Netanyahu: I'm not building in Jerusalem for Lieberman and Yishai

Tom, you might add a P.S. But you should understand: for Israel, the chickens are coming home to roost. Since 1967, Israel, has felt free to demean, humiliate and denigrate successive US administrations, beginning with the Israel attack on the USS Liberty, that showed no regard for the Johnson administration and its self-imposed obligation to avoid attacking Israel, at great political cost. Israel thumbed its nose at every administration when beseeched not to build settlements on Palestinian territory. Thru many administrations Israel has been the 2nd most active intelligence service (China the 1st) running espionage operations in the US: an embarrassment of each administration every time an arrest was made. How humiliating for the President to learn Israel sold sensitive info from Pollard to the Soviets. The latest attempt, to humiliate Biden while visiting Israel, and thus Obama, was typical. It is over. We have had enough. In spite of you, there will be peace in the Middle East.

The problem with your post centers around, "long standing ally." What is troubling is that long standing ally, Israel, has felt free to demean, humiliate and denigrate successive US administrations since 1967. Beginning with the Israel attack on the USS Liberty, that showed no regard for the Johnson administration and its self-imposed obligation to avoid attacking Israel, at great political cost. Senior US officers resigned over the issue. Israel thumbed its nose at every succeeding administration when beseeched not to build settlements on Palestinian territory. Thru many administrations Israel has been the second most active intelligence service (China the 1st) running espionage operations in the US: an embarrassment of each administration every time an arrest was made. How humiliating for the President to learn Israel sold sensitive info from Pollard to the Soviets. The latest attempt, to humiliate Biden while visiting Israel, and thus Obama, was typical. It is time for retribution.

All of the Jewish folklore and zionist dreams together cannot explain away the fact that Israel has become a rogue nation, and well- earned the scorn and condemnation of the entire international community for being in violation of more UN resolutions than any country in the world. Israel is currently in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, 242 (1967),452 (1979) and 465 (1980) and 17 others. The building of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the annexation of Jerusalem and the Gaza blockade are in violation of Article 49, 53 and 147 of the 4th Geneva Convention and of the 1st Protocol article 85 of the Convention. These violations can be prosecutable in the International Criminal Court in the Hague as war crimes. There is finally a US administration prepared to say: enough! Obey international law or suffer the consequences.

Why should Israeli's care about Barak Obama's role as a one-time community activist, or what ACORN did or didn't do? I suspect that they have more important things to worry about. I get the impression that you masquerade as a friend of Israel, but more likely you are just interested in spouting your brand of extreme right-wing American propaganda. How sad for you! That helps neither Israel or America.

I just pray to God to give President Obama the courage to do what must be done so we can have some peace for a while. Allies or not we should be a fair mediator between the Israelis and Palestinians. We should not be seen as excessively favouring every deed of Israel. There is such a thing as write or wrong. And the international community ruled and continue to state that Israels construction in Jerusalem is illegal. I favour the international community and think the our government should do the same and stop vetoing the international community rulings against Israel. We want Russia and China to support sanctions against Iran and until we stop taking taking sides ourselves we cannot expect them to either.And PM Netanyahu cannot have his cake and eat it, he should decide what his top priority is, Security and peace or natural growth.

They serve a good purpose.In any case most of their clients are men of the cloth, as any hooker will tell you.

Israel is doing the right thing by not folding to Obama the 'community organizer' whose ACORN platform is now broke and broken up, never to be heard from again, unless it's in court for promoting hookers as businesses. My my, united hookers for Obama broke! What is the economy coming to?

you will see one cause for the lack of peace.

Israel is 100% commited to peace, they've always been. Israel gave up Sinai, Israel left the gaza strip, Israel left South Lebanon. Barak offerred 95% of WB for peace. The Arabs turned down partition plan in 1947, sain three No's in Khartom 1967, and said no to peace in Camp David 2000. The more the pro-Arab camp cheers on the Arabs refusal to make any compromises - the more peace becomes impossible. Peace will come when the Arabs realize that Israel will never go bk to 67 borders but that Israel does support a viable PA state in parts of the WB with land contiguity. It is absolutely conterproductive to the peace process to point the blame for lack of progress at Israel when the Arabs demands are unrealistic. The number one cause for the ongoing conflict in the middle East is the Pro-Arab support in Israel and in Europe.

79% of American Jews agree with President Obama on the construction in East Jerusalem issue. No American president since 1967 has recognized East Jerusalem as part of Israel. This includes President Reagan, President Clinton and both Presedents Bush. Randy is just trying to sucker the un-informed

Open Letter to Prime Minister Netanyahu Dear Sir: I am writing on behalf of myself but I really hope that I am writing on behalf of numerous freedom loving Americans who were disgraced by your treatment by President Obama. The way you were treated was shameful. Unfortunately, we have elected another naive, narcistic neophyte like Jimmy Carter. There may be a number of plausible explanations for the president's behavior but this post does not allow me to draw the obvious conclusion. As a leader you learn to "read people" based on actions, not what they talk- this may not be much comfort now but the day will come, hopefully in November of 2010 when the American people will let their actions at the polls speak louder than the words of the president. Hang in-help is on the way. Tom

"The last politician who did that was Rabin." - Mark of Lewiston And he was murdered by a Likudnik. Israel promptly voted for a Likudnik, Bibi Netanyahu, to be their next Prime Minister. Don't get it? Work for Peace, you die. Work against Peace, you get elected. Is this not clear?

What is more troubling is that he has consistently done so with the staunchest US allies, like Poland, Czeck Republic, Georga etc...an appeased the US worst ennemies or rivals like Iran (his silence was deafenning), Russia and China.

That is certainly a relief! However I would like such statements coming from the White House.....

I apologize for Obama's treatment of Netanyahu on his recent visit to the United States. Obama as a (supposedly) world leader should show some repect. he bows to enemies and shabbily treats friends.

we know obama's feelings towards israel.best to stop visiting the white house. why does obama feel he can tell us what to do?is it the arms transfer.perhaps the arms cost us far too much. i have a feeling of deep unhapiness at our trying to curry favour witht the antisemite in the white house.

2012 is when the muslim president is voted out.

history has yet to be written. iran is the major threat to world peace. thus far, iran has been slapping obama at every turn. as soon as iran goes nuclear, obama will be finished. israel is not defenceless.

But recent polls show 57% of Israeli's approve of Bibi+ his coalition.32% favor Kadima.Labor alone 9%.

Your chutzpa is becoming a public insult for Haaretz Talkback readers and posters. This whole thing started with the public humiliation of Israel's friend Joe Biden. It was not the first public humiliation of the American administration by the Israeli government. You always state you do not like manipulators. What would you call it what you are trying to do with your posts?

"whatever happened when Israel retreated from Gaza 4/5 years ago in order for the Palestinians to have their Palestine?" sean If you had even a passing interest in or smattering of knowledge of that 'retreat' you would know that it was certainly not intended "in order for the Palestinians to have their Palestine" LOL! See architect of the 'retreat' Dov Weisglass, adviser to A. Sharon: "The disengagement plan is the preservative of the sequence principle. It is the bottle of formaldehyde within which you place the president's formula so that it will be preserved for a very lengthy period. The disengagement is actually formaldehyde. It supplies the amount of formaldehyde that's necessary so that there will not be a political process with the Palestinians." D.Weissglass He goes on to make plain that the whole maneuver in Gaza would ensure that any final settlement with the Palestinians would only come about once they had turned into Finns! "...what I effectively agreed to with the Americans was that part of the settlements would not be dealt with at all, and the rest will not be dealt with until the Palestinians turn into Finns. That is the significance of what we did. The significance is the freezing of the political process " D.Weisglass http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/pages/ShArt.jhtml?itemNo=485929

Netanyahu will not get rid of he two strongest men he picked very wisely while Esther wants the reverse which NEVER going to happen. Were Livni to be in charge things would get even worse considering her bumbbling during Cast Lead. Only now seeing that Netanyahu(accordng to her that is)looks weak,is beginning to admit Cast Lead was appropriate. Some israeli politicians are not trustworthy. I hope Bibi continues with his upper chin,cocking a snook to anyone who may try to interfere with his vision on Israel in an a robust way.To deal toward the bullies(no names) who are trying to twart the Israeli PM's vision.

Right-wing ideology seems to have the upper hand in Israel, so it can be expected that there will be no peace process in the coming months. In addition, in September there will come the end of the 10-months construction freeze in the West Bank, which the ideologues said will not be renewed. One should take it for granted that Labor will quit the government under this stalemate, leaving Netanyahu with 61 Knesset votes, not enough to function. In the meantime, the US will demonstrate its unhappiness. The first real opportunity will be when the UNSC sends the Goldstone Report to the Hague with no US veto. I imagine there will also be questions raised about the $3 billion annual support. With such debacles, there will be calls for new elections. If Livni does not rush in to save Netanyahu (and why should she?) we may have new Israeli elections in 2011. Probably the end of Netanyahu politically.

You may think so,but: Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. (Roo) As you assume by putting the onus on Netanyahu on this issue it was a forgone conclusion. Because his promise to his people to adhere in the promises he made when on the stump had and has to be implemented or else the public will get rid of him. I agree with your last paragraph though. i.e there will be no fundamental change by Netanyahu as I pointed out the reason above i.e Promises to the Israeli public. Frankly I hope he sticks to his guns. What is more Israel will retain Jerusalem for the Jews. And not to the Arabs who would create a more fractious capital where now it is a peaceful city. No need to sensationalize it with (a pigs lipstick)nonsense.

Yeah, rid Likud of its two strongmen and get Kadima and Tzipi who lost in the Second Leb War and failed to get Hamas on its knees during Cast Lead. Then we shall finally have that 23rd Arab State but at the same time, whatever happened when Israel retreated from Gaza 4/5 years ago in order for the Palestinians to have their Palestine? Its just not there.

I feel so sorry for your understanding of Obama's actions as a president. AS far as we know, he is a christian. Being a christian, we do not have negative interest to any muslims or to the jewish people. We stand by in the middle to protect each side. These things are happening to Israel because of selfish motives and interests. God hears the cries of the jews for they are calling Him. But, God needs an action for their cries according to his WILL. " Do your best and God will do the rest" WAR in not the answer. It's in the hearts of every jew as well as the palestinians. Americans, if you have the hearts to give subsidies every month to each jew, why not try to help the livelihood of the palestines? They are trying to get inside the boarder because there are jobs inside jerusalem. As a worker here in jerusalem, i can see and feel the indifference to the relations between our religions. It matters most to the jews for who we are.

and even a Muslim-sympathiser as President of the US wont count when Palestinians want E. Jerusalem as their capital. Glad the Palestinians know some History at any rate.

Negotiate and live free of fear. The US would probably offer guarantees, even. The trick is doing something so totally out of character for an Israeli right wing politician, dealing in good faith. That's the problem. Netanyahu won't even deal in good faith with an ally. The last politician who did that was Rabin.

Wrong, Israel is very interested in peace. But the Palestinians are not. The Palestinian Charter calls for the Destruction of Israel, read it for yourself. Which country wants to be destroyed?

indeed it is Palestinians Have the RIGHTS to East Jerusalem you state, as their Capital. Having asked the question many a time just what those Rights or Historical Authority may be, no Answer has yet been forthcoming. Perhaps you may be good enough to enlighten me. Thank you.

" If Muslims can have religious apartheid Kingdoms or republics, why cant the Jews have s single one?" Enlighten us Yosi. What Muslim state practises aparteid? Certainly not Iran whose Jews seem perfectly happy and are not asking to immigrate. When citizens within a country are descriminated against for any reason, thats apartied. A single exception is Yemen where although the govt does not descriminate the people themselves do.

and die....... ?

"Peace with the palestinians is possible only when they are convinced they have no chance of winning. The more gesture the palestinians get the more this conflict will have life in it !" Actually, the Pals can win simply by doing nothing. At some point they will dissolve the PA and put the full burden of the occupation on Israel. Then at some point Israel must decide if they want a state with a "Jewish" majority practicing apartied or a democratic bi-national state with an arab majority. There is barely enough land for a Pal state. In a couple of more years of settlement building a Pal state will be unrealistic and a bi-national state will be forced upon them. Seems to me the choice is peace or aparteid!

... you are not aware of. A reality not only encompassing the whole world but also most Jewish Americans. Netanyahu and his ilk has created this spike.

give you several hundred examples of americans who recognize Israel as one of the few countries in the world that is willing to fight to the death of their last enemy in order to keep a small bastion of freedom in the midst of murderers, tyrants, and ignorance. I don't have to like jews in order to love Israel. On the other hand, I cannot imagine how anyone anywhere, even an arab, can have anything but contempt for the palestinian leadership and "culture". So cheers to Bibi, and don't let that one-term wonder in the White House worry you.

netenyahu is crazy if he thinks arabs are going to give up their land and houses without a fight

Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. As it is he is willing to do none of the aforementioned, rather looking to some kind of autonomous economic dependency in the West Bank which absolutely excludes Jerusalem. Hence settlement building really serves the longer term aims of this Israeli government, namely judaizing all of Jerusalem and its environs and indefinitely postponing a Palestinian state. So the settlement freeze is a red herring. It will not lead in any case to a fundamental change in Netanyahu's vision of a piecemeal series of self governed townships. ie. a pig with lipstick.

I knew Obama would be anti israel before the election because of his close ties to rashid khalidi and other radicals. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC35JMkd0ZI

You are troubled by Obama expressing his feelings, but you should be more troubled by Obama expressing his policy - which is that Israel's policy on building in E. Jerusalem is a roadblock which Israel should remove. You should be further troubled by many Americans, including many American Jews, who agree with Obama's policy and who are frustrated with Israel's refusal to cut a deal on Jerusalem. Your troubles should increase geometrically when you realize that Israel's position has made the U.S. less likely to support a hardline Israeli policy on Gaza. That's what happens when you kick your friends in the shins: they're less likely to be around when you need them. Hang tough, Cipora, because it always works. Worked for Israel in 722 B.C.E. against the Assyrians, worked for the Zealots in 73 C.E. and it worked for Bar Kochba a couple of generations later.

Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. As it is he is willing to do none of the aforementioned, rather looking to some kind of autonomous economic dependency in the West Bank which absolutely excludes Jerusalem. Hence settlement building really serves the longer term aims of this Israeli government, namely judaizing all of Jerusalem and its environs and indefinitely postponing a Palestinian state. So the settlement freeze is a red herring. It will not lead in any case to a fundamental change in Netanyahu's vision of a piecemeal series of self governed townships. ie. a pig with lipstick.

Dear Souls of Israel. On behalf of America and Americans you have known and trusted as your friends and side-by-side defenders, I hereby apologize for our international idiot Barack Obama. Please do as the majority of Americans are doing now - holding on until we can bring sanity back to our lives. We too are under attack from this far left progressive Satan upending our Constitution and way of life. We wish you all strength and resolve until we can come back to be at your side again. Love, from Americans you used to know.

Israel made so many concessions !!! What about the arabs? Fattah did not make any nor did Jordan or Egypt. Egypt should bring arabs living in Gaza into the Sinai and learn from Israel how to develop the Sinai. Jordan should take arabs from Samaria and Judea into their vast land as Jordan is Palestine

But expect only just the opposite ! "Israel have make many good gesture how about PA giving one" Ws. The one who made the palestinians many gestures was Olmert. And he didn't received not even a word of thanks from the so called president abbas ! All that israel gets in its 60 years was the results of its own sweat & labour. Even the U.S under obama israel is asked to pay back ! No less than to liquidate itself for the 'strategic interests' of uncle sam ! Remember, peace with jordan & egypt was not a gesture but a calculated policy after the defeat of these two countries in a war they have no chance of winning again ! Peace with the palestinians is possible only when they are convinced they have no chance of winning. The more gesture the palestinians get the more this conflict will have life in it ! That was Olments treason mistake that paved the way for what obama is doing to day !

Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. As it is he is willing to do none of the aforementioned, rather looking to some kind of autonomous economic dependency in the West Bank which absolutely excludes Jerusalem. Hence settlement building really serves the longer term aims of this Israeli government, namely judaizing all of Jerusalem and its environs and indefinitely postponing a Palestinian state. So the settlement freeze is a red herring. It will not lead in any case to a fundamental change in Netanyahu's vision of a piecemeal series of self governed townships. ie. a pig with lipstick.

It would appear Obama is, in fact, being very coldly rational and is looking out for the interests of the US in a broader context. American interest is not necessarily served by following the current Israeli government's priorities.

Haaretz always seems to report that Obama and Israel are best friends but thats not what the US media is reporting at all. Netanyahu was practically snubbed by the US.

'obama`s [Bibi's] belief that he can publicly demean, humiliate, denigrate, a democratically elected leader of a long standing ally is extremely troubling.' Pardon me! Obama has reacted with nothing but quiet dignity to all of Bibi and his allies' jibes since he first sought the Democrat nomination. Beware the quiet man!

Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. As it is he is willing to do none of the aforementioned, rather looking to some kind of autonomous economic dependency in the West Bank which absolutely excludes Jerusalem. Hence settlement building really serves the longer term aims of this Israeli government, namely judaizing all of Jerusalem and its environs and indefinitely postponing a Palestinian state. So the settlement freeze is a red herring. It will not lead in any case to a fundamental change in Netanyahu's vision of a piecemeal series of self governed townships. ie. a pig with lipstick.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article7076431.ece

Friends of israel in the US has seen this attitude developing for a long time.Bibi dont give give in hold hold fast appeasement will never work with these people. Neither you friends or your enemies has the freedom to tell you where you can build ion you sverign nation. The plans washington has for you is not for you good but for harm. Their plan is to bellitle you and diminish israel in the sight of your enemies. The Us action toward you have infliced move damage to you than all the wars in which you have fought.Irrepairable damage has been inflicted .I believe much go od can come from this encouner ,Mainly dont put your trust in rulers and nations.Trust

The Administration made a lot of noise about Honduras as well and finally went whimpering away when it got nowhere. The same will happen here as they realize that there are more pressing issues than 1600 building units in Jerusalem which should not be the cause for such a deep diplomatic rift. In addition, keeping it up for too long will almost certainly open the Eyes of American Jews who contribute mightily to the Democratic Party and vote 80% or more for them on a regular basis. If they begin to understand that they are nothing more than a reliable pool of money, just as blacks have become a reliable voting bloc Democrats have no need to really serve, their support could dry up. That is the last thing Democrats need now when they are expected to lose many seats in November and facing growing opposition to their mindless policies.

objective third party. Which is what we are supposed to be. Getting both sides back to the table is more important then your goofy rant. It's peace we seek, not escalation.

Many in US agree with # 1 . Obama?s polls are very low b/c he is anti-Semitic and wants to dictate the democratic independent state of Israel. You should be embarrassed to call yourself a ?refugee? in LA, CA???, what a joke! If you don?t like the US where you are now, maybe you should consider returning to your ancestors the Saudis.

Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. As it is he is willing to do none of the aforementioned, rather looking to some kind of autonomous economic dependency in the West Bank which absolutely excludes Jerusalem. Hence settlement building really serves the longer term aims of this Israeli government, namely judaizing all of Jerusalem and its environs and indefinitely postponing a Palestinian state. So the settlement freeze is a red herring. It will not lead in any case to a fundamental change in Netanyahu's vision of a piecemeal series of self governed townships. ie. a pig with lipstick.

Unlike the "Embarassed American", I am proud to have a President who finally stands up to an arrogant Israeli government. Too long have American administrations allowed our foreign policy to be defined by our relationship with Israel. Some say Israel is our only friend in the ME. Perhaps if we had been more balanced and treated everyone with human respect and dignity, holding Israel accountable for its abuses and denial of human rights to Palestinians as we do to other countries, we would have more friends and a better reputation. Our unbalanced approach has made us many enemies and not gained us anything! What has Israel ever given us in exchange for our unconditional support, money, and military equipment? Nothing! All we got was a thumb in the nose, a snub, and flagrant disregard for international law!

The current plan is to divide Isreal into two states. Then your enemies will be next door to Israel's cities and industries, thus weakening the country and leaving it open to attack. Bibi, be strong and don't submit to pressure.

Had Netanyahu been willing to negotiate immediately on the issue of Jerusalem as the capital of 2 states and its subsequent division, along the lines of American and Quartet demands [without which there can never be any final settlement] and the final borders and necessary relinquishing of settlements far from the seam line, and a formula for the closure of the refugee issue, then current settlement building would have been immaterial. As it is he is willing to do none of the aforementioned, rather looking to some kind of autonomous economic dependency in the West Bank which absolutely excludes Jerusalem. Hence settlement building really serves the longer term aims of this Israeli government, namely judaizing all of Jerusalem and its environs and indefinitely postponing a Palestinian state. So the settlement freeze is a red herring. It will not lead in any case to a fundamental change in Netanyahu's vision of a piecemeal series of self governed townships. ie. a pig with lipstick.

SHAME ON HAARETZ FOR PRINTING THAT SHAMEFUL "Malignant Occupation" box to Obama right in the meddle of this article. Shame on you for not supporting your prime minister in this trying hour, when he is standing against the U.S. pressure to cave in on Jerusalem.

Hamass did not stop digging tunnels to smuggles arms from Iran than through Egypt and did not stop launching rockets and terrorize civilians Jewish towns!!!! Fattah goes not want to talk!!! and Hzbolla is receiving arms from Iran. What do you expect Bibi to do? Make peace with whom?????? Arabs just talk and blame but they don't do any concessions like Israel did numerous times. Israel is not to blame.

Who except the oil lobby supports Obama now?

We all know you'd rather have land than peace. So, don't be surprised by the Pals backlash.

Why in the world should Fatah, or anybody else, be expected to recognize Israel as the "Jewish Zionist State"? Israel doesn't call itself that. Israel can call itself anything it wants, but it declared statehood on 14 May 1948 as the "State of Israel". It was recognized as a member of the UN as the "State of Israel." Israel has diplomatic relations with 162 nations, all of whom recognize Israel as the "State of Israel," because that's what Israel said its name is. But for Israel now to claim that Palestinians must recognize Israel as the "Jewish," or, "Jewish Zionist, State" of Israel is nothing more than another arrogant attempt to forestall and complicate the introduction of peace talks. In 2002 and again in 2007 the Arab League offered a comprehensive peace plan to the "State of Israel." If Israel wants to be called the "Jewish Zionist State," change the name of the country. There is no member state of the UN with the name "Jewish Zionist State."

That has nothing to do with any 'Arab' state. You don't need their permission. You already have that power. That power does not reside in anything they can grant Israel.

All of the Jewish folklore and zionist dreams together cannot explain away the fact that Israel has become a rogue nation, and well- earned the scorn and condemnation of the entire international community for being in violation of more UN resolutions than any country in the world. Israel is currently in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, 242 (1967),452 (1979) and 465 (1980) The building of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the annexation of Jerusalem and the Gaza blockade are in violation of Article 49, 53 and 147 of the 4th Geneva Convention and of the 1st Protocol article 85 of the Convention. These violations can be prosecutable in the International Criminal Court in the Hague as war crimes. There is finally a US administration prepared to say: enough! Obey international law or suffer the consequences.

To seek "steps toward peace" from gangster Netanyahu is a waste of rhetoric. Netanyahu DOES NOT WANT PEACE, HE WANTS LAND. The more Palestinians who are killed, to him, the easier it is for Israel to achieve its god-LESS objectives, and occupy the Palestinians' Land. Their "settlement" posturing intends to encircle the areas dear to the Palestinians, so as to efface their presence and influence. NO TO NETANYAHU!

By Obama joing the rest of the crowd and pulling his muscles against Israel, Israel gains what it lost during the years ? its position and image as the David confronting Goliath. The pressure of Obama is sure to grow as the US economy is sure to continue to deteriorate under his ?leadership?. The US is losing its position and unfortunately its direction is clear - weaker and weaker dollar and eventually the coming of the hyper inflation. Sooner than later we might have a worthless million dollar bill that will carry Obama?s portrait on it... Obama?s brutal pressure, lack of true friendship and rude attempts to dictate do not go unnoticed. The new David is not alone and sooner than later will enjoy a greater and more vocal support by those who truly care about the State of Israel and oppose Obama?s rude and irresponsible acts and omissions. Nevertheless, its surely about time for the State of Israel to resolve the conflict with its neighbors. Israel was born in 1948. Its already 2010 (!) and the violence is still in full force and effect. The Israeli society changed quite a bit during the years and unfortunately not for the better. The Israeli news are full with growing events of local/internal violence and contempt to law and order and in general the way that many of the Israelis seem to express themselves is not something to report home but rather come across as primitive, uneducated and in way to many cases as embarrassing. Its one way to say that the Israelis are willing to meet the Arab leaders wherever they are to discuss peace. Its a whole different way to actually make peace. And Israel never truly made real peace and solve the core problem. So although Obama is the wrong person at the wrong time, this does not mean that the current Israel is something to be proud of. Unfortunately it is not. The obligation of the leaders of Israel is not only to secure the state. Its to build and secure a place that its worth living in. And as the days go by, and they do (1948....) it seems less and less obvious that Israel is truly a place that worth living in. So its about time to make a big change. Really big. For the sake of Israel.

For the President of the United States, the UN, and the entire diplomatic community to expect, and even demand, that Israel conform to international law is not anti-Israel, anti-democratic nor pro-dictatorships. It is a call for Israel to cease being a rogue nation and become a respected member of the international community. Israel is currently in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, 242 (1967),452 (1979) and 465 (1980) The building of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the annexation of Jerusalem and the Gaza blockade are in violation of Article 49, 53 and 147 of the 4th Geneva Convention and of the 1st Protocol article 85 of the Convention. These violations can be prosecutable in the International Criminal Court in the Hague as war crimes. The US is a nation of laws. Its morals and sense of human dignity are offended by the occupation and oppression of over 3 million Palestinians for 42 years. Israel thumbs its nose at American core values, therefore, so must you.

Gaius Julius Caesar cut an impressive figure. Bibi just appears to be lost and confused, and looks rather silly in comparison.

If Netanyahu's real goal in running for PM was to help solve the Iran threat, it is still possible for him to do that, but unfortunately he cannot accept a diplomatic approach in that direction. The way to lower the Iran threat is for Israel to make peace with Syria, which of course involves surrendering the Golan (something which Rabin, Peres, Barak, and Netanyahu HIMSELF agreed to do in the past. Peace with Syria will move Syria to the Western camp, bring an end to weapon shipments to Hizballah, reduce weapons to Gaza, and bring an end to Iran's influence in our region. It will be a major diplomatic coup. But is Netanyahu capable of this? Here are points from the Likud platform (2009): 1. Israel wants peace with Syria and all Arab neighbors. 2. Likud is pround that the Golan was annexed by Likud initiative. 3. Israel will continue to expand settlements in the Golan. 4. Israel wants peace talks with Syria without preconditions. Can Netanyahu deal seriously with Syrian peace? No way. Here is the real Netanyahu tragedy: He is so unreal that he wouldn't do even what ideologically he is able to do.

Beyond the immediate, essentially an easy question of whether Israel should be allowed to continue building in East Jerusalem during peace talks (and thus determine part of the outcome by new facts on the ground), there is the basic question: Is Netanyahu really capable of concluding a peace agreement with the Palestinians? The answer to this seems to be a definite NO. Netnyahu's positions are far behind those of other recent government (Barak, Olmert) and there is no hope the Palestinians will accept them. For example, giving up the Jordan Valley which once upon a time was viewed as protection against Iraqi tanks (under the late Saddam), and which Likud still insists on keeping (Likudniks are not retards, but they syffer from certain mental impediments), nor will Netnyahu agree to divide Jerusalem. Netanyahu knew this and was not interested in pursuing peace when running for PM. For example, he agreed then only to self rule, no state for Palestinians. Why did Netanyahu even run for PM? He was "promoting" the danger from Iran and would "solve" it. A ridiculous fantasy, and now the US wouldn't even cooperate.

Netanyahu. Not building. Who told you not to build. But do what you have to do so, with wisdom without beating your brest & blowing your trumpets. Personally,I've never seen a worse government in Israel at all.

As a simple minded jingoistic reactionary that creates straw man fallacies. President Obama has shown less "pro-dictarship" then most U.S. presidents (who see it as pragmatism for U.S. interests first), especially then Bush II. In what way is the Obama "anti-democratic" or against the U.S.'s allies? Disagreeing with one ally (whom the U.S. has spied on and Israel has spied on the U.S.) make him "anti-democratic" towards our "allies"? American being "insane"? BTW, chuztpah is saying the U.S. is acting "insane" when it comes to Israel (meaning that the Israeli government is the 'sane' one?!?). Got to love simple minded people that see everything in black and white.

Netanyahu added: "I am not building in Jerusalem just because [Foreign Minister Avigdor] Lieberman or [Interior Minister Eli] Yishai are pressuring me to do so." "just because"... no bibi is building so as to stay in power... just as Obama is pushing for peace talks so as to hold sway globally... ...the trouble is there are a few others on the block who love this drug..."power"... but they may simply wait for Obama and Bibi to OD...

what an historic analogy........bibi's government must think that by blowing out speeches would bring down the political walls of east jerusalem very much like the blowing of the shofars in jerico....what historic romanticism..........but no,it would only erect new ones with washington

Israel voted hard right, and the hard right runs the country. Every time the Netanyahu government has humiliated an ally like the USA, UK, Egypt, or Turkey the Israeli right has cheered. Now they are upset. The world has put up with Netanyahu's juvenile actions and his delinquent administration until it has been forced to take actions. 'Wait," the psycho-right screams, 'you can't do that!" The world has to. Bibi and his gang of juvenile delinquents are sitting in a pool of gasoline playing with matches. The psycho-right is emotionally incapable of comprehending that it's own vile behavior caused the response. They were so busy having a fun time alienating the world that they refused to consider for a moment that their fun and games might eventually cause the world to respond. Now the poor babies are all upset. The nasty UK expelled the Mossad station chief because Bibi broke the promise to not forge UK passports! That Evil Obama finally fought back! "Waaa Mommmy" they cry!

"after Israel is forced to admit her borders so that everyone has a solid boundary to abide by". I too smell the reek of hypocrisy. Borders were drawn in 47 which were not recognized. Borders were drawn in 48 and called truce lines from 48 to 67 but not recognized as solid boundaries. The present day PA regularly show and teach their kids on their own maps that so called Palestine,named from your British imperialist days,that all land west of the Jordan river is so called Palestine.I'll bet that people like you are just pissed off that Jews are back in control of an area that has been continually controlled by imperialist forces for 2 centuries. As for being a democratic Western outpost,again another mirage. There is no such thing as the West coming from Judeo-Christian values given the treatment of the second half of this so called hyphen, connection to the first over the centuries. The only reason the second half self attached to the first half is to justify its existence.

are pointed towards the Jews..The best course of the action would be that Netanyahu accepts the full settlement halt, but in return make US pressure Fatah to accept Israel as a Jewish Zionist state. If Muslims can have religious apartheid Kingdoms or republics, why cant the Jews have s single one?

You treat the US like you treat the Palestinians, taking for granted that we are incapable of any kind of second guessing. I don't have to guess-most here are ready to write off aid off all military aid to your country immediately. Well-actually, we are just fine with a billion dollar penalty just for the disrespect. Your situation is more dire than you seem to understand. I think Israel actually holds the US in contempt.

One of glorious and accurate prophecies are that; prior to the end of 'time and space' as is the natural order of the 6,000 year history of communicative Homo Sapiens, those that harassed Israel in the past will be reincarnated. Obama is definitely Pharaoh, see how he becomes more and more arrogant and hostile to Jews, regardless of the rational, his heart is becoming harder and harder, more hateful and more irrational.

Netanyahu argues that Jews have been building in Jerusalem for 3000 years and so can continue today. But what is left unsaid is that Jerusalem is not part of the State of Israel. It is simply occupied territory. All Netanyahu's building plans are just a rather unattractive way of stealing the pot before the cards are all dealt.

I'm sad to read some reactions. Israeli people look like spoiled children. The US always supported Israel, but now is the time of reality and the US says NO. Finaly the eyes are opened by the US and the EU will follow also. But why does Israel only thinks about taking and taking. Better you think more about peace and human rights. When Israel goes on with their policy a lot of friendly countries will say good bye to Israel, so think twice please.

this time ?

You expect peace immediately following a withdrawal from areas you brtually held reign over for xx years? Get real. Most of ther Arab league now recognises (or are prepared to) Israel is a permanent feature on the ME map and have offered peace packages stating this. This acknowledgement will slowly but surely sink into the resistance groups heads too BUT only after Israel is forced to admit her borders so that everyone has a solid boundary to abide by. Until this happens Israel will always been seen an imperialistic force intent on siezing land. Besides, you honestly expect your enemy (guerilla groups btw) to abide by laws that even Israel (as a democratic Western outpost) won't even follow? I smell hypocrisy and double standards.

What does Israel want? A Palestinian state or not? To retain their status as a democracy (nominally) or not? Do the right wing extremists in the government think the Palestinians are just going to go away? That they will just not matter any more as Israel encroaches more and more onto the land in the West bank? If the Palestinians do not get a state, then very shortly Israel will not be a democracy, as it will have more Palestinians under its control than Israelis with voting rights. This will formally make Israel an apartheid state. The choice seems rather clear, give the Palestinians a state or absorb them into a larger Israeli state. The world will not countenance the status quo for much longer, and don't count on the Palestinians to have their rights denied for much longer either. So which is it? Does Israel want to settle this issue or not? That is Obama's question and that is the world's question. Time to put your cards on the table Bibi (and all Israelis).

Please could you tell me who are Israel's friends except Jews.

in order for israel to accept that obama is a friend of israel they expect obama to bow down before netanyahu and say "master bibi how can i please yuou". you ungrateful lot.

We always knew Bibi was deceitful, manipulative and with a tendency to extremism, but at least I thought he had a brain. Apparently not. OK, Bibi, here we go. In words of one syll-a-ble, what the US wants is what the world wants - peace and a Pal state in all the West Bank and Gaza, with small 1 for 1 land swaps.

Many comments keep coming back to the same issue, why is Obama not putting pressure on the pals. The answer is simple, pals have done what the Dayton agreement asked to do. They have strenghtened their armed forces (e.i. Palestine Plice). They have been able to prevent most attacks on Israeli civilians. The US is putting so many demands on Israel, because the latter has not fulfilled any of Road Map Commitments!! That is the precise reason why the US is putting a lot of pressue on Israel!!! Peace

Mitchell is telling Abbas no progress for peace talks and Bibi's aide is saying Israel has reached an understanding with the US. So is it like the so-called tension/crisis between Israel and the US is just a political buzz that has no place in reality? Or perhaps Bibi's aide is referring to other stuff other than the peace process.

...with photo ops shaking hands and embracing... did you miss that?

Netanyahu now 'understands!' I don't think so. He is being taught, brought up to date, re-educated on current geopolitical realities. However, he will flunk because his homework will be written by his coalition. He is failing on every subject and is in danger of being expelled. Joking aside, Israel's political and business elite are living in the clouds as long as their pockets and ego are feed. One small time bomb has just gone off in Washington, another, much bigger one awaits them from masses of poor and hungry steadily growing in the streets of Israel.

Tell the whole story, not just part of the story. Don't just tell that which sounds good at the surface. We who think are not fooled.

So, TH, how do you suppose Rev Wright got the US State Department to consistently oppose Israeli settlement building over the last forty years? And in what way did old old Rev Wright get Bush to also insist that Israel not build in the Occupied Territories under his not really applied Road Map? And is Pastor Wright also behind European insistence that settlement building is illegal under international law? In effect, is Pastor Wright secretly running the world? Scary, isn't it.

Randy, it's a hard issue. Israel is a foreign nation whose values are far different from the USA's. They are a democracy, but then the US south was democracies before 1865, just not for slaves. They were defeated. And the US south was democracies before 1965, with apartheid and second-class citizens. The USA made that illegal, but it's central to Israel. The USA has separation of church and state. Israel is a strange and foreign land. In 1941 the USA put most Japanese-American citizens in concentration camps thinking they might be loyal to Japan. That was wrong. If it happens again they have no good choices thought out. We have mostly ignored Israeli spies. A few get prosecuted. Pollard gave the most important US secrets to Israel and indirectly to the USA's worst enemy. Better if Pollard had never gotten those secrets. But it seems wrong to deny people a whole class of jobs because they *might* be disloyal. It's a puzzle. Israel hasn't solved it either. Loyalty oaths?

Clara you are right!

Obama is trying to save Israel from itself. This is the essence message that Secretary Clinton delivered at AIPAC. However, Israeli right-winger cannot see the facts even if they hit them in the face.

Why not propose to approve new construction in Arab neighborhoods in parallel?

It sounds as if Mr Netanyhu has crossed the Rubicon

TH, Strong and proud people like your pastor Hagard? Peace Stephen

Randy, The fact that Obama believes that Israel must achieve a two state solution does not in any way make him "anti Israel." If so then Ehud Barak, current Israeli defense minister, is equally anti-Israel. Barak has said on several occasions that if Israel does not achieve an adequate state for the Palestinians then Israel will either be a Jewish State that is not fundamentally democratic or a democratic state that is not fundamentally Jewish. So,by supporting a two state solution, Obama is fundamentally supporting democracy in Israel. You are clearly fundamentally logic impaired. Peace. Stephen

To 'IW'...lets take a look into the past and see what happened in Palestine shall we. The agreement on a split state "was made"...and now for the present..what is israel doing that is illegal on an International scale, building illegal homes and strategically placing them in between the Palestinian homes. You would have to be a moron if you don't realize what is going on. Occupied Palestine Territories have dealt with too much since 1948..its a shame not enough isreali's are realizing what they are doing..the hope is that there are few, perhaps enough that are realizing israel's Illegal Occupation...and it needs to be stopped

So George can bet an ultimatum has been given to Bibi? LOL! Building in the undivisible capital of Israel (which means all neighborhoods there are Jewish) will continue. Well, the PM agreed "to make a gesture" to the Palestinians, and we all, including Obama, know that it is two thousand twenty second one and doesn't matter at all.

It's about time that some pressure for the sake of humanity is applied on the right wing gov't. A forced peace is the only peace possible with the current generation of Israeli politicians. Maybe now they can focus on the crime wave and various mobs within Israel. Funny how it's safer to walk the streets of Ramallah late at night than the streets of Tel Aviv!

... bring in Tzipi and Mofaz, so that Barak can promote Labor's policies overtly, not just by hems-and-haws and back doors...

Obama has pretended to be supportive of Israel, but given his background and core values he will eventually seek to have Israel destroyed. His power comes entirely from failed and guilty people - not strong and proud ones.

nor, that things are going to happen. this was made more than clear, and sitting it out wont work (anymore). after all, it wouldnt be too far fetched, to have them making clear in some way, they at least understood the matter and its seriousness... even when some bbq'ers on the talkback (still) seem to be impressed enough by graphs and advanced english skills, its not enough to run a country at a problematic stage. its really terrible to see, that in this crucial stage guys are in charge, lacking any diplomatic, managerial/leadership skills. maybe even more. on the other side: some smart PM/FM wouldnt have caused this mess in the first place. it really looks, that bibi was sent to the white house by his cabinet, thinking he will show his graphs before dinner and thats it...? he didnt have anything else to put on the table - thats now clear... my, my..

LOL, who ist this guy trying to fool here, I doubt it very much, that this is the kind of "compromise", that the U.S. administra- tion (not even to talk about the Palestinians) is going to accept. The Netanyahu governement still doesn't seem to understand, that a complete halt of any settlement construction in the West Bank and East Jerusalem was not a request made by the U.S. and the rest of the International community, it was an ORDER ! Do you really have to learn it the hard way..???

"However, the demands the Americans have made go far beyond the issue of Jerusalem; they now include more than was demanded by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton two weeks ago." That confirms what I wrote last week (but Haaretz didn't publish) that Bibi had foolishly allowed Obama to grab him by his short and curlies and you can bet that Obama now will not let go. The more resistance Bibi gives him, the harder Obama will pull! Classical Pavlovian training...

Short answer, not were Bibi wants you to believe they stand. You need to read about half way through this article to get to the sad truth. Here it is: "Netanyahu returned Thursday from Washington having failed in all the tasks he had set for himself - primarily in rebuilding trust in his relationship with President Barack Obama."

Obama is an American, a real American, but not more real than anyone else. He is the elected leader, but has not to my knowledge been declared divine yet. So no one need genuflect when mentioning his name.

...the stakes will grow every time? After all, what was that stupid original refusal to "freeze" settlements' for? We didn't have enough settlements already? No one mentioned Jerusalem then...etc...moreover, is there any need to do construction in Jerusalem just now? It can't be postponed after agreeing in negotiations what's ours and what theirs? There are no other places in all of Israel to do construction? So, it's a spiel...with America's President and Vice President... By whom?... By Yishai and Lieberman? And get away with it... Really?

Surely the Israeli Government has more demonstrable negotiating skills than have been demonstrated today. There needs to be substance not spin and they need to demonstrate a capacity to have a united front. Unfortunately from the perspective of someone in the Diaspora all we seem to have is a disfunctional rabble.

... Israel on pariah-course with the whole world... we will start suffering from delegitimization in one sphere after another... how many times will the settlements have to falsely change-their-addresses in order to sell their produce?...

You have some nerve--that's exactly what the Republicans used to say about those who criticized them. I feel Obama, by kicking around democratic Israel (and the Dalai Lama, forced to leave the White House by the back exit, past piles of garbage cans, and our other traditional allies) in favor of extremist, backward and dictatorial regimes is betraying REAL American values, to use your term. Don't you dare impugn anyone's patriotism just because you disagree with them--you don't know the first thing about them--or me.

Friends don't make demands, they accept you as you are. The idea of forcing a country to make changes according to the opposition like the Palestinians, is unfair. Nor does Obama have to live with the consequences. It isn't a co-incidence that whilst Natanyahu was in Washington, the broadcasts were about Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and their alliance with the US. Israel should stall till November and hope Obamamania will be over.

America has already shown its true face, and betrayed its principles long time ago. Its support for the Israeli occupation and its apartheid practices have scarred its humanity and questioned it sense of justice. President Obama's attempts to bring America back to the principles that it was founded on, is being faced by betrayal of many, many congressmen who put money and their own election above the best interest of their own country.

Who needs to make peace with whom? All the world has ever seen from the Arab side is war, war & more war - since well before 1948.. What the arabs wants is all of greater Israel which is only 10% of the land allotted to them by G-d. What is the big deal? You could maybe complain if they went for the full 100% allotted but for a measly 10% - nah!

I am thoroughly disgraced as an American. Our foolish president literally bows to the Saudis and tries to play nice and appease our worst enemies and then kicks our greatest ally to the curb. This is disgraceful and disgusting.

These charges by the right wing of anti-semitism are nothing but nonsense and a deliberate attempt to avoid the issues at hand. Stop calling everyone who challenges Israel's policies of being anti-semitic as that well ran dry a long time ago and is nothing short of a pathetic cop out. President Obama has FINALLY showed some courage on this issue but needs to go further and demand that Israel comply with International law, binding UNSC resolutions and ICJ rulings at the Hague. Only until the Israeli government understands the U.S. has had enough will there be any chance to finally get down to serious negotiations. Don't cave in President Obama, the overwhelming majority of the world agrees with you on this issue.

""We are paving the golden path that will link between the wish to advance the peace process and our national interests," and American Jews like Raymond #1, and numerous others posting here, align themselves with Israeli national interest instead of American. Yet these same 'Americans' would be suing if they were refused positions involving sensitive information. This makes the rest of us REAL Americans very uncomfortable.

Are you for real? Israel left Lebanon entirely, and a year later Hezbollah attacked across the border and started a war. Israel left Gaza entirely, and the Gazans responded with rockets on Israeli civilian communities along the border. So who is it who has tried to make peace, and who is who each time responded with violence? Only a fool would keep playing that game.

To go to the bottom to this issue:This Governmente cannot see the real vision which is:Israel is not aymore a vital ally for the US.In fact since the end of cold war era. Bibi and others simply cannot see the picture in totallity.Since the 90s Israel is becoming a ~problematic"State.There is no interests involved anymore in prlolonging this conflict because it do not serve the interests of the Global Capitalism. Unfortunately the actual leaders of Israel suffer from a lcak of long vision and perspective and they are only looking for the short-term which is very dangerous.The leaders of this country need someone who can clear see the real picture.

Netanyahu, tell the truth. Tell Obama and the World that you and your settler coalition have no interest in genuine peace. Your only interest is to seize and steal as much Palestinian lands as possible and to expel Arabs from Jerusalem. That is the real truth.

Just to remind you that a friend of Israel, "The Economist" magazine, labeled Netanyahu a "serial bumbler" on it's front page during his first attempt at leading Israel.

bibi wont fix it....expect nothing

Bibi is acting in a bad way on the international political theatre. Wondering what the US wants from him is just like "pretending to be stupid". The absolute challenging policies in Jerusalem has caused an outrage against Israel by the international community. While being stuck between the rightists and world's demands he's either fooling himself or himself. There are clear demands to stop construction in E. Jerusalem but he's just going on against that. I think its some straightforward: Once Israel "accepts" the fact the Palestinians HAVE THE RIGHT to build their state with all what it takes, problems will disappear and peace will be achieved. Its Israel's stubborn policies and the practice of power logic and imposing facts on the grounds which always complicates the situation. Apparently, Bibi is far away from this recognition and thats something he should be taught just like any other one who deny the right of Palestinians to live the same way they're living.

What did Netanyahu expect after the Biden visit incident, when it appeared more of the same was his "house gift" for Obama--as he lands, the announcement is made that more development will be done in arab East Jerusalem, and then the Mayor of Jerusalem says no part of Jerusalem will ever be given up. Sure looks like Netanyahu was landing saying "well, too bad about Biden, but let's be frank--we aren't even going to do step 1 of the Roadmap agreement." Add in killing a few protestors--just to revive the good feelings of the Gaza invasion? Being Israel means never having to own up to anything. Yup, Ol' Netanyahu landed giving a one fingered peace sign and the President felt he was being asked to be the straight man--at a time when he was trying to deal with the health insurance issue. Speaking of which, many of us in the US figure the money we spend on Israel may just help pay for some medical care for US citizens. So you'll understand if that dries up. Keep your PM at home.

worry not about your coalition. your major concern should be national security. besides, where would your right wing go? what is essential is to tease appart that which is essential for national security from that which is important but not necessarily essential. such an endeavor will be difficult given the positions taken by the united states. however, as in any game of chess, some pawns and even knights must be sacrificed to win the game. however odious obama's behaviour, keep in mind the future. you will come out the winner. jews never had it easy. however, the jewish state at least has means to defend herself.

We will never stop being concerned about Israel's fate for our word is bond, but this is truly a test of those bonds.

obama's belief that he can publicly demean, humiliate, denigrate, a democratically elected leader of a long standing ally is extremely troubling. such behaviour is unworthy of any united states president. when one compares the treatment accorded to the prime minister of israel with that accorded to any number of dictators and human rights abusers, one cannot but conclude that the behaviour is motivated not by politics but rather by some dark personal animosity. such animosity has no place in the conduct of state affairs. unfortunately, obama seems to conduct foreign policy on the basis of feelings rather than rationality.

Poor Bibi. Surprisingly he is naive. There is no doubt that President Obama is fundamentally cool to Israeli religious, historical, and even strategic imperatives and basically hungers to engage/accommodate/appease the world wide Arab/Islamic communities. However, complicating the perception of the essential strategic drift of his policy and the extraordinarily troubling implications for Israel and its supporters is that he is not only a brutal tactical politician when necessary but flexible and imaginatively supple in staging political change--thus the chief demands are, if a slap in the face to earlier promises not to compromise Jewish claims across the Green line in jerusalem, couched in moderate and achievable smaller diktats: a moratorium or freeze on housing during negotiations, surrender of prisoners, transfer of Abu Dis, etc. Meanwhile Shas and Lieberman appear to be inhabiting an alternate universe where Shamir is still Prime Minister and Kook theology has a clear road ahead.

Thank god we don't have a leftist government right now...Otherwise they would have buckled and would have sold us down the river a longtime age...Bibi and Lieberman ARE THE BEST ! Jew haters eat your hearts out !

I'm saying it in a nice way really - he gets confused easily and is no negotiator at all, just alternately a braggart/loudmouth and dishrag to be trampled upon. Too bad the right blew it before the election...

"For his part, the prime minister appears to be unable to understand what it is the Americans want from him: "What is this fight about? What they want from me?" he told aides in a closed meeting." What Obama wants is apparently something beyond Netanyahu's capacity - good faith. Nothing Netanyahu says can be believed. Nothing his government says is credible. He needs to bring the Frankenstein's Monster of the current Israeli government to elections and do something totally out of character - be honest about his intentions. US Policy has not changed in 42 years. Just because Obama is President does not mean US policy should change. For 42 years, Israeli governments have made every excuse possible to avoid peacefully resolving the conflict. Take some responsibility, Bibi - end the charade or do something to actually achieve the peace you say you want. Obama's policy is the same as that of Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton and Bush. Negotiate in good faith.

You amaze me ! you do not learn from your own history. The obsolete rockets of Hizbullah shocked you in 2006. You have a decision to make on real peace and you same to let it pass. What of the Palestinians start to ask you to leave and they want all of Palestine. Time, money, history, and even teh US will be on their side. Nothing but shame and crimes will be on your side ! Shame on you !

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Wow! This from a PM of Israel? It's a long list that's for sure. First: Make Peace With The Palestinians. Second: Ditto. Third and ad infinitum: Ditto. But for that, of course, he has to grow a set and stop being a putz. Tall order, my friends.

If Netanyahu rebuffes him or fails to deliver due to coalition concerns. Obama of course have counted his heads at Capitol Hill. Maybe he is waiting for an all out attack from GOP right-wing Congress members to launch a devastating counter-attack. One dreams that he will question GOP-patriotism and thrustworthyness concerning American security when they start shouting 'Israel first'. Go Obama, be mean and lean.

Everyone can dance around it all they want and talk about all the support Israel has in the US Congress but none of that matters when the president has you in his scope. Congress controls none of these things and Obama has already resigned himself for this fight or he wouldnt have engineered it. I can bet you this is the ultimatum given to Bibi. 1. No Veto 2. No Money 3. No Iran Pretty Simple huh

...but one arguable reason they may want this thing put to bed "quietly and quickly" is that historically the nuts and bolts of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict get very little coverage in the American media--and Aipac may want to see it stay that way. (Not that they don't have a strong case to make, but--hey!--why the heck take unnecessary chances?)

Anti-Israel, anti-democratic allies, pro-dictatorships. America will reap the whirlwind of this insanity and betrayal of its core values.