FP reporting what the lap dog press will not. Need to continue with this reporting to get real stories and information out to people who actually have the ability to think.
Bottom line is, who could have seen Slow Joe’s policies being so disastrous for the country, economy, and the entire world? Oh yeah, Obama said it best, “Never underestimate Joe’s ability to F__k things up “. Well also anyone with a rational mind also could see this happening.
“And Ukraine’s embassy in Israel blasted Jerusalem “…………We expect Israel to be on the right side of history!””
———————————————————-
Is everyone in Ukraine a corrupt manipulative pervert, or what? That is some top notch narcissistic abuser shit right there.
They have some really attractive women in Ukraine according to the internet, but, Jesus Christ, everyone who is in charge is a low rent street hustler.
Connecting Israel to Ukraine is the dumbest possible reason to have another Holocaust so I’m sure that’s exactly what we will do. I hate everyone so much. Enjoy your weekend.
I've been against the Ukraine business from the start. Not because I like Russia or Putin (I absolutely do NOT!). But because I was aware of the things the U.S. had done in Ukraine--starting 2014--that helped set up this conflict. Things that--whether they amounted to actual provocation or not--gave Putin ready excuses to *claim* that Russia was provoked.
Meanwhile, the media helpfully ignored Ukraine's years-long civil conflict against its eastern Russian-speaking provinces, as if that had nothing to do with anything.
And it quickly became obvious that this was a proxy war with Russia, cheered on by people who seem to be disappointed that the Cold War ever ended.
As time has gone on, more and more has been revealed about activities by U.S. politicians (evidently on both sides of the aisle) that basically amount to money-laundering. Considering the high level of corruption in Ukraine, it's not surprising that became a prime location for that kind of high-dollar fraud.
Recently it has come out that peace talks would have been welcomed months ago...but the U.S. squashed them. At this point, Ukrainians are suffering and dying because corrupt leaders there and in the U.S. would rather make money than save lives.
“Recently it has come out that peace talks would have been welcomed months ago...but the U.S. squashed them.”
The US and the UK squashed peace talks. Boris Johnson, Prime Minister at the time, legged it over to Kyiv sharpish and talked Zelensky out of the proposition.
The US dumped Billions of Dollars in the corrupt state that is Ukraine and is surprised now that this country is even more corrupt than before. Who would have thought that You can't fight corruption with tons of money nobody accounts for.
That whole thing is even funny when You really think about it....
One more thing...It is still infuriating that he got away with having the affair with that Chinese spy. I think her name was Fang Fang? Most people probably have no clue about that.
Been to war as has my family. I never advocated for war. I advocate for getting rid of Hamas leadership. I am fairly certain the average Gaza resident would like to just live but with Hamas stealing everything and choosing to elect violence, you sure can not give in to killing. That will only get you more killed. So you have a choice, kill them or let them continue to kill. That’s a question for Israel to answer and not me. I simply support their right to exist as others should have the same rights.
You underestimate the fanatic, genocidal hatred of the typical Gazan. I believe that a majority of them are happy to die in this war if it means getting rid of the evil (to them) Jews. Just look how they threw tens of thousands of Gazans against the border fence in past years in an attempt to break through, with those Gazans knowing they could be shot.
Why can't they? You mean "Why DON'T they?" Most Gazans assent to the slaughter of Jews. They have been taught this for about two generations now, in schools, in media, and in the mosques. They are more complicit than the western press is making them out to be.
I am curious about it though. Gaza has a population of just over 2 million and half of that is under 18. (The population has doubled since 2005 so clearly no "genocide" has occurrd.) I think there are other groups competing or coordinating with Hamas so it seems there should be resistance. Were there street protests in Gaza to condemn Hamas'10/7 acts?
The guns In the hands of Hamas. The citizens generally don’t mind dead Jews anyway. They’re taught to hate them from the cradle. The minority who don’t want Hamas have no chance
Lynne, watch this. Perhaps there is some salvation for the Palestinians. Let’s hope this man is right and they are just cannon fodder and can see their way to peace.
I started to draw a distinction for Cuba given how many leave and I am reading that the populace is more openly (if that is the right word) dissatisfied. I think you and I agree on the state or status of the populaces just not about the impact thereof. I think that subjugated people should stand up and resist. I think that is the only way to be free of subjugation because even if you flee it you are still a victim. I think that is true of the "refugees" and "asylum seekers" flooding Europe and the U S too. Before you say but the Gazans would be killed for doing so, they are being killed already in Israel's response to 10/7. If they disavow Hamas now is the time to show it. Do I sympathize with people subjugated? Of course. Does that mean they are entitled to a free pass? No. Not in my opinion. But I am surprised at the number here who do.
“In 2017, he joined the Trump administration and helped craft the defining geopolitical pivot of our era: the identification of China as a strategic competitor.”
——————————————————-
Actually the key pivot was just having a few people in charge who were not paid off by China.
The war between Israel and Hamas is many things: a fight for the Jewish state’s survival
As Israel's and American citizen, I fully disagree with this statement, Hamas is in no way danger for survival of Israel, nor is Iran. This is not Yom Kippur War or some wars from the past. What happend on 10/7 was more similar to 9/11. Small group of fanatics have by luck, incompetence of Israeli government or combination of both things have managed to commit massive terrorist attack.
Question now is, will Israel be smarter that USA has been, we ended in 2 decades of endless wars, that have done nothing but eroded our stance on global stage and at same time cost us trillions of $$$.
And for US this is a test, will it give in to neocons and military industrial complex and will it bring us to another foreign engagement in middle east.
Its like we havent learned anything from Iraq and Afghanistan.
As long as Hamas holds the people of Gaza under their boots they indeed are a threat. If Hamas can be destroyed by eliminating the leadership, then maybe there can be peace. But about 1400 would disagree with you, but their voices have been silenced. Evil is evil and must never be given any quarter.
Sure they are treat, but in no mean they are existential threat to Israel. Funny thing is that it only US press is pushing this narrative that this is fight for survival of Israel when it is more similar to Second Intifada.
And please dont use that trope of "1400 are silent" it is for the lack of better word discusting.
I have family and friends in Israel and that are in IDF. It is easy to be pro War when you dont have skin in the game.
Raziel, just a friendly suggestion: Try installing a program such as "Grammarly" on your computer to help correct misspelling and unclear statements. It will remove any misunderstandings some may have from your second language usage. Otherwise, continue on with your comments. https://www.grammarly.com/
They can be a threat, but not a threat to State of Israel existence. Hamas attacks were localized within 30km of Gaza border. Then these brutal murders took hostages and slunk back to caves beneath Gaza soil. Oliver stated Hamas was threat to State of Israel. That is over the top and false language. It it misinformation
Most attacks of civilians on ground were actually much closer, with 5km of Gaza. You can see in this map. That said, I’d be mad as hell if I lived in Tel Aviv and rockets landed in my neighborhood
Totally agree, Raziel. This is in no way, shape or form a fight for State of Israel survival. That is extreme hyperbole. I say this as a supporter of Jews, and State of Israel. Oliver and others like him use this extreme language I think to support / justify ‘revenge’ and in some cases against Hamas, but also to further justify big $ neocon spending, stand up to Iran, etc.
They're not a threat to Israel. In combination with Hezbollah, launching thousands of rockets and paralyzing the country, they ARE an existential threat.
There is also the possibility that they will put poison gas or biological weapons on those rockets. Remember that the Hamas Nazis were caught with instructions on how to make cyanide gas. If Hamas can make rockets, it can make crude cyanide gas warheaes.
You don't know this was a small group of fanatics. Luck?...it's more likely a well-orchestrated attack that was months in planning, quickly & well executed.
Will Israel be smarter than the US? What?
Smart like turn the other cheek? Hamas started this war and Israel should and will finish it.
BTW, you should brush up on your English, diction, grammar, and word choice.
As long as you can understand what it being written, it's not necessary to criticize someone's English, diction, grammar, and word choice. Pendantism is not a healthy postion to assume.
Native English speakers have no idea how hard it is to learn English as a 2nd language. It's hard for people to learn any new language, and English speakers (especially Americans) feel that everyone should address us in perfect English. It is another trait that makes us look even more entitled than usual to the rest of the world. I've tried Hindi, German, and Spanish, and retained only bits and pieces. Those speaking ESL get a lot of slack from me, as I assume they are very articulate in their native tongue.
I try to limit my pedantism to native English speakers fucking up their own language, using made up words like irregardless (even my spell check knows that's not a word). If one can't even do one's own language properly, perhaps shy away from berating others how are doing it in addition to their native tongue. And also to point out mistakes when made by people who are blathering hate so loud that they forget even simple things like i before e, except after c. Your takedown on the syntax in your next comment is really nice. Guten tag, mein Herr.
Danke. Always nice to get a sane reply. I've tried my hand at Spanish, French and Greek. I was able to carry on simple conversations and even after 60 yrs. I remember a few words in each language and not enough to have a convesation. After 10 yrs. Thai has defeated me. I'm too old to learn a complex & dificult language.
I don't understand the "Small group" reference. Who are you talking to? Ditto "Luck" Is it necessary to call people foul names? "Jerkoff" really? I won't comment on the syntax of your last sentence.
Dude, this will be my last reply, and my comments are directed at the piece of trash defending the mullahs who tortured innocent Jews, raped young women, and burned babies alive. Need I go on?
A bit of advice....next time before you weigh in read the entire thread.
I generally like your comments and won't hold this against you.
We should all try speaking Hebrew before we criticise ESL people. Do you speak Hebrew, or any second language? If you do, you’ll know the difficulties of writing in it, let alone addressing very complex issues in a public forum.
You are so right. This is a planned coup by Iran, yes, but also Putin and Xi Jinping. We must not fall for their trap. It should be a stealthy, small, contained battle directly targeting Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Iranian IRGC, which is also a terrorist group. Have you heard the lecture by Niko Sotirakopolous about the role of the left in the ME and communism?
I think that the main goal of Hamas in the 10/7 attacks was to provoke a triggered response that would kill so many Palestinians that the world would turn even more against Israel. Hamas seeks to maximize civilian deaths on both sides. Seems pretty evil to me.
Great... In the aftermath of our Keystone Cops withdrawal from Afghanistan and appeasement of Iran, we find ourselves preparing to go to war under the command of the weakest and most feckless Commander-in-Chief since Jimmy Carter.
There's a world of difference between taking aggressive action when required and warmongering There's a world of difference between standing firm and appeasing the aggressor. We have first-hand evidence of what Joe Biden will do.
Bush: he warmongered. There was no reason to attack Iraq.
Biden: blew up a peace deal Zelensky was about to sign, just to keep his dipshit war going against Russia
Both are bad. So is Obama, for ramping up the use of killer robot planes, even using them to assassinate American citizens who had not been arrested, indicted, tried, convicted, or sentenced. Interestingly enough for the Trump haters, he didn't start any new wars. They all suck.
Jimmy Carter is the last decent human to hold the office.
I agree with you probably more than you think. Let me preface this by saying that I served in the Marine Corps under Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush 41 and Clinton. I have never been a member of, or beholden to the Republican or Democratic parties.
Clinton said he loathes the military but repeatedly sent our people into shitholes that we had no business being in. It was under Clinton that we became the world's policemen. Therefore, I voted for W in 2000 because he promised "No nation building." Soon after, he started two wars of choice and pushed through the so-called PATRIOT Act, so I have voted Libertarian ever since. Not that I believe in the LP, but it's my way of flipping the bird to both major parties and simply not voting is a sign of nothing more than apathy. I want them to know that I actively reject them.
I rate W as the second worst president of my lifetime, second only to Lyndon Johnson with over 10,000 Americans killed for no good reason vs. 59,000 killed by Johnson.
History shows that being prepared for war is the only path to peace. For all of his other faults, and there were many, Reagan was the only one who understood the concept of Peace Through Strength. I voted for him both times and everyone I knew was proud to serve under him.
Trump seems to understand it, but there are too many other reasons that I never have and never will vote for him.
Under Ford and Carter, the military was neglected and Carter even said that we did not need a pay raise at a time when a Corporal who was married rated Food Stamps and if they had a child, rated Welfare. Carter dithered during the hostage crisis and we hung our heads in shame to be serving under him. That was one of the few occasions where an aggressive response was appropriate and we are paying the price for Carter's lack of leadership to this day.
I was going to vote for Carter in '76, but we deployed to Norway that fall and even though absentee voting has been around since the 1864 election, they made no effort to make us aware of that. It was only later that I was glad that I did not vote for him. I will be the first to say that Carter was the best ex-president we've ever had, but the most feckless Commander-in-Chief that I ever served under.
The first lesson of economics is scarcity. The first rule of politics is ignoring the first rule of economics. Thomas Sowell (quote approximate).
He also said that when people demand the impossible, only liars can satisfy them. The logical corrolary of course is that stupid and decadent people more or less demand to be lied to. The irony in our own time is that most of the time the lies are obvious but most people in this country STILL can't figure them out. Figuring THAT fact out is a preoccupation of my own.
Today we call the people who seem to have lost their minds and believe any lie they’re told, “Stupid”, for want of a better word. It always seemed to me to be an inadequate word for the insanity. But I’ve changed my mind. Here’s why it is so apt, in Bonhoeffer’s own words from prison.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer vehemently opposed Hitler, Nazism and Eugenics even though it cost him his life. The Nazis executed him just before WWII ended. He was a man of great intellect, they couldn’t bear that.
“Stupidity is a more dangerous enemy of the good than malice. One may protest against evil; it can be exposed and, if need be, prevented by use of force. Evil always carries within itself the germ of its own subversion in that it leaves behind in human beings at least a sense of unease. Against stupidity we are defenseless. Neither protests nor the use of force accomplish anything here; reasons fall on deaf ears; facts that contradict one’s prejudgment simply need not be believed – in such moments the stupid person even becomes critical – and when facts are irrefutable they are just pushed aside as inconsequential, as incidental. In all this the stupid person, in contrast to the malicious one, is utterly self satisfied and, being easily irritated, becomes dangerous by going on the attack. For that reason, greater caution is called for when dealing with a stupid person than with a malicious one. Never again will we try to persuade the stupid person with reasons, for it is senseless and dangerous.
I watched a documentary on Bonhoefer. He was heroic. He didn't need to be in Germany. He had a post in New York from which he easily could have sat out the war. But his conscience would not allow him.
And agreed. Being stupid is being without reason, and as one of the Founding Fathers once wrote, trying to reason with someone who has renounced it is like giving medicine to someone already dead.
Bonhoeffer was a true hero in the fact that he spoke up loudly and clearly when he knew it would cost him his life. Today, our moronic politicians support a terrorist group and more than likely fundraise off those efforts and get reelected.
At this point, it would be a game changer to find one politician who is actually intelligent and can fix actual problems. Smarts in the US, especially at the very top, are in short supply,
In my view Trump proved you dont need to be that smart or really even try that hard to make things better. You just need to TRY. To make an honest effort. To not call tearing things that work apart progress.
Trump proved this country is not that hard to run: we have just had crooks in charge for many decades. And it has mainly been those crooks who hate him.
Reading Niall F, JD Vance and the others, makes clear, the wheels have been in motion while the US and Israel were asleep. This war to eliminate Israel is well underway and we can only react. The enemy has the initiative. The US can only react... we've been caught flat footed.
I think America is getting close to the endgame now. Throughout history every attempt by any nation to rule over the entire world ended the same predictable way: The military and economic might of that country got overstretched and finally collapsed under all that heavy weight.
America can't fight all this wars at the same time. Ukraine......Israel......maybe Taiwan next......not talking about all the other conflicts the US choose to involve itself which do not make it into the headlines or the enormous burden of maintaining more than a thousand military bases worldwide....to suppress any opposition to the American Empire wherever it occurs.
But in order to retain its sole superpower status it has to pretend it can. Well America's enemies have studied history and know how to knock the big bully out. Just start conflicts here and there and over there, all at the same time and soon enough the giant will fall of exhaustion......
It's the Americans who are out of touch, because they believe their own propaganda that the US is just helping people all over the world to be free. The truth is quite a bit uglier than that. The US is only advancing its own economic and geostrategic interests and absolutely disregards the interests of the affected people when it meddles in foreign countries and is trying to disguise it as some kind of selfless noble mission. And of course they expect the whole world to thank them for that. In fact most of the world hates the US for their selfishness posing as selflessness. Something that most Americans will never understand, because they fall for their own propaganda and do not have a clue what really happens in their name. Waking up to reality will be quite painful for people like You, trust me on that one.
I want a multipolar world that's in balance. I do not trust any country enough to want it ruling over me. Not the US, not China, not India nor any other country. Because in the end they will always place their own interest over mine. That's a fact of life.
Maybe to try to get some of the wealth back You stole from them?
Money is a strong magnet, but You shouldn't mistake that attraction for love. Once Your wealth is a thing of the past You will find out how much this world really loves You.
....and You just showed You true colours. You are a fascist. An enemy of free speech.
And no, I will never allow fascists to shut me up. You will have to live with opinions like mine or You should move to a forum where opinions You don't like are censored away by some fellow fascist of Yours.
Humor aside, you're out of line. Not on your points, but the way you express them. "America, Love It or Leave It!" is really antiquated. I'm actually surprised you haven't used the term "raghead" yet, so there may be hope.
The only ones who are supposed to rule over me are those who are elected by me and my fellow citizens in a democratic election. Anything else is called "tyranny"!
......and I don't recall having ever seen names like Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Xi Ping or Vladimir Putin on any ballot that came before me. I haven't elected any of those people and none of them has any right top rule over me.
Probably not the right place to point out the only “foreign ground” the US has “taken” has been used to bury our dead. Out of touch? This may be the most out of touch comment I’ve read here. Of course the US is advancing its national interest. You think China doesn’t? Tell me a nation that does not. Eric and 234’s remarks are spot on.
I'm pretty confident we started an unnecessary war in Iraq, searching for nonexistent WMDs. Or do you still adhere to the 'Saddam had links to 9/11' nonsense?
And we do a lot of indiscriminate bombing all the damn time. We just attacked Syria the other day.
The wild card, especially for Iran, is what the US will do. If the US and Israel join forces, they can wipe out all the Axis of Evil forces, including the Iranian theocracy. This is unfortunately necessary; the kind of build up Iran has orchestrated in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon cannot be ignored. If the US backs Israel with real military might, Egypt, Jordan, and all the others will come around. Remember, to them it is a question of who is the strong horse. We get to decide to be the strong or the weak horse.
Michael, one thing this conflict allows is near unlimited arms flow to Israel. Little know fact is that Israel arms depot supplied by USA has been diverted to Ukraine battlefield now for many months leading up to Oct 7. Israeli officials especially complained about low stocks of 155mm shells. This conflict allows for ‘more’ of this US arms laundering to Ukraine. Especially important if Biden does not win in ‘24. Because there is now a backdoor to keep arming Ukraine (and that never ending war)
Except the US has been busy giving Iran billions. So, not sure the Arab states still see the US as the big guy, they definitely played their cards right. Even Queen Rania of Jordan doesn’t believe Israeli babies were killed. And she’s supposed to be one of the “Nice” Arabs.
Tunes will change with the right leader. These country’s “leaders” are cowards looking for protection and security. We just have to be the ones to give it.
The podcast was really terrific. Thank you. Unfortunately it took you 50 minutes to finally acknowledge that, more than anything else, the incompetence and corruption of Bibi and his entourage is at the heart of the problem. He miscalculated that by having a number of competing Palestinian organizations he could avoid a two-state solution. Never, ever underestimate your enemies.
Yeah, because the Arab states want a two state solution. Ha!
The stated goal of the Arab states in the region according to the 1967 Khartoum Resolution is the three No’s. It has not been rescinded to date:
Khartoum Resolution known as "The Three No's"; No peace with Israel, no recognition of Israel, no negotiations with Israel.[1] The summit also resolved that the "oil-rich Arab states" give financial aid to the states who lost the war and to "help them rebuild their military forces."[2] The final communique of the meeting "underscored the Palestinians' right to regain the whole of Palestine—that is, to destroy the State of Israel."[3] The outcome of this summit influenced Israeli foreign policy for decades.[4]”
So No three times to any notion of peace or resolution. The Arab states don’t want Jews. Period. It’s hard to deny after 10/7/23.
He is also massively corrupt and caught up in his own ego. His desire to push the boundaries of the country’s legal framework distracted him from the real threat. No matter what he chooses next his political career is over.
FP reporting what the lap dog press will not. Need to continue with this reporting to get real stories and information out to people who actually have the ability to think.
Bottom line is, who could have seen Slow Joe’s policies being so disastrous for the country, economy, and the entire world? Oh yeah, Obama said it best, “Never underestimate Joe’s ability to F__k things up “. Well also anyone with a rational mind also could see this happening.
“And Ukraine’s embassy in Israel blasted Jerusalem “…………We expect Israel to be on the right side of history!””
———————————————————-
Is everyone in Ukraine a corrupt manipulative pervert, or what? That is some top notch narcissistic abuser shit right there.
They have some really attractive women in Ukraine according to the internet, but, Jesus Christ, everyone who is in charge is a low rent street hustler.
Connecting Israel to Ukraine is the dumbest possible reason to have another Holocaust so I’m sure that’s exactly what we will do. I hate everyone so much. Enjoy your weekend.
But if we stop supporting Ukraine, how will friends and family of our political elites make $$$?
Buy hey that is all Russian propaganda :D, no way that our politicans are washing tax dollars trough one of most corrupt countries in the world.
You can’t spell ‘money laundering’ without NGO.
Maybe I can get Democrats to declare war on my backyard so I can build a $700,000 swimming pool after they drop some artillery.
I've been against the Ukraine business from the start. Not because I like Russia or Putin (I absolutely do NOT!). But because I was aware of the things the U.S. had done in Ukraine--starting 2014--that helped set up this conflict. Things that--whether they amounted to actual provocation or not--gave Putin ready excuses to *claim* that Russia was provoked.
Meanwhile, the media helpfully ignored Ukraine's years-long civil conflict against its eastern Russian-speaking provinces, as if that had nothing to do with anything.
And it quickly became obvious that this was a proxy war with Russia, cheered on by people who seem to be disappointed that the Cold War ever ended.
As time has gone on, more and more has been revealed about activities by U.S. politicians (evidently on both sides of the aisle) that basically amount to money-laundering. Considering the high level of corruption in Ukraine, it's not surprising that became a prime location for that kind of high-dollar fraud.
Recently it has come out that peace talks would have been welcomed months ago...but the U.S. squashed them. At this point, Ukrainians are suffering and dying because corrupt leaders there and in the U.S. would rather make money than save lives.
That Ukrainian corruption is currently in the White House.
“Recently it has come out that peace talks would have been welcomed months ago...but the U.S. squashed them.”
The US and the UK squashed peace talks. Boris Johnson, Prime Minister at the time, legged it over to Kyiv sharpish and talked Zelensky out of the proposition.
Wait until you find out about the things the U.S. has done in the Middle East at Israel's request.
Money laundering? Peace talks squashed?......evidence of this?
Good point. Because no friends and family of our political elites make $$$ off of supporting Israel.
The US dumped Billions of Dollars in the corrupt state that is Ukraine and is surprised now that this country is even more corrupt than before. Who would have thought that You can't fight corruption with tons of money nobody accounts for.
That whole thing is even funny when You really think about it....
Except for it being funny I think you are right and summarized it well.
Sorry, but I just love sarcasm.
Another Holocaust?
Yeah....ok.....
“Thank god Joe Biden is here to deal with these issues.”
-actual quote I wrote down from Eric Swalwell on Lawrence O’Donnell’s show
It’s like saying imagine how much worse my stroke would have been without the vaccine. These people are all such degenerates.
One more thing...It is still infuriating that he got away with having the affair with that Chinese spy. I think her name was Fang Fang? Most people probably have no clue about that.
Eric Swalwell is a meat head. There’s nothing there.
Who are the people who vote for Swallwell?Zombies?
Democrats. Zombies. Same thing. especially in California.
Been to war as has my family. I never advocated for war. I advocate for getting rid of Hamas leadership. I am fairly certain the average Gaza resident would like to just live but with Hamas stealing everything and choosing to elect violence, you sure can not give in to killing. That will only get you more killed. So you have a choice, kill them or let them continue to kill. That’s a question for Israel to answer and not me. I simply support their right to exist as others should have the same rights.
The top Hamas leadership sits in London, Qatar and Turkey.
"Paging Mr. Mossad, telephone call for Mr. Mossad on Line One . . . "
You underestimate the fanatic, genocidal hatred of the typical Gazan. I believe that a majority of them are happy to die in this war if it means getting rid of the evil (to them) Jews. Just look how they threw tens of thousands of Gazans against the border fence in past years in an attempt to break through, with those Gazans knowing they could be shot.
Why can't the Gazans overthrow Hamas?
Why can't they? You mean "Why DON'T they?" Most Gazans assent to the slaughter of Jews. They have been taught this for about two generations now, in schools, in media, and in the mosques. They are more complicit than the western press is making them out to be.
Most of those who have tried have been slaughtered by Hamas.
I am curious about it though. Gaza has a population of just over 2 million and half of that is under 18. (The population has doubled since 2005 so clearly no "genocide" has occurrd.) I think there are other groups competing or coordinating with Hamas so it seems there should be resistance. Were there street protests in Gaza to condemn Hamas'10/7 acts?
No, I don't believe anyone in Gaza protested Oct7. There was a lot of celebrating. But I doubt anyone would have dared to protest.
Because they don't want to.
No guns.
??? The place appears to be full of guns.
The guns In the hands of Hamas. The citizens generally don’t mind dead Jews anyway. They’re taught to hate them from the cradle. The minority who don’t want Hamas have no chance
My question was why don't Gazans overthrow Hamas. If I am reading you right it is because not enough of them want too. Which makes them complicit.
Well, if the hat fits, wear it.
Lynne, watch this. Perhaps there is some salvation for the Palestinians. Let’s hope this man is right and they are just cannon fodder and can see their way to peace.
https://youtu.be/k2BSDLFVT74?si=-zEo7taerO1qlEIH
But a brainwashed populace supports their regimes and makes them righteous.
I started to draw a distinction for Cuba given how many leave and I am reading that the populace is more openly (if that is the right word) dissatisfied. I think you and I agree on the state or status of the populaces just not about the impact thereof. I think that subjugated people should stand up and resist. I think that is the only way to be free of subjugation because even if you flee it you are still a victim. I think that is true of the "refugees" and "asylum seekers" flooding Europe and the U S too. Before you say but the Gazans would be killed for doing so, they are being killed already in Israel's response to 10/7. If they disavow Hamas now is the time to show it. Do I sympathize with people subjugated? Of course. Does that mean they are entitled to a free pass? No. Not in my opinion. But I am surprised at the number here who do.
“In 2017, he joined the Trump administration and helped craft the defining geopolitical pivot of our era: the identification of China as a strategic competitor.”
——————————————————-
Actually the key pivot was just having a few people in charge who were not paid off by China.
The war between Israel and Hamas is many things: a fight for the Jewish state’s survival
As Israel's and American citizen, I fully disagree with this statement, Hamas is in no way danger for survival of Israel, nor is Iran. This is not Yom Kippur War or some wars from the past. What happend on 10/7 was more similar to 9/11. Small group of fanatics have by luck, incompetence of Israeli government or combination of both things have managed to commit massive terrorist attack.
Question now is, will Israel be smarter that USA has been, we ended in 2 decades of endless wars, that have done nothing but eroded our stance on global stage and at same time cost us trillions of $$$.
And for US this is a test, will it give in to neocons and military industrial complex and will it bring us to another foreign engagement in middle east.
Its like we havent learned anything from Iraq and Afghanistan.
As long as Hamas holds the people of Gaza under their boots they indeed are a threat. If Hamas can be destroyed by eliminating the leadership, then maybe there can be peace. But about 1400 would disagree with you, but their voices have been silenced. Evil is evil and must never be given any quarter.
Sure they are treat, but in no mean they are existential threat to Israel. Funny thing is that it only US press is pushing this narrative that this is fight for survival of Israel when it is more similar to Second Intifada.
And please dont use that trope of "1400 are silent" it is for the lack of better word discusting.
I have family and friends in Israel and that are in IDF. It is easy to be pro War when you dont have skin in the game.
If Hamas can win a PR war, then this conflict is, indeed, an existential threat to Israel.
Raziel, just a friendly suggestion: Try installing a program such as "Grammarly" on your computer to help correct misspelling and unclear statements. It will remove any misunderstandings some may have from your second language usage. Otherwise, continue on with your comments. https://www.grammarly.com/
Thank you, i will do it.
They can be a threat, but not a threat to State of Israel existence. Hamas attacks were localized within 30km of Gaza border. Then these brutal murders took hostages and slunk back to caves beneath Gaza soil. Oliver stated Hamas was threat to State of Israel. That is over the top and false language. It it misinformation
Israel is pretty small so 30 kms is a lot. And reportedly rockets are hitting Tel Aviv.
Most attacks of civilians on ground were actually much closer, with 5km of Gaza. You can see in this map. That said, I’d be mad as hell if I lived in Tel Aviv and rockets landed in my neighborhood
https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2023/10/09/cfa9dcc9-9e91-47a1-95b8-8eaf1a6ec7d9/thumbnail/1280x1146/0f336c5368062d0a79ce59b255093443/gettyimages-1712262777.jpg?v=5799c2de91a486f8a37c0b0f0daf468a
Thanks Matt. I am struggling with the geography.
30 kilometers? Turn it into glass and prevent any more development there.
Nah… I’m anti-war, served in war in US military (Army) and don’t really want to see WW3. We live in atomic age now and caution is necessary.
Totally agree, Raziel. This is in no way, shape or form a fight for State of Israel survival. That is extreme hyperbole. I say this as a supporter of Jews, and State of Israel. Oliver and others like him use this extreme language I think to support / justify ‘revenge’ and in some cases against Hamas, but also to further justify big $ neocon spending, stand up to Iran, etc.
They're not a threat to Israel. In combination with Hezbollah, launching thousands of rockets and paralyzing the country, they ARE an existential threat.
There is also the possibility that they will put poison gas or biological weapons on those rockets. Remember that the Hamas Nazis were caught with instructions on how to make cyanide gas. If Hamas can make rockets, it can make crude cyanide gas warheaes.
That first sentence should have a question mark after it.
You don't know this was a small group of fanatics. Luck?...it's more likely a well-orchestrated attack that was months in planning, quickly & well executed.
Will Israel be smarter than the US? What?
Smart like turn the other cheek? Hamas started this war and Israel should and will finish it.
BTW, you should brush up on your English, diction, grammar, and word choice.
As long as you can understand what it being written, it's not necessary to criticize someone's English, diction, grammar, and word choice. Pendantism is not a healthy postion to assume.
Native English speakers have no idea how hard it is to learn English as a 2nd language. It's hard for people to learn any new language, and English speakers (especially Americans) feel that everyone should address us in perfect English. It is another trait that makes us look even more entitled than usual to the rest of the world. I've tried Hindi, German, and Spanish, and retained only bits and pieces. Those speaking ESL get a lot of slack from me, as I assume they are very articulate in their native tongue.
I try to limit my pedantism to native English speakers fucking up their own language, using made up words like irregardless (even my spell check knows that's not a word). If one can't even do one's own language properly, perhaps shy away from berating others how are doing it in addition to their native tongue. And also to point out mistakes when made by people who are blathering hate so loud that they forget even simple things like i before e, except after c. Your takedown on the syntax in your next comment is really nice. Guten tag, mein Herr.
Danke. Always nice to get a sane reply. I've tried my hand at Spanish, French and Greek. I was able to carry on simple conversations and even after 60 yrs. I remember a few words in each language and not enough to have a convesation. After 10 yrs. Thai has defeated me. I'm too old to learn a complex & dificult language.
Small group? Look at any video.
Luck? Like the assholes who flew planes into the twin towers were lucky?
I suggest you let this jerkoff speak for himself....that's what I call a healthy position.
And let him learn our language properly if he chooses to use it, like our forefathers who mostly came from countries speaking a foreign language did.
I don't understand the "Small group" reference. Who are you talking to? Ditto "Luck" Is it necessary to call people foul names? "Jerkoff" really? I won't comment on the syntax of your last sentence.
Dude, this will be my last reply, and my comments are directed at the piece of trash defending the mullahs who tortured innocent Jews, raped young women, and burned babies alive. Need I go on?
A bit of advice....next time before you weigh in read the entire thread.
I generally like your comments and won't hold this against you.
If your comments are directed at someone else, why include me. You won't hold it against me? That's mighty white of you.
Dude, you just got TOLD!
We should all try speaking Hebrew before we criticise ESL people. Do you speak Hebrew, or any second language? If you do, you’ll know the difficulties of writing in it, let alone addressing very complex issues in a public forum.
You are so right. This is a planned coup by Iran, yes, but also Putin and Xi Jinping. We must not fall for their trap. It should be a stealthy, small, contained battle directly targeting Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Iranian IRGC, which is also a terrorist group. Have you heard the lecture by Niko Sotirakopolous about the role of the left in the ME and communism?
https://youtu.be/l-hrGiuTfvw?si=nlv4bpgj1OklZFTP
I think that the main goal of Hamas in the 10/7 attacks was to provoke a triggered response that would kill so many Palestinians that the world would turn even more against Israel. Hamas seeks to maximize civilian deaths on both sides. Seems pretty evil to me.
"when I talked to Arab officials throughout the region whom I have long known, every single one told me that Hamas must be destroyed in Gaza ..."
As they simultaneously scream, bitch, and moan about Israel doing exactly that.
Fuck Arab officials. If you're not going to participate in the destruction of Hamas, then shut the fuck up while the people doing so are hard at work.
Great... In the aftermath of our Keystone Cops withdrawal from Afghanistan and appeasement of Iran, we find ourselves preparing to go to war under the command of the weakest and most feckless Commander-in-Chief since Jimmy Carter.
Worse than JC I think.
Probably so. At least Carter served and was even one of Admiral Rickover's favorites.
True and it was different times.
I think it’s “Keystone Kops.”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keystone_Cops
Thanks for the correction, and the laugh!
Oh yes, much better to have He-Man types like Bush. They start wars that others have to deal with.
Nowhere did I say or even imply that. You should work on your reading comprehension skills.
Of course you implied that, by dissing two presidents who apparently don't have big enough balls for you. That's what "imply" means.
There's a world of difference between taking aggressive action when required and warmongering There's a world of difference between standing firm and appeasing the aggressor. We have first-hand evidence of what Joe Biden will do.
My perspective on Biden and Bush:
Bush: he warmongered. There was no reason to attack Iraq.
Biden: blew up a peace deal Zelensky was about to sign, just to keep his dipshit war going against Russia
Both are bad. So is Obama, for ramping up the use of killer robot planes, even using them to assassinate American citizens who had not been arrested, indicted, tried, convicted, or sentenced. Interestingly enough for the Trump haters, he didn't start any new wars. They all suck.
Jimmy Carter is the last decent human to hold the office.
I agree with you probably more than you think. Let me preface this by saying that I served in the Marine Corps under Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush 41 and Clinton. I have never been a member of, or beholden to the Republican or Democratic parties.
Clinton said he loathes the military but repeatedly sent our people into shitholes that we had no business being in. It was under Clinton that we became the world's policemen. Therefore, I voted for W in 2000 because he promised "No nation building." Soon after, he started two wars of choice and pushed through the so-called PATRIOT Act, so I have voted Libertarian ever since. Not that I believe in the LP, but it's my way of flipping the bird to both major parties and simply not voting is a sign of nothing more than apathy. I want them to know that I actively reject them.
I rate W as the second worst president of my lifetime, second only to Lyndon Johnson with over 10,000 Americans killed for no good reason vs. 59,000 killed by Johnson.
History shows that being prepared for war is the only path to peace. For all of his other faults, and there were many, Reagan was the only one who understood the concept of Peace Through Strength. I voted for him both times and everyone I knew was proud to serve under him.
Trump seems to understand it, but there are too many other reasons that I never have and never will vote for him.
Under Ford and Carter, the military was neglected and Carter even said that we did not need a pay raise at a time when a Corporal who was married rated Food Stamps and if they had a child, rated Welfare. Carter dithered during the hostage crisis and we hung our heads in shame to be serving under him. That was one of the few occasions where an aggressive response was appropriate and we are paying the price for Carter's lack of leadership to this day.
I was going to vote for Carter in '76, but we deployed to Norway that fall and even though absentee voting has been around since the 1864 election, they made no effort to make us aware of that. It was only later that I was glad that I did not vote for him. I will be the first to say that Carter was the best ex-president we've ever had, but the most feckless Commander-in-Chief that I ever served under.
Jimmy Carter makes Biden look good.
America had a tough choice in 2020...look where we are today.
Those mean tweets don't look so bad do they?
The first lesson of economics is scarcity. The first rule of politics is ignoring the first rule of economics. Thomas Sowell (quote approximate).
He also said that when people demand the impossible, only liars can satisfy them. The logical corrolary of course is that stupid and decadent people more or less demand to be lied to. The irony in our own time is that most of the time the lies are obvious but most people in this country STILL can't figure them out. Figuring THAT fact out is a preoccupation of my own.
Today we call the people who seem to have lost their minds and believe any lie they’re told, “Stupid”, for want of a better word. It always seemed to me to be an inadequate word for the insanity. But I’ve changed my mind. Here’s why it is so apt, in Bonhoeffer’s own words from prison.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer vehemently opposed Hitler, Nazism and Eugenics even though it cost him his life. The Nazis executed him just before WWII ended. He was a man of great intellect, they couldn’t bear that.
“Stupidity is a more dangerous enemy of the good than malice. One may protest against evil; it can be exposed and, if need be, prevented by use of force. Evil always carries within itself the germ of its own subversion in that it leaves behind in human beings at least a sense of unease. Against stupidity we are defenseless. Neither protests nor the use of force accomplish anything here; reasons fall on deaf ears; facts that contradict one’s prejudgment simply need not be believed – in such moments the stupid person even becomes critical – and when facts are irrefutable they are just pushed aside as inconsequential, as incidental. In all this the stupid person, in contrast to the malicious one, is utterly self satisfied and, being easily irritated, becomes dangerous by going on the attack. For that reason, greater caution is called for when dealing with a stupid person than with a malicious one. Never again will we try to persuade the stupid person with reasons, for it is senseless and dangerous.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Letters and Papers from Prison (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/760019.Letters_and_Papers_from_Prison)
I watched a documentary on Bonhoefer. He was heroic. He didn't need to be in Germany. He had a post in New York from which he easily could have sat out the war. But his conscience would not allow him.
And agreed. Being stupid is being without reason, and as one of the Founding Fathers once wrote, trying to reason with someone who has renounced it is like giving medicine to someone already dead.
Bonhoeffer was a true hero in the fact that he spoke up loudly and clearly when he knew it would cost him his life. Today, our moronic politicians support a terrorist group and more than likely fundraise off those efforts and get reelected.
At this point, it would be a game changer to find one politician who is actually intelligent and can fix actual problems. Smarts in the US, especially at the very top, are in short supply,
In my view Trump proved you dont need to be that smart or really even try that hard to make things better. You just need to TRY. To make an honest effort. To not call tearing things that work apart progress.
Trump proved this country is not that hard to run: we have just had crooks in charge for many decades. And it has mainly been those crooks who hate him.
Again, great work keeping us informed Bari.
Reading Niall F, JD Vance and the others, makes clear, the wheels have been in motion while the US and Israel were asleep. This war to eliminate Israel is well underway and we can only react. The enemy has the initiative. The US can only react... we've been caught flat footed.
The combination of the title of this article along with Biden sitting in the oval makes for one truly frightening reality.
I think America is getting close to the endgame now. Throughout history every attempt by any nation to rule over the entire world ended the same predictable way: The military and economic might of that country got overstretched and finally collapsed under all that heavy weight.
America can't fight all this wars at the same time. Ukraine......Israel......maybe Taiwan next......not talking about all the other conflicts the US choose to involve itself which do not make it into the headlines or the enormous burden of maintaining more than a thousand military bases worldwide....to suppress any opposition to the American Empire wherever it occurs.
But in order to retain its sole superpower status it has to pretend it can. Well America's enemies have studied history and know how to knock the big bully out. Just start conflicts here and there and over there, all at the same time and soon enough the giant will fall of exhaustion......
You're out of your mind, misguided, and out of touch, pal.
America is not trying to rule the world. Name one war besides the American Revolutionary War and the Civil War that America started.
The 'big bully' happens to keep millions around the world safe and free.
We'd rather you just say Thank You.
It's the Americans who are out of touch, because they believe their own propaganda that the US is just helping people all over the world to be free. The truth is quite a bit uglier than that. The US is only advancing its own economic and geostrategic interests and absolutely disregards the interests of the affected people when it meddles in foreign countries and is trying to disguise it as some kind of selfless noble mission. And of course they expect the whole world to thank them for that. In fact most of the world hates the US for their selfishness posing as selflessness. Something that most Americans will never understand, because they fall for their own propaganda and do not have a clue what really happens in their name. Waking up to reality will be quite painful for people like You, trust me on that one.
Who do YOU want as the world's dominant power? Communist China? Led by a regime that has murdered 50+ million people?
I want a multipolar world that's in balance. I do not trust any country enough to want it ruling over me. Not the US, not China, not India nor any other country. Because in the end they will always place their own interest over mine. That's a fact of life.
By the way......how many Iraqis, Afghans, Syrians, Libyans etc. has the US murdered lately?
If most of the world hates us why are they all trying to come here?
Maybe to try to get some of the wealth back You stole from them?
Money is a strong magnet, but You shouldn't mistake that attraction for love. Once Your wealth is a thing of the past You will find out how much this world really loves You.
What wealth did we steal from Viet Nam?
From Germany?
North Korea?
Japan?
The Soviet Union?
Great Britain?
Mexico?
We don't give 2 shits who loves us and who doesn't. We act according to virtue, integrity, justice, and rule of law....things you'll never understand.
I suggest you take your freaking America-hating filth elsewhere.....you'll not be missed.
You're a disgusting piece of trash I wouldn't let my dog piss on.
....and You just showed You true colours. You are a fascist. An enemy of free speech.
And no, I will never allow fascists to shut me up. You will have to live with opinions like mine or You should move to a forum where opinions You don't like are censored away by some fellow fascist of Yours.
Man, you need to either:
A) get back on the meds
B) go decaf
Humor aside, you're out of line. Not on your points, but the way you express them. "America, Love It or Leave It!" is really antiquated. I'm actually surprised you haven't used the term "raghead" yet, so there may be hope.
You just wait until you get your wish and America is no longer the super power. Which one will you pick to rule over you, Russia or China?
The only ones who are supposed to rule over me are those who are elected by me and my fellow citizens in a democratic election. Anything else is called "tyranny"!
......and I don't recall having ever seen names like Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Xi Ping or Vladimir Putin on any ballot that came before me. I haven't elected any of those people and none of them has any right top rule over me.
Hahahaha! You just wait.
Probably not the right place to point out the only “foreign ground” the US has “taken” has been used to bury our dead. Out of touch? This may be the most out of touch comment I’ve read here. Of course the US is advancing its national interest. You think China doesn’t? Tell me a nation that does not. Eric and 234’s remarks are spot on.
I'm pretty confident we started an unnecessary war in Iraq, searching for nonexistent WMDs. Or do you still adhere to the 'Saddam had links to 9/11' nonsense?
And we do a lot of indiscriminate bombing all the damn time. We just attacked Syria the other day.
Are you Liz Cheney with a nom de plume?
It's not about starting wars, it's about engaging in them. Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Israel, Africa, Syria, etc.
Umm… how about the Spanish-American War (1898) and Iraq War (‘02 one) ?
What did we steal from Spain?
Iraq has nothing but terrorists, oil, and rocks to steal.
We paid for the oil....they can keep the terrorists and rocks.
The wild card, especially for Iran, is what the US will do. If the US and Israel join forces, they can wipe out all the Axis of Evil forces, including the Iranian theocracy. This is unfortunately necessary; the kind of build up Iran has orchestrated in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon cannot be ignored. If the US backs Israel with real military might, Egypt, Jordan, and all the others will come around. Remember, to them it is a question of who is the strong horse. We get to decide to be the strong or the weak horse.
Michael, one thing this conflict allows is near unlimited arms flow to Israel. Little know fact is that Israel arms depot supplied by USA has been diverted to Ukraine battlefield now for many months leading up to Oct 7. Israeli officials especially complained about low stocks of 155mm shells. This conflict allows for ‘more’ of this US arms laundering to Ukraine. Especially important if Biden does not win in ‘24. Because there is now a backdoor to keep arming Ukraine (and that never ending war)
By treating the symptoms and ignoring the prime cause, you just ensure that the patient will die.
Except the US has been busy giving Iran billions. So, not sure the Arab states still see the US as the big guy, they definitely played their cards right. Even Queen Rania of Jordan doesn’t believe Israeli babies were killed. And she’s supposed to be one of the “Nice” Arabs.
Tunes will change with the right leader. These country’s “leaders” are cowards looking for protection and security. We just have to be the ones to give it.
The podcast was really terrific. Thank you. Unfortunately it took you 50 minutes to finally acknowledge that, more than anything else, the incompetence and corruption of Bibi and his entourage is at the heart of the problem. He miscalculated that by having a number of competing Palestinian organizations he could avoid a two-state solution. Never, ever underestimate your enemies.
Just remember the tangled webs woven when we practice to deceive.
Yeah, because the Arab states want a two state solution. Ha!
The stated goal of the Arab states in the region according to the 1967 Khartoum Resolution is the three No’s. It has not been rescinded to date:
Khartoum Resolution known as "The Three No's"; No peace with Israel, no recognition of Israel, no negotiations with Israel.[1] The summit also resolved that the "oil-rich Arab states" give financial aid to the states who lost the war and to "help them rebuild their military forces."[2] The final communique of the meeting "underscored the Palestinians' right to regain the whole of Palestine—that is, to destroy the State of Israel."[3] The outcome of this summit influenced Israeli foreign policy for decades.[4]”
So No three times to any notion of peace or resolution. The Arab states don’t want Jews. Period. It’s hard to deny after 10/7/23.
He is also massively corrupt and caught up in his own ego. His desire to push the boundaries of the country’s legal framework distracted him from the real threat. No matter what he chooses next his political career is over.
I'm not so sure. He may come back like "the New Nixon."