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US papers call Kuntar welcome 'repulsive'
Yitzhak Benhorin
Published: 19.07.08, 08:58
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1. Israel in free fall
Vince P ,   Chicago   (07.19.08)
What are you people doing!? I never dreamed I would see Israel acting in such a self-humiliatiing way. Your enemies are laughing. Your friends are crying.
2. it really has to stop
RobertK ,   Jerusalem   (07.19.08)
One of the factors leading to Israel's deterioration over the past decade and a half is a concern for world opinion. Israel's leaders now have to understand that they've gone so far toward appeasement and folding on every issue that both conservative and liberal papers in the West are now knocking it. NOBODY sees any sense in trading live terrorists, including a particularly heinous one, for soldiers who are already dead. Hizballah was also supposed to provide helpful information on Ron Arad--part of the terms of the deal--and when they provided a couple of pictures and sixty pages of nonsense, the Israeli cabinet didn't think twice about insisting that they uphold their end of the deal. The media went wild with the Karnit Goldwasser show and demonstrated no concern whatsoever for the good of the country, or ability to weigh the issues in a rational way. I am very worried that Israel, its ability to function rationally and effectively, is declining under the influence of STRESS and ISOLATION, factors known to induce deteriorations in individuals and presumably also in societies. I hope this foreign criticism can be a corrective.
3. Israel is far smarter than you think
Adam Fox ,   West Palm Beach, USA   (07.19.08)
I am a supporter of Israel and well versed in their military technology and tactics. It is quite possible that this is all an attempt to make Israel look weak so that a surprise attack will be less expected. I don't want to say too much as to give the enemy info. Before the 6 day war Israel said it's soldiers were taking vacations and publicized images of them on the beach. However, believe me, Israel is not in "free fall." Iran has Iraq on one side and Afghanistan on the other, both US territory right now. Iran is isolated, they possess inferior defensive capabilities. Israel tends to be low keyed, they don't flaunt their technology, they keep it quiet. Believe me, when it happens, it will be quick, quiet, swift, efficient and in no way that people expect. If Iran has to use photoshopped images of their missiles, what threat are they? What could did Russian defense technology do Syria last year when Israel took out their reactor? I hate to say it but both Americans and Israelis tend to be rather naive about Israel's military capacity. The enemy knows that Israel will reign hell fire and brimstone upon an entire nation for just one Jewish life. Imagine what they will do if their existence is at threat? Besides, that exchange made the enemy look vile and evil even to the Europeans. Let's hope the Mossad has some GPS tracking device planted in that animal so they know exactly where he is going. Don't get your info from the news, research and use your brain. Israel MUST take out Iran's nuclear program however, it will be the only way to restore respect in the region. Even though Hezbolah brags they won the conflict because like 5 men were still standing. Meanwhile Lebanon was turned into a parking lot and set back 50 years (thanks to Hezbolah). Israel took all Hezbolah had to offer and it barely phased them. Israel's auto-counter strike defense net was used by Hezbolah to destroy civilian locations. They shot rockets from a hospital and Israel's defense net detected the launch, calculated trajectory and sent a response from the closest military vehicle. It was not a war, it was an operation in a country against a terrorist force which had control over that country. Hezbolah had wanted Israeli troops to go in so that they could take them all with them to death, but Israel knew better. Hezbolah won nothing, simply saying you win, does not mean you won. Lebanon was left with 900 or so dead, demolished infrastructure and HEzbolah's supply of weapons was virtually eliminated. If they had the capability to do REAL damage, they would have, but they don't. Do you really think Lebanon or the people of Lebanon would allow Hezbolah to bring this reign of fire on their country again? These issues are far more complicated than you people think. Granted the prime minister of Israel sucks, but when he is replaced it will be a different story. I hope it is Natanyahu, and do not forget that Israel is probably one of the most advanced technological producers in the world. Who even says Israel needs to fly over Iran? What about flying into the atmosphere and dropping guided bunker busters from virtually space? What about unmanned Ariel vehicles? Israel invented them and makes the best. The world will always hate Jews (especially the stupid British hypocrites). At least now the Jews have a powerful military, so they can be hated, but they can't be killed. For those of you who believe the bible, all is going according to prophesy.
4. Arab hero
Steve ,   London, UK   (07.19.08)
It seems most fitting that the man the Arabs have chosen as their hero is a child killer. Even the so called "moderate" Abbas, heaped praise on this Arab hero. This author really shouldn't worry what the British media, especially the Guardian, has to say against Israel, as far as they are concerened Israel is always wrong and guilty. Well, at least Israel doesn't chose child killers as its heros.
5. Uh, Adam: Olmert is still running the country, remember?
Stewart ,   USA   (07.19.08)
6. "Repulsive"
Terry ,   Eilat, Israel   (07.19.08)
That about sums it up. And it applies equally to our gov't., our politicians, most of our media, & any others that supported this "deal with devils" ..... Repulsive.
7. To#3
George ,   Canada   (07.19.08)
take a breath body and don't read a lot bible it seems bad influenting your brain blood ciculation
8. US Papers Not Lebanese Owned
Peter Morris ,   New Zealand   (07.19.08)
Now I wonder if US papers are zionist owned.... maybe thats a bit too radical a thought to stew on. So then lets have a test of logic. Who has killed more people IDF/IAF or Hizbullah? Now who is the terrorist?
9. Adam is using the "They can't be that dumb" argument
Vince P ,   Chicago   (07.19.08)
I cant say I blame Adam... after all I clung onto the "They can't be that dumb" argument when trying to figure out what the US Iraq strategy was. I figured our govt couldn't be so dumb as to stop with Iraq.. I thought perhaps Iraq was just a way to get our feet on the ground while we planned to take on our true enemies... to the south and the east. But as it turns out, either by just giving up, or never having those plans to begin with.. it seems Iraq was as far as we were going to go, and yes, they were that stupid. Never again will assume the govt is smarter than I am... and that goes for the disaster in the PM's office in Jerusalem.
10. Get the lesson and DO NOT Further venture a war with Iran!
Tayfun_Turkey ,   Istanbul   (07.19.08)
11. Praising Israel for giving up a failed Kuntar's cause
observer   (07.19.08)
Why no mention of forensic evidence regarding the distance from which Danny Haran was shot? And why would Quntar, under fire, for whom the hostages represent his best chance to survive, kill them? And how did BOTH he AND his mate find the time, while police was closing in upon him with guns ablaze, to hit the girl repeatedly, and in few view of the police? And finally why were the police shooting in the direction of Quntar, knowing that he had or might have had hostages with him? Now free, Kuntar can defend himself against public scrutiny, and he alone bears the burden of this matter. There are also international courts and a justice system in Lebanon where suits can be brought against him. At least then, he will be able to address them and defend himself -- something the Israelis have denied him. Why Peres signed his pardon? because he knows that Lebanon signed for the International Criminal Court (ICC), but Israel failed to do so. That means; why should a 'new historian', radical professor, B'tselem or ilk bear the trouble of a trial to acquit an already acquitted man?
12. who is israil hero then ??
Ayman ,   Gaza - Palestine   (07.19.08)
to the guy says that at least Israel doesn't select child killer as hero .. I say it choose children killers as presidents from Shamir to Sharon and others and if you like to know as about Sabra and Shatella and Bahr Albaqar And Qana and what else ... all what honest people know about Israel is Killing and bloody days against the owners of the land .. be ashamed of supporting Israel .. I m against killing children anywhere in the world but when you have one choice to beat you enemy you do it even you don't like it .. and killing brings killing no way to stop that by power .. and no way to kill all Palestinians..
13. #11 well said
George Saliba ,   Canada   (07.19.08)
14. Unfortunately these papers are correct...
Jacob ,   UK   (07.19.08)
I rarely ever agree with the media considering the bias you see nowadays but on this occasion they are correct in what they say, especially the American articles. I also agree with Adam, Hizbullah can boast all they want about 'winning' the Second Lebanon War but in reality they were on the verge of surrending as one Hizbullah official stated last year. Most of their armoury was completely destroyed and many of their best fighters were lost but resentment amongst the Lebanise made sure that they gained the support they needed. That was Israel's mistake into thinking they could bomb Hizbullah into submission when in reality it worked in Hizbullah's favour. By using the population as human shields Hizbullah gained not only home support but also international sympathy. In my view Israel should not have launched a war in Lebanon. Instead they should have found out where the soldiers were being held and use their special forces to rescue them. If this was not the case then they should have made a ground incursion all the way up to Beriut like they did back in 1978 and 1982, not carpet bomb Southern Lebanon or wait until the last minute to launch an incursion. If anything they should have set out to win the hearts and minds of the Lebanise. As for the exchange I am completely against it since it does convince terrorists that kidnappings are working and even gives them a green light to kill the hostages and still make a deal. Israel can talk all they want about morals but Hizbullah, Hamas and Iran do not give a damn about morals. Not many people do anymore.
15. #11 Blind observer
JAyjay3 ,   Israel   (07.19.08)
You are a sicj man for trying to justify and deny Kuntars actions!!! You must be an observer with the Un with your twisted views and logic. You are certainly as blind as their observers! How does an Israeli bullet shatter her skull into smithereens? You also refuse to mention that there were witnesses that saw it all. You think Kuntar was there for a picnic you idiot? NO.............He was on a suicide mission and smashing a little 4 year old jewish girls skull is all part of what Islam teaches you to do! Your a sick sick puppy......go see a vet! Israel should bring back the death penalty for child killers like this pig and for traitors like Peres and Olmert that assist our enemies!.
16. OUTCOME MORE BASED ON EMOTIONS...........#6
MAHMOOD ,   LONDON-UK   (07.19.08)
Than on reality.It is assumed by majority that Samir Kuntar murdered a child.He personally denied that by giving and explanation to what actually happened.Here again,many in Israel do NOT want to accept what he has to say and therefore a foregone conclusions are drawn.Can Kuntar be given benefit of doubt?Or is it too much to ask for?
17. MORE BLIND........JATJAY3.........#15
MAHMOOD ,   LONDON-UK   (07.19.08)
Dont need to overemphasis a true and proved teaching in Islam.To vent your individual disrespect of Islam may not be of any importance to the readers,yet you would do better to first of all understand your own religion for a change.I now realise how sick you could be.
18. the difference
Shimshon ,   Jerusalem, Israel   (07.19.08)
Israel releasing terrorists to get dead soldiers back shows that Israel and the jewish people have higher values than all it's enemies. http://www.shimshon9.com
19. To Vince, the Obama supporter, in Chicago #9
Jeffrey ,   Boston   (07.19.08)
Left wing, liberal democrat, America haters like you will never call the Iraq war a success. If I recall, a brutal, murderous dicatator was removed from power and replaced with a functioning, liberal democracy. Weapons of mass destruction? Why don't you ask the Kurds in Halabja? Self hating, self absorbed Americans will never acknowledge our Iraq success. Which Iraq neighbors are now threatened by the Iraq government? How many British did the colonists have to kill for freedom and democracy that is your birthright? 4,000 Americans killed in Iraq in 5 years....50,000 Americans killed in one battle in the fields of Virginia in the civil war. The liberal, elite, phony, media has been very successful in brainwashing you. Think you'll be better off with Michelle Obama, self expressed America Hater, living in the White House?
20. RobertK #2: Israel's Jews like/appreciate this government
Steve ,   US   (07.19.08)
This traitorous Kadima party got 23%of the vote in Israel. That's huge! The govenment now in power is the government the Jews of Israel like and want. There is no outcry in Israel over these traitors. There is no protest in the street. No. The Jews in Israel like appeasement. The Jews in Israel desire retreat and humiliation. The Jews in Israel are tired of fighting; they are tired of winning; tired of being courageous. A couple of weeks back, a B'nai B'rith poll conducted in Israel revealed unsurprisingly, 80% of Israel's Jews demand that Diaspora Jews butt out when it comes to territorial compromises on Jerusalem, the Golan, etc. "Israelis feel that when it comes to issues of life and death here in Israel, issues that can draw Israel into wars, or issues of security, that it's the people here in Israel who are going to pay the price for decisions made," World Center Director Alan Schneider said. In other words, Israel's Jews want to surrender to the enemy and Diaspora Jews had better keep quiet because only Israel's Jews can make decisions about issues of security. This traitorous Olmert government is indeed a perfect fit for the Jews in Israel, by and large.
21. #17: There are a few exceptions in Israel to what I wrote.
Steve ,   US   (07.19.08)
Qur'an is clear. "Slay the infidel wherever you find him...fight against those to whom the scriptures were given...strike terror into the heart of the enemy of Allah...(they) shall be put to death or crucified or have their hands and feet cut off on alternate sides....Prophet make war on the "unbelievers" and the hypocrites and DEAL STERNLY WITH THEM. Hell shall be their home, evil their fate...."
22. #12 Ayman, Gaza. We don't need heros.
Terry ,   Eilat, Israel   (07.19.08)
But if anyone would qualify as a hero for Jews, it would be someone like Einstein & literally 10's of thousands of other Jews who contributed to the advancement of knowledge, to the betterment of mankind, to the improvement of people's lives. Look at the "heros" of the Arab world, past & present. All killers, murderers, conquerers, thieves, fanatics, extremists, & assorted trash. I would even look at the example of your prophet, hardly a normal person's idea of a hero from which your culture takes it's example. Hero-worship is akin to idolatry. Any man who lives a decent life is a hero, you fool.
23. 3
Rosie ,   Israel   (07.19.08)
Thank you!
24. The US has a lot to talk about. I
Joe ,   Ohio, USA   (07.19.08)
remember seeing drug dealers and criminals released from foreign prisons being welcomed home like heros here too. It's been years ago but one fellow even had a movie made of his experiences in a Turkish prison. Called the Midnight Express (1978)
25. Morality?
Yael ,   Washington DC   (07.19.08)
Thank God we do not need to learn from the Gentiles about Morality and values – we determined for the world long time ago what these are and mean. Israel acted in the most noble and righteous way when deciding to bring home our sons. People from other nations can only be jealous to watch our solidarity, our care, our humanity. Who cares for this beast – Kuntar; Who cares for their stupid celebrations? Israel did the right thing following its own morality – and nobody is suppose to understand why do we act they way we are. As Ben Gurion said, it is not important what the Goyim are saying – it is important what the Jews are doing.
26. #14
doron   (07.19.08)
actually after the first phase of the war israel should have probably retooled its direction and gone into syria. that would have ended the situation very quickly. it would probably be the best thing to do next time around.
27. #16: Thanks for defending jihadist killers.
Steve ,   US   (07.19.08)
Isalmic jihadists never, ever murder the innocent, especially not women and children! Oh no. All those buses, markets filled with innocent women and children exploding in the streets of Jerusalem were simply a figment of the Jews' and the world's imagination.
28. How do they dare criticizing Israel?
Claudia ,   Germany   (07.19.08)
Britain was one of the European countries which put a lot of pressure on Israel to end the war against Hezbollah before it was totally destroyed. Now, they dare to criticize Israel for not have finishing the job ? This is more than ridiculous. Israel holds the line against these barbarians and should the day come when Israel is no more ready or capable to hold this line, guess who will be next to have to confront these fundamental religious brainwashed cruel human rights abuser? it will be Europe!
29. to #20
RobertK ,   Jerusalem   (07.19.08)
Yes, Jews in Israel are tired and in some ways in bad shape (I'm an immigrant hence less afflicted by it). You could try to understand the reasons for this instead of just badmouthing them. And yes, we Jews in Israel feel that our existential situation is different from that of Jews in the Diaspora.
30. The fault is with the Israeli people
Sidney ,   USA   (07.19.08)
Enough of all this criticism. The people of Israel should be in the streets demanding an end of this horrible government. Do they not understand that Olmert is endangering their lives?
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