There is probably a more politically correct way of putting it, but if one opts for the colloquial, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is a liar. His gift of gab – his persuasive oratory skills have earned him a fourth round at being prime minister, and once again, he skillfully spits in the face of Likud voters.
Perhaps the only surprise is that people are still surprised at his constantly evolving political hashkafa, which amounts to a belief in doing whatever one has to towards remaining in charge. Based on this he is successful.
After eliciting the ire of the US, EU and the international Western community during elections by announcing he opposes the so-called two-state solution, PM Netanyahu has now come out again in support of the establishment of the independent State of Palestine in areas of Eretz Yisrael. He has made this declaration in the past, many times, but during the election campaign for 20th Knesset he announced he retracts his previous position as he is now opposed.
In his meeting on Wednesday 2 Sivan with the European Union Foreign Minister, Mr. Netanyahu stated, “This is the first meeting we’ve had since I formed the new government. And I take this opportunity to reiterate Israel’s commitment to peace, and my commitment to peace. Over the last few weeks, we’ve taken some concrete tangible steps to benefit the Palestinian population. We’ve taken economic steps, added measures for reconstruction and development and ensuring ongoing humanitarian support. We’ll continue with those practical steps. But at the same time we will continue to work towards peace.
“Israel wants peace. I want peace. We want a peace that would end the conflict once and for all. My position has not changed.
“I don’t support a one state solution – I don’t believe that’s a solution at all. I support the vision of two states for two peoples – a demilitarized Palestinian state that recognizes the Jewish state, and I look forward to discussing with you how we can advance that vision forth in a practical, secure and responsible way. I know that you share our goal and we see you as a friend who can help advance it…”
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
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8 Responses
There is a simple ‘Tierutz’ to this ‘Stira’:
Yes the ideal is a two state solution with Hamas recognizing Israel and Abas erases all hate from the schools text books, and changes all street names from terrorists to poets, etc.
But what he was saying during the election was: I agree with you that it’s not happening, and I will only negotiate and agree to a two state solution in it’s ideal form, which will never be.
There is a lot to criticize about Netanyahu, especially that he plays political games, as evidenced by his not keeping his word with both within Likud and with each of the coalition partners.
This one issue though, while we don’t like his saying it, is a non starter and he knows it. He knows that the Arabs will never agree to anything.
Abbas said today that he is against a two-state solution and wants one state for Arabs in all of Israel.
Netanyahu is just trying to put the onus on the Arabs and take the pressure off of Israel.
It’s a dangerous game, because if ch’v the Arabs call his bluff, there will be bigger problems.
We need strong leadership that will tell it like it is, but right now, no better option than Netanyahu exist who is in a position to become PM.
I have a different take on this, and believe that we have to read between the lines in order to see what he really said. PM Netanyahu is quoted as having said “a demilitarized Palestinian state that recognizes the Jewish state”. Since the so called “Palestinians” will never recognize a Jewish state, he essentially said “when the cow jumps over the moon.” But people hear what they want to hear, and it is all about public relations.
All Prime Ministers have supported a Palestinian State for well over a decade already. Get over it. If Netanyahu himself supports it, you’ll never again see a PM not support it. It’s going to happen sooner or later.
He did not really change anything. Theoretically, he is not against a demilitarized Palestinian state, just he does not see it le’ma’ase any time soon.
Bibi definitely is a liar, but I don’t think you can criticize him for lying to this dog. The EU is among the most anti semitic bodies in the world. Truth isn’t their during point either. If you want to criticize him, criticize him for lying to Israel about every single issue that has ever come up.
Not that I’m a fan of Netanyahu, but anyone who thinks there is any other Israeli politician who would say differently is delusional. He’s no better or worse than the rest of them.
“Binyamin Netanyahu is a liar”
When I first read this, I thought that I had stumbled on some anti-Israel pro-Arab site by mistake.
‘the so called “Palestinians” will never recognize a Jewish state’
Why should they, when so many Jews like you don’t recognize the existence of Palestinians? But in any case, the Palestine Liberation Organization did recognize Israel with the Oslo Agreements.
“It’s going to happen sooner or later.”
And just as Nixon went to China, it will be an Israeli politician of the Right who will make it happen.