On Tuesday — just before Mr. Obama hosted Mr. Netanyahu at the White House — Israeli officials revealed plans to build 20 units in the Shepherd Hotel compound of East Jerusalem.
It would seem that Mr Netanyahu might "postpone" the building of settlements, or even these kind of big announcement of building settlements until after he is scheduled to have a meeting with a top American official. Its such an easy press grab to drop the info that you are doing what is completely contrary to the people you are meeting with, precisely the moment before you meet with them . Its like slapping someone before you extend your hand and say hello!
Two weeks ago before meeting Joe Biden ....
Mr. Netanyahu’s government provoked the controversy ....disclosed plans for 1,600 new housing units in an ultra-orthodox neighborhood in East Jerusalem
Surely these perfectly timed announcements amount to chest thumping bravado. Post talks, negotiations, and a Peace deal, Israel may or may not retain the right to build in Jerusalem, that will be decided by history. No matter what they are saying now, all sides will have to make consolations for the fighting to end and peace to prevail . It is clear that Netanyahu is digging in on this issue by dropping these pre-emptive bombs of directive maneuver. But what is needed now to stop bloodshed and instability in the region, is a solid showing of good faith from all parties involved.
Israel and Palestinian talks are a political hot potato. It is once again very reassuring to see the Obama presidency sticking to their hi vision and admonishing Netanyahu for acting like a irreverent child. The Obama administration is said to have the goal of brokering a deal to acieve a Palestinian state by 2014. WOW, that would be some serious big F**ng change for ya.
If you want to talk and are REALLY committed to peace Mr Netanyahu, put your political cards down and enter without so much bravado.
By the way this short diary is a reaction to the editorial in todays NYTimes -
Mr. Obama and Israel