Predictably, WaPo Cowtows on UN Palestine Vote

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If the U.S. fails to veto, Obama fails to win Florida in 2012.

Threats?!!
If US vetoes, it will undermine Obamas Cairo speech
The most settlements in the west bank have already undermined the earlier peace talks
'Arab spring' and the new emerging democracies will feel the US has lied
EU is going to support it when it gets that far

[Anonymous]

State recognition is a good thing--it means more transparency with regard to the power structure in Palestine. There will be a government, and not just organizations or parties, to hold violent extremists responsible. It will provide a means, hopefully, for more efficient infrastructure to alleviate social problems. And, finally, for diplomatic reasons, having people actually hold and named to positions of power are necessary.

[jsteele]

Today Obama is supposed to meet with Abbas to discuss this issue. The way the US press is playing it, Obama will explain to Abbas why pushing for a UN vote is not the best way to pursue statehood. I can just imagine that conversation:

Obama: President Abbas, we support Palestinian statehood but don't think that pushing for this vote is the best way forward.

Abbas: President Obama, we have tried a number of methods to advance our cause without success. We think this is our best strategy.

O: No, it's not the best strategy and the US will veto the resolution in the Security Council.

A: Why don't you think it is a good strategy?

O: Because if I didn't veto the resolution, US supporters of Israel -- many of whom are Democrats -- would not vote for me and I would lose the 2012 election.

A: But, if you veto the resolution, the US will be isolated internationally. US claims about support for self-determination would be undermined.

O: That's why your strategy is bad.

A: That sounds like my strategy is bad for you. I think it is good for me. If American supporters of Israel are prepared to put Israel's interests ahead of US interests, that's your problem. It's not my problem.

O: I disagree. It will be bad for you if I lose the election.

A: Is that true? Did you oppose Israel's invasion of Gaza?

O: No, I supported it.

A: Have you opposed Israel's constant killing of Palestinians in both Gaza and the West Bank?

O: No, I have supported them.

A: Did you condemn Israel's attack on the Mavi Marmara which led to the death of many peace activists?

O: No, I actually criticized the peace activists.

A: Have you punished Israel for continuing to build settlements in the West Bank in contravention of international law and in opposition to US policy?

O: No, we continue to provide billions of dollars of assistance to Israel annually and turn a blind eye to settlements.

A: I am having a hard time understanding how I benefit from you being president. Why should I care if you win or lose?

O: If I lose, President Perry or President Romney will follow exactly the same policies.

A: Exactly. I'll see you at the vote later today.

[Anonymous]

I read an article yesterday that said Palestinian statehood would mean more terrorist attacks. How is that even remotely possible? I'm of the opinion that our support of Israel's treatment of Palestinians is a large part of the reason that we are disliked in the Arab world.

Other than fear-mongering BS, what is the risk of recognition of a Palestinian state? Other articles said that Palestinians will have access to international courts. Why is that a bad thing?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I read an article yesterday that said Palestinian statehood would mean more terrorist attacks. How is that even remotely possible? I'm of the opinion that our support of Israel's treatment of Palestinians is a large part of the reason that we are disliked in the Arab world.

Other than fear-mongering BS, what is the risk of recognition of a Palestinian state? Other articles said that Palestinians will have access to international courts. Why is that a bad thing?

The risk of granting statehood is that it's the best way to force some concessions from Israel. And that terrifies Israel. It might have to stop its illegal Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

[Anonymous]

I hope Abbas does not bow to pressure
Negotiations is the way that this has to be resolved.
I used to be on Isreals side, then became impartial. Now I am just fed up with the constant tit-for-tat. But this could really help. I side with the downtrodden now

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I read an article yesterday that said Palestinian statehood would mean more terrorist attacks. How is that even remotely possible? I'm of the opinion that our support of Israel's treatment of Palestinians is a large part of the reason that we are disliked in the Arab world.

Other than fear-mongering BS, what is the risk of recognition of a Palestinian state? Other articles said that Palestinians will have access to international courts. Why is that a bad thing?

Who knows. But rocket attacks might not be considered terrorism anymore. They may be considered war against an invading nation.