generalspeaking

A New Balance

The Obama administration has turned the U.S.-Israel/Arab-Palestinian equation on its head. Gone the close co-operation between the U.S. and Israel; no more heads-ups or consultations, nor co-ordinated positions nor responses. Both countries have new administrations and they mirror each other in their transition: the U.S. from a conservative to a liberal executive, Israel from a liberal to a conservative exchange. Views, perceptions and imperatives have shifted.

President Obama promised the world change, and he promised his constituents hope for a better world and he plans to deliver, in his own inimitable way. A restructuring of American foreign policy is chugging along, its pace fairly amazing, reflecting the obvious determination of its new chief. An open hand of friendship to Venezuela, to Iran, to Syria; a slight withdrawal when required. A firm instruction to Israel; prepare to give much, and when they have, more yet.

President Obama promised he would give a major address to the Arab world within the first three months of taking office, and he is now preparing to do just that, in Egypt, once the leading country of influence in the region, and still a power house. As far as the Muslim world is concerned he has much to improve upon, and they are not ready to concede that he will offer substantive differences from his predecessor.

As far as President Obama is concerned his initiatives will prove, without a doubt, that he is a man of his word and he means what he says. The Arab world has long bridled at the reality that America appears to favour Israel over the interests of the Muslims. They will now see that policy take a right-hand turn by a left-driven president.

Labels: Israel, Middle East, United States

posted by Pieface @ Sunday, May 10, 2009