After the Holy Land: What Obama Should do Now

by Robert E. Hunter President Barack Obama spent three days in the Near East, a whirlwind visit like a genie from the Arabian Nights, kicking up dust and making his presence felt. But what did he achieve? Two substantive matters… Continue Reading

Obama’s Subtle Message To Israel: You’re Not My Top Priority Anymore

by Mitchell Plitnick All was not as it seemed during President Barack Obama’s appearances in Jerusalem and Ramallah, where he addressed audiences of Israelis and Palestinians. On the surface, it looked like Obama was swearing fealty to Israel, and pledging… Continue Reading

A Desperate Cry for Help from Abbas

by Mitchell Plitnick As President Barack Obama’s first trip to Israel approaches, one senses desperation from the Ramallah headquarters of the Palestinian Authority. Obama’s scheduled stop in the West Bank has all the trappings of an empty gesture masking the real goal… Continue Reading

Israel and Palestine: Obama Commits the US

by Robert E. Hunter To say that President Barack Obama’s visit this spring to Israel, the West Bank and Jordan is the proverbial gamble is an understatement. He may end up (rightly) congratulating himself on his wisdom and courage in… Continue Reading

Gaza Fallout Weakens Israel, Strengthens Nationalists

By Nadia Hijab via al Shabaka Whenever Middle East tensions rise, observers wonder whether the Camp David accords between Israel and Egypt will weather the storm. It is no different this time. Asked at last Friday’s daily briefing if the peace treaty… Continue Reading