Israelis Nervous Over Possible ‘Showdown’ With US

JERUSALEM — Almost a full fortnight before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is received at the White House, and already political nerves here are all a-jangle. Is a showdown with Israel’s staunch ally about to materialize? The country’s mainstream media seem to have little doubt. "Collision course" has become the routine fear about how the … Continue reading “Israelis Nervous Over Possible ‘Showdown’ With US”

UN Inquiry Critical of Israeli Attacks in Gaza

UNITED NATIONS – A detailed 184-page report critical of Israeli attacks on UN personnel and buildings during the Gaza conflict last December-January has been meticulously stripped down to a 27-page document – mostly due to political sensitivities and on security grounds. Responding to charges he had released only a "watered-down" version of the report by … Continue reading “UN Inquiry Critical of Israeli Attacks in Gaza”

Hamas Gaining International Legitimacy

JERUSALEM — Delegations from the rival Fatah and Hamas organizations have again failed in Cairo to bridge their differences meant to usher in a Palestinian unity government, but this has in no way slowed inroads which the Islamist movement has been making to increase its international legitimacy — much to Israel’s concern. Since the conclusion … Continue reading “Hamas Gaining International Legitimacy”