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Total number of comments: 406 (since 2009-08-08 22:33:07)

Sand

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  • Derfner slams Jason Alexander as yet another 'evenhanded liberal failure'
    • Sand November 20, 2011 at 12:57 pm

      Keith: I am of the opinion that it is American Zionists more than Israeli Zionists who are the source of much of the problem. ... American Zionists as the umbilical cord attaching the US empire to the Jewish state..."

      Yes, I would agree with that. However, I think there's more of a symbotic relationship going on. A few years ago I remember there was some hesitation, even pushback in the US Jewish press, when Israel's hencemen would come over and demand loyality from the Jewish groups and Rabbis that were questioning the all out neocon plan (Bush was in power at the time) pushing for a confrontation with Iran. Compliance was being ordered from Israel not the US Zionist movement, although many were already on board. Now I think the chain of command has definitely been established. Both American and Israeli zionists seem to be in lock step -- taking orders, spiritual guidance (whatever) from Israel (Netanyahu). Nothing that Israel does is wrong!

      Ok, one thing I think we can both agree on is that both Israeli and American zionist are insisting the Zionist 'Industry' must continue -- and be paid for.

      Absolutely the US has its own plans for world domination (empire), oil what-not over Russia, China, India. They for sure played a part in all of this. I just think they've now been out-maneouved by Israel's plans of world domination (empire). Nutbars.

      Keith: "...Israel aligned with currents in the Arab world seeking independence from the United States was a disaster. Only an Israeli Sparta beholden to American power..."

      Israel aligned with anybody would amaze me -- nobody in the world trusts them accept for the US (well, trust might not be the right word). Probably why they are gripping on to the US for dear life. Israel is using every trick in the book -- bribes, spies in government, politicians in Congress, religion, gobs of $$ and a few hundred nukes of their own to drive home the fact that scratch N. Korea -- they are the 'loose cannon' in the world. They don't feel the need to act as the spokesperson for the US.

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 2:53 pm with 2 replies

      Keith: "...If it was just the Israeli government, it wouldn’t be that big of a problem. Alas, the US government (empire) and American Zionists make a large contribution to the problem and, in fact, may be the critical stumbling block to a solution...

      However, I believe the Israeli neocon faction is very much pulling the strings at the moment in the US/driving the agenda (definitely in Congress). Until I can see ANY US realists in positions of INFLUENCE, or power at the top I can't necessarily agree with you that the US government is a critical stumbling block -- for that to happen I think you would be seeing a more equal US/Israel relationship -- and I'm not seeing that - I see Israel is currently walking right over the US.

      I don't think it's the US that wants to attack Iran, and piss off China and Russia? OK, what do I know -- but really it seems a no-brainer. We're up to our eyeballs in debt -- we have a stretched military (with kids still in Afghanistan!), and we have a huge military that depends on oil to survive. Who really wants to create chaos AGAIN?

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 1:06 pm

      Or maybe he's slowly coming to terms that it's not going to be possible to have a Jewish State of Israel that can also be liberal and democratic? It's OVER.

      We all live in hope that he has seen the light!

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 12:10 pm with 2 replies

      Derfner: "...So why does Alexander write this “yes, you can” crap? Either he’s lying to himself, or he’s afraid – afraid to blame Israel and not the Palestinians, afraid to be called a self-hating Jew, an Arab-lover, afraid of being written off as biased against Israel. So he plays patty-cake – he doesn’t play the “blame game,” he’s “constructive,” he doesn’t take sides, he deals out the same advice to Israelis and Palestinians, and thinks he goes home a peacemaker..."

      ...The problem, of course, is not that Jason Alexander is too faint-hearted to tell the truth about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and thereby possibly help change it; the problem is that this conflict is plagued by faint-hearted, even-handed, liberal failures just like him..."

      I sooo agree, and of course Jason Alexander is NOT the only one spouting this unadulterated conciliatory BS. Who is paying for this crap?

      I had to painfully listen to the same claptrap coming from Mark Rosenblum at an Ilan Pappe event I wanted to go and see. It was painful listening to this condescending excuse-making pro-zionist fake peace-maker.

      Mark Rosenblum apparently "a founder of Americans for Peace Now and the Israeli-Palestinian Youth Dialogue program" -- IMO a total fake.

      link to ecww.org

      Ilan Pappé & Mark Rosenblum: Palestine at the United Nations
      Monday, September 19, 2011 - Seattle Town Hall

      You can listen to the event here by clicking on the photo:

      link to edmaysproductions.net

      Thank you Pirate TV Seattle!

  • Barak orders strike on Gaza during 'Charlie Rose'-- and checks what looks like a Rolex
  • Egypt, Syria, and the dynamics of counter-revolution
    • Sand November 20, 2011 at 1:39 pm with 1 replies

      Walid: "...You’re right I did oversimplify situations but this was intentional as I don’t feel any interest here in seriously getting into the ME’s complexities and I stopped short of saying which parties were wearing the white hats and which the black ones to keep it flowing..."

      That's not true. Most of us don't have the luxury of having access (or time) to read the foreign press, academia journals, and source materials etc.. Doesn't mean we are as dumb as rocks and are not interested!

      You obviously have considerable knowledge about the region and players, but there's need to toss that information aside and basically tell us there's no point in explaining it all as we won't be able to understand it anyway. Thanks!

      I hope you continue to write here. This post is a keeper for me. Also, I still would like to know more about the Israel/Saudi relationship?

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 5:05 pm

      Walid: Sand, all big corporations have always worked on bribes and will continue to do so; this is how business is conducted with governments and BAE was no exception.

      Yes, I figured that out a long while ago Walid :) But, what really hit me is on our MSM Tee-vee -- world-wide regulatory agencies basically saying there's nothing they can do e.g.

      EVA JOLY, Fmr. French Magistrate: We are successful in fighting petty corruption. We are successful in fighting probably medium corruption. And sometimes by accident, we are successful in huge corruption, [Madoff/FM Global -- but even then the trail usually stops v. suddenly] but it is by accident. There are one rule for the powerful and other rules for other people, and the rule of law is not complete. There are black zones, black holes..."

      You can read this stuff in books, on the internet, via visionaries such Chris Hedges etc.-- but our very own PBS -- I'm just saying it kinda hits you that "we really are screwed."

      Read more: link to pbs.org

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 1:58 pm with 1 replies

      Fascinating.

      I've heard that those US troops in Iraq are not "coming home", but are being re-deployed to places like Kuwait and other parts of the Gulf? If so, for what purpose?

      Also, what do you think about the possibilty of the Saudi's giving Israel the ok to use their airspace (that rumour has obviously been floated around for quite a few years now) -- what's your take on that?

      As an aside on 'Global Finance' -- via Netflix I noticed that in 2009 PBS Frontline made a number of documentaries on the corruption of our global markets, only touching the surface mind you:), but interesting nonetheless. Also, noticing we haven't had anything like those Wall Street 'finance' documentaries since -- unless I've just been missing them?

      I was particularly interested in the Frontline's "Black Money" programme -- focusing on the British government scandel of BAE Systems -- throwing in Saudi Arabia ~ of course@! At the end of the program -- I definitely wanted to know more -- also noticing Israel was not mentioned (well ok maybe once).

      "...DAVID LEIGH: But the Saudis couldn't easily buy direct from the U.S. because there would be problems with Congress because of the Israel lobby. It was easier politically to buy this equipment from the British, and it was pretty much a secret at the time that then British prime minister Mrs. Thatcher and then U.S. president Ronald Reagan had been involved with Bandar in organizing this arms deal..."

      link to pbs.org

      PBS Frontline: Black Money
      link to pbs.org

      Fascinating, but also all rather depressing.

  • France chides Israeli ambassador following consul injury in Gaza attack
  • Kissinger: 'Is there a more self-serving group of people than the Jewish community?'
    • Sand November 20, 2011 at 4:43 pm

      You reminded me: Blankfort had a run-in with the ADL when they were spying on him. Nice bunch at the ADL@!

      link to counterpunch.org

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 9:57 am

      Donald: "...why the hell would anyone cite Kissinger as some sort of moral authority?.."

      I don't think anyone was -- Most people know who Kissinger is, and "moral" definitely wouldn't be a word to describe him.

      Donald: "...I’m all for pointing out that many in the Jewish community exhibit the same ethnocentric behaviors of white southerners that I knew growing up. Singling out Jews as the very worst on the moral authority of Henry Kissinger is a bit much...

      Following on from what you said.

      Yes, if I had to go to a Thanksgiving dinner with family members who wanted to discuss their grand holiday going to apartheid Israel, where they beat up and kill Palestinians -- I think I can honestly compare it to someone having to sit through a meal with relatives talking about their excitement of attending a Ku Klux Klan holiday camp. I believe that is where we are.

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 9:44 am

      James North: "Richard Witty said, ‘Here’s how I politely try and put across my point of view:

      You Stalinist hanging judge.

      ‘This is how I promote “dialog” (sic)’

      I think that's the whole point -- Witty doesn't want dialogue.

      Any discussion about "self-serving" (especially disturbing) elements within the Jewish community seem to be a taboo subject for Witty.

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 12:46 am

      Another interesting connection with regards to that Biden "over my dead body" NY Times article -- which could kinda be construed as a Biden 'not on our side' piece?

      NYTimes: "...At a fund-raiser Sept. 20 at a home in Shaker Heights, Ohio, all but one of the questions that Mr. Biden took were about foreign policy — namely Israel..."

      link to nytimes.com

      It was the "Ratner" family fundraiser. This includes Ellen Ratner (Talk Radio News Service) of the Thom Hartman radio show. Talks her head off about Sudan and Haiti, but shuts up when it comes to Israel's atrocities -- The I-Lobby is never allowed to be mentioned on that show. Thom Hartman and Ellen Ratner -- figures!@

      Josh Mandel's family ties make for fascinating politics
      link to cleveland.com

    • Sand November 19, 2011 at 12:16 am

      Jesus! The original NY Times article on Biden was even worse that I remembered it!

      Obama Turns to Biden to Reassure Jewish Voters, and Get Them to Contribute, Too
      By HELENE COOPER
      Published: September 30, 2011
      link to nytimes.com

      This is the stranglehold on our politics -- well definitely when it comes to the Democratic/Likud party.

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 11:53 pm

      The Jewish Federations of North America represents 157 Jewish Federations and over 300 Network communities, which raise and distribute more than $3 billion annually for social welfare, social services and educational needs. The Federation movement, collectively among the top 10 charities on the continent, protects and enhances the well-being of Jews worldwide through the values of tikkun olam (repairing the world), tzedakah (charity and social justice) and Torah (Jewish learning).
      link to jewishfederations.org

      Biggie JFNA Program Item:
      Israel Action Network "Hotspots" of the Delegitimization Movement Consultation
      Governors Square 11
      By invitation only
      link to generalassembly.org

      Being a big boot across everyone's neck.

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 11:41 pm with 11 replies

      Excuse me!

      Donald “Is there a more self-serving group of people than the Jewish community?” is a racist statement.”

      With a plethota of examples in the US political and jewish religious community which are 'highly' noticable, and readily identifiable -- why should it not be a topic of discussion?

      Obviously you don't follow the Jewish Press! Not going to the 2012 Tribefest I guess? As well as not counting the over-abundance of Jewish only internet dating sites? Or, reading the 2012 Program List of the The Jewish Federation of North American General Assembly in Denver?

      link to generalassembly.org

      BTW talking of Pollard -- Down in DNC Debbie Wasserman-Schultz protected FL terrority:

      "...U.S. President Joe Biden denied he said spy Jonathan Pollard would be released "over his dead body," telling U.S. Jewish leaders on Wednesday, however, that the sentiment expressed in his rejection was his own.

      Referring to the convicted Israeli spy, Biden was quoted by the New York Times on Saturday as telling Florida rabbis that U.S. President Obama "was considering clemency, but I told him, ‘Over my dead body are we going to let him out before his time'’"
      ...

      "We said it was an important issue for the community, and he agreed to have a meeting on it," Hoenlein [Malcolm Hoenlein, Executive Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents] said.

      link to haaretz.com

      Really! If that's not self-serving I don't know what is!

      Donald doth protest too much.

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 7:52 pm

      A special interest group sucking up money and resources at the expense of another group -- I wouldn't call that charitable.

      Also, the Insurance and Cigarette 'business' lobbies are at least semi-regulated - not so, for the likes of AIPAC that should have been 'regulated' and 'monitored' as a lobby "acting as agents of foreign principals" long ago for its blatant lobbying of the 'national security interests' for a special interest religious group living in another country.

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 4:51 pm

      Got another one.

      Apparently Jews having to have their very own 'thought-police' department (paid by US Taxpayers) on the 7th floor of the U.S. State Dept:

      U.S. Department of State: Monitoring and Combating Anti-Semitism
      link to state.gov

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 4:35 pm

      American: "...I am very objectively describing/and objecting to what the zionist are doing in the US regarding influence for Israel..."

      US Taxpayer Funded: "Nonprofit Security Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security"

      Another Jewish-centric $$$ program -- "All thanks to the United States taxpayer" that fuels the likes of "eee" with his/her Jewish bunker mentality. Local law enforcement agencies not good enough for them eh! They are so 'special' that it stands reason they need to suck out "73.7%" of the DHS $118m program budget. Other groups that are often targetted by crime like gays, muslims etc... hey -- go suck on it.

      In 2011:

      FORWARD: "...Jewish groups were the big winners, with 81% of those awards.

      This disproportionate distribution is no accident. Examining the grants program provides a window into Jewish organizational and political power. It is this power that allowed a small community to create and maintain a government program tailored specifically for its needs and catering almost exclusively to its members..."

      No kidding!

      Article: 09/29/11 How an Anti-Terror Program Became a Jewish Earmark -- Grants Favor the Orthodox and the Organized
      By Nathan Guttman, Eileen Reynolds and Maia Efrem
      link to forward.com

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 3:55 pm

      eee: "Not in this case because American is claiming that there a laws that were made only to benefit Jews. Why are you supporting his position if you cannot provide ONE such example? Oh yes, the laws are “buried and hidden”.

      The special *case* for Jews within the Jewish State of Israel. Do any real 'Palestinian' charities get any US tax deductions?

      IRS: Israeli charities. You may be able to deduct contributions to certain Israeli charitable organizations under an income tax treaty with Israel. To qualify for the deduction, your contribution must be made to an organization created and recognized as a charitable organization under the laws of Israel. The deduction will be allowed in the amount that would be allowed if the organization was created under the laws of the United States, but is limited to 25% of your adjusted gross income from Israeli sources...

      link to irs.gov

  • Critics of Palestine solidarity within Occupy Wall Street rely on distortion
    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 5:36 pm

      Richard Witty says:
      November 17, 2011 at 10:15 pm

      But Jeffrey's right. The smell can be quite strong sometimes.

    • Sand November 18, 2011 at 5:27 pm

      AVI_G: I once spoke with the director of the New Israel Fund branch in New York city. He stated that while Washington DC was the center of political power in the United States, New York was the center of finance. The exact quote was, “This is where the money is.”

      Apparently, in New York it's not earth shattering news (except for DBG).

      "...A Democratic political consultant who worked on President Clinton's re-election campaign, Hank Sheinkopf, noted that the Aipac dinner always draws a parade of politicians.

      "New York is the ATM for American politicians. Large amounts of money come from the Jewish community," he said. "If you're running for president and you want dollars from that group, you need to show that you're interested in the issue that matters most to them."

      link to nysun.com

  • AIPAC Hollywood junket to Israel meets protest
  • Ross's departure will hurt Obama's reelection hopes, Abrams explains
    • Sand November 11, 2011 at 8:22 pm

      2011 Annual Survey of American Jewish Opinion
      link to ajc.org

      "...800 respondents were interviewed by telephone between September 6 -21, 2011..."

      6. If the 2012 election for president were being held today, whom would you vote for from among the following choices?

      a. Barack Obama is the Democratic candidate and Mitt Romney is the Republican candidate? Barack Obama, Mitt Romney, or neither?

      Obama = 50%
      Romney = 32%
      Neither = 16%
      Don't Know/Not Sure = 2%

      b. Barack Obama is the Democratic candidate and Rick Perry is the Republican candidate? Barack Obama, Rick Perry, or neither?

      Obama = 55%
      Perry = 25%!!!
      Neither = 18%
      Don't Know/Not Sure 2%

      c. Short version: AJC telephone Jews like Perry more than Bachmann.

      18. If diplomacy and sanctions fail, would you support or oppose the United States taking military action against Iran to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons?

      Support= 56
      Oppose = 38
      Not sure= 6

      19. If diplomacy and sanctions fail, would you support or oppose Israel taking military action against Iran to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons?

      Support = 68
      Oppose = 26
      Not sure = 6

      23. In politics as of today, do you consider yourself a Republican, a Democrat, or an Independent? [Interesting!]

      Republican = 16
      Democrat = 45
      Independent = 38
      Not sure = 2

    • Sand November 11, 2011 at 6:30 pm with 1 replies

      "...Jewish-American electorate which remains pretty Democratic and mostly concerned about other issues than Israel..."

      Not so true in Florida. Development down there will be interesting!

      Debbie "DNC" Wasserman-Schultz will have to work overtime.

  • Dennis Ross announces he is leaving the Obama administration in December
    • Sand November 11, 2011 at 8:36 pm

      hophmi "...No. I think it’s antisemitic to call for his deportation and accuse him of swearing allegiance to another country. One could derisively characterize his viewpoint as being identified with sympathy for Israel’s point of view in the context of American peacemaking and in the context of taking the position that America has a national and security interest in making sure Israel is on board with any peace agreement...

      They don't get deported? However, I think it really creepy when these guys start talking about wearing the same pins. "Dan and I wear the same pins."

      Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren
      link to generalassembly.org

      Michael Oren is about to become single loyalty. Before he was just dual
      link to mondoweiss.net

    • Sand November 11, 2011 at 2:18 pm

      From the I-Lobby 'Rabbi Chapter' meeting with WH officials in 2010:

      page 42 Rabbi Victor Urecki: "...The answer I and others got was the President will find his opportunities to make his feelings known in time (i.e. to "reach out to Israelis who have serious concerns about him"). And that was it.

      There was more but as if to emphasize the point that we should not worry about where the President stands on Israel, Emmanuel, Dennis ross and Dan Shapiro, as Jews and supporters of Israel, emphasized to us that they would not be in this Administration if they felt, for one minute, Obama's priorities were not in the right place..."

      Bye bye Ross.

      link to bnaijacob.com

    • Sand November 11, 2011 at 1:51 pm

      Or:

      @TonyKaron "Dennis Ross quits: A message to his constituency that Obama won't be attacking Iran? There goes the AIPAC vote..."

      Maybe there is some pushback within the Administration?

      Leon Panetta warns against Iran strike
      US defence secretary says military action against Iranian nuclear sites could have unintended consequences for the region
      link to guardian.co.uk

  • Tom Friedman pushed Iraq war as 'radical liberal revolution' to 'install democracy in heart of Arab world'
    • Sand November 6, 2011 at 9:02 pm

      1. However, when we all found out that Joe Lieberman turned out to be a neocon all along, a majority of CT Jewish voters apparently still voted for "iconic Jewish Senator" Lieberman rather than voting for the Democrat. That was sad.
      link to thejewishweek.com

      2. I never thought Ginsburg was the neocon warmonger, or hardcore zionist type. However, Lieberman did a rather good job of changing the political game outside the doors of the Supreme Court. From the film Recount:

      -- Thanks for nothing Lieberman
      link to youtube.com!

      3. I've always wondered that? Maybe Cheney was part of the 'The Crazies' gang after all? Having mini-strokes affecting his brain and coming to the conclusion if you can't beat them, then join them?

      --All Options on the Table
      link to alternet.org

  • When is it okay to say that Jews own Wall Street?
    • Sand November 6, 2011 at 9:16 pm

      Good one! :)

    • Sand November 6, 2011 at 2:17 pm

      Yes, a little too much to digest. But it certainly show how conjuring up the good ole character of Shylock -- seems to works every time. Be ashamed you anti-semite for connecting Jews in any shape or form to Wall Street.

      Correct me if I'm wrong -- so your overarching premise[?] "...You can say that Jews ""own"" Wall Street—or anything else about Jews—as long as you are a “friend of Israel.” I dunno -- maybe "seem to run" would be a better word?

      Also, you said -- "...I don’t know about Rush, but when I hear “banker,” I think banks..." You think of just banks? When I hear the word banks, I think of a system -- a bloody shady system. My next thought is how does that system operate? Is there a hierarchy? Who are the main players, and how do they connect to other players in the system/network?

      "...a lot of those people on Wall Street are Jewish. .." Well, yes -- especially at the upper echelon, basically the power brokers. "The statement alone is meaningless..., I totally agree.

      But, if you take the assertion that Limbaugh might be making and establishing a correlation between "ALL" Jews own the gears of capital -- don't you think you're stretching it? The Jewish thought police [ADL] might want you to stretch that far -- but do you really think that's what Limbaugh was alluding to? He's certainly not dumb -- I mean the guy does want to keep his job.

      I think we keep falling into the trap -- knowing we'll easily be pushed into the corner, and then have our words twisted, that us non-Jews really hate ALL Jews underneath. It's certainly a way to deflect us from looking at what is really going on! You've heard of the Italian and Russian Mafia, the Hell's Angel's -- of course you have. So, are all Italians part of the Italian mafia -- No! So, if someone dares asks the simple question if there could be a classic criminal tribal mafia network working inside Wall Street, would that be wrong?

      But, because it's regarded as "classic anti-Semitism" -- we are not allowed to touch it with a barge poll. What was Madoff's scandal all about -- yes Greed, but even in the Forward they surmised: "It was a crime built on an abundance of misplaced trust, one that allowed tribal fealty to eclipse responsible judgment...", but that angle was never allowed to be explored in mainstream media.
      link to forward.com

      “...Many Jewish philanthropies are dependent on high-end donors in very close social and economic networks, and this guy [Madoff] is right in middle of them,” said Jewish philanthropy expert Gary Tobin, president of the Institute for Jewish and Community Research. “It’s like finding out that your father is a felon — this is bad news for the family.”
      link to forward.com

      Anyway, the guy basically got 150 years, because he agreed not to spill the beans and decided to take the fall. How the SEC got away with what they ignored, I will never know!

      And, now we have a new scandal with both financial and political network implications?

      "...In a major banking scandal, the commodities and derivatives brokerage house MF Global filed one of the largest bankruptcies in American corporate history, with almost $40 billion in liabilities. It was the largest failure on Wall Street since the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008. The chairman and chief executive officer of MF Global is Jon Corzine, a former New Jersey governor and U.S. senator. Corzine is also the former CEO of Goldman Sachs..."

      link to democracynow.org

      Do you think Corzine's financial operation/network will be examined? But, remember he's just a banker.

  • Threatening letter to Obama on chilling Turkey is signed by 7 Jewish House members, says Peace Now
    • Sand November 6, 2011 at 7:51 pm

      Oh and hophmi,

      Shelley Berkley is the Co-chair of the Congressional Israel Allies Foundation with Eliot Engel, as well as Nita Lowey.

      About the IIACF
      "...The International Israel Allies Caucus Foundation (IIACF) exists to unabashedly strengthen international support for Israel in governments and parliaments around the world.       This is accomplished through cooperation with members of official parliamentary caucuses in support of Israel and the development of coordinated activities with these caucuses. About the International Israel Alliance Caucus Foundation.

      IACF is a sister caucus of the The Knesset Christian Allies Caucus.

      "...Through the establishment of our sister organizations, the KCAC has created an international network of bi-partisan parliamentary caucuses at the echelon of government. These work in close communication with the KCAC and one and other to mobilize government support for Israel and coordinate pro-Israel activities.

      While international caucus members are not all necessarily Christian, they are committed to the development of Judeo- Christian relations based on the religions’ mutual values and the mobilization of support for Israel..."

      link to cac.org.il

    • Sand November 6, 2011 at 7:26 pm

      Hophmi "...No, I mean when you ascribe policies to Jewish members of Congress and suggest that they promote those policies because of their religion and suggest further that they are not patriotic Americans.

      Oh god Hophmi~!... 2 seconds googling:- Just one example,

      Jewish Federation of Grand Rapids: Five Minutes with Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.)

      -- Michelle Labgold: Congresswoman, what are your top priorities for this year?

      Congresswoman Berkley: On the international scene, making sure that the roadmap laid out by the President** does not encumber Israel in any way, move towards secure borders free from terrorist attacks, dismantling of the terrorist infrastructure, having the Palestinians account for the millions of dollars that the United States and members of the European Union provided for them, have Israel's right to exist be recognized by all of its Arab neighbors and the Palestinians so they can live within secure borders.

      -- Labgold: Congresswoman, how do you work within your caucus to build support for issues of concern to the Jewish community?

      I have been a pro-Israel activist for most of my life, very active in Federation, AIPAC, ADL, American Jewish Committee and so forth, and without any fear of contradiction, I would say the United States Congress is very supportive of issues that affect the Jewish community, particularly our strong support of the State of Israel. I realize not every member of Congress has a Jewish constituency and a passion for the issues as I do, but along with the twenty-six other Jewish members of Congress, we do our best to educate other members who may not be as sensitive to these issues as we are about the importance of a strong relationship between the United States and Israel and trying to explain the difference between a victim of terrorist attacks and a perpetrator.

      link to jewishgrandrapids.org

      ** Remembering Berkley is supposed to be a member of the DEMOCRATIC PARTY not Netanyahu's LIKUD PARTY.

      As for your clichéd response implying we're saying "they are not patriotic Americans" well you can bury that one sunshine.

  • JTA wonders why 'Jewish influence' is so 'pervasive' in our politics
    • Sand November 4, 2011 at 11:18 pm

      I side with "Chris Hedges - The Decay of Empire - Page 272/3"

      "...Footprint data suggests that, based on current lifestyles,the sustainable population of the United Kingdom - the number of people the country, with an estimated population by 2010 of about 62 million, could feed, fuel and support from its own biological capacity -- is about 18 million. This means that in an age of extreme scarcity, some 44 million people in Great Britain would not be able to survive. Overpopulation will become a serious threat to the viability of many industralized states the instant the cheap consumption of the world's resources can no longer be maintained..."

      Adding, and I don't want young ignorant kids to die for those resources.

    • Sand November 4, 2011 at 10:59 pm

      I agree -- the UK definitely had a history of discriminatory immigration policy based on ethnicity in the past. But not in 2011 when it comes to the regulations of the EU. However, the UK still has a (sustainable) population issue.

      See how the UK's population is changing
      link to news.bbc.co.uk

    • Sand November 4, 2011 at 9:54 pm

      eee It is not an issue of ethnicity, it is an issue of quantity. Whatever the ethnicity of the refugees Israel cannot absorb them without a huge decline in the standard of living.

      So the UK - that small little over populated Island isn't allowed to restrict immigration -- but Israel is? And, the UK doesn't even want to restrict on ethnicity. Plus, the UK and US is paying for Israel's 'right'? to restrict immigration on ethnicity - totally sick and twisted -- but what's new.

    • Sand November 4, 2011 at 9:49 pm

      Except if you are 'Dominique Gaston André Strauss-Kahn' in which case the probing question of "who were you with last night" miraculously gets pushed aside. Sorry couldn't resist.

    • Sand November 4, 2011 at 9:43 pm

      adding:

      -- Please don’t 'take' it personally – but really, eee got it right a few weeks back — truly where in the Jewish political influencial community are “anti-zionist” Jewish organizations in the US”?

      It's because I respect you and MJ Rosenberg (+ Richard Silverstein), I often don't go into what I see as the blatant contradictions. e.g. :(

      MJ: "...I quickly corrected him. I told him that I was neither anti-Zionist nor anti-Israel. In fact, I am pro-Israel and that if I wasn't, I doubt I would be involved so heavily in the fight for justice for the Palestinians..."
      link to tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com

      At this point -- with the 'reality' of the state/State of (Jewish) Israel -- knowing it ain't gonna change for the better (and we know full well @ Mondo why it won't change) if you're NOT anti-Zionist, I really have to question what the *new* game plan is?

    • Sand November 4, 2011 at 9:11 pm with 1 replies

      "...maybe im trying to help save the jewish community. as i often say, herzl was a xmas tree jew like myself who was made jewish again by the antisemites, and acted to try and help his community. neocons have done the trick for me."

      And I became involved in the US political scene, because Katrina, and then the astonishing disingenuousness (esp. after 911) of those supposed 'xmas jews' that weren't that tolerant of xmas after all? Please don't it personally - but really, eee got it right a few weeks back -- truly where in the Jewish political influencial community are "anti-zionist" Jewish organizations in the US"?

      We've come a long way since the early days of W&M ~2005/6 exposing the self-interested hypocrisy of the Jewish elite in politics (and finance).

      e.g. Health care over Israel - hell yeah!

  • Reform Jews' biennial will feature ultra-right, Sharansky and Kristol
    • Sand October 28, 2011 at 12:34 pm with 1 replies

      Reform Jewish leader Eric Yoffie *cough splutter* the "liberal wing of organized Judaism." Liberal in what sense? I think this is his 'Parting Shot' -- his loud and clear message who is really is, and what the URJ has stood for all along. This conference looks like his cause célèbre before he seeks greener pastures, or getting a job where he can help burn down some more nice green olive trees?

      What I'm more interested in is his successor -- J-Streeter -- Rabbi Richard Jacobs? ZOA back in March were a tad concerned, but really do they need to be?!

      link to zoa.org

      Also, Jacob's will hold prominent positions in other sheres of political Jewish influence:

      "...However, as president of the URJ, the statement said, Jacobs "will assume many new official posts on Jewish communal organizations, including the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee."..."

      So, will he turn like all the others -- made to look a sham all in the name and action of being "Pro-Israel"?

      link to stljewishlight.com

  • Lacking 'legitimacy' in its neighborhood, Israel is imploding -- Sullivan
    • Sand October 30, 2011 at 1:34 am

      Link: ttp://www.newsonnews.net/cnbc/2080-mary-thompson-interviews-madoff-whistleblower-harry-markopolos-and-former-colleague-frank-casey.html

  • Props for the amazing political space OWS created (but who is talking about Palestine?)
    • Sand October 21, 2011 at 12:24 pm

      "...Dunno…what does it matter the religion or culture of the many at the top of the the US banking system. So what..."

      I think it matters -- How could you have forgotten Madoff? - His obvious network of powerful friends, how the game was played. Most definitely religion and culture has been seen to play an important part in the financial industry.

      link to en.wikipedia.org

      h/t: P. Weiss
      --‘WSJ’ drops one shoe: Madoff exploited a Jewish ‘network of trust’

      link to mondoweiss.net

  • Gary Ackerman blasts NYU divestment campaign, NYU students and faculty blast back
    • Sand October 21, 2011 at 11:49 am

      I totally agree... Gary Ackerman "outgoing chairman of the International Council of Jewish Parliamentarians which is sponsored by the World Jewish Congress" -- has hard-core Israel-Firster 24/7 written all over him, which is why I'm rather confused when M Jay Rosenberg had this to say about the man on his Twitter account recently:

      MJ Rosenberg
      In private, Rep. Gary Ackerman is 2 left of #Abbas. In public, he is Avigdor Lieberman. #Palestine #Israel #p2 6 Oct

      Damn right bizarre! And MJ's spun this angle more than once?

      -- With September looming, unity can't wait
      By Gary Ackerman
      link to worldjewishcongress.org

  • It's open season! Tom Friedman says Obama is 'hostage' to 'powerful pro-Israel lobby'
    • Sand September 18, 2011 at 2:59 pm

      "...Actually, if I had to label the hostages, it would be members of Congress and the State Department. I believe large numbers of them would not be on board with Israel and AIPAC if it was possible to advance politically without paying homage to the lobby and its taskmaster, Israel..."

      I think with the passage of time most of the top-tier careerists at the State Department who are not Zionists have been purged out of the department. Especially with what seems the inclusion of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) -- brought in as in-house watchdog?

      >> "..The Office To Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism only being a “satellite office” of the State Dept. under Bush, but is now an integral part of the Hillary State Dept. on the 7th floor says Hannah Rosenthal, Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism. U.S. Department of State. also most notably former head of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) from 2000-2005.." <<

      Also remembering this story back in 2010:

      Hostage to Events: In an exclusive interview, the State Department's leading Iran expert discusses his *resignation* and why the Islamic Republic and the United States keep on talking past each other. Foreign Policy: Barbara Slavin [7/27/10]
      link to foreignpolicy.com

      John Limbert: "...A number of players with more skeptical views about the prospect of rapprochement with Tehran such as White House aide Dennis Ross and nonproliferation experts like Robert Einhorn and Gary Samore -- appear to be driving U.S. policy now, and the president himself blames the Iranian government for failing to respond to his outreach..."

      "...Limbert, a scholar of Persian history and poetry and former Peace Corps worker in Iran who is fluent in Farsi and whose wife, Parvaneh, is Iranian, wrote a book about how to negotiate with Iran for the U.S. Institute of Peace. He is also the only American official who has met Ayatollah Ali Khamenei -- during the hostage crisis before Khamenei became Iran's president and then supreme leader..."

      His replacement: -- "[Philo] Dibble to replace Limbert as State Department Iran official Foreign Policy: Josh Rogin [7/29/10]. "...According to his State Department bio, he was previously a DAS in NEA from 2003 to 2005, although he didn't deal with Iran specifically..."

      A guy definitely in the vein of Dennis Ross. Example, on what he's been churning out on the Iran desk:

      May 11, 2011 [PDF]
      link to foreign.senate.gov

    • Sand September 18, 2011 at 2:28 pm

      "...It’s becoming acceptable to talk about the Lobby, because the Lobby has done its job. It has successfully painted the US into a corner and the US will have to jump off the cliff with Israel..."

      It's looking bad I must admit. Most Americans are in the dark about the I-Lobby, as well as what the Democratic Party has become, but overseas -- the US is really looking like Israel's puppet -- which is just what Netanyahu wants it to look like.

      "...Any lobbying effort is a scheme to limit the choices of the lobbied..."

      I agree, but let's look at our options seriously -- both political parties (candidate) nomination process has been stitched up by the I-Lobby. E.g. Shelley Berkley as our next choice for a Democratic Senator -- I feel sick. I dread to think who they're thinking of to replace Lieberman - or is that yet another seat they are just going to hand over to the Republicans?

  • Netanyahu planning end-zone dance in Brooklyn's new Republican district
    • Sand September 18, 2011 at 3:22 pm

      I've been waiting for that conscience to kick in -- but sadly I don't think it's there -- or he's being threatened in some way.

    • Sand September 18, 2011 at 1:49 pm with 2 replies

      "...Phil, I sincerely hope you’re right about Obama biding his time (rope-a-dope per Muhammad Ali, let’s hope) until after election day to stand up to Netanyahu..."

      Not while the Democratic Party establishment is firmly in the hands of the I-Lobby, who is actively working AGAINST Obama when it comes to the United States' ME policy -- This includes the DNC (Debbie Wasserman-Schultz "..helped to form the National Jewish Democratic Council [AIPAC's watchdog in the Democratic Party] and served on the regional board of the American Jewish Congress..."), DCCC (Steve Israel - ex-American Jewish Congress, also remembering this is the guy that put a skewer in Chas Freeman's chances of joining the Administration), DSCC (Patty Murray [Ha!]/(Chuck Schumer a bloody mine-field [Chairman, Democratic Policy Committee]), and even prominent members of Obama's 2012 campaign management team!

      "Dream on" as the saying goes.

      The Democratic Party's main priority has become all about protecting and paying for Israel, Israel, Israel -- nothing more. Money and re-election comes before jobs and health-care.

      The Democrats knew there was a brewing problem with the Jewish political community within the Democratic Party -- and now Levy et. al can't hide it under the carpet any more.

      The Democrats take:
      NJDC Leaders Meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
      link to njdc.org

      The Republicans take:
      Brooks to DNC Chair: Support for Israel is a Legitimate Topic for Debate
      link to rjchq.org

    • Sand September 18, 2011 at 12:58 pm with 7 replies

      From the Guardian article:

      David Levy (on J-Street's Advisory Council): "...But the political perception is that if an issue can cost you with a **very small pool of voters** concentrated in certain states, like Florida (a critical swing state in presidential elections), you try and neutralise it from doing you harm. And this issue is doing Obama harm."

      I don't know if just using the words "very small" categorizes who they are! Also, it's most definitely not just Florida -- it's New York [ATM Central], California and even Pennsylvania.

      Also, M J Rosenberg is on to the likes of "...Ghaith Al-Omari, a former adviser to the Palestinian leadership and peace negotiating team who now lives in Washington, agrees..."(just like J-Street that the UN just happens not to be a suitable venue for the Palestinians to seek justice)

      Ghaitha Al-Omari with the 'American Task Force For Palestine' ATFP.

      "...Instead of challenging the lobby, ATFP started courting it, as if its goal of acceptance by policymakers required ingratiating itself with its adversaries.

      ATFP initially only engaged in dialogue with Jewish groups that support the two-state solution and are sympathetic to Palestinian rights. But in the past several years, it has branched out to build one-sided relations (one-sided because these groups maintain their hard line on matters relating to Israel) with organizations like AIPAC, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, the American Jewish Committee and, shamefully, the far-right Israel Project. (Here is a statement by the ATFP defending its relations with those organizations.)..."

      link to politicalcorrection.org

      Good one M J Rosenberg!

  • 'The Times' lies about Charles Percy's record
    • Sand September 18, 2011 at 10:42 am

      Talking of the Times. Rub my eyes and blow me down with a feather.

      h/t: MJ Rosenberg twitter

      Op-Ed Columnist - Israel: Adrift at Sea Alone
      By THOMAS L. FRIEDMA -
      Published: September 17, 2011
      link to nytimes.com

      "...U.S. government fed up with Israel’s leadership but a hostage to its ineptitude, because the **powerful pro-Israel lobby** in an election season can force the administration to defend Israel at the U.N., even when it knows Israel is pursuing policies not in its own interest or America’s.

      ...by **mobilizing Republicans in Congress to box in Obama** and by **encouraging Jewish leaders (including religious leaders) to suggest that Obama is hostile to Israel** and is losing the Jewish vote. And meanwhile, get the Israel lobby to hammer anyone in the administration or Congress who says aloud that maybe Bibi has made some mistakes, not just Barack..."

      link to nytimes.com

      Next, maybe W&M in the NYtimes?

      However, when Friedman talks sense you still have Bibi's defenders in the States.

      <blockquoteWhen To Apologize, And When Not To
      Gary Rosenblatt (Editor And Publisher of 'The Jewish Week') - Tuesday, September 13, 2011

      "...**The compelling case being made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu** is that an apology would not be enough to restore good relations with Turkey, whose leader increasingly is seeking to align himself with Israel’s enemies, including Iran and Hamas, and who insists that Israel end its blockade of Gaza.

      Moreover, an apology would undercut the blockade, give legitimacy to Turkey’s behavior and prompt bolder efforts to delegitimize Israel, including bringing legal cases against its political and military leaders in international courts.

      Even on Yom Kippur, the holiest and most solemn day on the Jewish calendar, when we repeatedly ask God for forgiveness for our sins, we also pray: “Our Father, our King, avenge, before our eyes, the spilled blood of your servants.”

      There are limits, then, to compassion, Judaism reminds us. Suicide, for an individual or nation, is forbidden. As King Solomon noted in Ecclesiastes, “There is a time for war and a time for peace.”

      We pray for peace, and do all we can to achieve it — short of weakening our core beliefs, mission or future. But there are times, like now, when Israel must say to those who make excessive demands, “enough,” not out of stubbornness or pride but self-respect — and self-preservation..."

      link to thejewishweek.com

      Shear self-righteousness and arrogance more like.

  • Congress threatens to cut aid to PA over statehood bid, but Israel urges them to reconsider
    • Sand September 17, 2011 at 2:19 pm

      Interesting, but not really surprised. This being all part of the PNAC neocon plan eh! - to take down a total of seven countries, beginning with Iraq, then Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Iran, Somalia and Sudan. Makes me wonder how many US "Mercenary boots on the ground" were used in Libya?

      --Wes Clark - America's Foreign Policy "Coup" (2007 talk)
      link to youtube.com

      Although, I do think it interesting whyWes Clark would then go and speak at a MEK sponsored event? Being part of "...The MEK's delisting campaign is funded by a fluid and enigmatic network of support groups based in the United States. According to an MEK leader, these groups are funded by money from around the world, which they deliberately shield from U.S. authorities..."?

      -- Mujahideen-e Khalq: Former U.S. Officials Make Millions Advocating For Terrorist Organization
      link to huffingtonpost.com

  • Raising money, AIPAC describes statehood initiative as threat to Israel's 'existence' and therefore 'an attack on America's security'
    • Sand September 16, 2011 at 8:36 pm

      Thanks that was v. useful.

      Article that provides some links to the researches and the debate.
      link to jewishideasdaily.com

      E.g there seems to be a Leonard Saxe who seems to think that Jewish youth get crankier and more attached as they age.

      As far as I can make out there was a massive Jewish population survey 2000-1 (before 911! mind you -- before AIPAC's membership #'s massively increased), and since then there have been a number smaller surveys done, as well as the annual American Jewish Committee’s surveys of course.

      NJPS 2000-01
      link to jewishfederations.org

      Very Interesting, lots to read.

    • Sand September 16, 2011 at 7:33 pm

      Can you remember the polling company, or even if it was a media poll e.g. CNN?

    • Sand September 16, 2011 at 6:28 pm with 5 replies

      >"..in the U.S. alienating younger liberal Jews that disapprove of Israel's handling of the conflict and lack of religious pluralism."<

      I haven't seen a poll on 'young liberal Jews' attitudes when it comes to Israel, settlements, boycotts etc.? Has anyone else?

  • Israeli officials say they are just trying to help Palestinians, and Americans, climb down out of the tree
    • Sand September 17, 2011 at 7:31 pm

      HOSTAGE: Tony Karon has a piece up at Time. He says, that David Levy (son of ... + on the J-Street Advisory Council) says that Abbas going to the UNSC allows the UNSC to stall any progress by referring the matter to a committee? Is that possible?

      "...An approach to the Security Council will actually reduce next week's much-hyped showdown during the General Assembly session in New York to little more than a series of predictable speeches. Going the Security Council route makes any action very unlikely. That's because the first response to a Security Council request to admit Palestine as a U.N. member state would that familiar Washington ritual: Setting up a committee.

      "Any application would almost certainly have to be considered by a technical committee of the whole, and that could take time," warns Levy. The process would almost certainly be drawn out well beyond the General Assembly session..."

      link to globalspin.blogs.time.com

  • How to run for Congress in the United States
    • Sand September 14, 2011 at 9:35 am

      Showing the un-nerving habit of Democrats literally giving away seats to Republicans.

      1. Edward Kennedy's seat > Scott Brown
      2. Barack Obama's seat > Mike Kirk!!
      3. Blanche Lincoln > John Boozman

    • Sand September 14, 2011 at 12:24 am with 2 replies

      From this news hunt it sounds like the Democrats never really wanted to win this seat --- why?

      --Democrats Pick David Weprin, an Assemblyman, to Run for Weiner’s Seat
      By DAVID W. CHEN - July 7, 2011
      link to cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com

      "...As a result of the 2010 census, New York must lose two Congressional seats, and some political observers believe that the Ninth District could be eliminated. **That means whoever wins Mr. Weiner’s seat could have a Congressional career lasting just 475 days.**

      "...Democratic leaders in Queens had weighed several candidates, but the leader of the Queens Democratic Party, Representative Joseph Crowley, [AIPAC neo-Slave] evidently determined that Mr. Weprin had the strongest résumé, and would be the least likely to challenge two neighboring members of Congress should the Ninth District be eliminated: Representative Gary L. Ackerman and Mr. Crowley himself. Political analysts said that if Mr. Weprin handled a Congressional stint well, he could raise his public profile [name recognition] for possible future appointments or elections, including a possible bid for citywide office in 2013..."

      So, possible conclusion -- a Democratic [AIPAC] nominee committee, and uber Jewish Zionist element in this district wanting ultimately a President in power that will give a 'paid' Congress to support an attack on a Iran?

  • Summer lesson
    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 1:26 pm

      Discrimination: The film "The Help" was a real eye-opener. Driving Miss Daisy was another film that really affected me.

  • 'DailyKos' bans Simone Daud, who sought to inject Palestinian view into US political discourse
    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 7:48 pm

      Yeah! Might help. He's probably never heard of it.

      Or, he can watch this series on Israel's History by Alan Hart:

      -- Israel - Alan Hart (Author : Zionism The real enemy of the Jews.)
      link to youtube.com

      Alan Hart often interviews Israel's "New Historians" e.g Avi Shaim, Ilan Pappé who have brought new historial information to light, especially after researching many of Israel's early government documents released in the early 1980's.

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 6:28 pm

      eee

      "...Finally you came up with a great idea. There is so much land in the US. Why don’t you offer some to the Palestinians refugees?..."

      I don't think the American Zionists would allow it -- Do you? And as for Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, and Nita Lowey their heads would probably explode at the mere thought of it. The thought of compensating Palestinians for anything! Have you lost it eee?

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 6:20 pm

      "...Pre 1948 they purchased or rented every piece of land they inhabited..."

      So, did your refugee grandparents have a lot of money? Or, did they have the land conveniently bought for them through one of the colonial zionist enterprises at the time e.g. Palestine Jewish Colonization Association, Palestine Land Development Company, or the Jewish National Fund?

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 3:41 pm

      "Buy" - a possible freudian slip there?

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 3:39 pm

      "...It’s too Chomsky..." and Stephen Zune.

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 12:23 pm

      Israel is not a strategic colonial asset to the US. Also, why are there are no US bases in Israel? All we get is crap intel from them which in turn leads American kids into wars they should never be a part of.

      I agree with American.

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 11:30 am

      When it comes to the Democratic Jewish community, it looks like the figure could be over 50% - in some Zionist attitudes well over 50%.

      -- Fall **2010** Survey of American Jewish Opinion
      link to ajc.org

      [Q6] In the AJC 2010 Fall poll the Jewish political community **62%** “approved” of the Netanyahu government’s handling of Israel-U.S. relations.”

      [Q9] AJC findings: For the November 2010 congressional elections **95%** thought Israel was IMPORTANT. (61%) Very Important, and (34%) Important.

      [Q11] In the current situation, **45%** oppose the establishment of a Palestinian state? 48% favor a Palestinian (the question is where?).

      [Q12] In the framework of a permanent peace with the Palestinians **60%** said Israel SHOULD NOT be willing to compromise on the status of Jerusalem as a united city under Israeli jurisdiction.

      [Q 13] As part of a permanent settlement with the Palestinians **37%** said Israel should be willing to dismantle NONE of the Jewish settlements in the West Bank, with 56% said SOME (again the question is where? e.g. wondering if Israel will be willing to give up land that's over an Aquifer?).

      -- House Dems Tapped For Jewish Outreach
      link to thejewishweek.com

      I really recommend people take the time to watch Rep. Steve Israel - the DCCC Head talking about how important Jewish (his words) interests are the party, and how he will cater to them.

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 12:37 am

      And how could I forget the DEMOCRATS working with the whacko Christian right in the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus.

      link to iiacf.org

      Whose sister caucus in Israel also has members on Israel's far right:

      Knesset Christian Allies Caucus
      link to cac.org.il

    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 12:19 am

      You really think it's only the Republican Jewish Coalition that cozy up to these guys?

      Our current DEMOCRATIC NV Senate 'nominee' Shelley Berkley.

      --"...U.S. Rep. Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.), one of [& you better believe there's more than one!] the more hard-line Democrats in Congress. ***Berkley told the group of Christian Zionists*** on Tuesday that “to pin the peace process” on the settlement issue “is absolutely foolhardy.”

      To publicly dress down the State of Israel is a huge mistake,” she said to a huge ovation from the 4,000 delegates at the group’s fourth annual conference..."

      link to jta.org

      Both parties are at it.

    • Sand September 10, 2011 at 11:58 pm

      "...Which senator he worked for is immaterial..."

      Ya think? Wow... I'm really really surprised! I guess you wouldn't care about Jeremy Bash [AIPAC]. The Jewish establishment in the DEMOCRATIC PARTY was even going to be put this guy up against a Democratic candidate who dared to be even-handed with Israel. The symbiotic relationship is in both party. It maybe not so overt in the Democratic Party, and racist but it's damn well there.

      --Moran Seen To Face Primary Challenge
      By Eli Kintisch
      Published March 21, 2003, issue of March 21, 2003.
      link to forward.com

      Jeremy Bash who *worked* for Jane Harman -- and was/IS Chief of Staff for Leon Panetta in the CIA 'and' DOD -- and you really think these 'AIPAC bit' players and who they work/have worked for is immaterial too?

      Nothing is Immaterial! There's always a bigger picture.

    • Sand September 10, 2011 at 8:51 pm with 4 replies

      Do you mean: David Brog?

      "...Before his work with CUFI, Brog worked in the United States Senate for seven years, rising to be chief of staff to Senator Arlen Specter and staff director of the Senate Judiciary Committee..."

      link to en.wikipedia.org

      Arlen Specter, a Republican that the Democratic 'nomination' power brokers wanted to bring into the burning tent! Arlen, also well respected and loved by the PA jewish political community -- noting no $$$ love appeared when Joe Sestak was finally chosen in the PA primary, by gasp, -- the actual PA Democratic Party VOTERS.

      -- "...[Mark] Aronchik ("Jewish political fundraiser" - Jewish Exponent), who has been involved in Pennsylvania politics for decades, the community’s choice in this primary race is clear: “Jewish voters have an overwhelming sense of confidence and clarity on where he stands.”

      And Specter seems to have confidence in his Jewish voters..."
      link to forward.com

      CUFI 2011 Washington Summit Speakers
      link to cufi.org

    • Sand September 10, 2011 at 6:15 pm with 9 replies

      "...Liberal Zionists were responsible for ethnic cleansing, aggressive wars, occupation, closure, curfew, racial segregation and the settlements. Its has very natural alliance with Christian reactionary forces..."

      Absolutely!

      So when Israel finally implodes the Liberal Zionists, who have turned a blind eye to their supposed enemies financing the settlements, will have only themselves to blame.

      A 2010 article showing another example of the Jewish Establishment silencing other "articulate" I/P peace advocates.

      -- Zeek Suspends Hagee Coverage Under Political, Legal Assault
      link to richardsilverstein.com

  • DNC agenda: 1, jobs, 2, healthcare, 3, 'Jewish messaging'
    • Sand September 11, 2011 at 2:21 am

      This back in January -- The Democratic Party is looking pretty contemporary Zionist to me.

      -- House Dems Tapped For Jewish Outreach
      Tuesday, January 18, 2011
      Adam Dickter

      "As part of their efforts to retake the House in 2012, Democrats are ramping up their outreach to Jewish voters and donors, reactivating a national outreach committee.

      Long Island’s Steve Israel, the new chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, has appointed veteran ***Reps. Shelly Berkley*** of Nevada and Adam Schiff of California and freshman Ted Deutch of Florida to co-chair the committee’s American Jewish Outreach Council. ***Israel has chaired that outreach council in the past.***

      Israel said he has “pronounced differences with the Obama administration” on its approach to the Mideast peace process.

      “I don’t believe that the issue of settlements should define the U.S.-Israeli relationship,” he said. He said House Democrats would make clear to the president that “the bottom line is that it’s absolutely critical that if we expect Israel ... to compromise, we have an obligation to watch its back and give it all the strength and comfort it needs to make whatever compromises it believes are necessary.”

      link to thejewishweek.com

      Really!

  • 'J St' comes out against Palestinian statehood initiative
    • Sand September 9, 2011 at 11:19 am

      "...My experience at the membership end is that all of the people I met would support the Palestinian UN membership bid..."

      Q. Then why are they still members?

      I find it very difficult to believe that those 1000's (?) of supposed progressive 'political' American Jews who are members of J-Street didn't see, or figured out (by now!) what AIPAC's and J-Street's 'game' really was? To me J-Street is looking more and more a cover for those progressive American Jews who under the surface are nothing more than hardcore Zionists, who have no interest in pushing Israel to negotiate, let alone justice. They've been BS'ing us from the start.

  • Do-gooding young American Jews aren't that interested in Israel
    • Sand June 28, 2011 at 12:50 am

      "Here's an interesting data point. Daniel Sieradski reports on a new study of Jewish millennials (18-35) and their volunteer/service work. Zionism is not mentioned in the full report."

      Yes, I'm far more interested in the "political involvement" vs. cover my quota arse "social 'touchy-feely' volunteering" category. For example, delving into the political sh*t-stirring involvement, and statistics of the VOLUNTEER membership of organizations such as Birthright, TribeFest 2011, as well as the promoted old and new Saban AIPAC alumi and intern recruits.

  • Obama is driving a wedge with settlements, in the American polity
    • Sand June 3, 2011 at 6:21 pm

      However, what you neglected to reveal from the same CNN poll is this:

      22. In the Middle East conflict, do you think the United States should take Israel's side, take the Palestinians' side, or not take either side? [May 24-26 2011]

      Israel’s side 32%
      Palestinians' side 1%
      Not take either side 65%
      No opinion 2%

      Meaning when it comes down to it... well over a majority of AMERICANS are more interested in PRO-American issues rather than Israel's -- PLUS, if they really knew and were INFORMED how much American tax-payer $$$ was going into propping up this Israeli oops "Jewish" (ally) regime/State -- I think the American public would be would be singing a very different tune -- "ally" regardless.

  • Major New Weblog Features: The Anti Hypocrite Tools
  • Pressure on Obama recalls similar pressure on Bush 20 years ago
    • Sand May 31, 2011 at 2:12 pm

      Also, remembering the taped conversation with President David Steiner of the AIPAC (at the time) bragging about the power he had over Clinton.

      link to wrmea.com

    • Sand May 31, 2011 at 2:11 pm

      "...Obama owes his political career to many of Chicago’s Jewish elites. In turn, he surrounded himself with AIPAC agents in order to repay the favor..."

      Yes, also of note: Lee "Rosy" Rosenberg now 'President' of AIPAC served on Obama's national finance committee .

      link to articles.chicagotribune.com

  • Some questions about a transition to one state
    • Sand June 1, 2011 at 3:22 pm

      Thanks! -- by cross-referencing and with the help of Wikipedia I think I'm getting there...

      I'm really hoping there are enough members states that will provide 'full' and I guess "unequivocal" recognition of an existing Palestinian State.

    • Sand May 31, 2011 at 2:26 pm

      “…Bottom line: 1ss is a “never again”. We will always need a state of our own, no matter how small it is. Keep on working harder for the 2ss…"

      Well you picked a pretty weird place to call home. Apparently, you’re lead there by a book, which neglects to tell you that you’re basically going to have to be walled in for the rest of time… — continually in fear that the previous owners will come knocking at your door. As well as making the strangest of friends ever in the form of Christian Zionists that basically want to see you dead so Jesus can return? I mean talk about setting yourself up

    • Sand May 31, 2011 at 1:45 pm with 1 replies

      "...Bottom line: 1ss is a “never again”. We will always need a state of our own, no matter how small it is. Keep on working harder for the 2ss...

      Well you picked a pretty weird place to call home. Apparently, you're lead there by a book, which neglects to tell you that you're basically going to have to walled in for the rest of time... -- continually in fear that the previous owners come knowing at your door. As well as making the strangest friends ever in the form of Christian Zionists that basically want to see you dead so Jesus can return? I mean talk about setting yourself up!

    • Sand May 31, 2011 at 1:26 pm with 3 replies

      Is there some kind of lay-persons summary article that can explain what's going on? I admit I'm not following the pursuit of a Palestinian State through the UN 24/7 (like you), and I'm definnitely not a legal eagle (noting, most of us aren't), but I do wonder if Abbas is really going to go through with this? I'm so used to seeing him as the US and Israeli puppet. Who else is pushing Abbas?

    • Sand May 31, 2011 at 12:05 am

      "...The retrograde power of the Israel Lobby, led by American [political] Jews, is a huge obstacle to any peaceable 1SS, and I’ve not seen it even mentioned elsewhere in this thread, let alone treated seriously. Unless the American Jewish lobby can be turned, you can’t expect that Israeli Jews will even consider giving up the Jewish State without a huge, bloody fight..."

      Absolutely, that's why we must continue to shine as much sunshine on that night flower as we possibly can. That includes 'outing' the lobby's supporters from both parties who (definitely within the supposedly liberal/progressive wing of the Democratic Party) would much prefer to remain in the dark. and have their proxies negotiate "behind closed doors".

      That's why Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (gatekeeper) desperately doesn't what a discussion about the Israel-Firster's in the Democratic party. In addition, to Jeffrey Goldberg discomfort after Bibi's show of arrogance revealing far too much the extent of Israel's influence within our government.

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 6:58 pm

      Throughout the article Mr Schlomka still ignores that fact that the US and Europe would be expected to fund and support his plan?

      e.g. "...Today the West Bank settlers buy subsidized homes with infrastructure paid for by the Israeli state – water supply, roads, electricity, tax breaks etc, making the homes ridiculously cheap and attractive to Israelis..."

      And why are they so cheap? The US cannot go on subsidizing Israel with its mad dreams and never-ending demands for the US to foot Israel's security bill to have to uphold these ludicrous dreams.

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 6:48 pm

      A binational state of all of its citizens seems to me the most logical course. With equal representation of both Palestinians and Israeli's. The State being secular e.g. neither Jewish or Islamic. Hopefully without bloodshed. However, what's to say we won't have bloodshed anyways if we continue with the status quo?

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 6:40 pm

      "...Isn’t the PLO regarded as “the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people...”

      Nope! not until we have the long-awaited elections between Fatah and Hamas go ahead.

      NYTimes [4/27/11]: JERUSALEM — The two main Palestinian factions, Fatah and Hamas, announced Wednesday that they were putting aside years of bitter rivalry to create an interim unity government and hold elections within a year, a surprise move that promised to reshape the diplomatic landscape of the Middle East.
      link to nytimes.com

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 1:38 pm

      big trough

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 1:26 pm

      "...A year of shock and recognition has now led to great curiosity about the how the transition to One State is going to come about..."

      It's early days -- Personally, I've only recently come to the conclusion that the 2ss is truly a no-go, a 1ss being the only solution left, but how to get there with so many variables still unknown? The journey has just begun.

      Wow! interesting questions.

      One thing tho' :Will Israel succeed in forestalling the One State Solution for decades to come by buying off Palestinians with PA jobs?

      If the US economy continues to get worse -- I really do wonder how long both parties will be able to justify feeding (universal health-care) Israel with taxpayers $$$? Regarding the big touch: Republicans already have a revulsion paying $$$ into the PA. Maybe the Europeans will follow suit when they see the enviable happening -- i.e. Apartheid.

  • Land swaps? Israel doesn't have enough land to give the Palestinians
    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 12:47 pm

      The Arabs invaded the Palestinian state in 1948 and destroyed it.

      As if the Israeli's weren't itching for a fight - grief!

      If the US withdrew it's military aid tomorrow, and all the other protections and freebies that Israel gets from reluctant US taxpayers -- then what do you think will happen? You really think you'll be still be able to hold onto the land you stole?

      If you can't make deal soon -- you really will be alone -- all by your own making.

  • Republican drumbeat begins: Obama will bring about 'destruction' of Israel
    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 12:10 pm

      From what I've seen -- it seems to be all about pushing buttons -- The establishment Democrats don't want it to be 'possibly?' revealed that political Jewish Democrats see "...Israel and support for Israel as a litmus test..."* and that the Democrats support for Israel would override social issues when it comes down to "Jewish" voting. That would be a no-no. However, why shouldn't that discussion be carried out in the open?

      *President and CEO of the National Jewish Democratic Council @ TribeFest.

      Hence, why it appears we are getting these kinda stories in the supposedly progressive/moderate Jewish Press [?]:

      Republicans Use Israel To Attract Jewish Voters — And Jewish Money
      Nathan Guttman 5/25/11
      Read more: link to forward.com

      Don’t Make Us Choose
      Editorial 5/25/11
      link to forward.com

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 11:55 am

      "...Anyone who says that there is any difference between the political parties is reading tea leaves, not transcripts, road maps, or voting records..."

      I agree, but for some reason the fight seems to be within Jewish community rather than the low-information voters in the wider community that haven't got a clue why it should matter.

      link to thejewishweek.com

      I mean hardcore-Zionists trying to paint AIPAC-lite/Pro-Zionist J-Street as the devil is quite extraordinary to watch.

      Plus, if the Jewish Florida voters are so into protecting Medicare (understanding they also don't want to pay any taxes, or be restricted in anyway by donating to Israel), why oh why would they have a Republican William Daroff, VP for PUBLIC POLICY of the Jewish Federations of North America and a former RJC official advocating to keep Medicare. Hello! and by the way, how has that debate been going lately!

    • Sand May 30, 2011 at 11:42 am

      "...They feel as if they have been sold down the river, and worse than that, from their point-of-view, not only set up, but used…"

      So, taking this revelation to the next step, now we know the Democratic party has been stitched up by the Israel-Firsters in the DNC/DCCC/DSCC -- who have a record of being more fervent over Israel issues than social issues -- is the African American voter even going to turn up for the next election?

  • Egypt working with Israel on Rafah policy
    • Sand May 29, 2011 at 6:41 pm

      GF: "...This may be the least astute prediction I have ever read here..."

      Believe you me -- coming from you I take this as compliment. You, at times, sound like you are living on a different planet than most people.

      GF: "...It’s in everyone’s interest that the Palestinian state succeeds just as it’s in everyone’s interest that Israel does too..."

      Don't even try this BS with me. You have absolutely no interest in negotiating a "fair", "equitable" and "sustainable" 2ss -- and more importantly neither does the leadership of Israel (they have made that VERY clear).

    • Sand May 29, 2011 at 12:29 pm with 3 replies

      I totally understand why the Palestinians want to go to the UN GA for recognition of 'a' Palestinian State. If nothing else it will show the World that Israel is indeed a 'Pariah State'. The Israeli's (and their US supporters) will scream and shout, even foam at the mouth, lash out about how victimized and hated they are, but they will look small, pathetic and will utimately be seen for the propped-up expensive enterprise they've become [bring on BDS].

      For the Palestinians to have any chance of a State (a 2s) -- they will 'initially' need money and security (long-term economical sustainability -- do we really need to go there!) -- neither of which the US and the Israeli's will give them. The Israeli's solution is for the Palestinians to give up, and move on which I can't see happening -- So, I predict with the weight of Israeli cognitive dissonance (living in an Apartheid State), and Jewish Zionists around the world (seeing what Israel has become) will become unbearable, and the 'Jewish' State of Israel will finally implode. I just hope when the Israeli's and Zionist Jews figure that out they won't take the region down with them.

    • Sand May 28, 2011 at 6:55 pm with 6 replies

      I can't seem to post over at Jerome Slater's blog [?]-- but I think it's important to read his latest entry about the Z-Lobby and the mindset of Israel's leaders and the majority of its citizenry!

      A (Half-Hearted) Defense of the Congressional Democrats [5/26/11]
      by Jerome Slater
      link to jeromeslater.com

      Sh**! (too spooky) -- just finished listening to Alan Hart and then immediately came to your site -- saying the same thing about what Israel will do if it doesn't get its way!@

      Interview with Alan Hart (Part 2 of 3)
      link to youtube.com

      Now that most rational people realize the 2ss is well and truly DEAD --the 1ss is the only solution (basically brought on by the Isareli's, the Zionist Lobby and its US supporters) -- and now both you and Hart are saying that Israel would rather go for the Samson option than accept the "de-Zionization of Israel' -- which will basically give the Christian zionists their xmas present -- their Armageddon. Unbelievable.

      And for Iran to attack Israel, is an absolute myth -- and you know it. Iran would be decimated if it attacked Israel.

  • Obama's mild defiance at AIPAC cost him $10 million in Jewish donations
    • Sand May 27, 2011 at 10:48 pm

      Interesting site -- to find postings on unions and state entities etc. who are not happy about forced purchase of State of Israel Bonds (I would have liked more links -- but usually you can google the text to get the source links/or original blog)

      link to dumpisraelbonds.com

    • Sand May 27, 2011 at 10:44 pm

      "Red Sox's" Daily Kos diary 'frequent tags' reminded me -- Saban put $251,000 of his own $$$ into McAuliffe's failed campaign. Just think, that's just '1' campaign. [Stephen Bing gave $250,000].

      link to projects.washingtonpost.com

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