Some have suggested that, in launching massive strikes against Lebanon/Hezbollah, Israel's prime minister Ehud Olmert is trying to prove he isn't "soft on terrorism"
Let's take a look at another important man in Israel's cabinet.
Who is Haim Ramon and why is he saying those terrible things about the Lebanese?
Haim Ramon is the Minister of Justice, part of the cabinet (which votes on war policy) and is apparently just about the most flaming hawk this side of Dick Cheney's office. He is the author of such statements as "the world has authorized" Israel's invasion of Lebanon and "everyone in southern Lebanon is a terrorist." Why the Minister of Justice is making all these hawkish statements are beyond my feeble understanding but he is reportedly "close to" Olmert....you figure that out.
Is Haim Ramon playing "look at the rabbit" with the invasion, while trying to divert attention from a sexual harassment case?
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From what I can read, the invasion is a smash hit, box office bonanza, best seller, etc. in Israel ie everybody (well, okay, all the non-Arabs) is supporting the concept of going into Lebanon. War is generally a big plus for politicians. Okay, we all know that. But Ramon is clearly way in front, and I don't see how the Minister of Justice portfolio puts him in charge of War Propaganda.
Ramon has the usual military credentials, but is, strangely, affiliated with the Labor Party. I say strange, because I thought Labor was less hawkish. So what is up with this guy, who seems to be in a pivotal role in determining Israel's war strategy and acting as its spokesman ?????
I seem to be in the company of Karen Hughes on this issue, who called his statement about world authorization "outrageous". (I know, she was "shocked...") and COMPARED HIM TO A MEMBER OF HEZBOLLAH !!
Perhaps Ramon has another fish to fry: he is being investigated for a sexual harrassment charge, and restrictions have been placed on his activities as Minister of Justice, although he has not been suspended. Is Ramon doing a bit of wagging the dog?
Is this a Lewinskoid issue? I don't know. Am I swiftboating a great man? Maybe. But what's happening to Lebanon and to Israel deserves scrutiny, imho.
Just sayin...world events sometimes turn on small events and small people...crazed bunkernuts from Wyoming, for example.... I make no secret of my dislike for the scale of Israel's response. I can't imagine how anyone who isn't hoping for Armageddon can see what is happening there as a good thing...so that's my bias....
Maybe I am just totally cynical. But just watch the news for this guy's name. And, of course, watch to see what happens to Karen Hughes for escalating the war of words; she and Condi are both headed for basement offices or Medals of Freedom, I think. Of course, both of these women can't be ushered out on the same day....that might be viewed as ....well, you figure it out.
