Total number of comments: 262 (since 2011-07-29 23:08:29)
Real Jew
I am a half Jewish half Palestinian American living in Baltimore but originally from New York. Both sides of my family and I are extremely passionate about the Israel/ Palestine conflict for obvious personal reasons and are very concerned about the lack of progress for peace primarly because some members are still living in Israel and the OT. Many of us are well educated and currently working in various branches in the US federal govt. One of my sisters being a federal prosecuter working in Manhattan, Me personally am a business owner located in White Marsh Mall. Very excited to be a part of the Mondoweiss experience
In addition, I find it disgraceful that a "democratic" country's legal system is infested with laws that allow "criminals" to be re-incarcerated for the same crime. Absolutely despicable!.
As brave an honorable as her actions maybe I doubt this will have any contagious effect on many others. We have seen this similar courageous acts by many individuals which have been met with contempt, harassment, death threats and in some cases violence. This blind nationalistic mentality is so ingrained in Israeli society that I'm afraid it will do little to start a trend.
Dimadok, as usual your argument is to attack irrelevant references used to accurately describe large numbers of zionists instead of discussing the reason these terms exist. Or in other words SUBSTANCE. Which is a clear indication you lack a persuasive counter argument
Thank you so much Pamela. You are an inspiration and exceptional human being.
I have some like minded family in Austin that may be interested. I'll be sure to contact you if they are
What the author of this great piece somewhat neglected to emphasis is the danger presented by the polls itself. No politician, whether Israeli or American, would dare go to war without having the approval of the majority of their citizens. Most politicians take into account the results of these polls when deciding whether or not to go to war. And once they have the desired approval rating by (mostly uninformed) participants.......boom!
David, I truly hope I am wrong as well. Wrong to think war is the only way to budge Israel off their current trajectory into oblivion.
You're right to ask "couldnt the same be said about South Africa"? But fortunately in S.A. the international community united against apartheid hastily enough to overt war. My pessimism derives from the inaction of the international community for 45 years.
Israel has fought tooth and nail for 40 years to maintain the status quo and they intend to stick to their guns for better or worst. They have sacraficed much of its democratic character, international credibility, bearing fierce international and domestic condemnation all without so much as a flinch.. They are not going to wake up one day and say 'ok, we have enough, let's give them a state.' It's just not going to happen, ever.
In my opinion, the only way Israel will end the occupation is by force. Either through war, full withholding of financial and military aid from the US, or a South African type boycott. But the high level of support Israel enjoys in the west makes the latter 2 almost impossible. Im sorry to say but I highly doubt this conflict will be solved anytime soon.
Wow Steve, I dont know where to begin...
"I am a member of AIPAC and have the privilege of listening in on confidential calls with it’s leadership...I have never once heard a word advocating war with Iran or any other country....AIPAC is very responsible in it’s lobbying efforts"
Are you kidding? Does the Iraq war ring any bells? Or how about Weapons of Mass Destruction? AIPAC and their neocon supporters were exposed to be the main culprits behind this lie which pushed America to invade Iraq. They are anything but responsible. They are now repeating their successful scare tactic in regards to Iran.
Do not attempt to paint AIPAC, the israeli espionage headquarters, as an innocent bystander because they are not directly, publicly or in "confidential calls" calling for war. They are indirectly calling for war with their dooms day propaganda such as "Iran is a genocidal nation ran by extremists hell bent on Israel's destruction" or "an existential threat not only to Israel but the whole world."
Hops is well trained in the art of pro Israel hasbara. The tired tactic of defending Israel's policies by citing examples of similar policies by other countries is widespread in Israeli propaganda. For example, when Israeli spokesman Mark Regev defended Israel's shameful use of administrative detention by citing the US and Britian's use of admin det.
What a lame argument. It's wrong regardless of who the perpetrator is Hops! Btw, NOBODY in the international community, including Israel, is worried that Iran would actually use nuclear weapons. They are just concerned they will lose their QME (qualitative military edge) in the region. Period. And they're willing to push America into war solely for that purpose
I was thinking about putting up something similar in my store but I live in Baltimore where there is a strong pro Israel Jewish community. Not sure I want my business becoming their target or being labeled a self hater, Nazi sympathiser ect.
Chu is right on the money. Despicable!
This handbook will only serve to expose how morally bankrupt the David Project and other Israel advocacy groups are. The simple truth is many pro Israel advocates are undoubtedly aware they are serving a criminal country and unjust cause. You would assume that possessing this awareness would encourage a re-evaluation of one's allegiance and perhaps taking a stand against severe injustice, instead they create ever new tactics of deception and manipulation. Utterly repulsive!
Wonderful! Veolia has suffered tremendously for their immoral business dealings. Let the BDS victories continue
Jimmy- Yup. It's amazing what investing a little money in media and politics can do huh.
Abierno- as reprehensible as it may be, this is the normal treatment of Arab prisoners. They literally treat human beings like animals, allowing them to wallow in their own filth. Even worst... it was reported either here or haaretz (maybe both) that prison doctors have been caught not reporting or covering up evidence of torture victims during incarceration. Unbelievable is an appropriate word you used
The selfless actions of this courageous and resilient man should be praised. Risking his life not just for his freedom but to expose the racist and brutal policies created by Israeli lawmakers and aggressively carried out by Israeli "security forces". Risking his life for the freedom of countless others who have been similarly and unjustly targeted, detained, abused, isolated, and humiliated.
It is unfathomable that Israeli law allows police to detain an individual without charges (let alone evidence) then continue to extend their detention without reason and without a fair trial in sight. And this is the "only democracy" in the ME that Netanyahu brags about. God bless this man and may justice come before his death
That is a damn good question Annie, that we will probably never get an answer to.
Besides how many Palestinians can actually afford to live in this modern paradise
Thanks kathleen, ill be sure to listen to it.
Phil, Alex, Annie, you guys are the best. You know your doing something right when the ADL "highlights" you on their blog. This is just some of what they had to say about our man Phil:
" Weiss regularly tries to portray Israel as the only antagonist in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including describing much of its history asa “neocolonialist landgrab.” Weiss alleges that Israel abuses the memory of the Holocaust in order to justify the “endless mistreatment of Palestinians” and that Israeli policy toward the Palestinians is a sort of vicarious revenge for the Holocaust, with Palestinians standing in for the Nazis and the “abused becoming the abuser.”
Lol, Pablemont, the cleverness never ends with you.
Oh and the desperation continues...
As Israel's international standing plummet (thank God for the internet) the job of hasbarists everywhere is getting harder. Consequently, we have seen a massive increase of shameless misrepresentation and distortion in pro Israel journalism smearing any event or individual who challenges their narrative. And that's a good sign.
Dim, typical zionist response. You justify the horrendous actions of countless Israeli govornmental institutions (and civilian ones as well) by citing other countries' bad policies. We aren't talking about the US, France, UK or whoever. We are talking about Israel.
Please refer to Chaos' comment above.
Umm.....is anybody really surprised to hear of racism in Israel? Racism is required in order for them to maintain a Jewish state Whether its coming from her citizens, settlers, rabbis, public officials, education system, transportation systems, current legislation, pre existing laws. Did I miss anything?
I couldn't have said it better myself. Outrageous! Not just because of the slap on the wrist but because only one marine was subject to punishment. As if one guy killed 24 people single handedly
It's unfathomable that the US and Israel is creating worldwide chaos for the sake of Israel's QME (qualitative military edge) in the region. The manufactured showdown with Iran and the ensuing catastrophe should allow the world to see how disturbing and dangerous the US/Israel "special relationship" is becoming. Israel has no limits in their quest for ME domination and if the world just sits on their hands I'm afraid we are all in for one hell of a ride.
Sodastream is made by Jewish folks in the OT but is falsely labeled as "made in Israel."
Winnica says: " if Israel evacuates Arab land it will then live in peace, has been empirically tested and refuted time and again: in 1956, in 1985, in 1997, 2000, and 2005."
So Winni thinks since Israel gave back 1% of the Palestinians' homeland (which was still under FULL ISRAELI CONTROL) they should immediately discontinue their struggle for independence and forget about self determination and dignity.
Question Winnica: Do you think receiving 22% of your property back after being forcibly removed and displaced for 60 years too much to ask for?
Israel does. Not to mention its done all in its power to divide, steal, and colonize the remaining land in addition to claiming all the resources on that land theirs as well.
Would love to hear your thoughts on that. Also, your comments about Mondo commentators' inability to acknowledge decent men in the IDF is simply ridiculous and without merit
Thanks Annie :)
Newclench, I def share your frustration. It seems, regardless of the tremendous amount of criticism worldwide that saturates this issue or the countless high profile and respected individuals who stand up to this injustice, nothing seems to have even a minimal effect on the ground in Palestine. In my opinion, the pro Israel establishment is so incredibly strong and deep rooted in vital and relevant circles (politics for example) that the prospect of making a difference in the lives of ordinary Palestinians is almost nonexistent.
In regards to the article, Im almost ashamed that I haven't heard of the Combatants Letter prior to reading this article. However, I am aware of a very similar organization that can be viewed at Breakingthesilence.org and if you follow Norman Finkelstein Im sure you are too. Great Great organization where you can read IDF soldier's testimony about the Gaza War ect. Highly recommended
" Absurd, scary, truly the heart of darkness beats in our wannabe leaders such as Romney, Gingrich"
Truly scary.
MLE- Hilarious! But I doubt he will need to use it often
You have to respect Abraham Hassan for having the courage to ask that question at such a fiercely pro Israel event. That's Palestinian pride at its finest.
Now, was anybody else watching the debate nauseous while listening to the candidates' response to that question? How absolutely disgraceful. I betcha Sheldon Adelson was soiling his $2000 adult diaper while watching his money at work.
Dan- too funny lol.
Chu- hell yeah.
This dude is fake-er then a manacin
Shingo,
"the worst offenders in that regard, will never be banned"
I see your point. And that's quite possible. But nevertheless its still worth the effort by the moderators to attempt to minimize the nonesense in order for the discussion to stay on topic.
Folks, seriously stop whinning! Trolls have derailed our discussions more times than I can count. One extreme comment is all it takes for the discussion to go in 20 diff directions.
Given the dire situation the conflict is in and American mainstream's inability to cover/discuss it honestly, Mondo has never been so important. If you don't like the new rules....don't comment. Simple.
Id like to thank Adam and Phil for their HARD work on this site and their unrelenting integrity while covering a subject so important to is all
Charon, I couldn't agree more. I'm a movie buff and almost all depictions of Arab or Muslims in Hollywood movies or tv shows are negative. Uneducated cab drivers or terrorists. Once I noticed it and began paying attention I found it everywhere! There's just far too many examples to be a coincidence. It's quite disgusting
Theo:
No one would be happier then me to see our politicians grow a spine and tell AIPAC to shove it. However, it would seem highly illogical for many people (non political as well) to shy away from a career choice based on one aspect of the job that is disagreeable.
The current landscape in American politics, which have been shaped by the powerful hands of AIPAC and their ilk, allows zero room for dissident voices. They smear, attack, and destroy anybody who opposes them. Due to this reality, our politicians who have a highly developed sense of self survival has taken a "if u can't beat them.....join them." stance.
I'm not saying this is right, just pointing out the facts.
" I sometimes wonder how these cringing slobbering politicians are not like normal people, they have no self respect, none"
It's very reasonable to have this sort of mentality towards our pro Israel ass kissing politicians. As a matter of fact I've maintained a similar one for many years. But as I began to have a better understanding of the Lobby, my stance started to soften a bit. The lobby has created an environment which basically forces our politicans to adopt a pro Israel position. As history shows, the bravest of them who opposed this tyranny didn't last long. Politicans today are simply trying to be successful
Exactly! And what better way to manipualte American public opinion then through religion. To make them believe that Israel's colonial enterprise is approved by God himself. That their spiritual and religious salvation is determined by the realization of a Greater Israel.
I'm gonna have to agree Dan. I doubt Jesus would he very pleased with his "dedicated followers' " lust for colonialism, racism, and to be blunt murder, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing.
Though I have to admit, given the significant presence of Israel in the bible, it was mighty clever of the zionists to use that to garner blind unconditional Christian support for present day Israel. (regardless how atrocious it may be)
“often do indeed recognize themselves to be not fully at home in the society they live in."
MRW: "Then they should try harder. I don’t hear of massive amounts of Jews leaving Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, China, and Curacao"
The notion that Jews dont feel welcomed or at home anywhere but Israel is outrageous. Just another Jewish identity "crisis" that Zionists want Jews around the world to believe.
Ive been saying this for a loong time. Obama is much more logical and fair minded in regards to the I/P conflict than he has displayed in the past 3 years. Previously, I posted a comment here stating that Obama would conduct ME foreign policy in a brave and balanced manner had the current political climate (presidential race) allowed him to do so without sucking up to powerful and unavoidable pro Israel forces. But I was met with much skepticism from other commentators. Im glad others are starting to catch on.
I couldn't agree more Pable. The NYT has been an unrelenting reel of pro Israel propaganda for decades. And now that a few truthful articles have slipped through AIPAC'S iron grip, Netanyahoo is gettin' all sensitive. What a clown!
Ros-Lehtinen is a perfect example of Israel firsters in the US govt. Her complete lack of loyalty to the US and utter disregard for (palestinian) human rights is always on display. What a despicable human being
Lol. Absolutely hilarious Shmuel!
Honestly, who here doubts that AIPAC/Camera have had similar discussions like this before
" Truth doesn’t matter, the USA electorate doesn’t matter, donors do matter."
BB, you are exactly right! The comment above sums up the US/Israel relationship in its entirety. There's no "shared values" between the two countries, no "strategic benefits", no real friendship. Unequivocally, the sole reason why the US govt has an "unbreakable bond" with Israel is because our greedy spineless politicians wants powerful pro Israel individuals/organizations to donate to their political campaigns
To Dan's comment, I disagree that the rational response to Israel's warmongering is to threaten Israel with "military retaliation". Obviously there are many more appropriate diplomatic steps to take to show the Israelis how dangerous their behavior is to the US. For instance, suspending all foreign/military aid to Israel until they start behaving responsibly, or support Palestinian statehood at the UN.
No shocked here considering this guy (adelson) stood in front of thousands of people at a birthright event and actually restated and endorsed Gingrich's "invented people" comment. Wow. Look what a little Arab hatred can get you in America....5 million.
Who do they (america/Israel) think they're fooling!? The multiple explosions at Iranian military sites, the stuxnet computer viruses, spy drones "malfunctioning" on Iranian sole, the murder of 4 nuclear scientists and attempted murder of another. These are all acts of war against a country who hasnt threatened a soul (until recently).
Does anybody think (including the Iranians) that this wasn't the work of the mossad? That these are all just minor infractions that can easily be forgiven. This isn't high school where you can misbehave then deny it was you who wrote nasty words on the bathroom stall. This is war that Israel/US are playing with, hoping for. How absolutely despicable that a country would start TWO wars, the most horrendous shit to infect mankind, for the sake of their own ego.
" American Zionist Jews have a considerable impact on Israel’s policies and actions."
The amount of influence American Zionists Jews have on Israel's policies is debatable. They seem to be more like cheerleaders for Israel. Defending and justifying israels policy to America (regardless how dangerous) rather then trying to shape it.
"The relationship between the US empire, American Zionist Jews and Israel is complex, a sort of perverse triangle."
True. Personally I tend to think of it as a straight line rather then a triangle. Everybody is running in the same direction. Some are just running faster than others.
"Ron Paul did give him a voice later in one of his rallies."
He sure did. His refusal to be silenced by the lobby controlled media is both brave and admirable. He took a slap in the face and delivered a slap right back....priceless
This is exactly the problem regarding Muslims. I tend not to submit to conspiracy theories but for whatever reason the media finds it acceptable to spread highly offensive and false stereotypes associated with Muslims. Whether the program is intended for comedic purposes or not, it is grossly irresponsible and dangerous. As the Anders Breivik's tragedy SHOULD have taught us, this sort of racist media in the hands of bigots can and will be misused to justify hatred and violence.
I tried to research the "crime" that triggered his arrest but I failed to find a single article that specifies. One can only assume given his reputation as a respected intellectual and leading figure in activism committed to exposing the crimes of the zionist state his arrest is purely politically based.
If anybody in the US tried to help they would be promptly labeled a terrorist or supporter of followed by Eric Cantor's and the rest of the crazies attempt to press charges. Does the flotilla ring any bells?
Lupe is an exceptional artist and human being. It's incredible to see a celebrity of his stature using his platform to show solidarity to a cause which is largely ignored in the entertainment industry . Lupe is truly the peoples champ.
The Israeli govt is not stupid. They know the end is near and sooner rather then later they will be forced to make a deal with the Palestinians. Consequently, they began accelerating home demolitions and evictions to create as much facts on the ground to ensure they retain the lands already settled in any future deal. Which of course will render the deal overwhelmingly in Israel's favor
I have to say when I first began visiting mondo Annie was an immediate stand out. Her passion and sincerity is exactly what this movement need. I been saying it for a long time....Annie is the shiznit
Well written, emotional, relevant. Exceptional job Annie, as always.
I would love to believe that Klarman had the courage to read this in its entirety (links included). But I find it hard to believe that zionists (even the most extreme) are unaware of the facts on the ground. It's well documented all over the world. I think most of them just don't care and choose to ignore the facts that are screaming off this page.
You forgot to mention one person Annie, and that is yourself. I think I speak for everyone here when I say that your passion, compassion, and contribution to this website/movement is truly inspiring. I too thank all the amazing people mentioned above. And special thanks to Adam and Phil for their unrelenting determination to keep us informed.
Is it me or is there a strong odor of desperation in these ads?
On a side note, Phil, u were quoted today at Haaretz in Bradly Burston's article: "At last, ‘Occupation Zionists’ and Israel-loathing U.S. Jews can agree." Check it out
Rosensaft and Katz are peanuts compared to the army of people who attempt to shift WWII discourse solely to Jewish suffering. And their intentional neglecting or down playing of the atrocities committed during WWII against non-jews is utterly reprehensible.
While being interviewed on national t.v., filmmaker Oliver Stone set off a firestorm when he stated that the large majority of people are completely unaware that 20 MILLION people were killed in the USSR due to the profound effect the holocaust industry has on WWII discourse. You can find the clip on YouTube. Watch it
Somebody should send this video to R. Goldstone and ask does this fit into his definition of apartheid
Netanyahu, always misses an opportunity for peace, never misses an opportunity to kill Muslims
Absolutely wonderful to have you on board Allison!! Alex, keep being the truly exceptional and talented individual we've grown to love.
When the curtain finally comes down on the zionists dog and pony show all those expensive lush settlements will be condemned to demolition. Or better yet (hopefully) transferred to their real owners. Let em waste their money. Do they really think that under a final status deal that they will hold on to every settlement they build