The idea to hand over the land to the UN was reportedly raised during meetings Sarkozy held with the newly-elected Suleiman during a visit to Beirut early last month. The thinking behind the initiative is that by relinquishing the land Israel will erase Hizbullah's excuse to use force, namely, returning the Shaba Farms to Lebanon.Sure, after the obvious success of bolstering Abbas, this is the next most obvious step.
In addition, it is thought that this could bolster US-backed Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Saniora. [emphasis added]
I wonder if Condoleezza ever sells Olmert on this or that concession on the basis of how it will bolster President Bush in the waning months of his presidency.
Has the US ever requested that the Arab world return the favor and do something--anything--to bolster Olmert? Actually, yes. Back on January 12, 2006:
Olmert is also expected to become Israel's Prime Minister in the coming days, when Attorney General Menachem Mazuz declares that Sharon has become permanently incapacitated.For all the good it did anyone. Don't expect Rice to seriously call on the Arab world to do anything that might improve Sionara's image.
In addition, the U.S. has informed the PA and Arab countries that Olmert's stature must be strengthened as the elections approach in order that he "continue the process that Sharon started." So reports the PA's Arabic-language Al-Manar newspaper. [emphasis added]
No, when it comes to supporting weak leaders, Israel is the one you go to.
Crossposted on Soccer Dad
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