to kill thousands of families! Not in my name. Our leaders are criminals.

No. England and the Americas gave you that land, in cooperation with the pre-war Germans. God is a delusion, and you are deluded to cite such a reference. Neurology, psychology, evlution: this explains your psychosis. What it does not explain is your continued ignorance, and self-righteous mistreatment of powerless persons the world over, especially in Palestine, the land that England and the Americas gave you after WW2.

"The problem is not who's wrong, it is INJUSTICE". Let me get you straight: you mean "the problem" is Israel's PHYSICAL existance in ex-Palestine....and the "occupation" in other words refers to Israel with his physical presence "occupying" the Land. Thank you! This interpretation of the "occupation" has never before occurred onto my mind! But this kind of perception reminds me of somebody, who grabbed power in 1933 and he thought exactly in the same way as you do! Now I SEE CLEARLY what Israel is up against!

President Ahmadinejad is a great hero for most enlightened people in the West. There are a few who still cling to the to justice issued repeatedly by Israeli Zionists and American Evangelicals. Iran's leadership has been oddly reasonable. If Israel wants to exist, I agree with him: then it must act accorsing to international law, respect human life including Palsetinian life, and get over the fact that it owes its existence to some claim to to genocidal origins exclusine of the equal sufferings of other peoples the world over. Israel is special only in its own claim to history. Iran, however, makes no such special claim. I applaud Ahmadinejad, and boo Israeli intolerance.

I would like to frankly tell the Isrealis, all these years ive been brought up on Leon Uris and learned to diss the PALS and admire you guys. The Lebanon war has treated me to a different view. I'm not cheering for you anymore. This holocausting business is a bloody joke considering the number of pple killed in 2nd world war. I'm not a racist to consider killing of Jews a holocaust more important than the slaughter of Russkies Indians, hungarians french etc.

Isreal has been losing it for some time. Ever since we saw Lebanon being bombed to bits - theve been losing sympathy for the ISreal myth. all at once we have been considering why 35 million russkies in 2nd world war not a holocaust? Why not - cos they dont have a holocaust museum? Why is 6 million jews dead a holocaust why 35 million russkies not one? Packaging seems to be the issue. No one will raise a hue and cry if someone wants to investigate 35 million Russkie deaths - but no, if someone wants to question the alleged 6 million deaths of Jews, - its blasphemy, pple will rent clothes. Guys get sent to jail - no matter they havent done any holocausting themselves. The Isrealis want us to cry for them on these issues - while they show their erection in Lebanon murdering at will. I would like to frankly tell the Isrealis, all these years ive been brought up on Leon Uris and learned to diss the PALS and admire you guys. The Lebanon war has treated me to a differe

It is ironic that you are using the sort of verbal tactics used to such effect by the Nazis. peter accuses Johnny C. Lately of being a genetic degenerate who should never reproduce. Connie calls posters "vermin" whose posts should be edited before anyone can see them. This totalitarian mindset is hard to understand in people unless they are corrupt and used to unjust power. Fortunately, this newspaper, Ha'aretz, has a history of publishing a wide range of views. I applaud the ability of some in Israel to examine every side of a question. Ahmadinejad is limited and parochial in his thought processes, presenting (and believing) a slanted version of partial history; he makes points because of a problem in the world today with the exercise of power, such as that wielded through lies and unconstitutional practices by Bush administration; if we want to become equally fanatic, we are on the path to it holding w/o trial, torturing, pre-emptive wars, private army, widespread spying at home.

You give me hope. Thanks! - omni

Jews lived in peace with the Arabs not in war. it wasn't until the zionists started bombing synagogue to make it look like the Arab world was their enemy. old tricks continue to this day with jews and the amricans are gullible enough to drink it up. sorry but I'm with the great man from Iran. he want a debate but yet is denied it because we all know that bush would not walk out of that debate a winner. you can keep your unelected president. after all dictators are your specialty. lol pointing your fingers at everyone else but you cant even see what you have in front of you. your a pathetic bunch when it comes to facts. you only repeat what your taught to believe. you cant even think for your selves because thats to much work for your little minds. get rid of your dictators before you start fixing other peoples problems.

A nation may claim territory only if it finds it Terra Nullius i.e. devoid of people. But if: a) there are people there, and b) there is no current sovereign (i.e. an empire breaks up, or a state disintegrates) then c) the issue becomes one of "self determination" That is, the people who live ON THE LAND decide the fate OF THAT LAND. They may agree to join a neighboring country. They may agree to form a federation. They may agree to form an independent nation. (After all, the Jews of Palestine decided on exactly that last option) But the choice does NOT belong to an outside country i.e. it can not look at a land that is currently without a sovereign and cry "WOW! Hoe in boys! It's an all-you-can-eat smorgasbord, and we're all invited!!!!" Int'l law does not allow that, for the sensible reason that this would give an expansionist nation an incentive to destabilize a neighboring country so it can feed on that neighbor when it slides into anarchy.

The truth is that Ahmadinejad looks bad, but so do those who tried to prevent him from speaking, and the man who introduced him (who has fawned over other mad dictators like Myusharraf, a US ally) so do all who tried to prevent the speech, and so does Rosner who lectures me on the complexities of the ME, while reducing the situation to the crudest melodrama. The truth is that Zionist and Muslim fanatics are being exploited by those who want ME oil and real estate. You will all see all too soon it's not about you. Wake up.

A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A-H-M-A-D-I-N-E-J-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The problem isn't who's wrong, the problem is INJUSTICE.Problems are occurring out of greed, control,power,killings,occupation and much more. Why do we want to take the power away from Iran, when Israel has all the mass destruction weapons?Is this right?What gives them the right to own them, especially,when they are ILLEGALLY OCCUPYING AND KILLING ON A DAILY BASIS WITHOUT JUSTIFICATION, and not give any other the power to own them??GREED AND CONTROL AND OF COURSE, ISRAEL BEING SCARED OF THE WHOLE MIDDLE EAST AND THE WORLD AROUND THEM!They want to make Israel safe, but yet others under them!They are the ones BREAKING UN RESOLUTIONS AND NO ONE IS CALLING THEM ON IT AND THEY KNOW IT!See, fairness is the answer and when power and greed start to surface, you will never get peace and justice.Suffice it to say, the US is Israel and the destruction that they claim is a threat to them, well, they will find any excuse to get the one who is the threat, OFF THE MAP!Like the Palestinians'land 4 1.

yesterday i heard the greatest speech of my life.ahmadinijad is indeed a great and honest man.every thing he says seems to touch the depths of heart.

So Mike from NYC says Ahmadinejads to dumb to be president,a puppet of some others influence,elected in a rigged election? Sounds like Ahmadinejad and Bush should be best friends as they have a hell of a lot in common!! I agree with a lot of Ahmadinejads points,seems US,UK(Im a Brit)and Israel,France etc have a different set of rules that they and their buddies get to play by and another for everyone else.

We, in the US are tired of hearing about how poor, poor Israel is such a victim. Period.

Ahmadi Nejad teachs Every body about politics.

The only reason Ahmadenijad refers to Holocaust and why you refer to it, is that Hitler did not succeed. You have been in mourning over 60 years and it is taking a toll on you. Your bitterness is showing in Ahmadenijad's speeches - it has turned into an obsession. FOR the Arab-world was openly pro-nazi inspired by the Holocaust of the Jews! But hey....you deny Holocaust today, remember, so what are you talking about? Even Abbas denies it, so your argument is invalid and your two-edged-sword dull.

the real Ahmadinejad. An ordinary fanatic idiot. Israel came out a winner.

Margie, use of terms such as "Loudmouth" do not come from moderates. Incidentally, Amhadinejad has it right.Both Israel and the US are planning more crimes.The Uk is doing a little better since the Poodle left the scene.Incidentally ,he is not my hero.Read some of my posts above. Glad to have you back.By the way when are you going to condemn the Illegal occupation and prove to us that you are at least a facimile od a "Moderate".

NO other people in this Planet is being subsidized with as much money and concrete help today as the Pals. NO other people's crimes against humanity: against themselves and Israelis are looked through fingers by the Intl.community as much as those of the Pals'. Furthermore there are three "Palestines": Gaza, the WB and Jordan. AND you accuse Israel of expansionism! Get real! SO what is keeping you from making it? WHAT were you doing as the Land was occupied by the foreign powers(the Ottomans and the British)? Were you one of them or living off on them like you do today living off on Europe? I have NEVER heard of the Pal-resistance movements of the Ottoman-or-British-occupiers. Were there any? IF not, WHY? Didn't you have a land to stand-up-for? The only thing you do is COMPLAIN. Your name says it all: EASY GO FAR! Indeed, as long as your sustenance is financed by others.

Interesting to find statements about Ahmadinejad like "took aim at Israel", "his Holocaust denial" and "calls to wipe Israel of the map". There is no aiming at Israel to be found in the transcript of the speech but due and rather cautious criticism. Does anybody have a problem with criticism? We know that the translation from Farsi of the "calls to wipe Israel of the map" was wrong. Ahmadinejad never said such a thing. And why should anyone want to prevent research into the Holocaust? So why should Israel lose with a speech trying to calm the heated discussion and showing the point of view of one party?

You said in your first post: "While the Israelis are winning Nobel prizes and giving medical and scientific miracles to mankind, the "Palestinians" are busily murdering each other and the Israelis. They even kill Israeli Arabs from time to time." I must say that you are very wrong. You are not looking at the history from day one. How can Palestinians contribute to world advances when they are stripped off the most basic human rights? Do you know anything about how Israel came to power by the help of western powers? and if western powers stop their constant aid to Israel then do you think Israel can even survive one more day? You need to wake up and smell the coffee. easygofar

Let?s face it. Israel and the US have been trying to solve Palestine issue for 60 years but instead they have committed crimes against Palestinians. Ahmadinejad is absolutely right when he questions why Palestinians have to pay the price for the crimes of Christians against Jews in Europe? The truth is coming out slowly after 60 years of killing innocent Palestinians people that lived peacefully side by side other religious groups for thousands of years. Israelis and their supporters must know that a nation built on the blood of innocent people will never see a calm day and it?s doomed to fall. Easygofar

The hysterical reaction of Americans "Evil has Landed" was clearly in bad taste. So was bollinger's disgraceful introduction. The US people were made to look real lousy. there is no harm if some guys wanna reinvestigate the holocaust. I mean its nothing like they are doing the holocaust all over again. I do see the point of going so hysterical abt it that you jail the fellows questioning it - like that writer fellow Irving. IMO if some guys want to spend thier own resources for the purpose let em do it. After there are scores of guys doing reserach on the Bible/Jesus everyday.

...apart from the Ottomans: WHO were they? HOW long were they there? Were they LEGITIMATE owners of the land or WHAT were they? ...apart from the British: where did they come from? HOW long were they there? Were they LEGITIMATE owners of the land or WHAT were they? HOW long back in time do we have to go(?)in order to claim that the land's sovereign owners were the so-called-Pals, who only came about as a "nation" as late as in 1965 as Arafat's creation...without roots, history and culture. PS.: Johnboy, laws are man-made, they can be enacted and repealed acc. to circumstances and at will. They do not necessarily project truths. When I swear, I swear with my hand on the Holy Book, NOT on the Law-book! See the difference?

Americans should LISTEN to what all parties have to say - involved in any subjects / dicputes. After listening others, have an open mind and follow it up with a research about the facts and history, and AFTERWARDS make up your OWN mind. Listening and understanding are the key words here, instead of beleiving what is told and repeated on TV every single day!!!

Please visit often! Reading your lucid letters is balm to the brains. Thank you, Merci beaucoup

i read ur opinion,but...i want to tell you,i'm sure that our opinion is right.we dont hate jews,but only hate occupation and official terrorism.believe me...just take a look at the history...thank you

I'm impartial about the challenge between Iran and Israel. But there is a question always in my mind: "If Israel is following peaceful policies(as it claims) , Why Palestinians (kids ,women and ...) are killed every day by Israeli solders"? Any intellectual! answers is appreciated

Interesting corroboration of Stenger's thesis - if they really cared about their long term interests, Israel could do with fewer victories like this. Also I assume you saw my post #609 to you re Cipora (previous board: http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/906472.html). Obviously we agree (again). Interesting how the pundits jumped on the homosexuazlity bandwagon. Must have been thin pickings for them elsewhere, since Ahmadinejab's case when it comes to threatening behavior looked stronger than the US's right now, which went beyond threats (in Iraq), what with the cowboy like, shoot-from-the-hip tactics at Columbia and elsewhere. So who do you think came out gutsier - Bush the draft-dodger, mission accomplished-man or A-DJ who had the chuzpah - to confront his detractors face to face?

i'm agreed with u. i knew new facts about the world and specially israel and holocaust hearing ahmadinejad's speech. he is really a brave man. i admire him and agreed with him.

E: "You can't 'occupy' territories that were never sovereign in their own right." Utter nonsense. The very definition of "occupation" makes clear that it is a state of affairs that occurs when YOUR armed forces take control of, and establishes authority over, territory that does not belong to YOUR nation. That the territory was "never sovereign in their own right" is immaterial; this particular territory in question was never "sovereign in their own right" when it was a province of the Ottoman Empire, but Britain most certainly had it under occupation after they overran the area in 1917-1918. E: "Calling them "occupied" is simply more Palestinian fantasy" No, IT IS THE LAW. The territory was seized by the IDF in 1967. The IDF extended its authority over it. It is under belligerent occupation. Even Israel's own High Court of Justice recognizes that, and has done so for decades.

Well david, you are wrong again. Americans went to the moon first, correct but it was a German Von Braun and dozens of german engineers and scientists who led the project, Americans brought them over mostly (not always) by force. Internet-like system first appeared in CERN in Switzerland and a similar system in Chile.This is despite the fact that Americans vacuum sucks the best brains in the world, using money of course. So Americans went to moon using scientist who once happily supported the aeronautical activities of Nazi Germany, how is that volley back to you David ?? Americans are responsible for the highest level of atmospheric pollution, they are responsible for the world's craze for irrational consumerism David, what do you think ? Israel is not the same, Israel is a much much more educated country, one of the best in the world, and they have (or at least used to have) kibbutzim instead of shopping malls, a good way forward for humanity.Your solution proposals are often brutal.

That was a good layout of the issues surrounding A-DJ visit to Columbia. Indeed, the opening 'remarks' made Bollinger look like an ungracious host, an intellectual cowboy shooting from the hip. By contrast, Ahmadinejab's behavior made him appear the civilized party, the epitome of grace under fire. Who would not be embarassed for the US listening to Bollinger's accusations and vituperrations? especially since many of his points aren't issues of concern to a US which glibly killed 100's thousands of iraqis. With the pro-Israel shrill demonstrators and the bullying tactics, the whole charade did look like an ambush. They could have let the guy talk and shoot himself in the foot. Instead the US - with unwise urging of Israel and its backers - did it to itself. As you said, this'll be viewed in the world as a loss for the US, which is already in a state of moral deficit,with the hole now dug deeper still. In 2 interviews I saw, ADJ looked confident and civil. Brave than Bush, for sure.

The anti-semite card is so over used. Trust me, I'm no fan of Iran. It's obvious they are trying to increase there sphere of influence in the Arab world from Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and now the Palestinian territories. If I had a choice of who to be neighbors with, Israel or Iran, trust me Israel would be the choice. Again, WE DON'T WISH FOR ISRAEL TO BE DESTROYED. The only thing we wish is for Israel to get out of all the occupied territories of 1967, allow a Palestinian capital in the true Eastern Jerusalem, not suburbs, not annexing territories in the WB to make a Palestinian bantustan state, and coming thru some sort of agreement (most likely monetary thru the UN) for a recompensation for the refugees. The Palestinians have for nearly 20 years now accepted a state in Gaza, the WB, and East Jerusalem. The problem is Israel throws "generous offers" like Barak did in 2000 which was horse shit.

This is not about winner, or losers. Its about peace. And bridging the gap between America and Iran. And the president of Iran never said Israel should be wiped off the map. that is a zionist lie. Now right winged, religous fanatics, and zionists such as yourself mr rosner, might define it as such, but its not lost on Americans that 71 % of the jews, living in Israel want the USA, and america, to attack iran, and for more americans to die for your zionist dreams of greater israel. Jewish Americans such as yourself are severely undereprented in Iraq, as fighting men, why is that? Hit the recruiting station for the marines and be part of the Haaretz brigade to invade tehran. Leave we Americans out of zionist plans to genocide the muslims. shalom

You assume that you have the facts and accuse Israel on that basis, whereas you are guilty of not finding out the truth, or worse, of perversely making up facts.

Balasurbrmanian, heck quite the mouthful. As for Rachel Corrie, she was a bad girl. YUP, that's right, a very bad girl. I spoke with a soldier who mans these huge bulldozers, the scooper itself is over three meters in height. As he explained when the bull-dozer is on an upclimb, the driver's view is only of the bright blue sky. Not a chance that the driver would have seen her. As for the mix of the machine's noise, and the regular hysterical screams of the protesters, there was little to warn the driver that a psychotic woman had made her way into his path. As for Iran, she would have been jailed and thrown out of the country for her IMMODEST dress. As well, the act of going to another country, such as Iran to protest, would NOT have been looked upon kindly by your Persian heroes. If the Israelis had not gotten her, someone else would have in the middle east. I blame her parents and you blame us. They had to deal with her for twenty years, we only had a day.

Here is proof from Iran itself of your hero himself being so understanding and scientific about human beings: http://www.iranian.ws/cgi-bin/iran_news/exec/view.cgi/15/17028 Read on here ""Everybody knows that this regime [Israel] can do nothing without the orders and backing of America and its intimate friend, England. That's why we have declared these two regimes are responsible for all the crimes of the insubordinate Zionist regime." "When I see the behavior of America, England, and their other accomplices in recent days, I get the impression that they are preparing even greater crimes. I warn them: Know that the fire of the wrath of the peoples is about to erupt and overflow. If you do not put an end to your crimes, know that the ocean of the peoples will soon rage. When the peoples begin to move, they will drag everybody to the defendant�s bench, and will remove them from the throne of power."

No need for a fight. Our views are not identical. "...What makes him an important fact?..." Is what? Rhetorical question? What makes him important is what made Hitler important. People needed to listen to him to be able to make, in 1940, a movie (the dictator), like Charlie Chaplin did!

He emphasized that he is a scientist and that research is important. That he considered that the Palestinians are paying for the Holocaust shows that he did not do the necessary research.

Are you asleep or are you unable to read English?...allowing this vermin to post is inexcusable....what is your problem?

Idiot...Egypt gets as much and gives nothing in return. They hate you and will turn on you in a second you fool....You have absolutely no idea what the U.S. owes Israel. Where do you think all of the military advancements are tried out....the new planes..they new systems....and by the way Israel repays the U.S. Egypt just takes.Sometimes I wonder about the education in the U.S. It leaves alot to be desired but then again when people are so bogged down in hatred it is hard to infiltrate their minds with the truth. Right Randy?

Since you're so keen for Jews to admit to untruths like facts that 'you and yours played a prominent role in the demise of some of your people during the Holocaust to get Palestine' Then here's a truth for you: you're a piece of garbage that wouldn't know the truth if it hit her in the face twenty times a day

Thanks for the note! I said everything in here honestly, but I'm afraid I am not courageous enough, If I were, I would speak my mind like many of our university students, who are imprisoned now. Concerning my viewpoint about Israel and Zionism, I reserve myself the right to conclude based on sources and what's happening in the world.

Mandela can be wrong too. He is not God. He sees things from afar and makes pronouncements. If you could see things through my eyes.

Oh the poor palestinians...they always do the wrong thing at the wrong time starting all the way back to 1929 when they slaughtered Jews in Hebron. In 1948,when they felt empowered by their arab brothers in blood,they attacked the new state of Israel and hoped to kill every Jew and destroy the new State. Their hopes were compounded with the promises of gaining all of the land of Israel and all of the homes of the Jews. Did not work out like they thought and history is history. Funny thing...they are the pitied ones and the Israeli's are dispised for protecting themselves from destruction. Haters work in funny ways don't they Johnny C. Lately. And a big thank you to England for screwing up the Middle East and kissing the behinds of every arab they could find...also we won't forget Cyprus and my friend will not forget the rock thrown at his head by an English soldier. My friend was 11 at the time. Some soldier....arabs must of learned rock throwing from the British.

whew, and to think you are going to bring children into this world....with any luck intelligence skips a generation. goodness, prime example of the thinning of the species you are...the little man counts on people like you, a stupid grin and a little truth mixed with lies and presto... please tell us your line ends with you.

Rosner you are right, Ahmedinejad undid Livni's spin of trying to portray Iran as the 'world's problem. But the more important speech was Sarkosy's which was basically segments from Ahmedinejad's speech.

Unlike you walid I don't need to go surfing to look for events in Israel, and it so typical of the slime you peddle and your lack of understanding of just what morality is in mentioning kuntar and Ehud Yatom in the same breath. Man, you're some piece of work, but it's good that you display your ignorance, not to mention your warped value system. 4 pflp terorists hijacked a civilian bus with 40 some-odd people and forced it to gaza, holding them hostage in 1984, dickering for the release of 500 terrorists. The IDF stormed the bus killing 2, and killed the other 2 later. The glorious kuntar did a home invasion, dragged out a child and smashed her skull. whew, and you compare the two events? No wonder lebanon is a failed state, what a warped sense of morality you have to draw an equivalence here. So typical of your efforts to explain away your humiliation and failures.

you apparently are unable to join the dots in anything especially the messages coming out of iran which for example "if we are attacked by the usa we will destroy israel" in the other lies in your post do supply hard proof of the libels !

Labhras....very slow to talk about Irish history, you aren't familiar or you just don't want to talk about it? You prefer to start with Celestine Laine? Maybe you prefer the Irish Brigade or the Irish at Friesack...come now we have much history...Irish that is to talk about. come on, get your head up off the bar and let the dear folks hear in on Ireland and your background.

have you ever stood next to D9 caterpillar dozer?? if you havent you know nothing at all !!

What a perplexing event... I think that Rosner is correct here. Israel has committed some atrocities and has "gotten away" with a few things. Ahmadenejad has exposed some things on live media that would otherwise not have been aired. The retaliatory reactions of some here are not helpful, they instigate more problems - we have to get along with the rest of the world, PERIOD. Blind Zionism will destroy Israel - please think carefully before flexing your muscles. Let's admit our mistake and act in a fair manner. Israel is in grave danger because we do not take responsibility for what we have done, we should be ashamed of ourselves - this is not the Jewish way. I love Israel as much as anyone, however, she needs to understand that the new world will not tolerate what it tolerated a few years ago. In a recent poll, three countries were considered to have the worst public image - guess which three! Iran, Israel, and the U.S.

Finally! A man that speaks truth. Just listen to the media, the papers and boot-licking radio talk shows and one will know who controls this country. But! They are waking up! Americans are NOT fond of being used as someones goat and those who perpetrated this master scheme will regret their actions.

To receive ahmadinhitler was masochist. Make him fall from inside

Your LIST starts with Albert Einstein, maybe you are NOT aware of his opinion of Begin and his "zionist" party. For your edification: Albert Einstein's and others, letter to the NY Times Dec.4 1948. regarding Begin, seventh Israeli Prime Minister. TWO EXTRACTS: "It is inconceivable that those who oppose fascism throughout the world, if correctly informed as to Mr. Begin's political record and perspectives, could add their names and support to the movement he represents". "A political party closely akin in its organization, methods, political philosophy and social appeal to the Nazi and Fascist parties". NOW, THAT should make you more crazy! Go check for yourself.

Why are people being jail for doing research? Professors being dismissed for questioning history? Something is wrong with this picture. Does someone have something to hide?

Until the post # 656, nobody realize that this man wants ONE STATE SOLUTION to the PALESTINIAN PROBLEM: Jews and Arab Palestinians live in one STATE. So, he is actually a FRIEND of ISRAEL.

I have visited Peoria.

The Iranian leader's puerile performance at Columbia University---and Lee Bollinger's excoriation of this tinhorn totalitarian(and Holocaust denier)---should dispel any concerns Israelis might have about a Persian propaganda coup. Israel's nuclear arsenal is deterrent enough. Bombing Iran, however, would be counterproductive. As for the United States, fear not. America will never abandon the Jewish State. But what the region sorely needs is a few more Anwar Sadats and Yitzhak Rabins---visionaries capable of achieving a peace of the brave and the bold.

Israel gets 1/3 of US money. This is what caused 9/11.

Ahmadinejad is no fool and he certainly is not a dictator. Go take a look at what his title is worth in the Iranian coucil. Not much. He certainly made me chuckle when he said no gay lived in Iran but then again thats nothing compared to Bush and his constant blabbermouthing about nonsense. Its funny to see all the Israel supporters come out of the wood work when someone critisizes them... because otherwise they are all happy to just watch the show (read massacre) of their US Sponsored army... typical.

Jewish people rule the US media, the US Government, and OUR soldiers are cemented in a war that is for the Jewish power in that region. I am glad he did it, and if he attempts to wipe Israel off the map, then maybe it will weaken the Zionist enough to the point we will wake up and realize we are being controlled!

The Imam was the one that made the disputed comments but here is the actual words... "that this regime occupying Jerusalem (een rezhim-e eshghalgar-e qods) must [vanish from] the page of time (bayad az safheh-ye ruzgar mahv shavad)." Now where in that does it call for Israel to be destroyed, wiped off the map, it calls for the government and its policies to be removed from power if you take its context. And to be honest, all the time Israel massacres unarmed populations, ethnically cleanse parts of Palestine, ignore countless UN Resolutions, illegally occupy other nations territory and harp on the nuclear issue whilst refusing to submit to the same procedures themselves I really do hope Israel becomes isolated. And stop playing the "anti-semite" card, no one cares anymore when they see images of atrocity in Lebanon and Palestine by Israel, the world doesn't hate you because you are Jewish, it hates you because of what you are doing to people that cannot defend themselves

I support the people of Israel with all my heart. Your Politians may just be as corrupt as ours though, so watch out! Ahmadinejad thinks he's pulling the wool over our eyes, but his intentions are clear. Destroy Israel and Destroy America as well as anyone who gets in the way. This is propaganda at it's best.

Of course Jews lived in Palestine, sometimes as Muslims in submission to the ONE Almighty God and other times some as rebellious against their Prohets. Those of the Jews who rejected Jesus (peace be upon him)as a Prophet and guide were no more Muslims because of this rejection of Jesus. So it is true that Jews lived in Palestine before the re-appearnce of Islam after Muhammad (peace be upon him) but then who were living in Palestine when Abraham was still in Ur (Iraq). The Palestinian of course; who over time mingled with Ishmaelite, adopted Arabic as their language and never left the Palestine. "Genocide" referred to is the systematic destruction of the Palestinians by those khazaric Jews whose bringing to Palestine was facilitated by the west who were trying to make up for the guilt of endless prosecution of the Jews in Europe at the times when Jews were prospering in Muslim lands for centuries until the appearance of Zionism. Justice to Palestinians can be delayed but not denied.

This person presents his nation’s cultures and beliefs , and he cares about his nation. I think corporate policy-makers and their monkeys are just jealous that Iran is independent and strong. It is no body’s business about what Iran does, and your hatred and bias toward him is a sign that you are insane.

"destruction of the Arab political system" Are you referring to Islam?

I agree with you. He accomplished his goal. He clearly got the point across that Israel is responsible for all the troubles in the world. He should never have been given legitimacy and a platform to speak.

Okay, this is my take-away from the Ahmadinejad speech:he purports to love the Palestinians. So here is my suggestion for Israel, feeling in danger of a nuke attack by Iran at some time in the future: assimilate Palestinians into your population. Mingle and mix, and then you will have no bombs fall on you from Iran. Yes, perhaps you will be plagued with occasional suicide bus- and sandwich-shop bombers - we in America are quite accustomed to work-place slaughter from time to time. This kind of thing happens. But the ultimate nuke attack? Why would it happen? They'd be killing Moslems. This is not a facetious post. I think it is consistent with what A. said in his speech. Integrate or die (he mentioned apartheid in SA as one of the things Iran opposed).

and I suppose you are without hair at all?

All these losers who support Israel and claim to be Americans, you people are responsible for bringing your terrorism problem to America. This is the thanks we get for attempting to free you from the Nazis? Plus America is bankrupt because of endless amounts of foreign aid sent to that pitiful excuse of country. God damn you bastards, one day you will be dealt with accordingly. As for Ahmadinejad, I don't trust him but he did speak the truth about Israel and greedy evil pricks who shill for it. You jews and arabs want to fight? Fine, you won't get any support from this American.

The zionist madness must end.

Your absolutely right

Of course the average American is not familiar with the region's complexities. That's why we should never had invaded Iraq. In our ignorance, we pay through the nose. In our ignorance, we allow the Pentagon to create an army answerable to no authority but a few thugs who are friends of the President. This private army not only operates at cross purposes to our enlistees in Iraq, ignorant as the rest of us except that now they call the Iraqis "bad guys", but it incites the populace to even greater hatred for the invaders with it provocations. This is an un-American situation. I would prefer that we withdraw all funding for Mideast adventures and squabbles and spend the dough on education so we won't be suckered so bad the next time. As for people who cannot decide whether they want to be Mideast citizens or American citizens, let them finally make the cut and decide once and for all. I don't know when dual citizenship started in the US - it seems of recent vintage. It is bad for America

Let's hope Rosner reads your post.

I view Ahmadenijad as simply Iran's George Bush. They both represent the extreme right in their respective nations. Ahmadenijad is the tool of the mullahs and Bush is the tool of the oil industry and Israel. However, Ahmadenijad is by far the more intelligent of the two. He refuses to allow his detractors to frame the debate in order to limit his responses with respect to holocaust history and its relation to Israel and present day strife in the middle east. For that I must applaud him. Columbia University is to be commended for inviting him to speak. Anyone is free to disagree with his points, but only if he is first allowed to make them. Unfortunately, many seek to prohibit him from speaking. That is a greater threat than Iran by far.

You all are just afraid that your Zionist plan for the region has all but been defeated and quite possible the tide could turn against you. Your murdering of the Palestinian people and destruction of the Arab political system will not go unpunished. You are a sad bunch of people - using the Holocaust to push people into a corner. Stop thinking you are better than everyone else - you own like 0.005 percent of the world's land and you are pathetic enough that you have stolen that too.

It wasn't Iran that bulldozed Rachel Corrie.

Haaretz went down briefly, so I'll post this again. Do you know what I find to be the most ironic? All of us here from many countries were able to hear Ahmadinejad's speech. We may disagree, but we were free to listen to the whole thing. Has anyone been to the IRNA website? I have. According to them, Ahmadinejad got a standing ovation. The Iranian people will never hear the whole thing. They will only hear what Ahmadinejad wants them to hear. That pretty much says it all.

They would pretend it is just Israel, hoping the west would be willing to betray and sacrifice Israel. They would not emphasize their actions in Africa or India, Russia or Serbia. They would have those in the west believe that it is only Israel they want, when in fact they want the World. Know this, those who would sacrifice Jews on this bloody alter, will find their own necks on that very chopping block.

What revisionist history books are you reading? And not everyone here who supports Israel is Jewish, btw.

GZLives, thanks for the correction. Jacob Blues also sent me the same one. Ahmadinejad said he was invited but not that the Iranians had asked to be invited, sorry. In your conclusion, you said that he was ignorant; I find him pesky but not ignorant.

The only thing WRONG in the world is WAR...With that said, now lets stop the death and suppression of having a world that doesn't need to hate people of religous believe or color or different cultures...PERIOD

There is no genocide of Palestinians. It is precisely that sort of inflammatory and ignorant rhetoric that causes the continuation of problems.

Natellie Durson asks why Jews protested Ahmadinejad's visit so shrilly if we're not afraid of what he has to say. She's very right. We should have had more faith in our fellow Americans' ability to see the idiocy in this man's words. Protesting so visibly only makes it more of an "Israel" issue when clearly putting a man like this near a nuclear arsenal is a global threat. Again, this guy's the best P.R. device Israel's had in years. He personifies the reason why Israel - warts and all - is the only nation in the region worth putting faith in.

That is the wrong way to view this visit. The Iranian dictator revealed himself to be just that - a cruel despot. No gays in his country? Women that get stoned? And to top it off, question if the holocaust happened? c'mon! you are giving the average person no where near enough credit. Ahmahitler revealed himself for exactly what he is - a terrorist worm.

There's 3 of us!?! Ok, well I used "another Connie" a few weeks ago and "Connie Too" today, so I will change to Connie B. Glad to meet you as well, Connie M.

Loser is Iran. This is like watching a rerun of War on Iraq. Before Saddam was being demonize and Now is Ahmadenijad. All actors are same. All media is playing to the tunes of Masters and all these protests engineered by the same people who did the acts run up to the Iraq War. Its all about OIL stupid. Crude price are higher but who is making billions out of it...... Think. Israel is being used by corporations to play their dirty game on the expense of Israelis and palestinians.

Is there no such thing as free speech in Israel? Are you so paranoid. Are these the democratic ideals your country wishes to export the America? The only people who can isolate Israel are the Israelis.

Iran has no problem with the jews. Iran has problem with the Zionist ideology that is threatening Iran's existance on a daily basis and currently is pushing for a war between U.S. and Iran. just like the way it did for a war against Iraq. How much longer should American soldiers pay with their lives for the Israel's deceit regarding Iraq and in middle east in general. This reckless short sighted ideology is not only placing everybody at risk but jews as well.

ChanahS, just surmising from what happened at Brandeis, Du Paul and Barnard. When you see 3 in a row in the last few months, you can conclude more or less what I came up with, especially in light of the way Bollinger introduced him. Unless of course someone had put a gun to Bollinger's head to force him to invite the man and at the last minute he developed the guts to spill out his true feelings all over Ahmadinejad. Somehow, I'm not sure that Bollinger is that naturally rude.

I wasn't really sure what I expected to see on this website but I was surprised at how candid and honest you are. I don't know if I'm one of your "converted" but I've known the "source of the problem" for a long time. And it's not Jews. It's Israel.

As always Haaretz generates the wildest discussions. I think the reaction to Mr. A has been overblown. Certainly the situation in Iran is far from ideal. The current Iranian government has much to answer. However, having said that for the US, Israel and other countries to bash Mr. A is almost ridiculous. Geez 1.2 million dead Iraqis. George Bush is giving Mao and Uncle Joe and run for the record books. As for Israel, sixty years of war with the natives of the land and still no security. There has to be a better way. In the end of the day, if WE want solutions WE have to talk. We can yell at first but eventually WE will have to listen. Maybe not agree; but common ground is possible. I would rather see Israel play Iran for ninety minutes in the World Cup Final than watch Iran and Israel race to see who will be the first to pull the nuclear trigger. Both roads are possible. Lets hope everyone chooses the right one.

ashkenazis are not semitic ashkenazis were not attacked by pals in ww2 ashkenazis treat pals and sephardim like trash ashkenazis are racist, supremacist, communists not most of course...but too many

got sick of zionists?what did they do to you?sharing the gospel?knocking on your door?street preaching?

"Through an analysis of the main themes, this paper examines how the epic is not only is the story of an individual man`s struggle with himself, but of humanity`s struggle to achieve something approaching civilization when burdened with such monumental troubles. So much for Tosefta`s interpretion..." - Kathy #598 I have to say, you are outdoing yourself here, by far. In the episode I mentioned (bringing Enkidu in from the Wild and making him civilized, taken from Tablet I which you can read for yourself; it is relatively at the beginning of the epic), there is no question that sex with the woman was the device by which the goal was accomplished. Nothing in this contradicts the larger theme you mention. In general, Gilgamesh was composed as a collection of legends for a millenium perhaps. The stories were put together in one epic at the end. At the time of composition, the various authors may have had different ideas in mind, and a global theme by the redactor cannot eliminate them. Your understanding of such ancient literature is incredibly poor. And I am not even sure that you read the epic itself; perhaps only a Reader`s Digest version, or just a review. Wow.

IQ?.....who are the most educated people in the usa.and majority of the well-known hollywood stars-past and present were/are jews.probably you have a wife who loves estee lauder,max factor,revlon-the founders were jewish.do you wear jewish jeans-levi strauss?what hagan dasz[spelling]ice cream...started by a jew and many others.why don't you tell your palestinian people to be like japanese americans.they were mistreated in the usa,but you know what they did---they tried their best to be loyal to americans and worked very hard.they did not rebel against americans.and now tell who has high IQ?

Islam began 1, 375 years ago. Jews have been in existence and have lived in Israel for 5,769 years. Read the Old Testament for further information. And what is this nonsense about "genocide?"

Ahmedinejad made some good statements in his speech. People didn't and don't want to listen to him. Israel needs to stand on its own and quit trying to run US policy. Quit whining. Grow up. Being Israeli or Jewish doesn't make you special or deserving of special treatment (or US $$$). The Jewish and Christian zionists are trying to head the world to the same end that they claim Muslims are. Each side is more righteous than the other and more evil than the other.

Even some Americans who are educated and informed agree with Ahmedinejad. Israel is the problem & it needs to be solved.

Could you please be more specific because your allegations are obscene.

As an alumnus of Columbia (Graduate School of the Arts-1998) I say Bravo! to Columbia for having President Ahmadinejad as a guest speaker. I emphasize the adjective ?guest.? And a resounding Boo! for President Bollinger?s boorish welcoming remarks. He seems to have forgotten all protocols about how to treat a guest, no less a head of state. Ahmadinejad was right to characterize his introduction as ?unfriendly,? a gentlemanly understatement. Rude, craven, and sneaky would be more appropriately descriptive. The etiquette-challenged Bollinger should be the one banned from speaking at Columbia. Obviously in need of a remedial course in courtesy and manners, he has cast great shame on the presumed impartiality of the university by poisoning the well of polite, calm, acrimony-free discourse. I am sure Bollinger's grandstanding will receive great praise from the dark forces that were in opposition to President Ahmadinejad?s visit. But pandering to that element was not Bollinger?s mission. Being a gracious host was! And at that he failed abysmally. He could have established an environment that would encourage a calm exchange of ideas. Instead he chose to inflame an already seething situation. President Bollinger should learn the difference between issuing ?a series of sharp challenges,? as he had earlier intended, and loutish name-calling. Until he does, he should be muzzled. And I hope the trustees of the university move accordingly.

..your statement would be true if all jews believed in Zionism. but they don't. Zionism will tear Israel apart and has the potential to destroy all the Jews. this is truly a shame. some are very nice people. haven't they been through enough? using the holocaust as an excuse for a land grab is to evil as to be without words.

The Problem with Israel the Jewish and pro Jewish community is their IQ Just by the very fact that they are the last people to acquire a state in History. or batter say the last people trying to acquire in History totaly shows that they must be retarded. What in the Hell they were doing while every body else established a state. Maybe sucking their thumbs and drooling

Alright...Its good to hear an opposing view. Why is Israel SO worried??

Mr. Rosner your article provokes. That's it. You are not enlightening us with any new info either on The President of Iran and/or Israel. It is deja vu -- so are the rhetoric of the President Mr. A.--full of non-sense instead of having a unique opportunity to extend an olive branch to the world -- and not just to Israel. I rest my case.

Sick of Zionists RUNNING U.S.A.!!!

Patrick There will be a waiting game which will enable the US and the rest of us to give this little man a lesson he will never forget. Sure as night follows day...

Hitler too was interesting. Many people admired his views. You can be sure jews and our supporters will not turn back the clock to 1938

Robert absolutely correct.Rosner made a big blunder with his controversial article,and he just looked ridiculous by his comments which just only put Ahmed on a par to Hitler. Rosner lost much credibility,but he needs his bread and butter.So,what can we expect from the articles written by the Haaretz publishers. Shame on him and some of the rest of Haareretz collumnists who give a bad impression everytime they embark on their articals. I comend your post thank you.

TOBIA WHAT IS WRONG ABOUT CALLING US ZIONISTS.AFTER ALL JUDAISM=ZIONISM AND WE SHOULD BE PROUD. WORY NOT IT IS NOT A CRITICISM BUT AN HONOUR. NOW I WILL GO ON ABOUT "GILGAMESH" Gilgamesh himself is extraordinary - a mighty king who is nevertheless obsessed with himself. He afflicts his own people with numerous atrocities and while the people admire Gilgamesh for what virtues he has, they plead with the gods to distract him and give them some relief. Through an analysis of the main themes, this paper examines how the epic is not only is the story of an individual man's struggle with himself, but of humanity's struggle to achieve something approaching civilization when burdened with such monumental troubles. So much for Tosefta's interpretion...

Rosner, I tend to agree with you that Israel comes out the loser, because it was primarily Israeli lobby groups that tried to shut down Free Speech, by having Columbia Univ withdraw its invitation to the President of Iran. And it was primarily Israeli lobby groups who protested at the UN. Even the US msm reported these bits of "context" to the story. And then the esteemed Jewish President of Columbia Univ. publicly "slimes" his invited guest -- the President of Iran -- abandoning any pretense of intellectual integrity and academic diplomacy. As a US citizen, I find this behaviour worthy only of a Rush Limbaugh. The US and Israel came off as paranoid, aggressive warmongers at Columbia. Only the President of Iran offered an olive branch of peace. Americans are beginning to rethink their relationship with Israel as a "51st state," and question the value of the US/Israel military-industrial-complex, which seems to be the primary "tie that binds" the two nations, eh?

This week because: 1. Columbia let the yo-yo speak,letting CNN expose Iran's inhuman treatment of women and gays in rebuttal to his statements. 2. Georgetown did not let the Armenian patriarch from Turkey speak, giving the green light for passage of the genocide bill. Both universities made me happy this week.

Ahmadinejad's speech made him look like a buffoon.He said that the Iranians are the freest people in the world:His government executed dissidents, jailed academics and stoned people to death.He said the freest women in the world are Iranian women:He failed to mention that iranian law treats women as half a man.He said that in Iran freedom is flowing at its highest level:He has shut down newspapers and imprisoned journalists.He said that Iran doesn't have homosexuals as in our country:if you believe that he has a peaceful nuclear program to sell you.

Israel didn't lose from Ahmadinejad's speech at Columbia. On the contrary, his non-scientific, religious-based, and prejudice-filled approach should have cost him minds of most intellgient people in the auditorium as well as beyond it. If stupid/ignorant/hateful people want to follow his line of thinking/reasoning, so be it. Israel doesn't need supporters of this kind anyways. But any normal human being with a brain on their shoulders should be able to see how ridiculous his arguments are, and how correct his critics are - and make the right choice as whom to believe in.

ALL these comments come from Jews who have no idea of any history, unless its their own... Let them deal with what conflicts they helped sow over the years, let them live with the pain they have made the Arab and Persian nations live. If they want to have a nation, do so with peace, not with hate... PEOPLE, read history and you will understand where i'm coming from; whoever desputes the truth is usually the one that is wrong..

Why is Israel always the "victim"? They are the ones on stolen land, they are the ones carrying out a genocide on Palestinians, they are the ones stealing their neighbors lands, yet some buffoon has the audacity to say Israel is the victim. This is getting a little old folks. In this day and age with the internet delivering real news and not the Jewish media version, people are seeing Israel for what it really is.

"When was the last time Iran ever attacked anyone?" US Army in Iraq reports finding more advanced Iranian weaponry - while in New York its president denies armed conflict with the US September 24, 2007, 6:49 PM (GMT+02:00) In addition to the deadly EFP roadside bombs, US military spokesman Rear Adm. Mark Fox reports the troops were continuing to find Misagh 1, a portable anti-air missile that uses an infrared guidance system and could seriously impair US air operations. Other advanced weapons supplied to Iraqi insurgents and terrorists include the RPG-29 rocket-propelled grenade and 240 mm rockets. An American soldier was killed and another wounded Saturday when an EFP (explosively formed penetrator) hit their patrol in eastern Baghdad. Got your answer?

Just to give you an idea of who the biggest war mongering country of the last century is - just read this wikipedia information. I couldn't make this up! lol - sad... they say on average America has gone to war EVERY 5 YEARS FROM 1950 ONWARDS! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_military_history_events

The question:"When was the last time Iran attacked anyone?" Answer:On Nov.4,1979 a mob of Iranians attacked and took over the US embassy in Teheran.Technically, this was an act of war.The government supported the invasion of the embassy.Iran has used its proxies in Syria - the Hezbollah- and in Gaza-Hamas- to carry out acts of violence against the state of Israel.In addition,Ahmadinejad has promised to "wipe Israel off the face of the earth.You seem to have a very selective memory.

Babe1, your mind has been ossified for a long time. You are back into your baby stage. Better not to deal with such issues which require some minimal ability to think. Example: If Palestinians gain Jordanian citizenship because of an illegal annexation, do they remain Jordanian citizens when Jordan rescind the illegal act? Baa, baa, Babe-one, Have you any wool? Yes sir, yes sir, Three bags full. One for the master, One for the dame, And one for the little boy Who lives down the lane.

IF he could convince 50 people? Dude, there were thousands of Americans cheering for the Iranian president. Why? Because he's so right.

I sent the following in response to Shmuel's call for questions for his guest, Harvard Professor Ruth Wisse. ear Shmuel, I have this question for Professor Wisse. In March of last year you opined that your Harvard colleague Stephen Walt and his co-author John Mearsheimer had written "an essay with scholarship so inferior that it must, in all good conscience, be removed from circulation." Is this still your opinion? Do you think that Mearsheimer and Walt's new book, The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy should also be banned? שלום ובברכה עירא גלנץ

"Zionism is new word for Jew. THe big brave people using the word are afraid to say what they mean. But we know what you are saying" Someplace they are getting a very strange and new perversion of the definition of Zionism ... I tend to think there's something to the letter "Z" which these - usually far leftists with the urging of Islamists - seem to confuse the world Na"Z"i with the word "Z"ionist. Also, they need to believe many Jews are anti Zionist and my experinece with them is they get very frazzles when confronted with the fact that most Jews are in fact Zionists. These people choose to believe otherwise and of course hold up Neturei Karta as examples ... and this perversity is growing by leaps and bounds as they try and demonize the word "Zionist" - its very disconcerting. I believe one way to fight this is to try and make it a point to explain that most of us ARE Zionists .. and proud of it as I consider myself.

The main character in the book The Epic of Gilgamesh, is Gilgamesh himself. In the beginning of the book one realizes that Gilgamesh is an arrogant person. Gilgamesh is full of himself and abuses his rights as king. He has sexual intercourse with the virgins of his town and acts as though he is a god. Although some readers of this classic book may say that Gilgamesh does not change from the beginning of the book, it can easily be interpreted the other way. Throughout the book, many things cause Gilgamesh to change. He gains a friend, he makes a name for himself by killing Humbaba, and he tries to become immortal because of the death of Enkidu. Through these main actions his personality changes and he becomes a better person. First, the quest for immortality after the death of Enkidu shows that Gilgamesh has changed. Gilgamesh becomes frightened when he realizes that he isn't immortal. After the death of Enkidu, Gilgamesh tries to find immortality by trying to cross the ocean to...

Those who hate Israel ie. the pro Palestinian crowd see Ahmadinejad as the winner, Israel as the loser, and Bollinger as a disgrace. Those who are Israel supporters ie anti Islamists see it exactly opposite. They see Ahmadienjad as the Buffoon he is and Bollinger as the hero who artfully rhetorically undressed Ahmadinejad for all to see. Its hard to imagine anyone who fancies themselves a progressive and supports rights for homosexuals could possibly say anything about Ahmadinejad other then how clearly ignorant he is ...

Yep the Macarthy defence. No reds under the bed with guns under our pillows. The 51st state of America

I listened to both the president of colombia university and the president of Iran. Bollenger was both rude and ignorant of the facts. Ahmadinejad was not stupid but some of the comments herein regarding him are certainly contemptible and asinine.

Dear Mr.Rosner, Your anxiety got me worried. Why do you think people are so stupid and if some of them are so stupid it is good to have them as enemies. Who would want to be associated with them?

As we all have the same name and the same ideas (which I think is great) let us clear up any confusion...I am the original Connie so if it is o.k with the two of you I will be Connie M.....you gals can decide your moniker...Pleased to meet you and I appreciate your thoughts and postings.

Ahmadinejad is beside the point. Israel is rightfully losing respect in America, including amongst a signficant minority of the Jewish-American population. Many of us are sickened and disgusted by Israel's inhumane and criminal occupation of Palestine. We are further sickened by the efforts of the pro-Israeli lobby to get the American government to ignore Israeli crimes. Support of Israel is bad for America and bad for Jews.

Israel is not the clear loser. Ahmedinejad became the loser as he was berated by all. However, the fact that Israel is brought up and attention is turned on Israel and their illegal occupation of Palestinian territory is what ROSNER fears because the truth will set Israel free. All it needs to do is get out of all occupied territories of 1967. Enough said.

Whether Israel was a loser remains to be seen. All I know is that Ahmadinejad came across as a civilized person with whom we can have many more debates on a variety of issues. To be frank, I find it increasingly hard to see this guy as a maniac. He's kind of childish and perhaps a bit naive, but not a maniac and IMO certainly not a threat. I enjoyed the debate and hope to see more in the future.

The Iranian president's clarion call for the destruction of Israel is similar when Hitler "wir werden das Judentum vernichten". Iran may not be trigger finger but it is clear call for other fanatics and haters to act. Had Hitler been treated with utmost prejudice millions of innocent children , women and men would not have been murdered. It is the duty of decent men and women of the world to oppose such irresponsible and inflammatory speech. Amadinejad and his cohorts must be stopped for the sake of humanity

Mahmoud's comment "there are no homosexuals in Iran" turned a lot of people off and opened their eyes to the fact that the guy is a hate-filled clown who should not be taken seriously. There's already a lot of talk on the Internet of people and leaders of various countries wanting to distance themselves from him. Rosner, did you not see the "Christians United for Israel" who were front and center at the protests in New York? I believe this visit is going to backfire on Ahmadinejad and Israel will gain more supporters.

I agree 100% with Dovy. What this reaction and episode of Columbia Univ. has exposed is the fear, hypocrisy and downright deviousness that Israelis implement their policies around. How is it that NO ONE in Israel or even the US ever answers the very simple question of WHY the Israelis should be allowed to first, displace, then occupy and then persecute an entire people?? What, because you are the "Chosen People" and Israel is your "divine" right?? If that isnt complete utter religious extremist BS than I dont know what is. What do you expect the Arabs to respond with - love, garlands and hugs?? Are you high?? The Holocaust as an event is deplorable and sad but the Palentinians DIDN'T DO IT!! Israelis are expert and adept at pulling wool over the average American's eyes because they know the average gringo can't even place New York on a map let alone know about World affairs. Anyone with half a brain cell sees through your crap Isreal..

Being the problem and hindering peace is Israel's number one export to the West! Take a look at what Israel receives in return. Her desire for a never ending war, sympathy (the eternal victim status) generous donations, weapons, and the turning of a blind eye from the U.N. as Israel continually abuses human rights issues, commits war crimes and hides her nuclear stash!

Israel lost because president Ahmadinejad spoke at a NY university?. I suppose then, a couple of speeches more by the Iranian president, and Israel will surrender unconditionally.

Ahmadinejad's comments were transparent. As such all saw him as a dangerous fool. If anyone had any doubts about his credibility, his comments on homosexuality raised laughs - not resulting from a joke, but rather from a truly pathological liar.

Dave Just came back form seeing it... Of the young homosexuals being hung. odd that Ahmed said they didn't have gays and he must be blind and deaf not to be aware. A very convenient lack of memeory eh? I don't know if it was you who put out the website or another.It didn't work at first,until I decided to shorten the wording and got there in a jiffy...

"Because he is a fascist with no respect for human rights. He is playing with nuclear weaponry as if it was a toy. His own countrymen are starving while he builds his own powerbase." Short comment on this: Prove any of these comments please. However, proof of his comments on what the US has done to Iran is readliy available. Also, read the Patriot act, look up Guantanimo bay, Abu Ghraib. Staggering, absolutely staggering. When was the last time Iran attacked anyone? USA? You could list them almost yearly. WAKE UP!!!

Zio ism is new word for Jew. THe big brave people using the word are afraid to say what they mean. But we know what you are saying

BY HAVING THE IRANIAN PRESIDENT SPEAK, DIALOGUE IS ALWAYS GOOD, AND NOW WE KNOW WITH OUR OWN EYES, AND EARS WHAT HE IS ABOUT. I HOPE OTHER WORLD LEADERS DO THE SAME. RATHER THAN READING SOMEONE ELSE'S INTERPRETATION OF WHAT SOMEONE SAYS, WE CAN HEAR IT FROM THEIR OWN LIPS...

Mark I managed to listen very briefly to his speech,or should I say lecture address which was translated into english.Since it was a translation it became rather boring,and such a long one as is his wont,with the repetitiveness of his subjects which we all know by heart.No change in his attitude,the same business of the Palis,the Holocaust,etc,etc.All talk and nothing new. Just left watching the T.V and did other things.Too boring for words. Nothing will change the monkey ATTITUDE that's for sure.Sorry to have bothered you and you know the score anyhow.... P/S Haaretz this is for Mark Shipley #556 plp put it out.