So, then, we question the president for having failed to address the walkout. We praise the news media, and CNN, and we praise Secretary Clinton, even as we despair at the pain and suffering of the victims of combat.
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"A sinister cabal of superior writers."
Article comments
1 - Igor
John, when you note that "It was Rice who boycotted the Iranian president when he spoke in September to the UN General Assembly" I can't help but think that boycott was at Obamas direction. Rice simply doesn't have discretion to make such a decision. So I wouldn't hold that against her: she was taking orders.
So then the question becomes "why did Obama order Rice to boycott", which is easy to explain in light of two considerations:
(1) Israels interests are vigorously anti-Iran and that boycott re-enforces our position with Israel.
(2) the boycott makes clear to Iran that they have a threshold to overcome to get in our good graces and get relief for their domestic boycott, which is really hurting.
This is what you must do when you choose diplomacy over arms. It's horrible, and it's bullying, but the alternative is war, which is much worse.
2 - John Lake
Obama ran in 2108 on principles which included a willingness to discuss with important leaders. You could see it in his visage as he was anxious to begin, as he took the presidency.
The Obama administration has the highest regards for Israel, but also feels a responsibility to, and a recognition of, the people of Palestine. They are seeking broader recognition by world bodies, and speak like educated people.
Susan Rice chose to walk out, as did Canada, I remember, because a high Jewish holy day was involved. This seems a step back toward more sabre rattling, and threats, and away from what should be modern government.
Obama hasn't to my knowledge commented.
Also not mentioned is the fact that the embassy in Benghazi requested more security, but the local person, a woman named Lamb, I believe, didn't agree, and failed to forward the request.
3 - Dr Dreadful
Apparently both John and President Obama have access to a time machine that transports them at will 96 years into the future, to a time when the two-term limit for presidential office has been abolished.
4 - John Lake
I can still recall believing that the world could not possibly reach 1984. And if it did, it would be so different, so unrecognizable!
Will we have presidents, or will we be under the unlimited authority of oil barons?