Bobert---of so many long ago posts---I agree with you about the Clinton comments and the Bush --don't do anything that Clinton would have done comment.

Guest---nice post--but why oh why does one not post one's (at least) screen name. Sounds like GUests are afraid of their identity being revealed--yet reveal others.

Carol C--of a way back post too---regarding that how can one think that the Palestinians--once they have a state--would be in any position to push Israel out. Think back to 1948---they are not alone. Let us face it---the neighborhood ain't too friendly as it is said.   Yes, it is a conundrum that can, as said, previously only be resolved by good will on all sides. That is not forthcoming---neither is the U S of much help now either.
       As to you other comment re: stopping retaliation (I paraphrase). Think about it. What if we did not respond to Pearl Harbor, what if Britain did not respond to The Blitz, and so on. It is a rhetorical query.