Living in TerrorMr. Thompson is an optimist. He takes Israel's government more seriously than we--or her enemies--do.
Let me ask you a hypothetical question. What do you think America would do if Canadian soldiers were firing dozens of missiles every day into Buffalo, N.Y.? What do you think our response would be if Mexican troops for two years had launched daily rocket attacks on San Diego -- and bragged about it?
I can tell you, our response would look nothing like Israel's restrained and pinpoint reactions to daily missile attacks from Gaza. We would use whatever means necessary to win the war. There would likely be numerous casualties on our enemy's side, but we would rightfully hold those who attacked us responsible.
More than 1,300 rockets have been fired into Israel from Gaza since Palestinians were given control two years ago. Israelis, however, have gone to incredible lengths to stop the war against them without harming Palestinian non-combatants. But make no mistake, Israel is at war. The elected Hamas government regularly repeats its official promise to destroy Israel entirely and replace it with an Islamic state. Hamas openly took credit for killing one woman and wounding dozens more last week alone.
The Palestinian strategy is to purposely target and kill Israeli civilians. Then, when Israel goes after those launching the attacks, Palestinians claim to be the victims. If Palestinian civilians aren't hurt in the Israeli attacks, they stage injuries and deaths. Too often, they garner sympathy and support from a gullible or anti-Semitic media in the international community.
Israelis, themselves, are often incapable of facing the damage they inflict in self-defense. Knowing this, Islamic extremists are using their own populations as human shields.
I'm beginning to wonder how much longer this vicious plot will work though. International sympathy for Palestinians has diminished as the same Islamofascist extremists have brought havoc to Madrid, Bali, Somalia, London and elsewhere. More importantly, Israelis themselves are suffering so badly, they may be on the verge of losing their sympathy for the people who have sworn to kill them.
Imagine what it would be like to live, knowing that a rocket could fall on you or your children at any minute. Half of those who live nearest to Gaza have fled their homes. Those remaining are traumatized by daily warning sirens and explosions.
The irony is that Israel has the military might to easily win the war that is being waged against them today. They haven't used that might, in the past, out of compassion for Palestinian civilians and because it could trigger a wider regional conflict.
That balance of power is about to change, though. If Iran develops nuclear weapons, the very existence of this tiny nation of Israel will be threatened. The Iranian regime has left little doubt that it intends to see Israel "wiped off the map.” Hamas is using the same language, not coincidentally, and has announced it will begin launching missiles into Israel from the West Bank too.
If the world doesn't act to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions, it must be prepared for the consequences of Israel defending itself.
Technorati Tag: Israel and Sderot.
9 comments:
HUH?! Duh...um "pandering pandering!"
http://clinton.senate.gov/news/statements/details.cfm?id=275186
Following your link, here is what Clinton says:
Statement of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton Condemning Recent Attacks on Israeli Civilians
"I am saddened and outraged by the repeated rocket attacks against the Israeli cities of Sderot and Ashkelon, attacks that were perpetrated even as the Shavuot holiday came to a close. Yet another round of attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups against civilians demonstrates an escalation of violence against Israel. The rockets have hit homes, synagogues, and schools, injured many and killed nine innocents. Israel's right to exist, and to defend its people against imminent threat, must never be put in question. Israel has demonstrated restraint in the face of ongoing of attacks on southern Israel orchestrated from Gaza. The United States and the international community must stand in support of Israel and send the message to Hamas and to any terrorists who threaten innocent lives on sovereign soil and operate in violation of international law that this behavior will not be countenanced.
Israel is confronting many of the toughest challenges in its history, in a neighborhood that is less secure than ever. It is vital is that we continue to stand on behalf of the shared interests in security and democracy that form the unbreakable bond between our two nations. I stand with the people of Israel who live in fear as their homes are besieged and maintain my unwavering commitment to the welfare and survival of the State of Israel."
So according to Clinton:
1. She is saddened and outraged
2. Israel's right to exist should not be questioned
3. The international community must support Israel
4. Clinton stands with Israel
According to Thompson:
If the world doesn't act to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions, it must be prepared for the consequences of Israel defending itself.
In other words, for all her talk, where does Clinton actually say in all that verbiage that Israel has the right to fight back on her own without the OK of the West?
Clinton comes out in favor of diplomatic negotiations:
This president’s attitude is “I don’t talk to bad people.” I don’t think that is a smart way to manage the threats we face."
That was in connection with Iran and Syria. If she believes Israel is different and has the right to defend herself as Israel sees fit, let Clinton come right out and say so.
Thompson has.
Statement of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton Condemning the Attacks on Israel 7/13/2006
"The unprovoked attacks on innocent Israelis and the killing and abduction of Israeli soldiers by the terrorist groups Hamas and Hezbollah are dramatic escalations of violence against Israel. The United States must stand by Israel as she defends herself. No government can stand idly by when its citizens and soldiers are attacked and abducted and when terrorist groups make incursions into its territory. These events demonstrate that Hamas’s ascent to power in the Palestinian Authority, and Hezbollah’s participation in the Lebanese government, are dangerous for the stability, not only of Israel, but of the entire region. Hamas and Hezbollah must return the Israeli soldiers they abducted and cease their attacks against Israel.
Israel’s right to exist, and exist in safety, must never be put in question We must also continue to send a very clear message to Syria, Iran and others to join in condemning these attacks and to exercise their influence over Hamas and Hezbollah."
You are right--she said "The United States must stand by Israel as she defends herself."
But, as you point out, that was on July 13 last year--as Senator Hillary Clinton.
She formally declared as a presidential candidate on January of this year--5 months later.
I don't think it is picky of me to want the later statement as a presidential candidate to be as clear on Israel's right to defend herself as an earlier statement as Senator of New York.
Surely all Americans--including Jews and Muslims--want to know where she stands on such an important and consequential issue.
UH, and what exactly did Mr. Tompson have to say about this prior to yesterday???
This was the US senator speaking during the height of a bitter conflict. (when it counted).
Here is what "Candidate" Clinton said last week:
http://blogcentral.jpost.com/index.php?cat_id=4&blog_id=73&blog_post_id=1145#anchor2
JPost.com » BlogCentral » In the News » The Road to the White House » Israel-US ties
May 24 2007; 09:05AM
The Road to the White House: Israel-US ties
Posted by | Comments: 89
In the run-up to the 2008 US presidential elections, The Jerusalem Post Internet Edition JPost.com has invited central presidential contenders to respond to questions on matters of importance to Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world.
We will be sending out questions to the candidates every two weeks or so. We started out with a relatively general inquiry about the importance they attach to the US's strategic alliance with Israel and how, if elected, they would work to foster that alliance (see below). The questions will get more specific as the campaign heats up.
The first question was sent to John McCain, Hillary Clinton, Rudy Giuliani, Barack Obama, John Edwards, Mitt Romney, Joe Biden, Bill Richardson and Sam Brownback.
The contenders are being invited to participate, and given as much space as they wish to respond. We believe this platform offers a tremendous opportunity for the would-be presidents to detail their positions on key issues for our millions of readers, potential voters and supporters. And we are delighted that, from the outset, so many of the candidates have found the time to participate, with carefully drafted, nuanced answers that offer real insight into their thinking.
David Horovitz, Editor-In-Chief
Question #1
What's the importance of Israel as a strategic ally and how would your administration manage ties between the two countries?
Contributors: (read it all or click on name to read post)
# Senator John McCain of Arizona (R)
# Senator Hillary Clinton of New York (D)
# Senator Barack Obama of Illinois (D)
# Former Governor Mitt Romney of Massachusetts (R)
# Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico (D)
# Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas (R)
The question was sent to John McCain, Hillary Clinton, Rudy Giuliani, Barack Obama, John Edwards, Mitt Romney, Joe Biden, Bill Richardson and Sam Brownback.
John McCain: Late last year, I had the opportunity to visit with the families of two Israeli soldiers - Eldad Regev and Ehud Goldwasser - who were captured last summer by Hizbullah during a cross-border raid.
My visit with the loved ones of these brave and noble young men reminded me of the great sacrifices the Israeli people have made to defend their sacred soil and win their rightful status as a beacon of freedom and faith. To this day, Eldad and Ehud continue to be held captive.
Indeed, Israel has never had the opportunity to take a holiday from history, for it has been tested more, in less time, than any nation on Earth. The tests continue today in the form of suicide bombers and rocket fire and in the existential threats issued routinely by the Iranian president.
Long considered a dear friend to America, today Israel is our natural ally in what is a titanic struggle against Islamic extremists - an enemy whose sinister nature I need not explain to the people of Israel.
If elected President of the United States, I will strengthen America's bedrock commitment to the security of the State of Israel.
First and foremost, we must continue to provide Israel with whatever military equipment and technology required to retain Israel's qualitative military advantage and to defend itself.
Just as important is the strengthening of our diplomatic ties. As President, I will invite Israel to play a leading role in the League of Democracies that I have proposed - an organization of like-minded nations working together in the cause of peace.
I would work to further isolate the enemies of Israel such as Syria, Hamas and Hizbullah and I would never pressure Israel to make concessions to states or movements committed to its destruction.
Finally, Teheran's pursuit of nuclear weapons plainly poses an unacceptable risk to the international community, and Israel above all others.
Recently, it was reported that the Iranian regime has begun enriching uranium at an accelerated pace, which means we are that much closer to seeing Israel's security being placed in grave jeopardy.
As President, I will pursue every option at my disposal to neutralize that threat. We cannot and must not allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons. I will make sure the American people understand that if we are to defeat the extremists that threaten our way of life, Israel's security cannot be compromised.
Hillary Clinton: Israel is an important ally and strategic partner of the United States. Our nations are united by shared values, a commitment to democracy, and a belief in the dignity of men and women. We are also united by a common strategic interest in fighting back against the forces of terrorism and nihilism.
Israel and the United States have worked together for years on national security objectives, including developing innovative defense technologies. Today, as the United States deals with issues of homeland security, we are also learning from Israel's experience in preventing attacks and preparing emergency responses.
I believe the relationship between our countries should be that between allies, based on mutual respect, appreciating our shared values and a shared commitment to national security policies that reduce the danger of terrorist attacks on free and democratic nations anywhere in the world.
Recognizing the very real challenges we face, I believe we must think rationally and strategically - and jointly - about how our values and our beliefs can be translated into effective action.
It is not enough for us to say the right things; we've got to be smart and tough enough to do the right things that will protect American and Israeli interests now and forever. It is with these principles in mind that my Administration would work to sustain, nourish, and enhance the vital partnership between America and Israel.
sorry, i did not intend to copy and paste half the article, just the clinton part.
Here is the Clinton quote:
Hillary Clinton: Israel is an important ally and strategic partner of the United States. Our nations are united by shared values, a commitment to democracy, and a belief in the dignity of men and women. We are also united by a common strategic interest in fighting back against the forces of terrorism and nihilism.
Israel and the United States have worked together for years on national security objectives, including developing innovative defense technologies. Today, as the United States deals with issues of homeland security, we are also learning from Israel's experience in preventing attacks and preparing emergency responses.
I believe the relationship between our countries should be that between allies, based on mutual respect, appreciating our shared values and a shared commitment to national security policies that reduce the danger of terrorist attacks on free and democratic nations anywhere in the world.
Recognizing the very real challenges we face, I believe we must think rationally and strategically - and jointly - about how our values and our beliefs can be translated into effective action.
It is not enough for us to say the right things; we've got to be smart and tough enough to do the right things that will protect American and Israeli interests now and forever. It is with these principles in mind that my Administration would work to sustain, nourish, and enhance the vital partnership between America and Israel.
I did not start out comparing her with Thompson--I reacted to your post that implied that Clinton's statement is comparable.
My only point is that in that regard is that Thompson's statement is stronger on Israel's right to defend itself. The fact that he said this only this week is not the point--especially since he has not formally declared. If he were to declare and then cut back on his support of Israel's right to defend herself, he would be guilty of the same thing.
I disagree with you that last July was "during the height of a bitter conflict" The bombings are now growing more and more frequent and deadly.
It is always in the present--and not 5 months ago--that a politicians statements are at their most relevant and analyzed.
Along those lines, look at how she phrases the issue--as defensive measures:
"We are also united by a common strategic interest in fighting back against the forces of terrorism and nihilism.
Israel and the United States have worked together for years on national security objectives, including developing innovative defense technologies. Today, as the United States deals with issues of homeland security, we are also learning from Israel's experience in preventing attacks and preparing emergency responses."
She may very well mean that if attacked, Israel has the right to attack in return--but I would like for her to actually say that.
When Thompson says "If the world doesn't act to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions, it must be prepared for the consequences of Israel defending itself."--it is clear he is talking about a lot more than an alarm system.
When Clinton writes about "innovative defense technologies" and Homeland Security--it simply is not that clear.
it meant alot last summer when israel was at war on two fronts and the gop in congress was too busy with gay marriage and flag burning to say anything about israel's right to defend itself from the terrorists.
The GOP was burning flags?
Seriously though, are you seriously saying that the Republicans were not saying anything last summer during the war?
Are you changing the subject now, that the Democrats are better friends of Israel--whatever that is supposed to mean?
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