Yishai: Sorry for distress over East Jerusalem plan

Don't give in don't give up don't give any land DON'T STOP BUILDING.

Don't kid your yourself. If the US did nothing over the USS Liberty incident, they're certainly not going to do anything about Israeli apartments. Why Arabs or Muslims believe or even listen to anything the US says about Israel is baffling. I'm sure Netenyawho was just shaken in his boots when Hillary chided him. What the US and Israel fail to understand is that State level deceit spurs and justifies the Muslim goal of a WMD bomb. I got it; Israel you don't want peace. I don't think the other side wants it either. You live and die by the sword. "Be careful what you ask for; you might just get it." JJG

Thank you I did see it.Bear in mind the following though. When you do not receive a reply it is not my fault...we have to wait for the talkback operators to publish posts,and on many occasions the do not. p/s I have only begun to visit Haaretz recently.I was away on other more amenable Israeli news outlets. pp/s On the other one am stil: K Fond regards

TIMING IS EVERYTHING AND ISRAEL PERFECTLY KNOWS IT. REACH YOUR OWN CONCLUSION.

People need to know God's Word. The Old Testament clearly says that if you give away the land that God gave you, you will bring a curse upon yourself. In other words, "Cast not your pearls before swine." The Gaza Strip, Hebron and other areas should be reclaimed by Israel. Israel, you can't and never will get the peace you want giving away your holy land! You will only get peace when you obey God's Word. Protect the Samaritans better. Drive their enemies far away from them! Take good care of the Druze and Beddoins. America, be much ashamed for not including Israel in the peace conference of Spain and other events or joining Israel in giving her precious land away. Repent, fear God! Shalom.

but aren't they all ? It's well known so tell me another. Even the Muslims in Australia say they were here when the Aborigines were, long before the 'whites' entered the region. What more in their own Homeland and the distress caused by the Jews, the other Liars in the Region. There'll Never be 'Peace in the Region' until a War will give the Answer. IT'

You are absolutely right. No more Contributions to the Jewish State. They do not deserve your good little heart. Let the Jewish people perish when Iran will finally do what it has been promising to do for a long while now, which is to 'Wipe Israel off the Map' and you will be safe in America. Good girl.

'tis but too true. As the Arabs, Palestinians whoever, whichever, whatever, all Mideasterners can't be trusted. Been there once in the market-place when my Purse with everything in it was stolen, cried out in vain, but no-one neither Arab norJew was guilty.What more need you expect when it comes down to Politics?

i agree that yishai is a fool. unfortunately, there are many fools in public life.

i did say that this was a mistake. i told morris valentine that i agree with his post. however, i still do not accept certain types of criticism coming from the other side. furthermore, i do think that ever since obama became president, the situation in the middle east has deteriorated.

Netanyahu's idea of sanctions is war. You don't get that, not at all. You get, maybe, what the Obama administration considers sanctions, if the US can talk the Russians and Chinese into it. But you've undermined all US credibility. So that may not even be possible. If you want something from Ahmadinijad, Israel will have to find a way to talk. Maybe Obama, Biden, Mitchell and Clinton can salvage something. I hope so for the sake of my Israeli friends and for the sake of the US. But as far as I'm concerned Bibi and Yishai can suck wind on Iran and US support for anything at the UN. They have zero credibility. Nothing they say in the future or have said in the past can be trusted, from Goldstone to their professed statements on friendliness to the US. Everything they said about your troops in Gaza is pure bunk. They are LIARS!

Zionists are like the Queen from Alice in Wonderland i.e. you insist on making words mean what you want them to mean; no more, no less. It seems that you are in wonderland Johnboy. Recommendation: Prof S Krasner has done a great job in researching the question of sovereignty. It might give you some clues on the meaning of the concept. An examination of the de facto state of sovereignty in Jerusalem shows that Israel apply sovereignty over all the area within the city?s municipal boundaries. That does not mean that it exercises authority over its Arab residents all the time. There is room for the Palestinian Authority authority over them. The fate of East Jerusalem will be decided in negotations. Similar to the West Bank. All of it is disputed territory. In the spirit of the new outlooks of sovereignty, such as shared sovereignty, contingent sovereignty or earned sovereign it seems that the final status of Jerusalem will be somewhere between.

oh please, even a die-hard supporter like you must admit that this kind of diplomatic blunders do Israel more harm than good! Can't you bring yourself to be a little more critical this time instead of brainlessly defending all stupidity?

we are all entitled to our opinions. those that have some power must exercise it prudently, especially if they made mistakes in the past.

secretary gates has told the saudis that engagement with iran has resulted in naught and has asked help in getting strong sanctions passed. netanyahu had made it clear that the freeze would not apply to jerusalem. he was open about it.

G: "If not Israel then who should decide what to build or not to build in the city?" Nobody questions that Israel has AUTHORITY over this city, Gene. The issue is this: what is the *source* of that authority, and what *limitations* does that place upon the exercise of this authority? Israel insists that the source of its authority is "sovereignty", and as the sovereign it can do as it f**king well likes and the USA can just f**k off. Israel is wrong. The source of Israeli authority over this city is "belligerent occupation", and the limitations upon the exercise of that authority is found in "int'l humanitarian law". Israel seized Jerusalem (all of it) via the point of a gun. It therefore *holds* Jerusalem, it does not *own* Jerusalem. That brings with it limitations, because we are well past the time when any occupier can act as a feudal warlord. There *are* laws that cover this, and Israel is wilfully violating them every day.

Nudge, nudge, wink, wink. We know. 28 March 2007. Biden in an interview on Shalom TV with CEO Rabbi Mark S. Golub (shown grinning from ear to ear): "I am a Zionist. You don't have to be a Jew to be a Zionist." Joe Biden's son is married to a Jewish woman. Joe Biden is more moved by the Seder than by Easter Sunday. The Palestinians are f...ed.

Hope you enjoy your Iran negotiations. They've seen your government lie outright to the United States. And it was a very unconvincing lie. Hope you enjoy the next round with the Palestinians, too. They are sure to trust your government, too. The current Israeli government has all the credibility of Bernie Madoff and Richard Nixon, combined.

That is what happens when you build on a stolen land

and bowing to the Arabs. Hopefully the US will solve their energy problems soon so they can do what the majority of the American citizens want, for the Arabs to quit whining and start helping themselves.

they deserve to be made aware of the reality of Jerusalem going into negotiations. Namely that Jerusalem is the eternal capital of Israel and is indivisable. Any pretense on Israeli or American politicians that it can be otherwise is dishonest.

To 124 Gad. Obviously you will sell your own mother for a dollar... Israel doesn?t need anyone and especially Biden?s approval because Jerusalem is a capital of Israel.

For God sakes, they just spit in the face of the American VP, the VP of a country that funds Israel and he does nothing but talk the big talk. It's very simple. AIPAC is very VERY influential in American politics and this is just proof. I mean I can't believe for one minute that American leaders are that impotent being that it is the strongest nation in the world. AIPAC owns America.

The Land belongs to Jews. Not the United States , Europe, Africa, Mexico, etc. Where the Jews live is their business. They own the land for the Glorious Mt. Hermon to Eliat and form the Lebanese border to The Suez Canal. FRo Tel Aviv to Jericho, so the time for talk is over, get to building! SHALOM my building buddies, if you need a hand I'm a master Mason and will be glad to contribute my time until I get to old or die.

At least he has the balls to do what he thinks is necessary. The useless Obama Administration could take a lesson or two from the ultra-right of Israeli politics.

Both sides are too far down the road toward eventual. . . war!

and I voted for Bush twice. I consider myself an independent politically and as you may know I have thrown my weight, influence and funds into the peace camp after years of leaning more right. No matter, this last move has taken me to the limits of tolerance of the Netanyahu government's appalling behavior. I love and am devoted to a better Israel that no longer exists. My hope is that one day Israel will truly realize that the only way to secure its future is by making peace with those willing and it must return to pre-1967 borders including Jerusalem which should be shared. I no longer accept that Muslims have no claim to it only because they came later in history. That is not a viable reason. I will no longer support Israel at all costs to morality and common sense.

If Netanyahu's idea of a Jewish State is the appalling behavior we have seen thus far I am throwing the baby away and getting a new baby. Israel has been my life for over 40 years. I am an Israeli citizen, my children IDF, my family still mostly living there. I will not raise or contribute one more dime until there is a marked change. This insult to Biden is the last straw for me. Until a normal government is elected without Bibi, Yishai, Lieberman etal, I am DONE with this baby. If you can continue to support this kind of nonsense then go ahead. I cannot. It is taking us all down the drain and the Jewish State to which I have devoted my life is in danger as at no time before.

"When did Israel ever give one inch of land and get peace for it?" 1974. After a war that Israel came close to losing before the US airlift, the USA forced Israel into a peace treaty with Egypt. USA paid Israel some billions of dollars to give up bases in Sinai, and $20 billion to replace what they lost during the war, and guaranteed oil deliveries. Israel reluctantly agreed to give up Sinai. Got peace with Egypt that has held for more than 30 years. When else has Israel given up land? 1956. Israel conquered Sinai the first time, and Eisenhower made them give it back. Not real peace, Israel later attacked Egypt again and took Sinai again. Israel did a strategic retreat from Gaza. A few small settlements cost way more to defend than they were worth, and occupying Sinai was a drain. Better to just wall the place off and let the people inside fight each other than have Israeli soldiers in reach for them to fight. Many Israeli airstrikes, no peace.

The bingo is not meant as an approval of your sentiments.The decision of the building has been not only mentioned,but also put into practice sometime ago.Not new,and no need for your facetiousness. If you have not heard it before,I suggest you go and read previous Haaretz,or even Jpost news to get your information. Some people are too idiotic for words.

The problem is the greed of Arabs who already have two religios holy sites.One in Maqaa and the other in Medina. Not satisfied with the two,they want to steal the only Jewish capital of Israel which precedes Islam by at least 1.500 years.

It is time that Israel stopped taking US aid (which is only 1% of Israeli GDP), tell the USA "thank you" and finally stand up for the rights of Jews to live in their land. It's a shame that we Jews have such stomachless leaders, that prefer to allow their own constituents to die rather than receive a reproach from a world that mostly hates us.

It would be such a breath of fresh air if just once, the American's would mind their own business and stopped telling Israel what they think is right. Does Israel have a say in American decisions such as Health Care Reform? The Americans get behind every single war in the world when it suits them. Why don't they sort out the messes they have caused in Iraq and Afganistan before starting more trouble elsewhere? The conflict in the Middle East is not America's cause. Just once, please stop throwing your power around, you just cause more problems than solutions!!!!

Actually, flunky of the U.S. would be better word!

I srael once and for all, needs to state there will only be one Jerusalem. It is call Jerusalem,D.C.(Davids' Capital) All other groups can be respected;but it will remain one city . When the Arabs had controls before,the city was divided with a fence and Jews could not go over to pray. No one say a word. We won and historically it is the capital of Israel

G: "If not Israel then who should decide what to build or not to build in the city?" Nobody questions that Israel has AUTHORITY over this city, Gene. The issue is this: what is the *source* of that authority, and what *limitations* does the source of authority place upon the exercise of authority? Israel insists that the source of its authority is "sovereignty", and as the sovereign it can do as it f**king well likes and the USA can just f**k off. Israel is wrong. The source of Israeli authority over this city is "belligerent occupation", and the limitations upon the exercise of that authority is found in "int'l humanitarian law". Israel seized Jerusalem (all of it) via the point of a gun. It therefore *holds* Jerusalem i.e. it does not *own* Jerusalem. That brings with it limitations, because we are well past the time when any occupier can act as a feudal warlord. There *are* laws that cover this, and Israel is willfully violating them every day.

I think your analysis is aboslutely correct. The Iranian government, no doubt, is richly enjoying every moment at Israel's expense. This is a dark time for Israel's friends. MV

a: "Jerusalem indeed belongs to Israel or at least part of it, and the other part is disuptable." No country on earth accepts that Israel has ANY ownership of ANY part of Jerusalem. The western half was seized by Israel via force of arms in 1948, and that act ALONE can not bring "ownership", no matter how many times you insist otherwise. a: "However, the east part will likely remain under Israel sovereignty forever if that means something." It can not "remain" under Israeli sovereignty if Israel does not HAVE sovereignty. a: "Either because the status quo will prevail or because it will be legally annexed" It can not be "legally" annexed by any unilateral act of Israel, arik. a: "As you see johnboy. Israel exercises sovereignty over the whole of Jerusalem." It exercises AUTHORITY, not sovereignty. Zionists are like the Queen from Alice in Wonderland i.e. you insist on making words mean what you want them to mean; no more, no less.

Sorry is not good enough!! This was planned as everything else these days from Israel. Enough, are we dealing with babies or what?? Americans are these people the ones we want to support???? If your answer is No, contact your President, Vice president, and all the rest and let them know! Enough of handing out our hard earned tax dollars to the Israelis, enough of playing the dumb bodyguard called in to flex our muscle and to clean up after Israel's mess.

is slowly shrinking! PM Abbas has already lost Hamastan in the Gaza Strip to Hamas and the security barrier has cut off the seam-zone area. East Jerusalem remains a Palestinian exclave but there is no way to get from there to the West Bank territories without going through several Israeli check points. Better sue for peace now, Abbas, before your Caliphate starts to approach the size of San Marino. P.S. If you try to hold out for the old Green Line as the border, then you are unilaterally trying to elevate the status of a temporary armistice line to that of being a permanent border and that would require Israel's approval which will never be agreed to. Some adjustments to the futuristic border will have to be made for practical reasons if nothing else.

is slowly shrinking! PM Abbas has already lost Hamastan in the Gaza Strip to Hamas and the security barrier has cut off the seam-zone area. East Jerusalem remains a Palestinian exclave but there is no way to get from there to the West Bank territories without going through several Israeli check points. Better sue for peace now, Abbas, before your Caliphate starts to approach the size of San Marino. P.S. If you try to hold out for the old Green Line as the border, then you are unilaterally trying to elevate the status of a temporary armistice line to that of being a permanent border and that would require Israel's approval which will never be agreed to. Some adjustments to the futuristic border will have to be made for practical reasons if nothing else.

for being such a poor communicator with his own citizens since he's been PM for the second time, on many other occasions. It's essential he hops on tv ASAP,and explains to the Israeli people,how such diplomatic lack of timing was even possible.

# 191 Jasmine. Hi my dear, While it's true that,'having a proportional representation type of government' in Israel,it is also one of its woes. There's nothing in the world that can even remotely justify having a behemoth of a government with. How many members,30 or is it 35,& what with all the deputies ? There's hardly a Knesset ! Logically speaking it's impossible to govern. And in such a context no one will ever take the blame for any shortcomings,(I'm using a very mild expression) Everyone will throw the hot patato to someone else,& in this way no one is to blame. Fantastic ! By the way just after Purim I wrote a post to,one Hadassah.Thought you might find it interesting. The title,"Moshe Dayan's widow......etc. Dated,5.3.10.

How Dare You! sit in Palm Springs sipping your martini and critisize anyone living in Isreal trying to Preserve a Country, a Life and a Heritage.If you are sitting on a beach please burry your head in the sand. And please refrain from voting in the next American elections.

I fear the current Netanyahu government, especially with Yishai, now has all the credibility of the Nixon Administration, post Watergate. Yishai, story has all the credibility of "I am not a crook," Tricky Dick. And Netanyahu keeping him on reinforces that.

I can't remember a time when the News Headlines here read Jordanian,Saudi,Mexican,, Turkish, Chinese,Ghanan,Russian governments Wet all over themselves because Hillary, Biden, Obama or any number of Zars from the US visited their country. Enough has been done on their behalf to embarrass us here.Including the Saudi's hand while we are prevented from using our own energy resources and putting our people to work Why should Israel not be expected to do What Is In the Best Interest of Israel? She is our Best Alli not our Puppet state. If you don't like Netanyahu's policies then for Heaven sake and Israel's Pray for the Wisdom of Solomon for him. He will need it in dealing with nations that just want to see Israel dissapear.

Thanking you for the appropos response that clarifies the crux of the matter. i.e WILL MAINTAIN AND GET BACK ALL OF THE LAND THAT WAS GIVEN TO ABRAHAM (particularely and more important TO JACOB)IF THEY JUST KEEP THE FAITH. You can bet on that statement. And what the rest of course.

I stood in the middle of Sederot, looking at the Katushya rockets that were exploding every day. Does the world care that Jewish kids run into bomb shelters every 20 minutes? No! They never care about what happens to the Jews. So I'll be darned if I care about what they think about me.

I actually believe Yishai that he personally was not aware of the coming construction decision. But somebody on the approval committee did know and did try to make a point to the US. such timing is not likely to be random. The reason the Palestinians refused to engage in DIRECT talks with Israel was exactly Jewish construction in (legally occupied) East Jerusalem. There is now a short period of time when Israel is to agree to freezing construction there (as required by the Roadmap), or the US will publicly blame it for this and impose some "punishment". Count now on Biden to insist on a high cost as "punishment'. Netanyahu will be put between the rock of Biden and the hard place of right wing ideologues of Likud. Hopefully, Netanyahu will fall.

I'm asking you to do something different. Engage your neighbors. Engage the people that you meet in the supermarket. I always like to wear t-shirts and hats that bring about a lively conversation, like my hat that says "Infidel." And I walked down the aisle at Publix, and a woman in a burqa saw me coming. And i thought, well, this is the moment of truth, okay, because according to what I've read, she basically has to kill me.As she approached, I looked at her and I said "Hello." And she said, "At least you know what you are." And I thought for a moment, yeah, she hates me, because the United States is the Great Satan, and Israel is the Little Satan. So if you're an American, the support of Israel is really the support of the United States of America first I don't have to make any excuses about my love for the place where every great thing that has happened in terms of civilization was birthed. I don't have to defend the right for them to exist. You have to defend it to your friends and neighbors, if you haven't already.

When you suggest,and rightly so about ramallah that is fine.providing they do notturn it into a MINI TALIBAN.. As for te rest i.e Maqaaand Medina.Exactly what I referred when I asked you the MEANING OF GREED Exactly what it is and has been going on for decdes---nay since the prophet OF DOOM began his CULTIC so-called religion called SUBMISSION.

why you should support Israel. Because anyone who thinks that Arabs hate us primarily because we support Israel is either stuck on stupid or looking for another specious justification for slandering this country, the United States of America or slandering Israel. Or worse yet, they're seeking a way to excuse Islamic terror. You have to be armed when you go out there now.

East Jerusalem has always been Jewish, ie for the past 3000 years. This basic fact needs a reminder. So what is all the fuss about, and the US or the world cannot dictate to the Jews about their homeland and their basic human right to live and build in their homeland. No apologies needed Yishai. Furthermore, look to Iran for that is where the real threat lies. What is all this petty politicking about when the Iranian nuclear bomb is ticking loudly in anticipation.

Calm down you sound like an actrese objecting the director for someting that is hardly important. I mean to say:HOW DARE YOU NETANYAHU? He dares because he is not the LAP DOG of the USA and hope he remains the same taking no BS from either them or anyone else. Now go and have a cup of tea and relax.

1.When did Israel ever give one inch of land and get peace for it? Future prospects bleak. 2.Joe Biden embarrases the Hell out of himself everytime he opens his mouth. 3.Don't Even think Obama will stand by Israel no matter what he says.(lack of male genitalia to do so) 4. Count on God and Pray for your leaders. Don't make David ashamed. 5. Are some American Jews Retarded? We and our Grandchildren have to survive what they Voted for. 6.Obama is a chamelion. Black to the Black, White to the White, Muslim to the Muslims. I'm waiting for him to claim he is a Jew seeing as no one seems to know where he was born.

These guys aren't sorry for making the VP of the US look like a fool with the timing of the approval to build more housing in E. Jerusalem. Maybe the US should respond in kind by delaying aid, and announce it on the eve of the next Netanyahu visit to the US. A temporary total and complete halt to settlement building is imperative if peace talks are going to move forward. Obviously, the Israeli leadership feels like the time isn't ripe to move forward with peace talks.

Obama has his platefull of problems to solve at home,so he sends hiS emisseries for naught as far as I can see.Just another futile enterprise. All the toing and froing by Mitchell and now Biden and for what? Just to appease the Arabs. And badgering Israel who will not agree to any of their demands. It is so puerile they almost sound like the pals who ever stops doing the SAME.

I'll stand with the Israelis. It is bad Christianity not to. Jerusalem is going to be 100% Israeli in the end anyway. But, I think that during this time period Israel is jumping the gun... As a gesture of fair play, and good intentions, Israel should complete the housing project... instead of demolishing them at aconjunction of establishing the area for Palestinian use, they should deed the houses over to the Palestinians. Maybe the Israelis won't be so quick to jump the gun in the future.

obama has been the most inimicle u.s. president in a long time. the man does not even bother to hide his antipathy. now you and others are making an international incident out of some housing being built in ramat shlomo, in northern jerusalem. at the same time, hundreds of people were slaughtered in nigeria. not a word was said, as far as i know, by obama and his crowd. stop the drama and learn that israel is a u.s. ally, the only ally on which the u.s can count in the region. keep in mind that such alliances are built on mutual security needs. in this case, the u.s. gets more than it gives.

to #1 What opinions Hollywood has should stay in Hollywood considering it is not even close to the real world or the opinions of most people here in the US. Israel WILL MAINTAIN AND GET BACK ALL OF THE LAND THAT WAS GIVEN TO ABRAHAM IF THEY JUST KEEP THE FAITH. You can bet on that statement. And what the rest of the world gets for trying to divide Jerusalem is not gonna be pretty. Read Zackariah. The whole book if you need practice reading. Eyes melting in their sockets and tongues in their mouths kind of jumps out at me.

and one might add that she used to support the former administration.

not bow down, by any means. however, it is not wise to be undiplomatic when the vp comes for a visit. that is just common sense. best regards, cipora

The Arabs have already their religious capital: Mekkah. No need for another Arab capital.

maybe the best response is to acknowledge anyway that East Jerusalem is JEWISH and really has been for over 3000 years listen to this U tube you will be able to see the logic and stop bashing israelhttp://israelinsider.ning.com/video/why-support-israel

... is doing more harm to Israel than are some of Israel enemies " M.V. With respect, you didn't support what you said with any example, specially when you made such high charges against Bibi ! If you are only saying what you said re-the East Jerusalem Plan; the subject matter here;what other choices Natenyahu have ? To leave it after Biden go back home?! And the media will find an excuse to call Israel names & lier is one of them ?! Netanyahu on the record & many times said "Jerusalem is no subject for negotiation". In my book he is right to let it be known and in advance, to all those who wants to participate in finding a solution with the Arab-Palestinians & Israel; Israel under the present gov have no hidden agenda. That is the great fact of this administration that makes it different from any other administration. The truth ! One more thing; the 'real estate , you mentioned on your post is the greatest asset on the ground for any real peace. Regard

What looks like a very provocative act is really a standard Israeli negotiating tactic. Israel can now "cancel" the construction of the 1600 units as a major "concession" to it's friend the USA and it's Palestinian "partner" in the peace process, thus appearing to be cooperating while really giving up nothing of any substance.

"Hey, I didn't know about the details because it's so routine I don't even pay attention. A few days ago we did something a lot worse that was completely routine and I had no idea anybody would care about this one. If I had noticed I would have been polite and put off the announcement a little bit. There wasn't anything wrong with the settlements and I'll do it again routinely, but I didn't mean to be rude. I apologise for the distress you feel, though I need no apology for the entirely routine new building permits." I'd kind of like to make an apology like that, but I don't know anybody powerless enough to do it to.

Actions speak lounder that wonders you give all the lipservice and double speak about wanting peace and wanting a peace partner but the reality is it is you who have not live up to any of your many committments for peace... the PLO has lived up to more of there committments that the jews... and the world has taken notice.

"When will US says "F... You!" back?" - Greg Who has not been able to walk all over Obama Greg? The man is a rug. This is just the latest example of deliberate actions to humiliate American officials every time one visits Israel. It has been going on for a year and each affront has been met with submission. The contempt of Israel for the United States is annoying, the lack of spine in our government is disgusting.

The frothers at the mouth are here every day and not only at Haaretz,but at other Israeli sites too. It is not surprising and we are accustomed to it.but for some of the new subscribers it is a GLARING HATE SHOWN by them and best thing I would have suggested sometime ago was:Why not ignore those posters.If one does,then they will slithers away like THE SNAKES they are,for there would not be any ripostes coming their way.Like a tailor's dummy they will be left in the DARK and lonely.It is what many times I do.

please cut the drama. it is swell that you have so much power. learn to use it with discretion. remember that you were a supporter of bush. your claim that netanyahu disrespected the american people is totally ridiculous. by the way, did you not say that you were an israeli citizen?

Nothing more than "... disappointment .. and also shame ", your words ! Is Israel responsible for all that ?! The country that you called 'beloved'; is hardly existing by the skin of our teeth ! We the children of this 'beloved country' can hardly see it surviving ! What else we can do than keep it alive only with our love, and made it the centre of all our hopes & future ? ! Is there a solution for our tomorrows, if we trust others & hand them the keys of the only thing that is left for us & our children !? I can't see any sanity in that ! It will only leave us with a situation worse than "... like many other like-minded jews & israelis one must abhor what is happening to our beloved country". This 'beloved country' of ours, can only exist with our hope & prayers. It did so in the past & our oath, it will remain so to eternity ! A trust for our children & a living reality for 'never again' ! And remember, humanity is only half the story.

diplomacy is important. diplomacy is in large measure perception. the announcement could have waited a week. honestly, we have more important fish to fry at the moment. regards, cipora

The laughing third in this Operette is of course Iran. Those in Israel who think humiliating VP Biden and the Obama administration is a show of strength seem to have no clue how this is helping the Iranians to archieve their goals. Iran want peace talks to fail more than even the most hard-line zionist does and the worse it gets for the PAls and Israeli-US relations, the better it gets for Iran. Iran says thank you Israel again.

It is a well known fact that we have had Each "Every Bastard a King"in Israel. Was and still has. Blame the political constitution having A PROPORTIONAL REPRESENTATION TYPE OF GOVT' And it will continue thus. Sorry to disappoint,that is the SYSTEM in Israel.But it still has a saving grace and when they err apologies are offered. However,there was/is no need for any apology. In my point of view. Ta ta

i do agree with you. best regards, cipora

And the Israeli PM what they should or not. And if as you say up on your caption: When will US says "F... You!" back??? They would not dare,for Israel is an important ASSET to the US. And bear in mind the majority of Israelis are not religious or ultra,but SECULAR. I will end this by telling you all who repeat the mantra of $$? PLEASE TAKE THE DAMN dollars WE NEED THEM NOT. As we have said millions ot times the monies are SPENT RIGHT THERE for your lot you fool. So keep you few cents,or is it dimes for as your economy is faltering you need even those FEW DIMES FOR SURE.

to insure these public relations goof-ups don't happen again. It was really a goof up,right ?Even multi-party coalitions should have a central communication system.

let me remind you that in Annapolis in 2007 the Israeli delegation and Livni, then FM, were shown to the negotiation table through the kitchen,literally,because the PA-delegation refused to enter the Conference Hall through the main entrance with the Israelis. That is how much Pal "peace-partners" loath the Israelis and do not shun to show it quite openly to embarrass Israel before the whole wide world with their disrespectful conduct. I think the Israeli politicians show a lot of tolerance when they put up with the Pal representatives* unpolite conduct towards themselves. How *d you or any normal person react to such unfriendliness, Israel has to bear? POLITENESS paves way to accomplishing any kind of peace. What kind of peace emerges from contempt? The American hosts asked the Israelis to use the kitchen door to accomodate the Pals. What does that tell you about the U.S.? Jane, respect has to be earned; so in my opinion PA and the U.S.A have to earn Israel's respect.

Bow down on his knees for someting Biden was already aware. I think people should take it all with a grain of salt.When or how did the persons mentioned were disrespectful? Is now being honest considered disrespectful? C'mon stop being so politically correct. I bet they ate all having a good laugh while we the reponders are attacking each other over something that was NOT an INSULT to Biden or accusing Bibi..

If Israel wants to associate itself with right wing religious fanatics then US should really say it and start walking away. It makes no sense anymore. Israel does what it wants and everyone who disagrees must be an anti-semite??? Well, if I am, stop taking my tax dollars then. Simple.

That we were building even during Kadima is a known FACT,and they are stirring the pot to diminish Netanyahu and Israel. We don't have to go and read any body's view point particularely THE DAMN GUARDIAN.

"simply a routine, technical authorization" What planet does he live on? No one can be that stupid to not think that just maybe, this should be passed by the boss. Chicken manure is all it is.

In the early 1970s, the Israeli courts awarded two Jewish associations ownership of the compound based on land deeds that were a century old. The Palestinian residents were allowed to stay on as protected tenants on the condition that they paid rent to the Jewish groups. Rejecting the court ruling, many of the Palestinian families refused to pay rent, making them eligible for eviction......NY Times . Freeloading for 40 years is okay ? Haaretz does not care to tell at least a crumb of truth . Omission is also lie .

Let's see some proof. Otherwise, you have no credibility.

You gotta love it! Israel spits in our face again. Don't worry, Obama will take it and thank Israel at the same time. He will probably decide he better send more U.S. dollars and military aid to Israel quick before Netanyahu gets mad.

Now who in the world would have expected the "powers" that be to do anything but condemn Israel for minding their own business. The land they are own is theirs by default because they won the war when they were attacked by those who then occupied Israel lands forced from them by WWII. Go!! Israel. Live your own lives. Your enemies will be eradicated by a higher power than any that exists on this earth including Satan's henchmen. You are still the Apple of His eye and Gosh are you ever hated for it.

who, by the way, happens to be a good friend of Israel, now Mr Netanyahu and Mr. Yishai are insulting his (and everybody elese's) intelligence by claiming that they did not want to embarass him and the timing of the announcement was a coincidence.

Everyone knows Israel has always rejected all the UN resolutions, well I know, but who knows why it s always keen to let its "misfortuned" neighbours accept them. We do live in a multicutural melting pot, we do have problems, but nobosy has ever asked me, if my roots are Caucasic or Indian, I 'd rather would say Phoenician and I would be proud of it!

And if you believe Israel is so stupid as to do this without malice to the peace process, I've got a Kotel to sell you.

Sorry for all our goods friends, but jews are back in their land. Sorry for you, but You must accomodate yourself with this fact. Welcome for jews in the new jewish state of israel. Ishay made a good move to our best friends - us admnistration - We hope the message is understood.

Before Noel, Santa Claus and the US there was ISrael. DURING Noel, Santa Claus and the US there is Israel. After Noel, Santa Claus and the US there will be Israel. Israel IS REAL. Noel, Santa Claus and the US are fictions!

The only thing that right-wing Israel is really worried about, is that more and more liberal and mainstream Diaspora Jews will be enough disgusted by Israels behaviour over the past decade(s) to turn away from the Jewish state and stop funding the continued occupation of the West Bank, until they see real change happening on the ground..... ....those in the Diaspora, who are taking those painful steps, have finally understood that if you wanna save the existence of a mainly Jewish state in the future, you must hurt the Israel of 2010. The so called "Jewish establishment" in the U.S. and Europe unfortunately hasn't gotten yet that message, but there seems to be at least some hope, that more and more ordinary Jewish citizens around the world will....

When will America become an honest nation again? When will america stop its embargo on cuba? And danng you have an obsession with Israel, even if there was peace you would still find some excuse to bash them.

What is the problem ? Jerusalem is not on the table , it is an eternal capital of the state of Israel with full right to excess to religious sights by all people , as it is now practiced . It is the fairest possible outcome . I never heard so much outcry pre 1967 when Jordan throw all the Jews out of E Jerusalem and turned the Kothel into a latrine . That was very ecceptable to current crying public .

It's really quite funny to see all of the Jew haters frothing at the mouth like rabid dogs. The timing is obviously not coincidental, but Israel has a right to build in it's capital. And is also sending a clear message to Obama to do something about Iran, or Israel will make unilateral decisions about that topic too. Funny enough, this story is not even news this morning in the US, no one really cares about these buffoons in office anyway.

Obviously a post from the fake Natalie Durson. The real one would never give objective criticism of Israel. You have to be more blatantly Antisemitic to convince us of your authenticity. Still, nice try.

Right again. However, what can we do? Obama will not be tough against Israel because hispopularity is plunging down. Ok . This is the moment to go back to the old 'safe beach' of our dearests friends despite that sometimes they spit on me...!!! That is realistic. Iran Hizabalah Hammas Taliban...those are the enemies. They are tough but only because America does not want to use real power and that can be done with Israel's aid plus support of the Gulf countries. Europe will stanhd with America as well. China and Russia will wait and lurk. The moment is coming. You wanted confrontation...?? It looks to me that you will get one. It is good inded, that you are in the good side equation ...with America.

Enough humiliation to our country.

To save the Israelis from themselves, and to protect the rest of the world from the disaster that Israel is single handedly creating in the middle east, the US should invade and occupy the occupied territories including East Jerusalem and establish a Palestine state.

Jerusalem-all of it- is the capital of Israel and the Israelis cn do there whatever they want, just as the Americans can do in Washington whatever they want. H L Wipprecht

Jerusalem indeed belongs to Israel or at least part of it, and the other part is disuptable. However, the east part will likely remain under Israel sovereignty forever if that means something. Either because the status quo will prevail or because it will be legally annexed... if this term is relevant whatsover. As you see johnboy. Israel exercises sovereignty over the whole of Jerusalem. It is the legitimate owner,(historically and in present times) although annexation has not been accepted by the I. Community. So what???? Do you see any problem with that? Sweeping sanctions??????Do you see any??? Are they looming???So far I see sweeping sanctions coming over Teheran's head rather than over Jerusalem...which is Israel's capital. You should work harder to convince the Christian majority to shift support from Israel to the palestinians. Things may change then.

'the threat from iran takes priority on all other issues. the obama administration wants to put the emphasis on the palestininan issue.' Ture on both counts. And by the ill-timed announcement of the building project in E Jerusalem, the Israeli government has managed to take everyone's focus off the first count, and onto the second. Mr Netanyahu, I'm beginning to believe, is doing more harm to Israel than are some of Israel's enemies. This latest real estate project went over very poorly here in the States. It's a rare soul I've found - Jewish or not - who supports it. Most painful for me, tho', was watching Joe Biden - who, you can be sure, has been a very strong voice for Israel inside this lousy administration - condemning the Israeli move, whilst on Israeli soil. MV

Jane while I agree that Yishai and the Haredi once again did the wrong thing... and believe me these haredi are useless... you are still living in comfort in FL.... make aliyah then you can ask bibi: "how dare you!?" Till then you are not israeli and cannot ask such a question... however... i can :) yom tov!

I believe Biden had an ambitious schedule planned during his trip here. He intended to make some dramatic pompous announcement to put Israel in a corner with something it never agreed. Netanyahu heard the rumors of his arrogance and decided to nip his demands in the bud. Just look at the photo op. Netanyahu is wearing the EXACT same outfit as Biden. That does not happen by coincidence. Bibi understood what Biden had planned and nipped it in the bud with the declaration of new housing. The act of dressing the same is an act of "we know your moves"

... one must abhor what is happening to our beloved country... ... it is not "hate", chas-ve-chalila, but abysmal disappointment... and also shame...

Israel gets massive support from America and has for a long time. The American position on settlements is well known to the Israeli government. The fact that Israel is still expanding construction in the settlements, and, especially EJ is spitting into the face of the American president. Obama should not have to go to Israel, hat in hand, and ask nicely for them to stop. They already know Americas position. If Obama does not make the strong demand, he appears weak. It is Israel that is being disrespectful. At the very minimum, American support should be cut. Israel is out of control, demanding that America attack Israels enemies and yet insulting America at every turn. The timing of the recent announcement concerning the 1600 housing units is a direct challenge to Obama. If Obama does not act decisively, he is finished in the eyes of the world. If he cannot get cooperation from Israel, how can he control Iran?

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue... just a coincidence.

Ely Yishai Joe Biden,& Clowns. "Every Bastard A King" The ink hasn't yet dried up from the humiliation of the Turkish Embassador & now we have this clown,Ely Yishai. The Japanese,even if their minister was not directly involved in such a huge debacle,would commit Hara-Kiri. You can't see Ely Yishai,the clown doing that. Can you ? When Pres.Weizmann visited Pres.Trumen.Trumen said how easy it must be to rule over,600,000 people.Here in the USA there are over 180 million. Weizmann retorted: There is only one president,in the USA but in israel there are 600,000 presidends. "Every Bastard a King"!

Jane tired of supporting Israel? Want to move the other side? See how G-d reacts to such a move. You?ve been privileged with the duty to help to raise funds ? and no doubt received many blessings as a result. Why risk it? For the Pals sake? Common you are smarter than that ? Israel is (among many many other things is a democracy), they elect their Government, and you regardless of how many millions you help to raise cannot tell them who to vote for. Same as other countries could not tell you ?how dare you? voting for G.W.B. Relax take a deep breath.

Poor Americans, again and again they are being farted in their face

It is very unlikely that the Retarded would bite the hand that ensures their survival. Israel's proble is that they literally believe in the Goy in Goyim bullcrap. The Goy is there to serve the Jew

"Israel want's land not peace'' fraz. The only difference, Israel wants land for its security & the palestinians wants land to finish the jewish state ! One must remember 1967 when the arab had the land that they want it now; and attacked israel with the armies of three arab countries to take what was left with israel ! Work it yourself franz without fear or favour !

As much as it painful, undiplomatic, tactless, the message by the goverment here is clear and to the point: Jerusalem is the Jewish capital of Israel, and there should be no question that Jews will inhabit their uncestoral capital, where Jewish kings reined like David, and Solomon from the beggining of time. Actualy this might make things easy for Biden, when he visits Arabia. As an educated lady you know the say of Marcus Aurelius : for everything there is a reason, and Biden is a very smart man. To you Confiusius will say when angry people speak not from reason but emotions. We have only one place that belong to us in every book in history, and that is Jerusalem, its not ever mentioned in any Muslim book including the Qura'an. So what is wrong for Jews to live in Jerusalem? Do we need permission from the world to live in our own eternal capital? Show me one document in history that prove otherwise and I will accept your argument.

If not Israel then who should decide what to build or not to build in the city? USA? Who should give permits, check the safety of new constructions, plan neighborhoods, clean streets, etc? USA? Whoever has such responsibilities is the one who has the rights for both of them come together. Or maybe you think that Jerusalem belongs to the imaginary country of Palestine? In your dream.

last night... did everyone make it on time or was Joe 90 minutes late?

"Nothing 'honest' about this government" E. Who care what you think Esther ! This PM the head of the gov of the jewish state was elected by the people ! No one head of state in any arab country can claim that ? Binden in Israel, is not supposed to hear lies ! And Nethanyahu, may g-d bless him, was frank & told him the truth! What is 'not honest' in that ??!! Hate always un-balance the mind !

East Jerusalem is Palestinian. Since the USA abide by international law, they have always insisted, like all other Western nations, that Israel should put an end to its occupation of East Jerusalem.

Jane, Amen! As a supporter of the Obama administration, I long for them to have the same backbone that so many private citizens have.

G: "Jerusalem does not belong to USA" No more than it belongs to Israel. G: "Israel has the right to build anything it pleased." Untrue: Jerusalem does not "belong" to Israel. G: "Nobody tells UK what to build or not to build on Falkland Islands" The UK owns the Falkland Islands, Gene, in a way that Israel DOESN'T own Jerusalem. G:"Nobody tells India what to build or not to build in Kashmir." See above. G:"Israel does not care how many houses are built in El-Paso." But the USA would, if those houses were being built *by* another country so that this country can claim El-Paso for itself. G: "Only the one who is foe of Jewish people might question Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem" Considering that the list of "questioners" includes everyone who ISN'T a zionist then that's a mighty big call, Gene....

Horrible. The Israeli government is hypocritical, and all his ministers. Israel humiliated Biden, but Israel humilieted the millions of Palestinians who need a peace agreement. And by doing it, Israel humiliated itself, her own people who keeps dying for nothing. Israel feeds his people with paranoia. According to this point of view the problem is not the authorization of houses in occupied territory, but to be announced this when we hve the visit of Biden, here. A problem of forms, but not an ethical problem. Israel does not want peace, and it is hard but possible to understand. Only if there is a peace movement, strong, honest and brave, the situation may change someday. ana

you however do admit that these "Accords" are a "stepping stone" to "final status talks", which was my point. SO: we agree! PS.: as a broad-minded person,Johnboy, pl. do take into consideration that not everybody*s first language is English to fully understand the different "nuanced" meanings of terms. Thanks for explaining to me though.

Jane, Please reconsider your stance. I too disagree with the Israeli government's decision to build the units, but don't throw the baby out with the bath water. Support for Israel goes deeper than disagreeing with this or that government. Israel is surrounded by enemies who wish to destroy her and we need to support her.

...on this one. The US should use this as an excuse to pressure this hard-line government into making concessions at the bargaining table. They'll need to do the same with the Pals, of course, who are equally stubborn (just not as stupid).

Jerusalem does not belong to USA. Israel has the right to build anything it pleased. Nobody tells UK what to build or not to build on Falkland Islands. Nobody tells India what to build or not to build in Kashmir. Israel does not care how many houses are built in El-Paso. Only the one who is foe of Jewish people might question Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem

this move was predictably expected as it's happened previously, and of course, the excuses were predictable by the parties. Nothing impressive here about the current developments or to get too emotional about and both sides should begin negotiations. We've all read this screenplay before.

"The fact that Yishai can't wait a few more days until Biden leaves the country proves his goal was to give the American administration a slap in the face," Margalit said. Maybe it's about time our American administration gave the Israeli administration a kick in the teeth in response to that slap in the face. Israel can't function without US taxpayer dollars and US protection at the UN. Maybe Israel needs to go it alone for a while to learn a lesson...

The Egyptians will find out.

Once again Israel's proving they do not want peace by trying to sabotage peace talks before they start. If Israel is forced to obey U.N. sanctions the talks would produce peace. Only thugs would belittle the Turkish ambassador and announcement of new settlements/cities at the time of Bidden and Mitchell's arrival in Israel.

L: "Stick to the Treaty-93!" The olso Accords were not treaties, Liza, because "treaties" can only be negotiated between states. They were - and are - "interim accords" between the govt of Israel and the PLO. And if you read them (and, clearly, you haven't) then you will see that they were described as "interim" for a very good (and well-defined) reason i.e. they were only a stepping-stone to the "final status talks". So, yeah, stick to the Olso Accords, but be aware that they point you along a path, and "where" that path goes is exactly where you don't want to go..... So are you really wise to stand up on that soapbox and spout your nonsense? To be honest, no, I don't think you are...

Come on people, let them build, but they should know they will be living in a Palestinian state. They will be protected by Israel and UN but they will become Palestinian citizens. What's the harm in that ?

to nr. 42, natallie durson from los angeles- ca: i fully agree with your reaction. i have read several of your talkbacks in haaretz and i like very much to read them. in 1973 i was in l.a. and in the u.s.a. i enjoyed for being in your country. with my kindest greetings.

these haredi always cause us real israelis problems... they keep our taxes high becaue they do not work and are leeches in general

the US can and will not start a new war against Iran. Since the cold war almost the whole world has to live with MAD. Nothing new here.

CL: "The United states should put the monthly cheque at the bottom of the to do pile." There is no monthly cheque. ALONE out of all foreign aid recipients Israel gets paid its money up front and in advance at the beginning of every financial year. That way it can shove that $3billion in the bank and earn the interest..... ... not to mention that this allows it to immediately skim 20% off the top to spend inside Israel, rather than in the USA..... Nice work if you can get it.

that the -67 borders, including East-Jerusalem, will be the borders of the PA-state? Nothing of the sort has ever been agreed upon lest alone negotiated. The Treaty was about Pal-autonomy in the occupied territories in exchange for stopping its violence against Israel. It is not about land "belonging" to the Pals as their "property" in any other shape or form other than administered by them. Stick to the Treaty-93! It is supposed to be the platform for PA to proceed from autonomy to independence, but the way the Pals behave and misinterprete the Treaty, makes me wonder, if a PA-state *d be a grave mistake....

Netanyahu to Biden: "..you are a true friend to Israel," sotto voce: "..despite the fact we keep kicking you and Obama in the crotch." With 70 Senate votes in the pocket of the US Israeli lobby, Netanyahu knows he can do what he likes to the US Executive.

Obama's administration has been very soft in regards to Israel settlements. Israel has spitted in his face, and that is very bad. However, as usual, nothing is gonna change. Israel will apoligize, and postpone further building in the settlements. There are much more urgent things to deal with. Obama knows that, and will stick to its soft approach towards Israel. You don't mess with allies especially when you have in front of your face criminal states such as Iran. This current rift between America and Israel cannot led astray the real coalition composed by the good old friends of America against the axis of evil. Obama knows that, and that explains his soft policies towards Israel.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/mar/10/israel-homes-plan-biden-apology Two years ago, when the Israeli government approved 1,300 homes in the same settlement, then US secretary of state, Condoleezza Rice, criticised the move as having a "negative effect" on peace talks. Kadima's hypocrisy is breathtaking. They bashed Bibi in April for EU freezing relations when in fact the EU had frozen relations in January during the gaza war. Kadima's hypocrisy has no bounds. Some one on this district committee is up to no good as these announcements were also made when u.s officials would visit when olmert was in office. Clearly a change needs to be made where the PM office is informed of any annoncement from the jersualem committee.

with whom does USA have things in common ? Countries that view you as infidels ? Pls advise.

... must keep Jerusalem as her undivided Capital as well as the major settlements along her borders. The Palestinians are not interested in peace with the Jewish state in ME, but it appears clear that they fully depends on and represents the position of the hostile Arab League (on the side of Fatah) or Iran (on the side of Hamas). They totally lack in autonomy and credibility.

Jane, your reaction is so long overdue but finally so welcome! I do hope many, many more US Jews follow your example and finally make the rogue state that used to be mine regain, unfortunately by lack of any other choice, the camp of civilized nations. When that happens, I and tens of thousands like me who have chosen to distance themselves from that bad place might even reconsider returning there and help clear-up the shambles ALL of the governments have left since 1967. Undoubtedly this last government seems to be outdoing all previous ones...

The true embarrassment here is, Israel may appear to the rest of the world to be a government where the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing.

The United states should put the monthly cheque at the bottom of the to do pile. And leave it there until Netanyahu starts squealing like a sucked pig. That should remind him who is boss. Meanwhile moves should be put in place in the senate to divide Israel's current aid package equally between the Palestinian people and the Jews. The United states should also say to Netanyahu, publically in a manner similar to the announcement of this illegal house building programme that they are lifting all sanctions against Iran as a sign of goodwill. If Israel is not prepared to do what is required of it why the fuck should we do what Israel wants us to do. This is the language Netanyahu will understand.

CJK: "it is the harsh, desrespectful and bullying approach by the obama administration"... Obama has said nothing other than this: Live Up To Your Prior Agreements. And that is a "harsh", "disrespectful" and "bullying" thing to expect from any Israeli govt. Remarkable, isn't it? Israel can agree to anything, but it can't - IT MUST NOT! - be bound to those agreements because to insist that Israel's word should mean something is An Outrage!!!!!!!!!!! So. Sayeth. The. Cippy. Remind me again, Cippie, why anyone should be bothered to negotiate with a govt that insists that its prior agreements are "optional extras"?

It will come back ten fold....

... they live by vandalism and appropriation of Pal land & resources... only their measure of chutzpa is unprecedented...

it is the harsh, desrespectful and bullying approach by the obama administration that has resulted in israeli resiprocal in-diplomacy. the obama administration made its sympathies and dictates very clear from day one. the administration treated israel with less consideration than it would treat nearly any other country. netanyahu's reception in washington was quite outrageous and was most certainly meant to offend. all considered, israel should show respect to vice president biden, as a person, and as the holder of the office.

Yshai very well explained the mechanism of things. If PA and consort were really after peace they would simply pass ower the above mentioned administrative approval step and go into negotiations. However if one wants to colapse negotiations, taking a pretext and making a 'Religeous insult' out of it casus belli. The right thing now is to say to PA, stop looking for excuses and come down seriously to business.

Yishai lacks the intelligence and vision to be where he is. Of course he is where he is because of party politics and because of Israel's dire electoral system. This is a farce, no matter how you put it. It is a stab in the back to all those who work tirelessly to improve Israel's standing and understanding in the UK and world. We have a huge job to do but just as you think you're getting ahead, morons like this make crass decisions like this. What have the haradim ever done for Israel anyway? Yishai, go straight to hell, do not pass go, do not pick up $200. Shame on you and this government.

Sooner or later, perhaps in 20 years, Iran will get the nukes and Israel's closest neighbours too. Israel's military supremacy will evaporate. Will remain its geo-strategic weakness, a tiny littoral strip of land surrounded by 200 millions of unfriendly,threatening people. It will be very very painful for the next generation.

Oh sure he'll make a bit of a fuss, but it'll all be smoothed over by Peres or someone and Biden will go on his way to do what Israel tells him, threatening Iran and forcing the Pals to engage in pointless negotiations that can be dragged out while the settlements expand.

That 'mishap' which reveals -again- a general underlying contempt for all 'the others' has been noticed -once again- for all those having eyes to see. Originates anti-semitism, anti-Israel, ant- Zionism, anti-muslim, anti-christian, anti this and anti thats really spontenuously only in the hearts of malicious people/gentiles? How painful to see Israel -with all its assets and merrits- choosing sliding down such a slippery slope. When the (still evitable or inevitable?) crash occurs, will there be space, beside the automatic blaming-choirs- for some honest and collective soul-searching? Let us hope Israel gets back to plan (and work)seriously restoring its damaged integrity. Cheap exercices in fabricating excuses while already intending to spin more wool much better next time may be thought to be a good move. However, (All) the 'others' sense such this manipulation... And the anti-this and anti-that feelings only increase.. A self-perpetuating cyle?

... if Israel delayed the East Jerusalem plan after Biden left with the wrong impression in his meeting with p.m ! There is nothing to stop the government in israel to conduct its business in the normal way ! The time of free gestures finished with olmert. The present gov. in israel is the most frank & honest than any other gov. in the history of the jewish state ! And for that alone deserve all the credit & the gratitude of the nation !

I say to the Israeli politcians, you have 78% of historical Palestine to build on, leave the other 22% to the Palestinians to build a state on, otherwise, the binational state is the solution.

After Barak offered them a 93% land swap in 2000 that the Palestinian rejected and returned with a planed bloody Intifada, and after Olmert offered a nearly 100% land swap (with East Jerusalem as future capital) to which they even didn't answer, the Palestinian must now lern to be content with less favourable perspectives and accept the fact that a Palestinian state, if they ever wanted one, will at the most have Ramallah as capital. The necessary confidence for more painfull steps on Israeli side is the damaged, seen and recorded the negatives effects of any overture or concession towards the Palestinians. And the latter are doing very little to restore it.

This is what usually happens once Bibi's bunch of misfits and extremists have royally screwed it up. Bibi comes out holding Peres in front of him shouting 'You wouldn't hurt a defenceless old President, would you?' While Peres mumbles, 'It's all a misunderstanding. Bibi and his young friends in the cabinet are lovely people really once you get to know them. Ouch, Bibi, that gun in my back is hurting.'

to my fellow Americans what Israel is about. We have nothing whatsoever in common with israel.

I'm being serious here. Is this the very first time that a member of the Obama Administration has used the words "condemn" and "Israel" in the same sentence? I believe it is.... Keep saying it, Joe; you'll soon be slipping the ultimate no-no into your announcements. You know: "illegal" and "Israel" in very close juxtaposition to each other.....

Everything is carefully laid out before a visit by a state official is made. There is no way this was not calculated to test the waters and see the US reaction. This is Israel's call to do this or not. This was an intentional undermining of the US and Biden should have immediately left. He did not. What does this tell us? But as Bibi says, Israel HAS THE US.

... as if it all boils down to etiquette... bad manners at an inappropriate time... ah well, we'll learn how to hold our fork-and-knife in future... we're only a young country...

that the USA would take such impertinence from? Anyone else could expect a closing of diplomatic doors, withdrawal of international support, restrictions on trade, cutting of aid and a breath of cold air of US hostility. The USA has reinforced the UN and international courts in telling Israel repeatedly that building in the occupied territories is illegal. E J'sem is occupied territory, whatever the Zionists claim, and nobody accepts Israel trying to make it an exception. The power of Jewish money, votes and lobbying in the States needs seriously examined, condemned and slapped down. It is undermining US foreign policy and regional interests in favour of a bunch of retarded ethnic-supremacist xenophobes.

...the message is clear

some had tried to point out that in israel, the threat from iran takes priority on all other issues. the the obama administration wants to put the emphasis on the palestininan issue. however hard they try, the iran threat is regarded by israel as both existential and of the essence.

"Building beyond the Green Line, is it legal" No Morris it is patently illegal! The UN nor any country recognizes any settlements in the "occupied territory" Israel has for years continued to illegally build with the belief that in any forced final agreement they will get to keep most of what they have illegally built. The Pals position should be that Israel KNEW the settlements were illegal under International Law when they built them so they should not now benefit from them. The Pals should INSIST Israel withdraw to the "green line" and THATS where the borders will be. No land exchange, no water rights. If someone steals something from you do you let them keep some of it because they had it for a while?

People, even such as those as Biden, seem to forget that the Palestinians are proxies of Iran. However it seems not to matter because everyone expects Israel will do the dirty work and get a full-blown bashing after.

Israel's message to the world. Up Yours!

I've been watching this perverse dance for over 40 years. Both sides dance the Bolero until they get close enough -- to pee on each other. Enough. Really. I'm an Israeli combat vet, a "peacenik..." and someone who wants to see my family in Israel live to the next generation. If President Obama wants to see peace in the Middle East, he's got to make a decision vis-a-vis his "trusted ally." Allies are not blindly followed, and the United States would serve its interests poorly if it followed its lead of the 80s and 90s and supported corrupt regimes. Israel is a nuclear power. Iran is the villain. That's about all the simple statements we can make. If Israel wants to have peace, they're going to HAVE to "give up" land that is only sparsely populated by fanatics (on the Jewish side). Shut off ALL aid until Israel _REALLY_ ceases development throughout the West Bank. Tell IBM, Intel, Coke, Pepsi, AMD and everyone else to cut off all aid. Nothing. No guns, no bullets, no corn, nothing.

if Yishai did not anticipate his move on E.Jerusalem would cause an outcry during the visit of VP Biden he should resign as a 2 years old child would jave post poned the announcement

... then within a short while, on the quiet, in the dead-of-night, Israel wakes up one morning, and pronto, there's a new Zionist enterprise davka on that site... doesn't Rehavam Ze'evi deserve his own heritage site, almost within a stone's-throw of the spot where he was assassinated?...

Biden's going to be a good little poodle and not make too much fuss. Notice Yishai is only apologising for the timing of the announcement, not for the annnoucement. Well, that's simply rectified. Just delay implementation until Biden's left. As Yishai helpfully points out, the US didn't make a fuss when Israel broke its own freeze last week, so why should he expect the US to make a fuss this time? Go on, Biden, go on boy, beg, roll over, play dead. There's a good little poodle.

As a Brit, the one outcome of this event that I find encouraging is the tone of American response in talkback. For too long America has supported Israel's actions without adverse commentary-it would seem from reading the majority of American comment in Talkback, that support is dwindling; that can only be in the rest of the world's best interest.

Yishai's lie is transparent. He is not that incompetent. If he really didn't mean to halt the talks and ruin a year's worth of effort, he would be announcing the cancellation of the permits for now and all time, forever. Come home, Joe. Bring the Ambassador and Mitchell. This Israeli government is not worth your time. They have zero interest in peace or even polite relations with the United States. Send Michael Oren home too.

yes there are a lot of them, but I think it was Bibi's lies ('I had no idea')to Biden that was most damaging. The question has been, do Israel really want peace and the answer came loud and clear: NO, not a chance in hell.

It is exactly in a democracy, where the political leadership respresents the will and the character of a majority of the people. Unlike in a dictatorship, where you can argue, that the governement doesn't necessarly represent the attitude of the people. In the case of Israel, you can make the point (as S does), that the governement doesn't represent the character of every single Israeli, but the Netanyahu governement definitely represents the character of a majority of Israelis 2010, otherwise they wouldn't have voted him and his fellow right-wingers into office last year....

No one expects a solution from this four month period, but the world will be observing the parties closely. Bear in mind the recent White House statement: The US "expects both sides to behave seriously, with honesty and in good will because, if one of the sides, in our judgment, does not fulfil our expectations, we will make our concerns clear and we will act accordingly in order to overcome every obstacle."

... is it 'legal'? I don't care if it is or not. What I do care about is the impact it has on Israel's ability to make peace with its foes, and deepen friendship with its allies. The timing of this latest announcement, then, couldn't possibly have been worse - at the start of indirect Israel-PA negociations and during VP Biden's visit. The PA's fit over the announcement was predictable, but justifiable. What truly troubled me, however, was watching Joe Biden - a real friend of Israel and the Jews, if there ever was one - condemn the Israeli government's actions. This is a very, very bad omen for US-Israeli relations. The Netanyahu government is at fault, any way one spins it. If Bibi knew of this announcement and its timing beforehand, his political ears must be made of solid tin. If, as he claimed, 'he had no prior knowledge of the decision', then one must seriously question the man's ability to manage his government. If he is wise in the least, he'll retract the building plan.

it is becoming increasingly clear that the obama administration has two demands of israel: 1 to freeze all "settlement" activities; 2 to refrain from attacking iran. since israel considers iran's nuclear and ballistic missile development as an existential threat, israel will be less likely to compromise on building as long as the iran issue is not cleared up.

your protector,enabler and saver isn't an intelligent move. The world is getting impatient. Time to stop the provocations and make peace.

Between the way the Turkish Embassador was insulted, and the way Biden is ridiculed by Israeli diplomats, I wonder where Israeli professionnal diplomats have gone. Have they all retired or what?

I agree with people here who suggest the Israeli gvt should tell Biden to go home. It should also declare it no longer wants to receive any money from the USA. This way, billions of dollars will reallocated and spent for the well-being of American citizens, rather than in a foreign country thousands of kilometers away. American taxpayers say thank you!

... 'promised' settler housing... which only elicited a humph or two... so why not try for the whole jackpot?!...

on Israel's response.Biden's visit was clearly to hold Israel back from attacking Iran's nuclear installations even after the US backtracked on its promises of tough sanctions. Period. End of thread.

no person in a democracy is identical to the state.

... allowing itself outrageous moves... ... spitting-in-the-face of its best friends... ... ignoring exhortations of both friends and foes... ... so what's the end-game...? ... we, mere citizens, want to know... ... after all, nobody believes that this will pass with impunity, so what are the stakes?...

Bibi has rubbed Biden's face in it, let him and the world know who's boss. Now Bibi will do a little bit to save Biden's face. He'll say implementing the building decision will be re-examined, which means building will start in a few weeks once Biden is safely back in the US. Count on it.

" Their agenda only seeks to limit housing for Jews, no one else. It`s called anti-Semitism and it infects the UN like a virulent plague." Did you forget Arabs are Semites? There housing has been not just limited but in many cases eliminated! The Israeli government is Anti-Semite. 85% of world Jewry is Ashkenazi. Converts from the 6th century with NO semite linage beyond what most europeans have which is a smidgen as a result of assimilation.

one day , just keep pissing off the USA, we the US voter will make it happen.

... after the innocuous Bidden delivered all the good wishes and the goodies, and his wife kissed the toddlers in day-care, he got a resounding slap-in-the-face...

"Palestinians claim they are the descendants of the `Ancient Jews` of 4000 years ago, PA Historians have said so. Therefore they have full rights." Actually Grumpy, It is not Pal Historians but Genetecists that have determined that little gem, Seems way back when, during the many wars the sons of Jacob (meaning his offspring) were forcibly converted to Islam or Christainity. Since God made no reference to a particular religion they would be claimants to the biblical covenant. The Ashkenzazi on the other hand were pagans that converted in the 6th century with no blood link to the Israelites. They therefore have no biblical claim to the land. 85% of Jews are are Ashkenzazi!

Jewish state in the world. We are doing what any animal would do to survive when surrounded, and be unified and unafraid to show it.

Their agenda only seeks to limit housing for Jews, no one else. It's called anti-Semitism and it infects the UN like a virulent plague.

Although I find your motive for being here questionable there's absolutely nothing in what you say here that I disagree with. I was in Israel in the 60's when it was so full of promise and optimism, but I could see that the children were being made very aware of their History, where they had come from and the potential of the whole Human race to seek Racism as an outlet for domestic problems. I can't blame them for teaching Survival since I used to hear my Father GRS scream in his sleep as the dreams of imprisonment and losing his family penetrated my very being. I dislike Netanyahu, I abhor what Israel is becoming but I am not naive. Antisemitism is taught as a matter of course in Arab countries. They hate us..they hate Jews.You don't have to deal with this every day but even here in London it is rampant. I see no answer but perpetual War, because I know for sure a "Hudna" is the road to annhilation. You may even shed a tear next time round, but my family and I will be gone.

Build in West Jerusalem and no one can open their mouth.

So what is new? Judging the responses in this paper to the Israeli government's housing policy, it shows tthat the Israeli public are out of touch with reality. If the right wing think that they can "go it alone",, then let them look closely at the economic situatuion of normal people in Iran, Syria, North Korea. All these countries snubed the USA.

I said it once and ill say it again. Our real enemies are not the Arabs but the ultra orthodox parties. Get rid of the proportional representation voting system in Israel and you solve most of our problems in one stroke. The extreme right with religion parties will no longer hold a knife to the neck of what the majority of Israelis want, peace.

Which direction you want the Arabs and the whole World to move ? When the word runs from the mouth , I'm sure it will not return .

that Palestinians together with their Islamic allies in the area are proxies of Iran? What a laugh...

....of the end of a nation. The wars won in 1967 and 1973 may have been life-saving for Israel in the short term, but future history books may very well cite them as the root causes for Israels later demise...

all israeli diplomats should go back to school and do a diplomacy 1 course.

The building in Jewish neighbourhoods that geographically are not "east" Jerusalem are a risk for peace such as those Biden refered to. Without such neighbourhoods, Jewish Jerusalem would be exposed to attack from the surrounding hills as it was between 1948 and 1967. There would be no peace in such a situation.

What is this? Does he need excuses? What kind of friend are the US to not agree to our decisions like we do to them?

Palestinians claim they are the descendants of the 'Ancient Jews' of 4000 years ago, PA Historians have said so. Therefore they have full rights.

Netanyahu plays the role of the Mad Hatter.

PA Historian Nabil Alqam denies those thousands of years of Jewish history, replacing it with 4000 years of Palestinian History instead. Therefore are not the Palestinians claiming to be the 'Ancient Jews'? The core of the issue.

Israel has pulled this kind of stint before and will probably do it again....and the excuse is always the same....We had no idea, we didn't mean to embarass, we weren't informed....it does not mean we don't want peace, it had been planned years ago....blah blah blah. Be honest for once and say that it was no accident and that it was meant to remind the world and the palestinians in particular that East Jerusalem is fair game.

You knee someone in the balls, and then you extend a hand to help him back up off the floor. And then you expect to be thanked.... Man, that's chutzpah for you.

At least Haniya isn't the duplicitous Cretan that Netanyahu is. Biden should stop in Gaza and open an Embassy, and then arrange for the 6th Fleet to pay a port call.

you got "duhhhh" written all over you! in case you haven't noticed, it's the exact same line used for the exact same stunt which they pulled on condi during every visit she made during bush's last year. wanna talk "turkish ambassador stunt"? it's pretty dam close, and they've just embarrassed you in front of the palestinians and the whole damn world! THAT'S what they think of your damn peace!

You didn't embarrass Vice President Biden, sir, you embarrassed yourself.

"He should immediately return home and persuade Obama to bomb ...l...I... Iraq" Kelly. Buden is not mad to take your suggestion Kelly, which is part of the problem !

Bring the Ambassador and George Mitchell with you. And have the White House send Oren to Israel. This was deliberate. Mark Lincoln was right, after all. Alert the Air Force and Iraqis and the Navy. This Israeli government is NOT TO BE TRUSTED one inch. They are lying about everything. This was calculated, Just like the Turkish Ambassador on the legless sofa. And cut off all Intelligence on Iran. Let 'em stew.

Should not make the USA look foolish. Those in the Israeli government who did should think about the consequences of their actions. American supporters feel betrayed and will not be sympathetic if the chickens come home to roost. Israels few friends are having a hard time with its arrogance I fear. Biden came as a friend of Israel. This may be the last time there is an opportunity to make a Peace. Act responsibly.

...he is an embarassment of Israel as never before!

They keep missing the train & blame israel ! Israel population are increasing and new settlements have to be build to meet the increasing demand. A fact of life that no government can ignore ! Why any one wants to 'embarrass' a guest ! Joe Biden must understand that & explain to the palestinians their many faults ! Any friend will do that.

..."Israel and Netanyahu are one and the same." (Mark Lincoln) SHAME TO YOU! No one ever said Ahmadinejad and Iran is the same! No one said Bush and America are the same (although they were!) No one says Venezuela and Chavez are same. No one says Chicago and Blagojevich are same... And I am not saying to whom you are the same.

Actually I am more than delighted with Israels building as much as I am tired of US admin coming here and telling us not to protect ourselves and not use the military option against Iran.

Although Barak gave a very logical explanation, and Netanyahu duly explained that he cannot keep track of the timing of every directive at the regional level, I cannot help musing that the hand of G-d is in there somewhere, since the Jewish people depend on Providence to maintain them against all odds throughout History. I hope the Vice-president will regain his sense of humour and his demeanor, and I am hoping that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza should be eased so that the one lone remaining Israeli captive be released before it is too late. That to me is the priority, not anyone's wounded pride, not least the inflated egos of the PA.

You forgot Lieberman's puppet Ayalon.

The United States has no right to tell the Israeli's where and when to build on land that God gave to the Jews! God has promised to "bless those that bless you and curse those who curse you" meaning that those who love and support the Jewish state are on the winning side. The land was given by God to Israel forever. And the God I refer to here is the God of Abraham, Issac and Jacob.

Netanyahu and the right are drawing Israel steadily and relentlessly into a break with the US. It won't happen tomorrow, but it is inevitable that the American public will turn against israel as it is becoming more and more clear that this government has no interest in peace or a 2 state solution. I read the anti-US comments of the right wingers here and am dumb struck by their self destructive stupidity. You think you can go it alone, OK you'll get your chance. Its hard for me to come to these conclusions as I have defended Israel from my left wing friends for years, but I am astonished by recent events. I hope things change but have less and less faith.

Humiliating Vice President Biden should be the last straw. We the people of the US should not continue to support a radical Netanyahu regime that has no intention of ever making peace. Year after year month after month and day after day the Israeli government has been denying the Palestinian people their God giving freedoms. The sad thing about this is the UN has established the occupation and illegal building of Jewish settlements in the West Bank is being done against international law. The saga goes on Israel destroys Arab homes and builds Jewish ones at the same time. We in America have been supporting all the madness or are blind to it. Why, Our government and the media continue feeding us all the crap about Muslim terrorist and Jihad are out to get us. The fact is all people will resist occupation Muslims Christians and Jews especially illegal occupation.

and antogonise people. Netanyahu, Lieberman and their team seem to have a death wish for their state; they are certainly going about it that way.

Obama invited this sort of behavior when he was weak on his demand to freeze settlement construction. There is nothing which incites the aggression of Israeli Jews so much as a weak opponent. Israel is spitting into Obamas face and daring him to cut off support. Is it too much to hope that Obama finds his backbone?

it is true that the obama administration's middle east policy is a disaster. however, israel still has the obligation to treat vice president biden with respect.

this was a bad move by yishai, and by extention, by netanyahu.

Stabbing your true friends in the back, Mossad in the heart of the Arab world, Nuclear ambiguity, Land confiscation, a war year in rear out, $ billions USD from taxpayer money to help Israel defend it's never ending aggressive attitude etc...... Isn't it time to tell Israel you are on your own like a grown up.

I want to congratulate Israel on this excellent move. Its all symbolic of the pathetic US role in mideast affairs of the past year. Give us George Bush or anybody other than these jockies!

Trusting an Israeli like trusting a rapist. Biden nearly cried.

I am really impressed, Joe. So..you remembered to say what Barack told you to say, right? And you said it to LOOK GOOD to the Arab world, right? And to look like you were "getting tough" on Israel, right? Gee, Joe...what will Barack's sanctions on Iran be? Hairdryers? Video games? Who do you think your faultering administration is fooling? Certainly not Iran. And certainly not the masses of American citizens who have Obama figured out and realize that he and his handlers have just been floundering in the dark, from one policy to another, with virtually NO SENSE of priorities. He wants Health Care, Joe? Here's one for you--how about you and Obama getting Americans health care in the form of protection from Iranian delivered RADIATION POISONING??? Have a good, Joe...

So now besides putting a thumb into the eye of a long friend of Israel, Israel can now have the satisfaction of knowing that instead of an old neighborhood made up of rock-throwing Arabs who don't recognize Israel, Jerusalem will now have a new neighborhood made up of rock-throwing haredim who don't recognize Israel.

Who let the enemy Biden into the country. Send him home. Perhaps he should make a stop in Gaza.

Netanyahu is incapable of honesty or decency. He holds up his hands as the man who has prevented the demonic outbreak of peace. He seeks applause as the man who has destroyed any credibility for the idea that Israel wants peace. Netanyahu craps in the face of America and prays that no one in America ever takes umbrage. We all understand that Biden and Obama will just roll over and pee like the cowardly dogs they are. . . But some day, an American government which has to balance it's budget will cut Israel off from it's life-line of welfare and arms. . . As much as I like the old israel before it became a criminal enterprise, I will feel the new Israel which treats America with total contempt is an Israel which deserves to lose it's welfare tit. Israel and Netanyahu are one and the same. The Nation chose the man. And the man is the nation. Both have become void of any decency. If Israel wants to become a decent nation it must dump Netanyahu, Lieberman and Barak.

We can build in our own country.

Who can lie better than a J...J...well, let's leave it at that. After this KITA, if Biden has any self-respect, he should immediately return home and persuade Obama to bomb I...I...Iraq.

As an American, I feel betrayed by Israel. I feel Israel humiliated US, our President and our Vice President therefore they humiliated me as well. After WWII I had all my sympathy, sorrow and pain learning about the suffering of Jewish people. My parents had helped Jewish people in danger. Now Israel has lost ALL my respect and sympathy, most of my friends as well. Do Jewish people really want to become a nation without respect and behave, as they are "uber alles" to whom international laws dos not apply? Do they want to become a nation who treats their friends with disrespect? In truth, Israel does not want peace. Israel wants to keep the entire West Bank and hope Palestinians will go the way of American Indians?and the world will just watch and say nothing. The world did not learned anything from the past.

Yes you did Joe..save the act for American TV! ps How about those phony elections in Iraq, Joe? What happens when the Man-Child pulls US troops out of Iraq and Iran takes over? What will you and the arab in the W. House say then? Iran is going nuclear, Joe, which of course you already know. But what you don't know is the size of the bill somebody, maybe even your grandchildren, will have to pay to free the MidEast from Iranian mullocratic tyranny. Thanks Joe...now go back to your infantile master, Obama, and get your bone.

Yes you did Joe..save the act for American TV! ps How about those phony elections in Iraq, Joe? What happens when the Man-Child pulls US troops out of Iraq and Iran takes over? What will you and the arab in the W. House say then? Iran is going nuclear, Joe, which of course you already know. But what you don't know is the size of the bill somebody, maybe even your grandchildren, will have to pay to free the MidEast from Iranian mullocratic tyranny. Thanks Joe...now go back to your infantile master, Obama, and get your bone.

.....zen master of double speak. " We don't mean to embarrass the US, but we will anyway", and "we set a 10 mo. ban on all settlements in the WB, but we are going to build 1600 units anyway". Biden should just return home, lead legislation to cancel the MOU, AIPAC be damned.

Israelis should not behave like they are independent from the USA. They do depend.

If building the Jewish homeland is degrading any politician - so be it!

The P.A. ought to declare a permanent end to all peace talks with Israel, and unilaterally declare statehood within the 67 borders with no land swaps. The palestinians should seek recognition of their new state by the rest of the world, and seek the worlds help to build the institutions they will need to govern. In addition they should urge the world to boycott, divest, and sanction Israel. To continue on with this farce is suicide. Israel has no intention of giving up a single illegal settlement, and uses the "peace process" as a diversionary tactic. Isael does not want peace in another 43 years, or 43 centuries.

No, Netanyahu "didn't seek to emabrrass" joe Biden, nor did Lieberman "seek to embarrass" the Turkish ambassador to Israel when he subjected him to a televised excoriation, nor did Israel "seek to embarrass" Richard Falk, the UN rapporteur for Gaza when it arrested him last year on his arrival on UN business, then deported him. Of course, Israel has sought to embarrass. The pattern is too calculated and obvious. We saw it, too, in Netanyahu's arrogant rejection of Obama's call for a settlement freeze. Part of the problem is that we have had in the US a succession of nine administrations, from Johnson to Obama, who have temporized, groveled, and generally humiliated themselves in dealing with Israel. So why shouldn't Netanyahu "seek to embarrass" Biden? What Obama needs is an infusion of the spirit that Dwight Eisenhower showed in 1956 when he forced Britain, France, and Israel to cease and disgorge the fruits of their Suez adventure. The American people will support him.