You would be surprised, but Israelis are the ones who can't wait for Palestinian sovereignty to happen. Sovereignty means the responsibility to maintain peace with the neighbor, but if Palestinian children are taught in school that their only purpose in life is to give their lives to jihad by killing the Jews, Israel will never agree to it. October 7, 2023 demonstrated the reality as it is at the moment.
Palestinian sovereignty was on the table in front of Yasser Arafat in 2001. Bill Clinton is quite outspoken in describing the agreement: 96% of West Bank, 4% of Israeli land in a swap, capital in East Jerusalem. Arafat chose to walk away and start another intifada.
Going to push back on this one. If Israelis can't wait for Palestinian sovereignty why have they expanded settlements in the West Bank, taking prime land in the process? This has left Palestinians with mostly urban area and what would be very fractured territory. No doubt some Palestinians are taught hate - or better put live in conditions that drive hate, but it's inaccurate to say this applies to the majority of Palestinians. The Oslo agreement did hold some promise, but in the end was a means for Israel to gain more control. Look up areas A, B and C and look at what was left for Palestinian sovereignty. Not much. I wouldn't have been happy with that.
You should watch the interviews with regular Palestinians and their answers as to whether they support complete elimination of Israel. As well as read the history of Palestinian violence that goes beyond Israel. There is a reason countries that claim to support Palestine are nevertheless reluctant to admit refugees or help with humanitarian aid. I have written on the subject some time ago, citing specific sources - feel free to peruse: https://substack.com/home/post/p-150356418
Note that Arafat did not demand more through negotiations, he walked away because peace was never his goal. His goal was "from the river to the sea", which is now a popular chant on college campuses. After negotiations with Arafat broke down, Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza. You know what happened after - 20 years of attacks, culminating on October 7. Western people can't understand the mentality of religious fanatics raised on violence. It is very similar to how government propaganda is grooming people in Russia, but many notches above. I grew up in the USSR, groomed by the CPSS to be a soldier for the cause and so I can comprehend the concept because I have lived in the propaganda bubble. But for whatever reason, Americans understand that Russia was able to groom fanatics who hate Ukraine and are willing to genocide them, but they don't understand that there is the same problem with the Palestinians. Is it because Ukrainians are not able to make it all the way to Kremlin and kill Putin like Israelis killed Sinwar and they are still viewed as victims, but because Israel managed to prevail for 75 years militarily after being attacked time and again, the world views them as an aggressor?
This is not the time for the U.S. to isolate. We need smart diplomacy to help finesse the Middle East. Building support where needed and adding alliances.
Quite frankly, in my opinion, that’s not too likely to happen with this incoming administration of corporate raiders and pillagers. I’d like to be surprised but trmp and BiBi have other plans from the sounds of it in the not too distant past. I wonder what their topic of conversation was at MaL a few months ago.
Let's hope the theocracies of hate of other is ending and the politics of Governing for the people returns normalcy to the ME.
The horrors found of what hate does with evil as seen in opening up the Syrian prison must end.
May this season of hope bring new opportunities and freedoms. Your article highlights that quiet power of continued diligence and unwavering belief in the freedoms of democracy are truly the hallmarks of the good fight over bluster, imposed fear, and threats to beat people down.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
I've seen no indication Netanyahu will treat the Palestinians fairly. He's like Trump. The war is the only thing keeping him in power as there were protests against him before the attack. Maybe when this ends, the Israelies will elect someone who can deal with the underlying problem.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
"In hindsight, it’s clear that Israel’s response to October 7 is reshaping the Middle East. The IDF engaged all four of Israel’s major enemies—Hamas, Hezbollah, Syria, and Iran—seizing the crisis as an opportunity. While there is much understandable debate about the IDF’s tactics, the results speak for themselves." 💔💀
Israel may have won this round, but at the cost of its humanity, and its soul. The world will never forget the faces of the women and children of Gaza.
But they and you WILL forget the faces of the Israeli and other survivors who watched in horror as babies, their parents and children were slaughtered in Hamas' vicious attack, who saw young, innocent girls at the Nova Music Festival tortured, gang raped and murdered, who saw young and old held hostage, starved and murdered through NO fault of their own? The entire Israeli nation suffered and continues to suffer trauma, as do U.S. Jews like me and around the world who are experiencing unprecedented anti-Semitic acts and words. Let's be equal here, please, there are innocents on BOTH sides who need to be mourned---equally, not one-sided!
I appreciate your statements and the rise of antisemitism here is all the more disgusting. But what Bibi & Company have done in response to the October 7th, 2023 attack is HORRENDOUS. This is absolutely a genocide...by a people who suffered through the most horrendous one.
This is an attempt at annihilating Palestinians. Here in the U.S. we believe the lies we are fed. We don't see what is truly going on over there. Because the truth is we don't really care.
And of course we are supporting it no holds barred. But is that really surprising? Not when you see what we did in response to 9/11. And we were in that mess for twenty years--and for what? For things to go right back to how they were before we ever showed up.
I am utterly disgusted by what the IDF has done to the innocents of Palestine. There is no excuse. I don't see how the Palestinians will ever forget this. Or forgive it. Who could?
I am also disgusted and ashamed of US complicity. Absolutely - take a hard line against terrorists. And sure, some Palestinians have done very bad things. But so has Israel. Lets start with the Nakba. How about settlements which the US has allowed, eating away at land for a Palestinian state. Or military detention of children taken from homes in the middle of the night. What would you do if you were systematically displaced from your land, and saw no future for your children. I can see the backlash to this post - people just don't want to see the Palestinian side. Adam is turning a blind eye. Israel does not want to live side by side with Palestinians - the goal is complete control. Wake up folks we are seeing ethnic cleansing and genocide in front of our eyes.. Stand up for human rights - for all. I am not anti Israel - but if we are true friends we should be telling it to stop killing innocent lives and stop displacing people from their homeland.
It really is painful to contemplate the whole picture. I am definitely being naive but it would be wise and the best of humanity if Israel (and yes, the US as well) would lend a hand in building back Gaza while still allowing for a 2 state situation if that seems optimal. It is the ONLY way.
This was a plan that many armies, and some nations planned against Israel; Hamas may have started it but thought others would have to follow suit. Look at all the tunnels they are finding in the north and now the overflow of terrorist coming from Jordan. The Iranian head stretched far with all of its proxies, but is for the moment, weakened, as Adam stated. The best diplomacy that could happen is for these folks is to have better choices of leaders to choose from. And until they can live in some sort of stable civility with some freedoms, they won’t be able to, because most don’t even know any better. That whole situation is going to take time before anything can be finalized. Time for everyone to let the dust settle and process it to some degree.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
My point, to all of you have replied, as well as to Paula Dean, is what I stated in this post: "Let's be equal here, there are innocents on BOTH sides who need to be mourned." Did I defend Bibi? No. And I never would, nor would many in our Jewish community. Israelis themselves have protested against him, even pre-Oct. 7. Did Palestinians cheer when they found out about Oct. 7? Yes, many did. As the old Talmudic saying goes: "This is true...and also that is true." Compassion and mourning for innocents....this can be felt, whatever our political views.
Unfortunately their own leaders put them in this situation and worst of all teach them hate from childhood until they think terror is to be glorified. It’s sad all the way around.
Adam, the turmoil and war in the Middle East is devastating for all involved. Since previous players Iran, Syria and Russia are knocked back on their heels, it would be prudent and wise for other more stable countries in that region to step up and take a more levelheaded approach to finding peace and brokering a solution all can live with. I would hope Jordan, UAE and perhaps Egypt could bring sides to the table to give Israel peace and safety and the Palestinians a permanent homeland. The people in this region deserve no less, just as Ukraine deserves to be left alone, in peace, to govern themselves as the democracy they have had for however many years. Russia needs to leave and go home to lick their wounds along side Bashar Al-Assad
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
The question is, will the United States government see this opportunity? Will Trump mess this opportunity up? I hate to say it, but I think he will. He’s kind of dumb when it comes to seeing the big picture just like I’m sure he will mess Ukraine up!
I'm afraid he will try a "Neville Chamberlain" and try to appease Putin with a portion of the Ukraine. Putin WILL NOT STOP until he has it ALL. Just like Hitler did when he got the Sudetenland. Churchill nailed it. Within months, Hitler was bombing Poland and invading Norway and Denmark. The rest is history .... and he who does not learn from history is doomed to repeat it!
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
The rule of law is key to the future of Syria. When the soviet union collapsed America tried to make Russia a capitalist country, but capitalism without the rule of law is what is refereed to as organized crime. Russia today is a large organized crime territory. Democracies produce the best most stable legal structures, if they balance majority rule with minority rights. If Syria's first ruler is not a power hungry tyrant, they stand a chance. America got lucky that George Washington had no desire to become a king (there were supporters who would have backed his coronation) The standard set by George Washington was respected for the next 43 presidents (2 to 44) number 45 did not. Now America will learn if a tyrant can end a democracy.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Yes, Adam needs to wake up on this one. I don't get it. So principled but has a blind eye to what Israel has done to Palestinians - and plans going forward.
My grandpa used to say there’s nothing more dangerous than a wounded bear, meaning do not think that there is no big fight left. I am glad Syria fell the majority is Sunni and so far the new leader is saying and doing the right things, let’s hope this continues. Let’s hope that the doors that are open to good diplomacy are not squandered
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Now is the time for the US, like Israel, to step on the necks of its (unstable) adversaries both economically and applying firm pressure (in concert with allies) to compel them to rejoin a prosperous international community. Regime change not necessary, just behavioral change.
--> Trump will squander this golden opportunity and offer a lifeline to Putin.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
I am under the impression that those ships are denied passage to the Black Sea by Turkiye. Perhaps to Kaliningrad or St Petersburg? I'm any event the Russian naval base is a cancer in the Mediterranean.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
As a former commissioner and head of the largest international journalist group in the USA, I wonder how you neglected to mention the genocide that the Israelis have perpetrated upon the Palestinians. This looks like more US propaganda; I’m quite disappointed.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Let's finally give credit to not just President Joseph R. Biden, but his cabinet, plus a testament to competency over bluster and personality. These four years have not been without labor for love of country, hard work, and belief in America's freedoms - "With Liberty and Justice for ALL". 320 Million strong.
Let's finally recognize America IS already Great because of dedicated public servants, the power of belief in humanity, democracy and a Constitution that protects and believes in the promise of hope to ALL her citizens.
Never needed to be great "again" because our country has remained great throughout history. Sure, we've had some bumps but there is no better or stronger country....for now. Let's hope the next four years are only a bump and not a game changer.
Maj General Smedley Butler is one of my heroes. He was the man of the hour to take on the evils of money, greed, and power when they went after FDR. (See "Plot to Seize the Whitehouse"; Jules Archer, 2007)
Note: It is still happening and the power-hungry fangs have been barred. Watch the facial expressions of DJT now with his grimaces of hate.
I was not aware of this group and fully support the mission.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
I hope our institutions are not destroyed by then. He's already planning to pardon all the insurrectionists. The GOP just said they will not push back and may get an invite to Congress as guests!
Yes. trump and his sycophants and cohorts will remain totally delusional, but public support for them will be declining. The only people I have any hope for are many of the people who voted for him, believing his BS, only to realize (by finding out the hard way), that it was, in fact BS! As disillusioned trump supporters realize this, their support for him will decline.
By that time it may be too late. He is already setting up a government with heads of institutions who's goal is to destroy that institution and a DOJ that ignores the 50 year norm of being nonpartisan, ignoring the 10 year tenure for FBI director and bringing us back to Hoover days.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
As a military guy can you provide any explanation why unknown flying drones are flying over NJ for weeks and the FBI and Defense dept have no clue where they are coming from. How can we feel safe under these circumstances. Will action only happen when they start dropping grenades on the population.
Frankly, I don't have much confidence in our government's ability to protect us.
From TikTok to endless China and Russia hacks to untraceable drones to a grotesquely vulnerable power grid (and other systems), they are too busy fighting each other and focusing on who the next damn billionaire is. It's called divide and conquer for a reason--it works.
Hoping for Palestines sovereignty … through all this! And praying still for Ukraine…too long fighting to maintain their sovereignty.
Amen
Here! Here!
You would be surprised, but Israelis are the ones who can't wait for Palestinian sovereignty to happen. Sovereignty means the responsibility to maintain peace with the neighbor, but if Palestinian children are taught in school that their only purpose in life is to give their lives to jihad by killing the Jews, Israel will never agree to it. October 7, 2023 demonstrated the reality as it is at the moment.
Palestinian sovereignty was on the table in front of Yasser Arafat in 2001. Bill Clinton is quite outspoken in describing the agreement: 96% of West Bank, 4% of Israeli land in a swap, capital in East Jerusalem. Arafat chose to walk away and start another intifada.
Going to push back on this one. If Israelis can't wait for Palestinian sovereignty why have they expanded settlements in the West Bank, taking prime land in the process? This has left Palestinians with mostly urban area and what would be very fractured territory. No doubt some Palestinians are taught hate - or better put live in conditions that drive hate, but it's inaccurate to say this applies to the majority of Palestinians. The Oslo agreement did hold some promise, but in the end was a means for Israel to gain more control. Look up areas A, B and C and look at what was left for Palestinian sovereignty. Not much. I wouldn't have been happy with that.
You should watch the interviews with regular Palestinians and their answers as to whether they support complete elimination of Israel. As well as read the history of Palestinian violence that goes beyond Israel. There is a reason countries that claim to support Palestine are nevertheless reluctant to admit refugees or help with humanitarian aid. I have written on the subject some time ago, citing specific sources - feel free to peruse: https://substack.com/home/post/p-150356418
Note that Arafat did not demand more through negotiations, he walked away because peace was never his goal. His goal was "from the river to the sea", which is now a popular chant on college campuses. After negotiations with Arafat broke down, Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza. You know what happened after - 20 years of attacks, culminating on October 7. Western people can't understand the mentality of religious fanatics raised on violence. It is very similar to how government propaganda is grooming people in Russia, but many notches above. I grew up in the USSR, groomed by the CPSS to be a soldier for the cause and so I can comprehend the concept because I have lived in the propaganda bubble. But for whatever reason, Americans understand that Russia was able to groom fanatics who hate Ukraine and are willing to genocide them, but they don't understand that there is the same problem with the Palestinians. Is it because Ukrainians are not able to make it all the way to Kremlin and kill Putin like Israelis killed Sinwar and they are still viewed as victims, but because Israel managed to prevail for 75 years militarily after being attacked time and again, the world views them as an aggressor?
This is not the time for the U.S. to isolate. We need smart diplomacy to help finesse the Middle East. Building support where needed and adding alliances.
Yes, this is not time for amateur hour at the White House, but that's what we have come Jan 20.
Exactly.
Quite frankly, in my opinion, that’s not too likely to happen with this incoming administration of corporate raiders and pillagers. I’d like to be surprised but trmp and BiBi have other plans from the sounds of it in the not too distant past. I wonder what their topic of conversation was at MaL a few months ago.
I have been describing the incoming admin as grifters and kelptocrats but I like your description as "corporate raiders and pillagers.
I think you’re on to something
I agree completely.
Let's hope the theocracies of hate of other is ending and the politics of Governing for the people returns normalcy to the ME.
The horrors found of what hate does with evil as seen in opening up the Syrian prison must end.
May this season of hope bring new opportunities and freedoms. Your article highlights that quiet power of continued diligence and unwavering belief in the freedoms of democracy are truly the hallmarks of the good fight over bluster, imposed fear, and threats to beat people down.
From S/F,
USMC Vet
Bill, beautifully put and thank you for your service!🇺🇸
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Thanks you for your service!
I've seen no indication Netanyahu will treat the Palestinians fairly. He's like Trump. The war is the only thing keeping him in power as there were protests against him before the attack. Maybe when this ends, the Israelies will elect someone who can deal with the underlying problem.
Which is why, with both he and trump in power, a huge opportunity will be missed.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Adam, appreciate this information! Happy to hear how a bully regime is weakened! Gives us some hope toward world peace! Thanks!
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
"In hindsight, it’s clear that Israel’s response to October 7 is reshaping the Middle East. The IDF engaged all four of Israel’s major enemies—Hamas, Hezbollah, Syria, and Iran—seizing the crisis as an opportunity. While there is much understandable debate about the IDF’s tactics, the results speak for themselves." 💔💀
Israel may have won this round, but at the cost of its humanity, and its soul. The world will never forget the faces of the women and children of Gaza.
But they and you WILL forget the faces of the Israeli and other survivors who watched in horror as babies, their parents and children were slaughtered in Hamas' vicious attack, who saw young, innocent girls at the Nova Music Festival tortured, gang raped and murdered, who saw young and old held hostage, starved and murdered through NO fault of their own? The entire Israeli nation suffered and continues to suffer trauma, as do U.S. Jews like me and around the world who are experiencing unprecedented anti-Semitic acts and words. Let's be equal here, please, there are innocents on BOTH sides who need to be mourned---equally, not one-sided!
I appreciate your statements and the rise of antisemitism here is all the more disgusting. But what Bibi & Company have done in response to the October 7th, 2023 attack is HORRENDOUS. This is absolutely a genocide...by a people who suffered through the most horrendous one.
This is an attempt at annihilating Palestinians. Here in the U.S. we believe the lies we are fed. We don't see what is truly going on over there. Because the truth is we don't really care.
And of course we are supporting it no holds barred. But is that really surprising? Not when you see what we did in response to 9/11. And we were in that mess for twenty years--and for what? For things to go right back to how they were before we ever showed up.
I am utterly disgusted by what the IDF has done to the innocents of Palestine. There is no excuse. I don't see how the Palestinians will ever forget this. Or forgive it. Who could?
I am also disgusted and ashamed of US complicity. Absolutely - take a hard line against terrorists. And sure, some Palestinians have done very bad things. But so has Israel. Lets start with the Nakba. How about settlements which the US has allowed, eating away at land for a Palestinian state. Or military detention of children taken from homes in the middle of the night. What would you do if you were systematically displaced from your land, and saw no future for your children. I can see the backlash to this post - people just don't want to see the Palestinian side. Adam is turning a blind eye. Israel does not want to live side by side with Palestinians - the goal is complete control. Wake up folks we are seeing ethnic cleansing and genocide in front of our eyes.. Stand up for human rights - for all. I am not anti Israel - but if we are true friends we should be telling it to stop killing innocent lives and stop displacing people from their homeland.
Thank you, Fred.
It really is painful to contemplate the whole picture. I am definitely being naive but it would be wise and the best of humanity if Israel (and yes, the US as well) would lend a hand in building back Gaza while still allowing for a 2 state situation if that seems optimal. It is the ONLY way.
Agreed!
This was a plan that many armies, and some nations planned against Israel; Hamas may have started it but thought others would have to follow suit. Look at all the tunnels they are finding in the north and now the overflow of terrorist coming from Jordan. The Iranian head stretched far with all of its proxies, but is for the moment, weakened, as Adam stated. The best diplomacy that could happen is for these folks is to have better choices of leaders to choose from. And until they can live in some sort of stable civility with some freedoms, they won’t be able to, because most don’t even know any better. That whole situation is going to take time before anything can be finalized. Time for everyone to let the dust settle and process it to some degree.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
My point, to all of you have replied, as well as to Paula Dean, is what I stated in this post: "Let's be equal here, there are innocents on BOTH sides who need to be mourned." Did I defend Bibi? No. And I never would, nor would many in our Jewish community. Israelis themselves have protested against him, even pre-Oct. 7. Did Palestinians cheer when they found out about Oct. 7? Yes, many did. As the old Talmudic saying goes: "This is true...and also that is true." Compassion and mourning for innocents....this can be felt, whatever our political views.
Unfortunately their own leaders put them in this situation and worst of all teach them hate from childhood until they think terror is to be glorified. It’s sad all the way around.
Adam, the turmoil and war in the Middle East is devastating for all involved. Since previous players Iran, Syria and Russia are knocked back on their heels, it would be prudent and wise for other more stable countries in that region to step up and take a more levelheaded approach to finding peace and brokering a solution all can live with. I would hope Jordan, UAE and perhaps Egypt could bring sides to the table to give Israel peace and safety and the Palestinians a permanent homeland. The people in this region deserve no less, just as Ukraine deserves to be left alone, in peace, to govern themselves as the democracy they have had for however many years. Russia needs to leave and go home to lick their wounds along side Bashar Al-Assad
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Could you translate this to English for me please?
Thanks for this insight Joan!
The question is, will the United States government see this opportunity? Will Trump mess this opportunity up? I hate to say it, but I think he will. He’s kind of dumb when it comes to seeing the big picture just like I’m sure he will mess Ukraine up!
I'm afraid he will try a "Neville Chamberlain" and try to appease Putin with a portion of the Ukraine. Putin WILL NOT STOP until he has it ALL. Just like Hitler did when he got the Sudetenland. Churchill nailed it. Within months, Hitler was bombing Poland and invading Norway and Denmark. The rest is history .... and he who does not learn from history is doomed to repeat it!
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Excellent overview.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected disallowed entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
The rule of law is key to the future of Syria. When the soviet union collapsed America tried to make Russia a capitalist country, but capitalism without the rule of law is what is refereed to as organized crime. Russia today is a large organized crime territory. Democracies produce the best most stable legal structures, if they balance majority rule with minority rights. If Syria's first ruler is not a power hungry tyrant, they stand a chance. America got lucky that George Washington had no desire to become a king (there were supporters who would have backed his coronation) The standard set by George Washington was respected for the next 43 presidents (2 to 44) number 45 did not. Now America will learn if a tyrant can end a democracy.
Or , if America can wake-up from it's sleep-walking and dispel the dictator!
we are just beginning the 4 years of dictatorship- who knows how many of our democratic institutions and norms will survive the onslaught.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
The much preferred outcome!
Well said Mark.
Might be nice to mention the Genocide of the Palestinian people that Netanyahu has been pursuing. That's pretty important in my mind. WTF, Adam!
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Yes, Adam needs to wake up on this one. I don't get it. So principled but has a blind eye to what Israel has done to Palestinians - and plans going forward.
My grandpa used to say there’s nothing more dangerous than a wounded bear, meaning do not think that there is no big fight left. I am glad Syria fell the majority is Sunni and so far the new leader is saying and doing the right things, let’s hope this continues. Let’s hope that the doors that are open to good diplomacy are not squandered
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Now is the time for the US, like Israel, to step on the necks of its (unstable) adversaries both economically and applying firm pressure (in concert with allies) to compel them to rejoin a prosperous international community. Regime change not necessary, just behavioral change.
--> Trump will squander this golden opportunity and offer a lifeline to Putin.
I am afraid that you are right. He will cave to Russia. You know, It's strange that a man who towers over Putin can be such a pussy in his presence.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
I am under the impression that those ships are denied passage to the Black Sea by Turkiye. Perhaps to Kaliningrad or St Petersburg? I'm any event the Russian naval base is a cancer in the Mediterranean.
That's a basic trait of bullies. When they encounter a bigger bully than themselves, they know it and immediately 'bend the knee'!
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
As a former commissioner and head of the largest international journalist group in the USA, I wonder how you neglected to mention the genocide that the Israelis have perpetrated upon the Palestinians. This looks like more US propaganda; I’m quite disappointed.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Of course with all these successes in the mideast Trump will say it was himself that made it all possible.
Ughhhhh.
Let's finally give credit to not just President Joseph R. Biden, but his cabinet, plus a testament to competency over bluster and personality. These four years have not been without labor for love of country, hard work, and belief in America's freedoms - "With Liberty and Justice for ALL". 320 Million strong.
Let's finally recognize America IS already Great because of dedicated public servants, the power of belief in humanity, democracy and a Constitution that protects and believes in the promise of hope to ALL her citizens.
s/
USMC Vet
Never needed to be great "again" because our country has remained great throughout history. Sure, we've had some bumps but there is no better or stronger country....for now. Let's hope the next four years are only a bump and not a game changer.
I fear it will be a game changer for quite some time.
For all you Veterans out there, here is two websites you may be interested in: https://www.taskforcebutler.org and https://commondefense.us/
Thank You,
Maj General Smedley Butler is one of my heroes. He was the man of the hour to take on the evils of money, greed, and power when they went after FDR. (See "Plot to Seize the Whitehouse"; Jules Archer, 2007)
Note: It is still happening and the power-hungry fangs have been barred. Watch the facial expressions of DJT now with his grimaces of hate.
I was not aware of this group and fully support the mission.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Only trump, his cohorts and his supporters believe otherwise.
As trump is tearing it all apart, his (soon to be) former supporters will have finally come to know the truth - and the truth will set us free!
I hope our institutions are not destroyed by then. He's already planning to pardon all the insurrectionists. The GOP just said they will not push back and may get an invite to Congress as guests!
I think that there will immediate public backlash to anything trump and his cohorts do that negatively impacts average Americans.
He will be delusional no matter what happens.
Yes. trump and his sycophants and cohorts will remain totally delusional, but public support for them will be declining. The only people I have any hope for are many of the people who voted for him, believing his BS, only to realize (by finding out the hard way), that it was, in fact BS! As disillusioned trump supporters realize this, their support for him will decline.
By that time it may be too late. He is already setting up a government with heads of institutions who's goal is to destroy that institution and a DOJ that ignores the 50 year norm of being nonpartisan, ignoring the 10 year tenure for FBI director and bringing us back to Hoover days.
If the #Israelis see the border with #Syria north of the “Golan Heights” as strategically significant to the point ALL #Russian-assets in #Syria must be destroyed to prevent their usage in #Ukraine, what then is stopping #Volodymyr from sending a couple of “Sea Babies” after those fleeing #Russian-warships headed for #Turkey and their expected entrance into the “Black Sea” or even all the way around the “Mediterranean Sea” to #Kaliningrad?
Adam,
As a military guy can you provide any explanation why unknown flying drones are flying over NJ for weeks and the FBI and Defense dept have no clue where they are coming from. How can we feel safe under these circumstances. Will action only happen when they start dropping grenades on the population.
Frankly, I don't have much confidence in our government's ability to protect us.
From TikTok to endless China and Russia hacks to untraceable drones to a grotesquely vulnerable power grid (and other systems), they are too busy fighting each other and focusing on who the next damn billionaire is. It's called divide and conquer for a reason--it works.