First — I know this is a crazy, radical idea — when America asks Israel to do something that in no way touches on its vital security but would actually enhance it, there is only one right answer: “Yes.” It is a measure of how spoiled Israel has become that after billions and billions of dollars in U.S. aid and 300,000 settlers already ensconced in the West Bank, Israel feels no compunction about spurning an American request for a longer settlement freeze — the only purpose of which is to help the United States help Israel reach a secure peace with the Palestinians. Just one time you would like Israel to say, “You know, Mr. President, we’re dubious that a continued settlement freeze will have an impact. But you think it will, so, let’s test it. This one’s for you.”
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Settlement Freeze and the Olive Tree
Somehow I find myself posting Thomas Friedman again. However it feels good to know that I'm not the only one getting fed up with Israel. My favorite part of the article:
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I agree with Friedman that it would be nice if countries like Israel obeyed what we told them, but it's a matter of sovereignty. Suppose Israel was telling our government how to conduct domestic policy. I don't think congress would change its policy, yielding to the incontrovertible argument of a foreign power. This is a matter of perspective and it is hubris for the US to think that it always knows best for Israel and Palestine.
ReplyDeleteI completely understand your argument, Jon. Of course it's about sovereignty; it is prideful of the US to assume that it knows best for everyone and expect everyone to do as it says. However foreign policy has never existed in a vacuum. While it is far from the US's responsibility to tell Israel how to conduct every aspect of its politics, it is naive for Netanyahu to assume that he can continue to enjoy monetary and political support from the US without having to listen to our advice once in the while.
ReplyDeleteThe sad part is that, with the vice that the Israel lobby hold on Congress, it seems like the US will not be able to ever decide when enough is enough.