Why US foreign policy is ALL screwed up (pass it on).
There is an amazing story in Ha’aretz today on the “pro-Israel” litmus test that determines who ispermitted to serve in the United States government. Here’s the sort of lede you’re not likely to read in theNew York Times or Washington Post:
“‘Everyappointee to the American government must endure a thorough background check bythe American Jewish community.
Inthe case of Obama’s government in particular, every criticism against Israelmade by a potential government appointee has become a catalyst for debate aboutwhether appointing “another leftist” offers proof that Obama does nottruly support Israel.”‘
Thestory goes on to rehearse what happened to Chas Freeman (whose appointment was derailed by theIsrael lobby because he voiced a few mild criticisms of Israel’s behavior) and reports that similar complaints are now being raised against the appointment of former Senator Chuck Hagel. Even more bizarrely, the ZionistOrganization of America and other rightwing Jewish groups are complaining aboutthe appointment of Hannah Rosenthal to direct the Office to Combat and MonitorAnti-Semitism. Why? Apparentlyshe’s been involved with JStreet and other “leftwing” organizations that ZOA et al deeminsufficiently ardent in their support for the Jewish state, and hassuggested that progressive forces need to be more vocal in advancingthe peace process.