"So what is Israel actually trying to achieve? Basically, nothing. There is a superficial peace process which is going nowhere but eases international pressure on Israel to reach a deal with the Palestinians.
Netanyahu prides himself on his decades-long relationship with Biden, but managed to destroy it Tuesday night when Israel spat in the vice president's face. Barak and Netanyahu's grave explanations, that they "didn't know," "didn't hear," didn't see" each time a new plan is approved for construction, (or on the flip side, demolition) in East Jerusalem - see Sheikh Jarrah, Silwan and more - are dwarfed by the current embarrassment caused to the American administration." Ha'aretz
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Biden has been a faithful friend to Israel for a long time. Perhaps "mindless" friend would be a more accurate description.
I mentioned once here that I was in Biden's senate office on one occasion when Biden's Zionism boiled over in a truly repulsive display of temper. I was there with my Arab employer to visit the senator. the Arab didn't want anything except to meet Biden. He was foolish enough to think that an acquaintance with such people is a kind of talisman. It is not. The Arab made some pro forma positive reference to the "peace process." Biden flew into a rage, grew red in the face and shouted that this was an insincere lie and that his guest knew that it was only Arab stubbornness that prevented "little Israel' from living in peace. His "guest" sat through this with what dignity he could manage. I would have walked out on him if I had been alone.
Perhaps "Joe the Gardener" has learned something from this latest experience... I doubt it. I don't think he is smart enough for that sort of epiphany. He will continue to "carry water" for Israel and for the group of political donors who actually control him. Delaware is a small state. Such a project is quite manageable. Someone among you will inform us.
What should have happened yesterday? Cancellation of the visit would have been the right response. pl
