As I write this, Press TV of Iran is reporting images of a US Drone having been brought done by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corp. It is called "SCAN Eagle". The images being shown are of a Drone that is intact. It is quite a development in the on-going Cold War that has ensued between Iran and the United States.
12/03/2012
An "ordinary Faces in the Crowd"s Reflection On the Week That Was
Israel has begun its' move
to "punish" Palestine for the vote it won last week.
Israel has announced plans to build 3,000 homes on settlements with
an additional planning to begin the planning process in the so-called
E1 area that would link existing settlements with East Jerusalem.
This violates the Oslo Accords. What Israel has done has
basically killed the remnants of a peace process that has been at
best under life support. Beyond its' construction plans, it has
said that it will not transfer 120 Million Dollars in Tax Revenue to
the Palestine National Authority. It claims that the money will be
used to pay the debt the Palestine National Authority owes to an
Israeli Power Company.
Israel will not go down the
path of negotiation without a fight. Because this symbolic win by
Palestine allows it to leverage International Organizations as never
before, it has caused fear in Israeli Government circles. The moves
made by Israel to "respond" to the move is basically to
tell the World that it is not interested in a two-state solution at
all and that all the pronouncements about its' commitment to Peace
are at best, hollow. It clearly shows that the Israeli Prime
Minister believes that it can ride out the latest challenge while it
looks to securing re-election to another term in January. The
Israeli Prime Minister talked about Israel's Strategic Map. He went
on to note that it rejected the International Community's
Determination. What is startling is how they have basically told
the World that they simply do not care. The question is whether
their policy of going it alone and continuing to be "Fortress
Israel" will serve them well.
As long as the United States
continues to blindly support Israel while totally disregarding the
rest of the Middle East will not serve it well. Furthermore, the
stance the United States took by being one of 9 nations to vote
against Palestine's bid underscored the isolation it had in the World
and how out of touch it was. isolation was evident when one of the
first World Leaders to embrace Mahmoud Abbas was the Foreign Minister
of Turkey. The standing ovation and the startled look of the
Israeli Ambassador to the UN was quite a scene. The US leverage is
not there anymore--and that is the absolute reality on the ground.
The United States came out against the plans for additional
settlements. But the lip service given to such transgressions by
Israel is very known to the Arab Street which underscores the
continued erosion of the United States as an honest broker.
When the historic vote
occurred, key Israeli Papers noted their views on the "future"
as noted by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs: :
********************************************************************
Summary of Editorials from
the Hebrew Press
(Israel Government Press
Office)
Three papers discuss various
issues ahead of today's UN General Assembly vote on granting the
Palestinians non-member, observer status:
Ma'ariv discusses the
reported moderation in the Government's projected response. The
author asserts: "Netanyahu and Liberman preferred to go against
their DNA and show restraint in the face of the Palestinian
provocation," and notes their similar restrained response in and
following Operation Pillar of Defence. The paper speculates that
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants "to reserve his
political capital in the international community for the coming storm
over Iran's enriched uranium."
Yisrael Hayom avers that
Palestinian Authority Chairman Abu Mazen is "using the demand to
recognize Palestine in order to bolster his shaky image at home,"
especially in light of his marginalization during and following the
recent conflict in Hamas-controlled Gaza. The author recalls how Abu
Mazen rejected then Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's far-reaching
proposals in 2009.
Haaretz believes that “there
is more to the Palestinians' move than mere symbolism. A recognized
Palestinian state will give Israel a responsible partner with
international backing - one that will represent the entire
Palestinian people and be able to make decisions in its name.” The
editor asserts: “Recognition of a Palestinian state is not an
obstacle to peace,” and concludes: “It isn't just the
Palestinians who deserve a diplomatic horizon. The Israelis deserve
one too.”
=======================================
Yediot Aharonot commends the
Obama administration's Iran policy of pursuing both heightened
sanctions and negotiations. The author notes the widespread Israeli
belief that "The Iranians are not seriously considering giving
up their nuclear project and are only trying to play for time,"
especially since "In the past, Iran has consistently and
unashamedly lied and played for time in order to secretly advance its
nuclear project." However, the paper believes that "If
Netanyahu makes it known, even secretly, that he does not oppose the
existence of a secret channel between the US and Iran, a channel that
has no red lines at the outset, he would see an improvement in his
strained personal relations with Obama while also being portrayed as
someone who is not trigger-happy and who prefers a diplomatic
solution." The author cautions that "Such negotiations
cannot go on forever, neither can they end on any condition. The US
needs to! make it clear to Iran that it must dismantle a considerable
part of its nuclear project and do so with full transparency in the
very near future. Even if the move fails, Israel will gain: Obama
will have to prove that he stands by his word that Iran will not have
a nuclear bomb and that he will use all options to realize this
promise."
The Jerusalem Post opines
that “while the Likud’s move to the Right is a democratic
reflection of the will of a majority of Israelis, we must be wary of
undermining other aspects of Israel’s democratic character,” and
warns: “we must be careful of a situation in which there is a
‘tyranny of the majority.’” The editor points out that “The
rule of the majority is just one aspect of a healthy democracy,”
and adds: “Careful protection of minority rights, freedom of
expression for all and a strong, independent judiciary are no less
important.”
[Eli Bardenstein, Dan
Margalit and Ronen Bergman wrote today’s articles in Ma'ariv,
Yisrael Hayom and Yediot Aharonot respectively.]
********************************************************************
This sampling of the
prevailing view in Israel reflects that there is no consensus on what
happens next. What is more crucial is to underscore the precarious
state of the seize fire between Gaza and Israel. It is so far
holding--although a number of Palestinians were killed late last week
during an Israeli incursion. Egypt has been designated the
guarantor of the Peace Process--and the Country is in the midst of a
major upheaval right now. Mohammad Morsi' Decree granting him
Super-Presidential Powers has thrown Egypt into another round of
uncertainty. The Judges have stopped working and have announced
they will not oversee the vote on the upcoming elections.
Beyond Israel and Palestine,
there is the Syrian Civil War. The Syrian Civil War continues
onward with no end in sight. The Israeli-Gaza War and the turmoil
in Egypt has thrown it off the headlines. But the daily killing
continues. The fighting continue to rage on in Damascus, Alepo and
other major cities. I have reviewed reports of Syrian Government
Jets having been shut down by rebels. I was frankly hopeful for
some major developments after Egypt air and Emirates stopped their
service to Damascus and Alepo. They decided to restart service
within the past 24 hours. I was also hopeful as major defections
occurred (including the former Prime Minister and key commanders of
the Armed Forces). Yet, somehow, the Syrian Regime continues onward
with its' fight for survival. I continue to be amazed as to how
the Syrian Government continues to sustain a campaign of carnage as
it has. The only explanation I have for it is continued Russian and
Iranian support. Vladimir Putin, the Russian President, is going
to Turkey to discuss the situation with the Turkish Prime Minister.
In the meantime, the people of Syria continue to suffer.
Iran, in the meantime,
continues with its' own challenges. As it is trying to assert its'
continued regional position, it continues to have internal strife.
The daughter of the Former President, Hashemi Rafsanjani, continues
to remain in jail. The two leading internal opposition figures,
Mousavi and Karboui, continue to be under house arrest. Their
families continue to be harassed. The latest move has been against
Mousavi's daughter for having had the audacity to discuss the
conditions of his father. They have made moves to deny her the
right to to teach. The defacto military government in power in
Iran is in full force. The World must understand that Iran has
adopted a modified version of North Korea's Military First Policy to
allow the military (and more specifically the Revolutionary Guard
Corp) to be in the ascendancy. This is, for instance, exemplified by
the cabinet positions. The ministers of Oil and Defence in the
current Cabinet are Guardsmen in addition to the Minister of
Interior.
Beyond Israel, Palestine and
Iran there is Kuwait. I have been assessing the situation in
Kuwait with concern. It has been in the midst of a political
turmoil that has seen its' second parliamentary elections. The
opposition has been up in arms by boycotting the new elections.
It has stalled the Country with no apparent end in sight. Kuwait
has had a semblance of Democracy--although the Emir is still an
absolute ruler and ultimately will not tolerate dissent because the
Prime Minister and most of the top ministers are members of the
ruling Royal Family. The Emir has the right to dissolve
Parliament as he pleases with no accountability. The Emir has
dissolved Parliament twice and has changed the voting laws.
Tunisia has also been in the
midst of a major upheaval because the people have been up in arms
because they still cannot find jobs and continue to be in a state of
desperation even after a year that saw the dictator Ben Ali leave the
Country.
Beyond the Middle East,
Africa has been in the midst of turmoil on its' own. Nigeria has been
dealing with a violent insurgency that has pitted Christians against
Muslims. The Democratic Republic of Congo has been dealing with
the M23 insurgency for quite some time. The M23 group broke away
from the Congolese Army as it began its' quest to assert itself to
force the Government to change. What is the tragedy is how all
the funds spent by the International Community to bring back Congo
has been in vain. There was an election that was marred with
irregularities. The UN troops in the Congo stood aside as M23
marched into Goma virtually unopposed as Congolese Army soldiers ran
away. It is probably the most strategic country in Africa. It
has some of the most crucial minerals the World needs. Yet, it has
not had the ability to govern itself ever since the former Dictator
Mobutu was deposed. I was also amused by the recent alliance
between Kenyatta and Rutu in Kenya. Kenyatta, the Son of Kenya's
founder, is the richest man in the Country and thinks that he is
entitled. The two are under indictment by the International
Criminal Court.
As I survey the World this
week, I continue to assess what is going on in Washington. The
so-called fiscal cliff negotiations in Washington have begun in
earnest. The Speaker of the House has been on a Public Relations
Campaign to underscore how he and the House Republican Conference is
looking for the President to lead and to propose the necessary cuts.
This is as the Republicans have continued their campaign for cuts in
social services and balk at tax increases. There were reports of
Mitch McConnell "laughing" and the Speaker disappointed at
the offers. What The President apparently did was to basically
stick to his campaign promises as the opening "bid".
The Congress, though, will apparently enhance its' reputation as the
"do-nothing" Congress in the meantime by meeting in one of
the least number of legislative days ever as it finishes off one of
its' worst productive years ever in terms of legislation being
passed.
I had a chance to catch
glimpses of a program on Bloomberg with the CEO's of Blackrock,
Honeywell & UPS. I was struck by the CEO of Honeywell's view
that "adults need to take charge". What is critical to
note is that the World is watching. The CEO of Blackrock noted this
as he noted how the IMF meetings in Tokyo focused on the United
States. As Europe continues to struggle with a double dip
recession and other countries around the World continue to look
inward, the need to figure out a way to finish this fiscal cliff
negotiation and achieve a sense of fiscal stability to avoid
uncertainty is critical in the World right now.
It will certainly be a very
interesting week indeed.
11/30/2012
Getting to Know Tehelka
I have begun to know Tehelka, India's answer to Corporate Media. I view this like Democracy Now and the Real News Network. This investigatoin about what the Chief Minister of Gujarat is doing is startling...
Check out Tehelka - India's Independent Weekly News Magazine
Check out Tehelka - India's Independent Weekly News Magazine
Remaining Hopeful Ever More.......
I began the day thinking about our World. I first got "wind" of this selfless Officer's act of kindness as I made my daily "virtual rounds" on Facebook. Whether we like it or not, Facebook is the defacto "Virtual Town Square" of the World. I use it to "virtually" keep my ear to the Ground on the World.
I wrote about this earlier on Facebook...The words I wrote speak for themselves. It is through the selfless acts of such wonderful souls that there will be hope for our World despite all the challenges that it faces in the here and now..and that there are indeed those out there who are in dire straits..but the need to hope and remain hopeful remains crucial ever more:
Check out this news story about a NYC police officer that bought a pair of boots for a homeless man: http://ar.gy/2fl3
The police officer told the New York Times, "that he keeps the receipt for the boots in his vest to remind him 'that sometimes people have it worse.'"
Watch an interview with the policeman here:
http://news.blogs.cnn.com/
I wrote about this earlier on Facebook...The words I wrote speak for themselves. It is through the selfless acts of such wonderful souls that there will be hope for our World despite all the challenges that it faces in the here and now..and that there are indeed those out there who are in dire straits..but the need to hope and remain hopeful remains crucial ever more:
Check out this news story about a NYC police officer that bought a pair of boots for a homeless man: http://ar.gy/2fl3
The police officer told the New York Times, "that he keeps the receipt for the boots in his vest to remind him 'that sometimes people have it worse.'"
Watch an interview with the policeman here:
http://news.blogs.cnn.com/
11/29/2012
Witness to History.....
As I
write this, the Palestinian Leader, Mahmoud Abbas is speaking as
Palestine has gone for non-member observer status through the UN General
Assembly. He's remembering the plight of Palestinians past and
present as he outlines his bid for statehood-especially remembering the
Al Nqba. He's right now remembering the people who lost their lives
during Israel's Latest Operation: Pillar of Defense.
As he began, he received a standing ovation from the majority of the UN delegations. The United States and Canada are amongst the few countries opposing the bid. Their view is that the only way is to negotiate. They have been talking for 19 years. Yet, settlement activities continue. Yet, Palestinian families continue to be driven from their homes. Gaza has been destroyed yet again. As I write this, some 600,000 Israeli settlers call the West Bank Home in direct violation of repeated UN resolutions. Israelis have continued to hamper the peace process repeatedly--and the current Israeli Prime Minister has been on the record noting how he's been against the Peace Process.
As Palestine's UN bid is before the World, the US Congress has begun to make moves threatening to derail the so-called Peace Process. What is sad is how such moves continue to undermine the little credibility the US has left on the Arab Street. I was laughing as I saw Lindsey Graham come out with his latest pronoucements and threats. Lindsey Graham's concern about the Peace Process is laughable. This is as he and others continue to stay silent on continued Ethnic cleansing . No one is above International Law--and men like Lindsey Graham see to it. I expect more from someone like Lindsey Graham who happens to be a lawyer. Human rights must be a universal right--no one must be different..
Will the World find the courage? It seems to be doing so.
Also released on http://www.outsiderviews.com 11/29/2012
As he began, he received a standing ovation from the majority of the UN delegations. The United States and Canada are amongst the few countries opposing the bid. Their view is that the only way is to negotiate. They have been talking for 19 years. Yet, settlement activities continue. Yet, Palestinian families continue to be driven from their homes. Gaza has been destroyed yet again. As I write this, some 600,000 Israeli settlers call the West Bank Home in direct violation of repeated UN resolutions. Israelis have continued to hamper the peace process repeatedly--and the current Israeli Prime Minister has been on the record noting how he's been against the Peace Process.
As Palestine's UN bid is before the World, the US Congress has begun to make moves threatening to derail the so-called Peace Process. What is sad is how such moves continue to undermine the little credibility the US has left on the Arab Street. I was laughing as I saw Lindsey Graham come out with his latest pronoucements and threats. Lindsey Graham's concern about the Peace Process is laughable. This is as he and others continue to stay silent on continued Ethnic cleansing . No one is above International Law--and men like Lindsey Graham see to it. I expect more from someone like Lindsey Graham who happens to be a lawyer. Human rights must be a universal right--no one must be different..
Will the World find the courage? It seems to be doing so.
Also released on http://www.outsiderviews.com 11/29/2012
11/27/2012
As 2012 is Coming to A Close.....
I have been concerned that everyone seems to forget that there was an election. It is time to Govern now.
There is a realization by all that taxes are going up. This is a very telling interview that was produced by Mauldin Economics which I attended last week and is worth listening again:
There is talk of a "fiscal cliff"...and about both sides have to "compromise". If January 1 comes around and nothing happens, it is going to be ugly for all. It appears that on at least this point--everyone agrees.
Always remembering to be Kind...
I had wanted to be "dark" on Social Media this week..but I am kind of glad I finished my latest "Virtual Walk-About". This one blew me away...as I shared it with my facebook "team", I wanted to note this...a very very good lesson to remember about the need to transcend the petty and always elevate yourself above others by your actions and indeed as Lao Tzu has said, your kindness!!!
11/26/2012
11/24/2012
Disturbing Developments (Cont'd)
One of the more disturbing trends I have seen is increased Government power and survielleance. The need to be able question the people in power and hold them accountable is the basic tenent of all humans. But the apparent paranoia of the United States Government has become a major problem especially with the way the case of the anomymous hacker has been dealt with in New York as noted by Michael Rattner in a recent interview done on the Real News Network.
This led me to this thought from George McGovern that no one must ever forget:
This led me to this thought from George McGovern that no one must ever forget:
11/23/2012
Briefly on the Arab Spring.....
The Middle East continues to be in a state of flux despite the recent "success" that Morsi achieved in getting Gaza & Israel to stop shooting at each other.
I view what the Economist' KAL put the cycle of violence in as eloquent a way as ever:
This simple depiction says it all. The more disappointing challenge has been the decree by Mohammad Morsi to take on near dictatorial powers by suspending the law and exempting himself from being accountable to the law. He "claimed" that this was to actually protect the revolution and insure that democratic rule will in fact occur. All the liberal and secular forces have been come together to oppose this rule and I find that refreshing simply because the tide of reform cannot change. It should not change.
I view what the Economist' KAL put the cycle of violence in as eloquent a way as ever:
"Voices From Street Corners"
This was published on the Liberal OC on November 22, 2012.
Source: http://www.theliberaloc.com/2012/11/23/voices-from-street-corners-2012-vol-v-what-a-year/
Thanksgiving 2012 is behind us. All of us in our own way have had a lot to reflect on and be thankful for. We have had a election that has settled up a lot of questions for at least the next two years. But, as the negotiations begin to avert the so-called "fiscal cliff", the question in my mind is whether what Richard Wolffe recently referred to as a "soft austerity" will continue to be the policy of the United States.
I spent thanksgiving eve attending an inter-faith service at the Shepherd of the Hills Church in Mission Viejo. Shepherd of the Hills Church is a beautiful campus that reflects a sense of faith and hope that is needed ever more. Rev. Brown, Rabbi Levi and the Imam of the Orange County Islamic Foundation spoke about the need to be thankful and appreciative for all that we have been given and are blessed with. As thanksgiving prayers of all the three monotheistic traditions were The Imam of the Orange County Islamic Foundation reflected upon the need to stop being fascinated about "Things" and reflect upon what one does not have--but what one does. He asked a very interesting question of the audience of Christians, Jews and Muslims: How many were College Educated? He cited a startling statistic about the number of people around the World actually have a college degree: 2 percent. He reminded us all about the need to be happy, appreciative and understanding.
As we have all celebrated what we're thankful for, the challenges before us are ever more. I was shocked at the heatwaves we experienced in South County. The red flag alerts issued was of concern. The images that stuck with me , though, was the image of the One-Legged Man who manned one of those street corners on one of those hots days as the election. I happened to be driving up Alicia Parkway when I noticed him holding up a sign about asking for help. I decided to work up the courage to walk up to him to talk to him after picking up a Togo's Gift Card.
His story was quite compelling. He was a construction superintendent for a major local developer and led the good life. He had a six figure income until he had a near death experience due to a blood cloth. He apparently was in a coma for quite some time. He ended up losing his leg and could not work anymore. He lost his house and his wife ended up living with his in-laws. There were rays of hope, though. His son was continuing onward with his education and he was apparently due to receive an artificial leg to help get back on his feet. As I walked away from him, I was simply amazed by his optimism. I did not want to dwell any further beyond the conversation I had already had with him. The election was about such men who still wanted to have a chance to live and rebuild their lives. I could not believe my eyes when I saw one of those many souls on Street Corners who was on the street at 9:00 PM at night trying to do what he could to survive.
As I continued onward with the conversations with all the "voices", the one that stuck with me was one man who had a catering business and whose wife also worked full time. The economy had impacted his business immensely. But, he reflected upon how he had spent an estimated Fifty Thousand Dollars over a 4 year period for his two children on childcare. He reflected upon the fact that it was the equivalent of a down-payment of a house. Both he and his wife worked full time--yet they somehow managed to be at their children's games and be as involved as they could be. The election was about such persons that do try and work hard, play by the roles and want a fighting chance to survive and thrive.
Beyond the daily trials and tribulations of our communities, there is the wider World. It is a World that continues to be ever more militarized, polluted and polarized ever more. I can't help but wonder whether President Obama will " go big and bold" in order to be the true transformational figure. Only time will tell.
Source: http://www.theliberaloc.com/2012/11/23/voices-from-street-corners-2012-vol-v-what-a-year/
Thanksgiving 2012 is behind us. All of us in our own way have had a lot to reflect on and be thankful for. We have had a election that has settled up a lot of questions for at least the next two years. But, as the negotiations begin to avert the so-called "fiscal cliff", the question in my mind is whether what Richard Wolffe recently referred to as a "soft austerity" will continue to be the policy of the United States.
I spent thanksgiving eve attending an inter-faith service at the Shepherd of the Hills Church in Mission Viejo. Shepherd of the Hills Church is a beautiful campus that reflects a sense of faith and hope that is needed ever more. Rev. Brown, Rabbi Levi and the Imam of the Orange County Islamic Foundation spoke about the need to be thankful and appreciative for all that we have been given and are blessed with. As thanksgiving prayers of all the three monotheistic traditions were The Imam of the Orange County Islamic Foundation reflected upon the need to stop being fascinated about "Things" and reflect upon what one does not have--but what one does. He asked a very interesting question of the audience of Christians, Jews and Muslims: How many were College Educated? He cited a startling statistic about the number of people around the World actually have a college degree: 2 percent. He reminded us all about the need to be happy, appreciative and understanding.
As we have all celebrated what we're thankful for, the challenges before us are ever more. I was shocked at the heatwaves we experienced in South County. The red flag alerts issued was of concern. The images that stuck with me , though, was the image of the One-Legged Man who manned one of those street corners on one of those hots days as the election. I happened to be driving up Alicia Parkway when I noticed him holding up a sign about asking for help. I decided to work up the courage to walk up to him to talk to him after picking up a Togo's Gift Card.
His story was quite compelling. He was a construction superintendent for a major local developer and led the good life. He had a six figure income until he had a near death experience due to a blood cloth. He apparently was in a coma for quite some time. He ended up losing his leg and could not work anymore. He lost his house and his wife ended up living with his in-laws. There were rays of hope, though. His son was continuing onward with his education and he was apparently due to receive an artificial leg to help get back on his feet. As I walked away from him, I was simply amazed by his optimism. I did not want to dwell any further beyond the conversation I had already had with him. The election was about such men who still wanted to have a chance to live and rebuild their lives. I could not believe my eyes when I saw one of those many souls on Street Corners who was on the street at 9:00 PM at night trying to do what he could to survive.
As I continued onward with the conversations with all the "voices", the one that stuck with me was one man who had a catering business and whose wife also worked full time. The economy had impacted his business immensely. But, he reflected upon how he had spent an estimated Fifty Thousand Dollars over a 4 year period for his two children on childcare. He reflected upon the fact that it was the equivalent of a down-payment of a house. Both he and his wife worked full time--yet they somehow managed to be at their children's games and be as involved as they could be. The election was about such persons that do try and work hard, play by the roles and want a fighting chance to survive and thrive.
Beyond the daily trials and tribulations of our communities, there is the wider World. It is a World that continues to be ever more militarized, polluted and polarized ever more. I can't help but wonder whether President Obama will " go big and bold" in order to be the true transformational figure. Only time will tell.
A Profound Sense of Concern
I saw this while making the Virtual Rounds on Facebook. This was on You Tube and only had 179 Views:
What I find especially disturbing is how no one seems to be paying attention to this problem.
Also available @ http://www.outsiderviews.com
11/22/2012
A Thought 4 the Week......
A "thought 4 the week" as we remember all to be thankful for:
This is my wish for you:
Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart,
Hugs when spirits sag,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Faith so that you can believe,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
Love to complete your life.
- Anonymous
Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart,
Hugs when spirits sag,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Faith so that you can believe,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
Love to complete your life.
- Anonymous
The US Political Scene as 2012 Draws to a Close.......
The elections have come and gone. The hard part of Governing has already begun in earnest.
This was a question that was originally posted in a New York Times article. What the US election has shown has been a United States that has changed. It is becoming more of a rainbow nation than ever before and it has given the Republican Party some true moment of pause as it begins its transformation to remain relevant. Some of the leading lights have begun to already position themselves for 2016. It does not come a moment too soon.
As the Republicans staked out their positions, I was particularly amused as the Speaker noted that he viewed Obamacare as "being" part of the negotations on the fiscal cliff. Such side shows, though, seemed to divert attention from changes the United States has undergone. The Country that Rush Limbaugh has led us to believe has changed. Yet, it seems to me that somehow the "old way" of thinking about America's role in the World seems to the prevalent way. The idea that somehow Capitalism in its' purest form must be the way seems to continue to be the prevalent thinking in Washington. This has been epitomized by the discussions President Obama has had with CEO's with the aim to "mend fences". Although he has also held discussions with the so-called Progressive & Labor Forces to reitrate the fact that he would not compromise on the basic principles that he ran on: to increase the top rate on taxes on the very rich.
The Country that was epitomized by White, Anglo-Saxon males is changing. This is even more epitomized by the challenge being faced by one of the more conservative counties in the United States: Orange County. In a recent report I reviewed on a leading Orange County Political Blog, Orange County Republicans--just like their brethren nationally--have misread the rise of the Latinos badly. They are on the prowl to identify conservative minority candidates. Marco Rubio and Bobby Jindhal are amongst the current stars who have been making the "Rounds".
Right now, though, the Country still has to be governed. A number of key Cabinet Officers are leaving. Hillary Clinton will leave in a few months. Tim Geitner is right behind him. There will be probably be other turnovers as well. The replacement for Secretary of State will probably continue to stay focused on the so-called "pivot to Asia" as the outward modern imperialist reach of US Foreign Policy will continue. On the domestic front, the position of Treasury Secretary will also entail continuity vs. transformation. The replacements for Tim Geitner are all individuals (such as Clintonite Erskine Bowles) are those who will mean a middle of the road approach to policy and the so called "Soft Austerity" that seems to be the order of the day. I did find the McCain/Graham onslaught on Susan Rice to be especially amusing. It negated from the real debate about the long-term role of the United States as it deals with the ever changing World we live in--a World that is multi-polar.
There is some hope that the President's decisive win will hopefully work to transform things. I hope that the President will be bold. Will he be truly bold, for instance, by appointing someone like a Paul Krugman or a Robert Reich to Treasury as someone suggested?
I wonder.
Also available @ : http://www.outsiderviews.com/outsiders-americas-watch-11222012-is-rushs-country-gone/
Reflecting Upon the Middle East......
The Israeli-Gaza Cease Fire continues to hold. Ismahil Haneya, Hamas' Leader in Gaza, has called upon all Palestinians to honor the truce. Israel seems to have demobilized the reservists it has called up.
What led to the cease fire? It was simple--the Israeli PM did not want to spend any more political capital than he needed to. The United States also saw to it that the Israelis were once again looked after. As I assessed the historical background of the latest flare-up, what I found especially ironic was that the same Hamas Commander the Israelis assassinated was actually negotiating terms of an extended cease fire with the Israelis. What I also found especially troublesome and disturbing was the killing of two Palestinian Youths by Israelis that began the latest crisis. I found Vijay Prasad's insights to be especially insightful:
Israel seems to have not realized that the dynamics of the region has changed. The fact that there was a tacit acknowledgement of the fact that Gaza was suffocated. The fact that the Palestinians in fact did not accept a 15-year cease fire but a rolling street fire. In addition, the fact that it was the Arab Street--I like Prasad's term, "Tahrir Pressure"--played a major part in putting this into effect. Gaza, though, has been destroyed yet again and no one will be held to account for this destruction. The loss of life was tragic. The story of families dying during the campaign was heart-breaking.
As I assessed this, I was so surprised by now the United States emphasized Egyptian leadership and responsibility. Although Prasad notes this, there is no discussing about Israeli responsibility throughout. Israel reminded itself that it had the right to defend itself. However, no one bothered to challenge Israeli spokesmen on the fact that Gaza has been a virtual prison ever since Hamas won the election. Gaza fishermen have been prevented from fishing. Vital medicines have been repeatedly denied. Electricity is in short supply. Food continues to be a challenge. The unemployment rate has been high. Yet, the Government of Israel led us to believe that somehow they were the victims.
What is clear is that the viability of Hamas has been recognized no matter what Israelis note. Abu Mazen has been further marginalized as a result of this as Khaled Mashal continues to rise in stature during the continued evolution process. It is quite a testament to the resiliency of Palestinians as to how they have been able to deal with such calamity.
One of the stories I was especially amazed to read about was the story of single mother of 8 who had begun work at the Gaza Recycling Plant. She had been abandoned by the husband. The plant was built from parts that were smuggled through the tunnels that had been the Gaza lifeline ever since Hamas won the election and the major schism occured between the Palestinian Factions. It is such stories that I view as quite inspirational about those who have somehow overcome challenges despite all that Israel had done with tacit support from The Egypt of the Mubarak Years. With Morsi in power, though, the dynamics have shifted considerably. Morsi, though, has made some dangerous moves. He has issued a decree in essence putting himself about the judiciary. The secular opposition has been galvanized and has called for demonstrations at Tahrir later on today.
Beyond Egypt, though, there is Iran. The two major opposition figures continue to be under house arrest. Opposition news sources are reporting that the health of Karoubi and Mousavi has been precarious at best. One of Mousavi's daughters has been warned that she would not be able to see her parents due to having served as a courier to the opposition news sources still active inside the country. I was also quite shocked to see the pleas of Rafsanjani's Wife pleading for her children who are currently under arrest. Rafsanjani is the former President and current head of the Expediency Council in the Country. This is as the current President, Ahmadinejad, loses the last vestiges of power and legitimacy already. Khameini, the Supreme Leader, came to Ahmadinejad's defense yet again by ordering Parliament to stop a question and answer session with Ahmadinejad by noting how this would "help the enemies". This is as the economy continues to be on the edge due to the crushing sanctions that have hampered Iran's ability to sell its' oil and import crucial materials. I have reviewed stories about the healthcare sector being severely impacted by lack of drugs.
The wave of change is yet to run its' course.
Also available @ http://www.outsiderviews.com/outsiders-middle-east-watch-11232012-the-week-that-was
11/21/2012
Remembering....
As thanksgiving is upon us here in the United States, I wanted to remember one of the greatest Presidents America has been blessed with: Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He noted how all of us as Americans must , "....recall the courage of those who settled a wilderness, the vision of those who founded the Nation, the steadfastness of those who in every succeeding generation have fought to keep pure the ideal of equality of opportunity and hold clear the goal of mutual help in time of prosperity as in time of adversity." - FDR, Thanksgiving Day Proclamation, November 30, 1933
Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!
Thanksgiving 2012 is Upon Us......
I begin this day very excited. There has been a cease fire announced between Israel and Hamas that is due to take effect within the next hour or so.
There are many minefields ahead, for sure. There is analysis that the Israeli PM has been strengthened as he gears up for re-election. Today, though, is a time to celebrate for all the ordinary faces on both the streets of Gaza and the streets of Israel. I hope and pray that this can be sustained for a better tomorrow for the entire Middle East.
Thanksgiving in the United States is not possible, though, without Charlie Brown. Happy Thanksgiving and Best Wishes to all:
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!
There are many minefields ahead, for sure. There is analysis that the Israeli PM has been strengthened as he gears up for re-election. Today, though, is a time to celebrate for all the ordinary faces on both the streets of Gaza and the streets of Israel. I hope and pray that this can be sustained for a better tomorrow for the entire Middle East.
Thanksgiving in the United States is not possible, though, without Charlie Brown. Happy Thanksgiving and Best Wishes to all:
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!
11/17/2012
Briefly re: the current Israel-Gaza War
The situation in Gaza is dire. Arab League has begun to flex its' muscle in a major way. The Egyptian Prime Minister was there yesterday. Egypt recalled its' Ambassador. The Tunisian Foreign Minister was there earlier. There is an Egyptian Parliamentary Delegation going forward. Even Iran's Foreign Minister wants to go to Gaza if Egypt allows it. This is in sharp contrast to 2009 when Hosni Mobarak basically did Israel's bidding. This is as Electronic Intifada is on a prowl reporting out of Gaza as Israel continues onward with aerial assaults. Electronic Intifada is reporting schools & hospitals are being targeted.
Statfor, despite its' recent controversy does some good work and some "matter of fact" reporting which I view as contributing to the discourse right now. In addition, I am glad to see NBC's Ayman Moyehdin, who did some great work during the last Gaza War for Al Jazeera, will be hosting a Google Hangout. I hope to join it 2omorrow @ 12 PM EST US. Here is the link for the Google Hangout:
https://plus.google.com/u/0/events/cgmp2ok6etr7c0qhm33utq8e8cc.
I also sent a quick tweet out on the Stratfor update earlier and wanted to make sure it was noted with this write-up here: Update on the Israel-Gaza Conflict. What is especially striking is how Iron Dome has not been as effective as it has been touted.
Will cooler heads prevail?
Statfor, despite its' recent controversy does some good work and some "matter of fact" reporting which I view as contributing to the discourse right now. In addition, I am glad to see NBC's Ayman Moyehdin, who did some great work during the last Gaza War for Al Jazeera, will be hosting a Google Hangout. I hope to join it 2omorrow @ 12 PM EST US. Here is the link for the Google Hangout:
https://plus.google.com/u/0/events/cgmp2ok6etr7c0qhm33utq8e8cc.
I also sent a quick tweet out on the Stratfor update earlier and wanted to make sure it was noted with this write-up here: Update on the Israel-Gaza Conflict. What is especially striking is how Iron Dome has not been as effective as it has been touted.
Will cooler heads prevail?
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