Netanyahu: Turkey can't be 'honest broker' in Syria talks

... It will educate you about Turkey's undeniable dilemna... Yes Islamist but not 'Jihadist'. Yes secular but not exclusivist... I even simplified/translated/explained in my previous post but then again you repeat your insinuation that Turkey could never be an honest broker for it's '"ties to Hamas"' prevent that. Again no mention denial about the more telling relationship between the USA State Department's (and administration's) 'links' to Likud the most extreme and COUNTER-PEACE agent in the total conflict equation... You are being selective in what information you are offering which only stands to reason as theer is very little fact or opinion which supports your position. It would be very satisfying to read one of your posts which does not rely upon innuendo, unsubstantiable data or cliche.

Turkey has lost all credibility as a broker between Israel and Syria or any other entity. The short sighting of their politicians might cause the EU to rethink Turkey's admission into the EU, they proved themselves untrusted and unworthy. We'll see ho long they stay in NATO?

and hardly in a position to support anything Islamist brothers do not approve. What peace are Islamists proposing? Maybe you should look up what goes on in the Hama/Hezballah media

Where do you find the word peace? Intersting how Hamas and Edrogans party have ties.

Netanyahu's definitions: Honest broker means totally supports Israel. Even handed means totally supports Israel. Balanced opinion means totally supports Israel. Partner for peace means totally gives in to Israel. Peace process means a never ending process resulting in nothing.

Actually, I really doubt that you want a broker. Because, you know, you never want the peace.

i read most of comments, none of them who write a comment about this topic, hate Turkey.. see, how much Turkey is powerfull. we love jews, but dont love israilies. how can we hate jews? Ottomans had saved many jews during massacring of jews. ottomans were our granddads.. Turkey is the most powerful actor of the region.. all people has to see this, has to understand this.. and has to respect..

The terrorists were not fighting like men,in uniforms and away from the civillians but chose to fire from houses and schools etc. They knew very well it would result in civillian casualties. That truth is not included in the outcome.Why? You still have not answered why the Islamist govt chose to ignore thousands of Hamas missiles were fired at Israeli CIVILLIANS ? PS Where did I say antisemitism?

I think this time(beginning several months,or is it a few years now)Turkey began to show its true colours. As you pointed out Israel needs not a "mediator" to broker a deal with Syria which is not as yet prepared to go down that path, nor such mediator as Turkey either. What is more who needs a mediator like Turkey who turned the clock back and decided to follow the Islamofascist way of life,rather than the modern way Ataturk who brought them to the 20th century. At the end of the day,it is not Israel who will be the loser,but Turkey.Frankly I care not one way or another. If you go to JPOST there is a charming picture of their president Gul who says they will continue in their scriticism of Israel arrogantly too. And guess who's picture is behind them as great SHOW, IF ONE CAN AS LARGE AS LIFE?the rat arafat. Now that confirms their though process. End of story.

under an Islamist government with ties to Hamas it leaves much to be desired

The same way one can also say that the EU reporters such as Ohlie Rehn etc are being very honest when they tell Turkish authorities that they are oppresing the free media, the Kurds in the east and should open the northern Cyprus ports to Greeks immediately then make peace with Greece letting all the Cypriot Greeks return to their homes in the North including Famagusta (Magosa) etc. etc. Do you agree?

To bring Turkey into the 20th century. Were he to be alive now,he'd be angry,and tell Erdogan to take his wife's scarf away AND THROW it into the ASHCAN. It is the fault of the likes of Erdogan who has become a fundemental Islamisist by following the HIHADISTS. At this rate,Turkey is going to lose its TOURIST INDUSTRY that keeps it afloat,also with the $$$$ it receives from the US. Anladin me??

Institutionalize pronto with that stupid response which does not in effect say much for you and the SUBJECT. Netanyahu's mistrust of Turkey is apt and I hope he doesn't fall for it for one minute. All these do gooders like Zapatero,(who is the bane of Spain)gives most of us the truth of the matter. In any case,who said we need to talk to Syria,or approve giving them what they want,or not,for nothing(the terrorists who follow Hizballah) I for one,and my Israeli compatriots would reject it totally. Engage brain,before opening MOUTH.

israel does not need brokers to negotiate with neighbours. if assad wants to negotiate, he should do so directly.

Yes indeed there is 'MORE' ! Decrease the 'Occupation" & you increase the launching pad ! That is what Gaza is all about.

You are right, Obama brought nothing new so far. He wants Palestinians AND Israelis to keep obligations both sides made to George Bush. The settlements issue is one that Israel AGREED TO nearly a decade ago, but consistently never kept its work. Obama expects Israel to keep it written word. The PA has kept its written word where Israel allows it to operate. It provides security in the towns where the IDF allows. It could do lots more, but Israel won't allow the PA to pursue criminals beyond its restricted area. Israel won't keep its word given to the US and won't allow the PA to pursue criminals or even defend farmers during harvest. And Netanyahu offers neither security nor sovereignty nor independence to the Palestinians. So far all Obama has ask of Israel is that it keep a promise given to George Bush, NOTHING MORE.

Turkey is quite honest to show you what you are doing wrong, well it is actually the Israeli policy trying to mediate the crime politically.

Contrary to your assumption,the jury is out and on the Spaniards to decide on Israel's future one way or another. You are being rather optimistic,by using the appeasement policy? Sorry old boy,but it is out of the question, especially with the blunder by Goldstone who should have thought it out prior to presenting to the public.It was a grave error on his part.But then it is expected from his likes....Wonder what kind of remunaration he received. Not diplomatic,or profssionally written piece.

"Labhras" believe that the former commander of British Forces in Afghanistan, Col. Richard Kemp should also leave the UK. He knows what is right and that only what is right is in the interests of the UK!!! I as a British Subject do not need to be told by a foreigner what is in the interest of my Country!!!

Mr Netanyahu says that Turkey cannot be an "honest broker". But does Mr Netanyahu know the meaning of honesty? That is the big question.

Unfortunately the current AKP government under the leadership of Erdogan is anti Kemalist. They are undoing everything that Kemal Ataturk had done to modernize Turkey. Erdogan invited the leaders of Hamas as well as the president of Sudan who is charged to be responsible of the 300000 killed in Darfur. By not using his influence over Hamas to stop the Qassams into Israel Erdogan also bears some responsibility in the civilian lives lost during the Cast Lead operation. Because if he had used his influence over Meshal and stopped the Qassams there would be no need for Cast Lead.

Akram Zekaria occupation cause the terror for the last 60 years it time to stop? Everytime we get close Israel make sure to destroy any hope'I said 2 state for 2 people let UN devide like UN did for the state of Israel, fair is fair

Unfortunatley the current AKP government under the leadership of Erdogan is anti Kemalist. They are undoing everything that Kemal Ataturk had done to modernize Turkey. Erdogan invited the leadest of Hamas as well as the president of Su8dan who is charged to be responsible of the 300000 killed in Darfur. By not using his influence over hamas to stop the Qassams into Israel Erdogan also bears some responsibility in the civilian lives lost during the Cast Lead operation. becaus if he had used his influence over Mesha and stopped the Qassams ther would be no need for Cast Lead.

Japan, USA, Sweden, Norway do not say that Israel kills innocents. But please don?t get me started with the Europeans because if you have read the latest EU report about Turkey you will see that they have made many serious accusations about the freedom of speech, the Kurdish situation in the east, the issue of illegally occupied northern Cyprus and ghost city of Magosa (Famagusta) etc, not to mention that Switzerland, France, Lebanon etc they all have passed bills recognizing the 1915 forced exile of Armenians as genocide. You think like Nasreddin Hoca. You are cutting the branch you are sitting on and when warned you smile and confidently say (Don't worry, I am holding on it)

Without the blather, what's left? Netanyahu makes stirring speeches. That's the nature of his leadership. Everyone here loved the "Shame on you" lecture he gave to the UN and will probably be ecstatic about the verbal rap on the knuckles he's giving Turkey. We can't have Turkish coffee at Ilan's to perk us up anymore, but at least we will have speeches to keep us buoyant while we tread water.

Erdogan and AKP ruling Turkey are very close to Hamas, A few years ago they invited Meshaal to Turkey and kept close ties since. Erdogan claims that he wanted to be a peacemaker in the ME. At that time seeing that Hamas was attacking Israel daily with rockets killing Israeli babies (Like Dorit Banisian and Yuval Abebeh) if he was sincere about peace he should have told his Hamas friends to stop these attacks and trust him to use all diplomatic means and friendly relations with Israel instead of force. This would show that he sincerely cares about children being killed. However he kept silent when Israeli children were dying, like he kept silent to the 300000 dead in Darfur. If Erdogan had used his influence over Hamas then in stopping the rockets Israel would never have to do Cast Lead. Therefore Erdogan AKP and Turkey are responsible of the mayhem during cast lead because they could have done something to prevent and did not.

Let me remind you that Israel had already accepted the creation of a Palestinian Arab state in all of Gaza + 96% of contiguous WB + 4% Israeli land to compensate and the capital in east Jerusalem. Arafat refused while Israeli Knesset accepted it. Israel already made peace with Jordan and Egypt giving entire Sinai back. Israel pulled out og Gaza while Turkish Odalar Bilrligi had offered to finance the industrial infrastructure of Gaza. Arabs never used this opportunity to the surprise and dismay of Mr. Rifat Hisarcikoglu. You are being fed malicious and wrong information about Israel by your Islamist leaders who want to return Turkey to the dark ages.

An excellent article but NOT a good comparison. The US administration and state department's policy is being decided by the those who are loyal to the Israeli side of the conflict. It is not a 'tie' ... it is more than that... it is 'bondage'. As long as this group continues to wield such power and is is sole 'honest broker' in the conflict, then Israel shall continue to build illegally (international law & UN resolutions...) in the occupied territories with impunity... Turkey's links with Hamas? The article explains at length that Turkey is indeed straddling two civilisations and as a result has an identity crisis which means that are extremely wary of losing a 'foot in each camp'. But the ties with Hamas may be symbolic/token in trying to show solidarity with the Arabs yet retain enough 'credibility' with Europe that they are EU friendly enough to enter the group where they see a very important future lifeline to exist. They would do nothing to jeopardise their chances of finally being admitted to join the EU so they do not want to be connected to any Hamas rockets etc. That Turkey and Israel have enjoyed such a well-documented 'special relationship until recently despite the Turkish recognition of Hamas as important partner in any peace process, only shows that they WERE indeed unbiased in the conflict. As the article says, Mossad's secret activities with the Kurds did immeasurable damage to Turkish belief in Israeli sincerity, transparency and honoring of accords and treaties. Perhaps they felt as though they had been stabbed in the back as the Americans had when Israel went on to sell the AWAC technology to China. Israel is waging a war on many fronts and it has always been only a matter of time before one country or another, whether friendly or not, would air their strict criticism of her, especially now with US prestige and influence on the wane, it's military overextended and economy savaged. New alliances will form to counter the US/Israel 'unified front'. Venezuela-Iran, Turkey-Syria. Russia of course is in there too, as quite rightfully they can feel that recent US foreign policy has been trying to contain any resurgent Russian resistance to a US seeking to extend it's influence further toward the Caspian Sea. Cannot Israel not now see that the focus is increasingly upon her to measure up to INTERNATIONAL norms of decency and accountability?

In about 1967, the entire non-Muslim, non-Communist world supported Israel. A few years ago, that was down to Turkey, the US and Vanuatu. Now it's down to the US and that's beginning to look pretty questionable. Anybody think it might be time for Israel to consider a change of policy and free the Pals?

When Turkey installs dams to block water for Syria then wants Israel to give up the Golan Heights so Syria has replacement water; how's that being an honest mediator? Didn't Turkey also go back on a water deal with Israel a few years ago? Let Turkey side with Syria and Iran; they've been on the wrong side of history before. I guess they will never learn their lesson and history repeats itself.

Israelis don't kill the terrorists. Israelis kill innocent people as well.That's why Turkey react. Japan,sweden,Norway,Russia,Usa,Turkey etc..Is everyone anti-semitic? The Truth hurts sometimes.

interest--I suggest you make arrangements to git outa town. Another of those who thinks the world revolves arount Israel with it,s 5 million population. Grow up guys.

If Turkey can't be an honest broker then what qualifies the US in the Middle East process?

... The friend of Israel ! The 2-state that he adopted as god-s given solution ! No other solution that Obama can see suitable to solve the problem ! A 2-state side by side, just like 2-young lovers ! Obama has nothing to offer Israel more than that Israel was offered before ! All in the name of the 'US Strategic Interests' ! Palestinians & Jews will live each in his own State. No Arab country made any move to show a serious sign to this solution. Just a warning 'take it or leave it' ! A crude attitude ! Besides, Israel must stop all its defensive plans. The settlements is one of them. That is 'urgent' before there is ink on paper ! Obma brought nothing NEW on the table; just a heavy pressure on Israel against nothing new ! The others whom you mentioned on your post is just adding more pressure on Israel to accept the 2-State with nothing obvious in exchange ! Certainly no security ! It is you who is 'dead wrong'. Try to be fair !

The loss of Turkey as a 'moderate' Muslim partner for Israel reflects the tragically short-sighted approach to Israeli foreign affairs. In 2008, Israel and Turkey were on solid ground. In 2009, Turkey dared to join the rest of the world in criticising Israel's excessive attacks on Gaza, and Israel has since resorted to standard tactics of branding the Turks as 'biased', 'un-balanced', 'pro-Hamas'. How extraordinarily naive. Israel is so poorly led.

When we will have peace with Syria because of of Turkey's honest broking,the Syrian will be the honest broker in Lebanon talks,and then Hizboolah will be the honest broker in Iran talks,and Ahmadinejad will be the honest broker in Hamas talks. You can't find in the ME an honest broker, because honesty is broken.

The current Turkish government is one which has trampled Ataturk's legacy of secular Turkish republicanism into the dust. Erdogan's party is returning the country to Shariya and the backward days of the Ottoman sultans - not only an unsuitable broker for a forward-looking democracy like Israel, but a dishonest one as well - one which no longer may claim to be a bridge between East and West. Israel needs no broker dealing with Arabs and Muslims - as a nation surrounded by and incorporating many such, she has ample experience. Syria must face her directly, or not at all. MV

blown to bits by Israeli Navy. Were you angry when Israel dropped a 2000 lb bomb on a gaza apartment building killing 14 innocent people many of them Children. Were you angry when Israel dropped white phospherous on a Hospital and a UNAWRA Building in Gaza after the same Israel dropped leaflets on Palestinians tellling them to go to city centres "AND" UNWRA buildings where they coild get food and shelter. Read the report Peter SM---If you have the courage to desert your post as Armchair general. HER LET ME HELP YOU. 507. The radio broadcasts that the Mission listened to appeared to be generic. For example, on 3 January 2009 a radio broadcast made the following points: ? Gaza residents are welcome to receive food and medical supplies, delivered via the Rafah, Karni and Kerem Shalom passages, at the UNRWA centres throughout the Gaza Strip; ? Israel calls on the population to move to city centres for its own safety.353 This warning preceded the ground phase of the military operations. Its language clearly indicates that UNRWA centres should be regarded as places of safety and civilians may collect food from them. 351

blown to bits by Israeli Navy. Were you angry when Israel dropped a 2000 lb bomb on a gaza apartment building killing 14 innocent people many of them Children. Were you angry when Israel dropped white phospherous on a Hospital and a UNAWRA Building in Gaza after the same Israel dropped leaflets on Palestinians tellling them to go to city centres "AND" UNWRA buildings where they coild get food and shelter. Read the report Peter SM---If you have the courage to desert your post as Armchair general. HER LET ME HELP YOU. 507. The radio broadcasts that the Mission listened to appeared to be generic. For example, on 3 January 2009 a radio broadcast made the following points: ? Gaza residents are welcome to receive food and medical supplies, delivered via the Rafah, Karni and Kerem Shalom passages, at the UNRWA centres throughout the Gaza Strip; ? Israel calls on the population to move to city centres for its own safety.353 This warning preceded the ground phase of the military operations. Its language clearly indicates that UNRWA centres should be regarded as places of safety and civilians may collect food from them. 351

Can you define what is an honest broker? What should Turkey have done when the Qassam's were fired? Should it have taken sides? So define to me and to all of us: who would constitute an honest broker? Someone with political influence with no stake in this game? Then who? Show me some government that fits the bill! Then, when you realize there are none - then you have to start thinking about compromise. In this light, and given everything else, Turkey was the most logical choice - it is a regional economic heavy-weight, and it trades prolifically with both countries. It could have been the lubricant medium in which a solution could be met in which all parties benefited. However, our fearless leader Bibi and that schmuck Erdoğan have blown it. But remember, both Bibi and Erdoğan represent only a fraction of the electorate. What if everyone thought Israelis were uniformly hawkish like Bibi or if all Turks were islamists like Erdoğan?

The Netanyahu government, intent upon offending every friend Israel has, speaks when sane persons would remain silent. This kind of behavior, loudly showing contempt for the entire world, did the USA no good, and it cannot be good for Israel either.

To Gökhan - you know the old saying, "üzüm baka baka kararmış". How can we be serious about mediating with Syria and Israel if we do not deal with our own Kurdish grievences? How should anyone take us (I am both Turkish and Israeli, in case that wasn't obvious) seriously as mediators given this?

Turkey under the Islamist AKP is a natural ally of Iran and Syria since they are all land-grabbing occupiers in Kurdistan. That is why the AKP decided to support Saddam Hussein against the United States in 2003. Israel and all other democratic nations need to end their collaboration with Turkish imperialism and give full solidarity and support to the Kurdish struggle for freedom against all the occupying powers: Iran, Syria, Turkey and Iraq. Free Kurdistan with access to the sea!

According to the consensus on this talking-list, no one is 'good enough' to broker peace between our nations. I don't think we are looking hard enough. There is a potential honest broker in the 32-island nation state of Kiribati. They've "got no dog in this race" - so they are ideal!

Netanyahoo seems to think it's a favor to Turkey to allow them to help bring about a peaceful settlement for Israel. When Israel thinks that peace is something beneficial to themselves, rather than a hinderance to land grabbing, then mediation will be useful. Till then, Turkey need not bother.

You want to talk about land grabbing how about Turkeys illegal occupation of Cyprus? What about Turkeys invasion & occupation of Kurdish land? What about the fact that Turkey annexed Hatay land Syria considers its own? Turkey is a real land grabber here only difference is all the world is interested in is Israel which legitimately captured the land it currently occupies through defensive wars in which the arabs were the aggresors.

Israel is needed to divert attention of the people from domestic problems, especially corruption, incompetence and intellectual bankruptcy.The only way to unite is Hyper-asabiyya or solidarity and stifle the voices of Ijtehad or a re-look at the interpretation of the classical texts regarding Statecraft and women issues.

Jordan annexed the WestBank then rennounced ALL ownership while the Palestinians refused to recognise borders repeatedly. How is the discrimination and murder of Zimbabweans going?

Was "honest broker" Turkish government angry while thousands of Qassams landed on Israel? They got angry very quickly when Israel Hit Back. That is not an honest broker.Netanyahu stands for Israel as Turkish Islamist government stands for Moslems.Netanyahu does not claim to be a broker,the Turkish government does.

They were pushing Olmert to accept Assads demands not gong to Assad and saying you should accept Israels demands. The results of any turkish meditation were a forgone conclusion. Now Turkey is sucking up to Assad is the best thing as far as Bibi is concerned he can't be pushed by anybody into saying Turkey is an impartial mediator. Turkey has firmly and openly sided with Assad that takes away any illusions that they can be trusted to be impartial.

... and Turkey have no influence on World Politics. It is turned cold in joining the EU in any shape or form. Turkey is turning its face toward Oil rich Arab Countries. Its best door to do so, is to show itself on the Arab Side. Netanyahu is right by calling Turkey not 'honest broker'. There are enough brokers already among the dead and the living ! Time Israel to drop the 'brokers saga' and talk with the Palestinians if they want to talk. But which one of them ?! That is the problem !

And that's a basic moral stand that Israel has a difficult time mastering. For Israel, honesty stands in the way of achieving its goals.

When Israel and Turkey had joint exercises and improved relations, Syria seemed to object to this but showed much less hysteria than Israel did.And yet Syrians still beleive that Turkey would be the ideal country to bring those two countries together.Need one say more??

Israel does not need an "honest broker". Because Israel does not want a treaty, all she wants is more land which no palestians live on. I, as a Turkish citizen, lost all my beliefs in peace beacuse of Israel's unreasonable acts.

fact is ... If you steal something , first give it back and then and then you can talk. Israel must first restore the pre 1967 position by giving back all stolen land amongst other things. Lame excuses will get you nowhere as the whole world is waiting.

The whole concept of some third party brokering a peace deal is simply not worth thinking about. If they don't want to talk to us directly then why bother?

You asked "who ignited the fire?" That's an irrelevant question. Israel considers its relations with Turkey very important and to add fuel to the fire like Bibi has done drives the two nations further apart and in essence Bibi has shot Israel (and himself) in the foot. I say let the whole issue die down and become friends again. You said "Do you tell it (i.e. Israel and Turkey's mutually beneficial relations) to the Turks too? Where can I read it? If not, why not?" Are you asking do I personally tell the Turks? No, because I'm not in the media nor am I a diplomat, but it's all over the net for anyone who wants to read about this subject. A good start is here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel%E2%80%93Turkey_relations#Strategic_cooperation

It's Netanyahu who can't be an honest broker for peace. What a hypocrite!

Turkish government was broker between syria and israel.Syria support hamas,this is clear. And if you are a broker,you must talk with two sides.If you talk about peace,you cannot bomb the other side.That's why Turkey is angry about Gaza. So,"Turkey can't be a honest broker anymore" said Netanyahu.and I ask: "Can Netanyahu be a honest Leader after Olmert????"

And just like in real life, it means that Bibi will remain on the political shelf. His international agenda has been adapted and now comprises only blocking measures. He will spend his tenure as Prime Minister fielding shots.

as it is obviously no longer biased in Israel's favour. As the Likudniks have no intention of ever reaching agreement on the Golan, let alone the West Bank, it saves Turkey wasting its time. They seem to be reaching a rapprochement with Assad and can live quite happily without the encumbrance of supporting Israel. Ah, another ex-ally departs on the midnight express. In sounding bellicose and belligerent daily for the edification of the domestic audience, Bibi and Lieberman have just about alienated Israel on the planet. It has gone from brave little nation to untrustworthy little nuisance in no time at all.

back to their rightfu owners. The fact that there is a television programe which show some Israeli soldiers in a bad light is manna from heaven for Lieberman (the real Prime Minister of Israel) and Netanyahu. The same old gambit used by Israelis for the last twenty years, in that they claim they have no-one to negotiate with.

Well who choice Liebermann as minister of foreign affairs want broker too or peace talks with Syria?Sorry Mr Netanyahu i respect to you as a Israeli PM but please do not say we want peace talks with Syria but Turkiye stop that!

Since February, Netanyahu has been steadily determining that nobody is good enough for negotiations. He has been alienating the US administration and de-legitimizing Obama as best he could. He's got a large percentage of Israelis believing Obama's a Muslim and anti-Israel, neither of which is true. But it suits Netanyahu. He won't even let the Israeli Ambassador attend or meet with J Street friends of the Obama Administration. Now Turkey isn't good enough. And Egypt has been alienated so much by Netanyahu's choice for Foreign Minister, theirs won't sit in the same room with him. That reflects Netanyahu's opinions and preferences. The US would like peace, but does not need Netanyahu. Netanyahu does not want anything other than a Napoleonic peace and for the US to do his bidding.

Well, duh!?! Military manoeveurs with Syria a few days after cancelling similar one because of Israeli participation. I rarely agree with Bibi, but this time he's right!

http://weekly.ahram.org.eg/2009/934/re9.htm "Let's think for a moment of the regional relations of the Erdogan government. The Turkish government has old ties with Hamas, as well as with other political parties that use Islam as their rallying call. " HOW does that make them an "honest" "uninfluenced" broker? No empathy with Moslems or the Moslem brotherhood??

you talk nonsense. israel has been negotiating with the u.s., egypt, germany and other countries before and since netanyahu. netanyahu negotiated during his first premiership also, including with syria. your hatred of israel should not blind you to the truth.

Dear Sir, Madam, Unlike what your article states, the "viewer rating" was not 8 percent but was 0.8 that reflected a percentage of 2.1. How unacceptable and dangerous this program might be, no one really followed, except may be for the families of the actors who played in there... How right and justified might have the Israeli protest might be, such protests have done an undeserved publicity for this piece of garbage. For reference please see below a columnist in a pro-governmental and pro-islamist newspaper, http://yenisafak.com.tr/Yazarlar/Default.aspx?i=19080&y=KursatBumin Sincere regards, Mehmet Saydam

Conroy: "Is Bibi`s slap in the face to Turkey wise?" Was Turkey's slap in the face of Israel wise? Conroy: "the best thing to do is to let it play out until it dies rather than adding fuel to the fire, which Bibi has done". And who ignited the fire? Conroy: "Both nations benefits by close ties, militarily, politically, economically and strategically". Do you tell it to the Turks too? Where can I read it? If not, why not?

First of all Israel should be thankful to Turkey for its peace efforts. We are very thankful to Swiss people to act as mediatot between Turkey and Armenia. This is only a necessity of being humans. Secondly, Israel's Olmert and present goverment apoligize Turkey to being dishonest to Turkey by playing in two ways. One one side peace was very close but on the other side Olmer and his cabinet planned and started a war against civilians. If Israel can not understand this, it only damages itself. It is Israel who must have peace with its neighbours. We want peace with Armania and thanks Swiss people and their goverment and we don't betray them.

Turkey - not good enough Egypt - not good enough US - not good enough Who is on Netanyahu's 'good enough' list? Would anybody trust somebody from Netanyahu's 'good enough' list? Maybe it time to suspend efforts until Netanyahu thinks somebody is good enough. Let him stew.

turkey cannot be an impartial mediator between israel and the terror regime of syria. turkey, as an islamic state, will always feel close to other muslim states. this, however, does not preclude military cooperation between the two countries. such cooperation need not be influenced by feelings--only by mutual strategic interests. as long as there are mutual strategic interests, israel and turkey will cooperate. however, if one party no longer finds there to be a mutual strategic interest, the military cooperation will cease to exist.

There has been far more likelihood of Turkey being an honest broker than the USA as their foreign policy is not influenced/under the control of one of the parties involved in the conflict let alone the administration. Even Colin Powell had the reins of his office wrestled away from him by the Neo-Cons. It's a no-brainer as Cheney often said.

Especially with the current Goldstone report. The jury has decided against Israel. No matter how hard it may seem, no country will actually believe that peace can be secured in the near future. One cannot but applaud the Spanish FM in is efforts. Spain is acting as Israels representative in Venezuela. That alone shows certain goodwill. Maybe we should listen to Spain.

Israel..you picked a leader that has no vision to lead you...this guy is worthless...you can do better than this.

truth IS that bibi isn't interested in a broker for talks with syria, honest or otherwise; because he has NO intention of having any talks with syria.

....that's a good one...:) And even more funny, Netanyahu for once may even be correct....

Erdogan, Obama, Jstreet,Fatah,Hamas can all be as righteous about settlements,Cast Iron, as they want, but there doomed to fail. Why? In the US, with argueably the most democratic country with the best legal system in the world, there is an old axiom. Possesion is nine tenths of the law. What makes you think Israel needs the Turks as brokers? Ultmately the Israels will negotaiate with themselves when and if they want some form of a peace agreement.

Nobody but our Bibi is serious about wanting peace. The Syrians aren't serious. The Palestinians aren't serious. The whole world is against us. Even the wretched Americans are turning against us. Poor little us. Only Bibi and Lieberman and Barak want peace. What a world.

Even including the Golan and the "West Bank", Israel weighs in at a HUGE 1/10th of 1 percent of the Middle East! :) The 99% remainder (even more, actually) of the Middle East is an area comprised of nations which mainly define themselves as Arab nations. Come to think of it, the Palestinians also define themselves as Arabs. Let's think on that just a moment, please. Furthermore, seeing any map of historic Palestine shows that the majority of Palestine lies not in Israel, but in the state now called Jordan. Don't take my word for it, just check it out! Jordan IS the majority Palestinian state, whether we want to say the "Jordan is Palestine" argument is "right-wing fluff" or not. Israel is one of the smallest and oldest nations known. Those screaming "Israeli land grab" really ought to try a grab at reality.

the arab neighbour realise that the divide and conquor works and no matter who they divide out with there is a ready muslim partner to join their causes. In this case we are forced to look at their saber rattling and divert focus on Iran.

At last we are getting somewhere. Netanyahu should also apply this rule to the Egyptians, who are still stabbing Israel in the back.Just what have the Egyptians done for Israel regarding the Palistinians, absolutely NOTHING, rather more for the Palistinians. These Arabs really know how to stick to their brothers who proclaim them innocent even when they kill.

Turkey never could have ever been a peace broker let alone and honest one anyhwere anytime

this is temporary.big suprise obama invited tayyip erdogan to u.s. america needs oil. turkey needs trade. israel needs security.i personally support in israel ehud barak he is tolerated man (understands reality.he is leftist).and nothing will change between israel and turkey.

the only process since 1922 john is how many concessions to hostile arabs can the jews make !! look up the word peace in dictionary ! the usa has never been an honest broker as if it had been there would be no problem today as egypt and syria would have been eliminated in 1973 . no return of the sinai in 1979.

To Sam at number three,maybe and maybe not,but ask yourself why do the PALS always reject any peace plan.Olmert offered a good deal,rejected ,also. I wish the PALS a good life,but sometimes you have to make a big effort to help yourself.Dr Salam Fayyad realises this,its about time more of his fellow PALS did also. Makes you realise that what Ben Gurion did was a massive feat in tenacity and leadership. The Pals should be able to do the same,but they need this tenacity and leadership.

Do not agree to let them to middiate !Turkey should be banned! They can not discuss anything with the people and the state which they define as children murderers

The same can be said of the United States re its bias towards Israel. What should be clear to everyone by now is that;Israel has absolutely no desire for peace. Israeli leaders seize every opportunity to manufacture excuses and undermine the so-called 'peace process'. When will everyone stand in unison and shout ; ENOUGH IS ENOUGH?

and so will the zio state...at this rate you will pop a blood vessel in your brain (if you haven't already)and drag down the zio state to the bottemless pit

Being an honest broker requires integrity. I do not know the standard that Netanyahu is applying to Turkey, but I am sure it also applies to Israel.

Turkey is definitely not qualified to be an honest broker in peace negotiations. Simply observing the actions of the Turkish government is enough to convince the Israeli public of this fact. Who can be a broker in peace negotiations? Probably no one. The result is that if the parties want peace they will have to get together and negotiate amongst themselves.

right over his head...beligerance just for the sake of beligerance is what makes this man sooo attractive to zio's and so repulsive to the rest of the world...enjoy your trip going down with bibi!

Is Bibi's slap in the face to Turkey wise? I don't think so. This chill in the two nations' relationship is temporary; the best thing to do is to let it play out until it dies rather than adding fuel to the fire, which Bibi has done. Both nations benefits by close ties, militarily, politically, economically and strategically.

...it is Bibi and Lieberman that are currently making Bush and Cheney look like incredibly astute world players. Syria will make full peace with Israel when Israel stops occupying its land. It does not get more simple than that.

It's the economy, stupid! That's why they need an external enemy NOW! Does it not sound familiar? The Turkish economy has been affected by the global financial crisis with its Finance Ministry reporting that Turkey's budget deficit swelled to US$ 95 billion in the first half of 2009, 13 times higher than a year earlier. Gross Domestic Product shrank by a record 13.8% in the first quarter between January 1 and March 31, 200; which The Economist described as "putting Turkey among the economies worst hit by the global recession. Between October 2008 and July 2009, an estimated 1.400,000 Turkish workers lost their jobs. The International Monetary Fund expects the Turkish economy to contract by 9.8% in 2009, compared to the Turkish government estimate of 3.6%.

Israel must not reject Turkey as a mediator. Turkey is a Democratic Republic, built by Mustafa Kemal on the "twenties", through modern rules, like laicism. You have to understand the danger to be without any friend in the Middle Orient. Never give up to make peace. God bless your leaders. Luiz Felipe Haddad, Brazil.

natanyahoo digging a pit for you and him you will never climb out of

Israel doesn't really want peace.. Are they ready with giving up golan heights for peace..?

Better late than never.

In the Israel Palestinian dispute. Maybee it's true what they say. What goes around comes around

Netanyahu is merely stating the obvious - how on earth can any country be an honest broker knowing that Israel's actions are inconsistent with the inclination and willingness to reach peace agreements with its neighbours. Even the role of the U.S as mediator between Israel and Palestinians have beeen compromised because of Israel's disdainful and contemptuous dismissal of any attemps at getting the peace initiative on track by the obama administration. Ordinary Americans have become increasingly aware of israel's deception as the smear campaign orchestrated by the Israeli government against Barak Obama has backfired leaving the American populace to start doubting the wisdom and strategic benefit of its unquestionable alliance with Israel. Israel will no longer be allowed to ' hunt with the hounds and run with the hares'.

ANYTHING opposed to the Turkish massacre of Kuds is illegal. Many news media have been shut by the government for opposing the Turk attacks!Web sites promoting "unofficial" political parties are banned;Turkey banned YouTube for allowing unflattering videos; Speaking Kurd in public is a mandatory jail sentence; Turk Article 301 makes it a mandatory jail sentence to "insult Turkishness."

Please excuse my psychotic use of multiple exclamation points. But nothing less than the psychotic can represent the position of Netanyahu. He believes that peace is evil, and war the most perfect state of humanity. He believes that peace with Jordan and Egypt was an evil. And that war with everyone is what God wants for Israel. He is insane.

to make a three part series about the Turkish Genocide of the Armenians, with a follow-up on the Turkish genocide of the Kurds, then an epic on the expulsion of Jews from 22 Arab countries, with a follow-up on Hamas incitement against jews and butality to its own people.

Dont blame the world for that!

Come on Bibi, the shoe is on the other foot now. Surely, you can deal with that. The Pals did for the past many number years.