Israel /US

[SAT]

I can't post this ap article but it is a good indication of exactly where US/Israel relations are today.
Although Obama is being very blunt, Israel is firmly saying, no.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090528/...l_palestinians
All this just days before Obama goes to visit the Arab countries and his meeting with Abbas.

[SAT]

Re: Israel /US

The problem is Obama and the Quartet also have NK and Iran on their plate. The pressure to do something must be horrific, especially as all this effects Afghanistan and Iraq. Obama is about to be bombarded with Arab fears. They will have to choose a place to show unity and power in hopes of pushing them all back into their corners?????
The Arabs are presenting Israel as the cure all. Many of the articles seem to link Iran and NK with Israel. It could be seen as the easier spot to show power and unity especially if they believe it is all connected as well.
I believe it was John H recently who mentioned Biden's statement about Obama being tested in the first six months. I guess we are about to see how he performs under major pressure.

[Guest]

Re: Israel /US

I believe it was John H recently who mentioned Biden's statement about Obama being tested in the first six months. I guess we are about to see how he performs under major pressure.

So far, we haven't seen much. The White House seems to be dismissing North Korea's rhetoric as just more bluster, more of the same from an insane dictator. I think that is a mistake. Kim glorifies in world attention, but to completely dismiss him will only further frustrate him and embolden him into even greater action.

I think the US should beef up its military presence in Korea with additional ships off the North's coast, and actually follow through on the Proliferation Security Initiative and inspect North Korean ships as they leave their harbors, at least for the next several weeks. That would give Kim a clear signal that we are not willing to let him threaten his neighbor to the south without incurring some response from its major supporter. And it would give the South a strong message that we are there to support them and will not let them be threatened.

WLNF