House Speaker John Boehner says the U.S. commitment to Israel should be stronger now as the American ally faces challenges to its existence in the volatile Middle East.
In an address Sunday to the Jewish National Fund conference in Cincinnati, the Ohio Republican dismissed suggestions that Israel has isolated itself and he argued that the Jewish state stands above others as the “one true beacon of freedom and opportunity” in the region.
The U.S., he said, must stand by Israel’s side “not just as a broker or observer — but as a strong partner and reliable ally.”
A text of Boehner’s address was made available in advance.
Boehner’s remarks come on the eve of the U.N. General Assembly session in New York, which is shaping up as a difficult diplomatic period for Israel.
The Palestinian Authority intends to seek recognition of statehood despite a threat of a U.S. veto in the Security Council and the strong objections of the United States and Israel.
Boehner also noted that the U.N. will highlight the Durban Declaration, viewed by many as an anti-Semitic statement, and that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, a foe of Israel, will address the General Assembly.
Boehner’s speech comes amid renewed attention to President Barack Obama’s policies toward Israel. Republicans say the president isn’t forceful enough on behalf of Israel, and political questions have been raised on whether the GOP can capitalize on the discontent and make inroads with Jewish voters.
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2 Responses
PREDICTION: Obama will take advantage of this sensitive time and express an uncharacteristic display of support for Israel. (This is his last chance to regain some popularity that he sorely misses).
If YWN readers would like to be part of the actualization of this PREDICTION, then please take out 72 SECONDS and say one chapter of Tehillim (Psalms) for the merit of Israel.
מה טבו אהליך יעקב, משכנותיך ישראל
Yes, maybe he will say ^