Lou, this is a moving and eloquent column about Israel. However, I have to say I'm dismayed that SB Current is running a column about the need for us to support Israel - which I assume would be sending troops and money - and not once in the last week has there been anything about supporting North Carolina. What is happening in NC is happening to citizens of this country. The Biden administration has spent so much of FEMA's money on sending to Ukraine and on the illegals invading this country that they don't have adequate funds to help American citizens. This is a disgrace of such magnitude that I would be on the side of the people of North Carolina if they declared civil war.
Trump has been amazing during this, supporting and getting aid to North Carolina. So has a member of his team, Elon Musk.
I support Trump more than ever based on this patriotic loyalty he is showing to citizens of America. My heart goes out to Israel. But my vote is for America and Americans. First and foremost.
I thought the Army had a bunch of trucks with big fat tires and soldiers trained to slog through the mud. I see a good use for that capability and it is already paid for.
Amen. We have to defend our allies but unfortunately we have spent so much on Ukraine and now Israel that our resources are limited. I’m in shock that they see FEMA is broke. How can this happen? Sleepy Joe must have been in a coma
The Biden Administration is more concerned about the comfort of illegals (not migrants as they are training you to call them) than American citizens and those here legally.
The ILLEGALS receive more money and services than anyone on social security. Let that sink in!
The "Biden" administration is antiwhite. For a ten thousandths proof of this, see the picture at https://voxday.net/2024/10/06/anyone-but-americans/ . The sociopathic alien "elite" in charge of our country HATE the founding stock of this country. But they apparently love "Israel".
I applaud your support for Trump no matter how you feel about him personally. It seems that though you never understood one issue voters, you acknowledge that Trump has Israel's interest at heart and "for this reason alone I will vote for Trump". But surely it is not this issue alone but that you agree with most or all of his policy. So why can't you support Trump without reservation? I have never understood voters who support a candidate with less than unreserved committment.
Thank you, Lou. I, too, fly the flag of Israel solidarity, and have for nearly a year since the aftermath of the October 7 genocide of innocents. For those who don't know this fact about the slaughter, their Palestinian neighbors came out of their homes and joyfully participated in the killing. Old men. Youth. They turned on their Jewish neighbors. The Democrat Party lost its moral compass long ago, but no more than on the issue of Israel and the open embrace of Anti-Semitism domestically. Worse, those silent Americans who stand aside, bystanders to what Jews worldwide are enduring -- yet again -- and permit the Left to bully them into appeasement policies.
Your flag is awesome (just saw it). I wish I knew you were doing this because I would have copied you a long time ago. It never dawned on me until a few weeks ago. You're the best, Celeste.
I will vote for free speech, common sense, protect my children from sexualization and utter madness, and no wars next month. IOW, I will be voting for Trump/Vance.
I am also Jewish, and have friends and relatives in Israel, and I have watched this movie play out my entire life. Time and again, Israel is attacked by savages from all sides, expends blood and treasure to repel the attack, then right as they are about to deliver the death blow and secure their future for their children, Western powers swoop in and force them to pull back for "humanitarian reasons". Rather than being humane, this, of course, only prolongs the suffering of both peoples indefinitely. So the suffering continues for over 80 years now under the guise of "humane and proportionate response".
I think about how we as Americans have "proportionately responded" to similar events in our history such as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 which killed about 2400 US citizens. Our "proportionate" response was to round up and incarcerate all Japanese Americans in "internment camps", a 4-year massive all hands on deck military campaign that killed over 2 million Japanese soldiers, (10% of the Japanese population) culminating in dropping two nuclear bombs on civilian targets (Hiroshima and Nagasaki) that killed an additional 1 million civilians in a single week. Then we occupied their land, hunted down and killed every Japanese who had anything to do with the Imperial Japanese incursion...and we still occupy their land today.
That was what WE called a "proportionate" response to an attack on our military base in a territory thousands of miles away from our Western mainland border.
Or maybe we should see what our proportionate response was to an attack that killed 3000 US civilians on 9/11/01?? Does anybody want to do a body count on that?
My point is that we should let Israel do what they consider a "proportionate" response to the existential threats that encircle them. I am also fully against the USA sending money and arms to Israel anymore. They are perfectly capable of defending themselves and know exactly what to do when there is a family of wolves at your door...threatening your very existence and every couple of years they swarm into your backyard and rape and kill your children...
I think I know what our "proportionate" response would be. Don't you?
As far as putting their lives (or our own) in the hands of weak, dithering, absurd incompetents like a Harris or a Biden...
Enough already. End this. Vote out the Democrats next month. And take their power from them kicking and screaming. Dont let them have it back for at least 40 years. That would be a "proportionate" response in my book. Its time to be Americans again.
yes, was just an abridged version of our "proportionate" response. I didn't want to go into the weeds on the subject, but would gladly do so in a separate conversation. :)
In all my historical readings of the time period, I dont recall any other countries telling us to "be proportionate" in our response...
Sadly earthquakes, fires and tsunamis have also wreaked similar devastation and numbers in this vulnerable area. Intentional versus triggered versus natural caprice has created a very different psyche on the ground. No easy conclusions, is all I am offering.
Sorry, J., I have no idea what you are getting at there. I dont understand how natural disasters killing people have anything to do with "proportionate response" comparisons.
Let's go at this a different way, on October 7th, 2023, there were 6 American citizens taken hostage along with hundreds of Israelis. Biden/Harris did nothing and said nothing to the terrorists who captured and tortured (possibly raped) our citizens abroad.
If this had happened under a different presidency, say Eisenhower or Truman or Reagan, or Trump, one can imagine a single phone call being made to alert Iran that at least 2 carrier battleship groups were heading their way, an entire squadron of B-52 bombers, and the marines were enroute, they would have about 24 hours to extract our citizens safely from this scenario or face total annihilation.
If anyone asked those presidents if they thought such a response was "proportionate" they would answer that such a question is a waste of time and that the nation of Iran now has 23 hours left..."next question, please" ;)
I read this article by Lou Segal titled "If You Support Israel, You Must Vote for Trump"
and I quote "Antisemitism Raises its Ugly Head ..... I should state I am not a religious Jew or one who necessarily identifies with my religion. I have always considered myself a quintessential American. I feel extremely fortunate to have been born and to have spent my entire life in the greatest country in the world. I can also say I have never been the victim of antisemitism, a situation that I attribute to the fair-mindedness and decency of most Americans."
I am going to repeat Mr. Segal's statement "I have never been the victim of antisemitism a situation that I attribute to the fair-mindedness and decency of most Americans."
Well if that is your experience than I wonder where you have been. My best friend and my Mentor in High School, a Jew, was regularly discriminated against which I saw first-hand. He went off to fight for Israel in the 1970's. That discrimination against Jews I saw over the next forty years in the US and right
here again in Santa Barbara. One of my good friends in SB, a Jew, has been badly discriminated right here in SB by the So-Called-Leaders. I have posted about Hate-Crimes here before and those against
Most people do not know that the Biden admin withheld ammunition for Israel’s Iron Dime trying to prevent Israel from defending itself.
The Biden admin went direct to Hamas in Gaza and negotiated a cease fire without Israel at the meeting. Then Biden coerced Israel to agree to the terms Blinken negotiated on behalf of Israel by withholding ammunition.
The Biden admin charged US Citizens for evacuation costs a year ago. That’s right, if you were trying to flee the war zone the US charged you. Thanks Democrats.
Democrat leaders are not only anti Israel, they are anti American.
You can’t blame the puppet Dimentia Joe. Someone above him is calling the shots.
What did the US do after 9/11. Did we negotiated peacefully. No, we went in blew up a bunch of people overseas, including civilians. And how about Obama secret drone strikes that killed hundreds of civilians.
No one protested us killing innocent civilians. But once again the kabuki theater and actions of the Uni Party have not been peaceful, ever? Until Trump that is.
Why does the Jewish community always vote D? Especially after watching Democrat donors fund and bail out Pro Hamas protesters.
Have you noticed how pro Hamas rallies are a bunch of non middle easterners, mostly white people, probably aetheists. While pro Israel rallies are actual Jews pleading for their friends who are hostages. Just an observation.
Iron Dome is easily defeated. Please look at the work of MIT Prof. Ted Postol to understand why he has warned that missile defense is a false sense of security and actually just a tax payer rip off. This is why Iran was able to demonstrate twice now that they can hit targets of their choosing despite Iron Dome and the other missile defense systems in Israel. The military in Israel no know that they can't protect their population if thy insist on provoking war with Iran. Th best protection for Israelis is to get an actual peace agreement that considers the rights and safety of all human beings in the region. That will require Israel to stop assassinating the negotiators from the other parties, however.
Iron dome seems to be working in fact; regardless of claims it does not work in theory.
How many peace agreements have already been in place so far, starting after the formal post WWII creation of the nation of Israel?
Key to Lou’ s sincerely presented article is the current blind rage rise of antisemitism right here in America. What turned America into such a sinister breeding ground for this blind hate?
Clearly, the US should and must support our friend and ally, Israel in its time of need. The horrid events of last year are unacceptable by any standard and is contrary to decent behavior by civilized societies. Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran all guilty of crimes against humanity and should be denounced, sanctioned and punished by the civilized world. Israel certainly has a right to defend itself by any means necessary, that much is clear. We must at the same time, denounce antisemitism in all its forms.
Conservatives can defend our friends in Israel, while at the same time have major concerns, disappointment and grievance with American Jewry. Why is it then that the vast majority of American Jews in the media seem to express contempt and hatred for Trump, Republicans and white, conservative Christians in general? Yes, Jews which have substantial influence over American media outlets such as the NYT, NBC, ABC, New Yorker, WAPO, CNN, The Atlantic, ALL display major negative sentiment and non-stop hatred directed at Mr. Trump, and his supporters. Why is this? Why have liberal Jews gone after conservative Christians and especially those in the right to life movement so vehemently? How can ANY Jew claim Trump has not supported Israel? It would seem some liberal Jewish groups support Palestinian “liberation “ more than they support their own country. While making up only 2.4% of the American population, Jews are in positions of enormous authority in virtually every single industry and commerce. Yes, banking, finance, entertainment, investing, to name but a few. This is a fact of life and any notion to the contrary is a fairytale. With this power and influence comes enormous responsibility to support with loyalty, our American way of life. American Jews need to ask themselves who supports Israel without hesitation, who moved their capital to Jerusalem, whose family members are Jews? American Jews must also remember who has stood by them unconditionally, since 1948 and which county put an end to the criminal events of WWII.
Those on the left, we all know the vile, disgusting and criminal acts they have perpetrated in the form of antisemitism.
The upcoming choices for this election has never been clearer for the wellbeing of State of Israel.
"I have never understood people who cast their votes based on a single issue. Obviously, we have seen this primarily on the issue of abortion, pro or con. To me, whatever you felt about abortion, there are so many other issues that deserve equal or greater consideration"
So we should instead continue to allow more innocent children to die, what a moral solution. This is what happens when people embrace moral relativism, they care not for right and wrong, only for what is convenient and affects their finances or their life in some personal way, forget about the poor and vunerable, it's all about non important issues. Israel has no theological basis for its founding, it never should have existed and so to clambor for support a secular state which doesn't even care for America (not thag I do either) while also throwing unborn chilsren undee the bus is asinine.
Geopolitical issues are not that simple. Iran, Russia and China do a lot of business together and are part of the BRICS consortium. Israel and Iran do not see eye to eye and thus Iran supports Palestine and Hezbollah. It was Russia that warned Iran to not take the bait while Israel was hammering Lebanon.
The best way to maintain peace is through economic growth where each country depends on the other for its prosperity. Do you think Russia will attack Europe when they are the biggest customer for Russian oil and gas? You don't bomb your customers.
The US has it's neocons and so does Russia, China, Iran and EU. It's the innocent civilians who pay a price with their lives and the lives of their children. If we keep killing each other because we are convinced the other is our enemy, do you realize there will be no countries left to war with? No people left to kill eventually.
Who really wins? The neocons who then plunder each country's wealth and resources. It is essentially a conquest of nations.
Who loses? All the innocent civilians in all countries globally
DIVIDE and RULE has always been the game.
US needs to mind it's own business. Our country is diverse and we have people from all over the world here in this melting pot. Families that are of mixed origins. I do not want to send my teenage children to fight in the middle east or any place else especially after congress now has declared automatic draft for all boys ages 18 and above. That is the question we all need to ask ourselves: What is the price you are willing to pay for all those wars??
Nature abhors a vacuum. Who becomes the fragile global peacekeeper when the US retreats from this post WWII unsought role?
The UN is an unmitigated failure. How does this role get farmed out, or its torch passed? Does even China really want it? Evil does exist in this world. Sifting through Greek mythology for answers to human nature may be the best course of action today.
I love your article Lou! We need more people in Santa Barbara (and California) to stand with Israel and stand for America. They go hand in hand because we are both God fearing nations. The one true God. And while Trump definitely has his personality issues, it is his policies that people need to focus on. He is pro Israel and he is pro America and ultimately he is pro-people. He is not into selling people into slavery like the leftist elites.
Ray and I were in Kansas City some years ago and read there was a gospel service at a church so we drove over. When we got to the parking lot, everyone walking in was in their best suit or dress and hat. We looked at each other and at our jeans and said “Now that is love they're showing for Jesus.” We didn't go in, but back in NYC went to a number of Harlem gospel concerts - and dressed for the occasion. They were amazing concerts.
But when Israel demands Congress violate the first amendment to silence speech on college campuses, Lozano is silent about it. Someone otherworldly wise once said you can't serve two masters. So which is it, Christy, America First or Israel First?
Aimee, How brave of you to accuse me on a thread. I remember a while back when you said something and instead of responding on a thread, I called you. That's a more fruitful and respectful way to be.
But since we are here, I am not sure what you speak of and I would only be silent for handful of reasons, one of which would be not knowing about it. You condemn me before you ask my stance. Not very fair of you. Free Speech is free speech. If we want free speech, which I do, then it is free speech for all to speak. America and Israel walk hand in hand. I don't have to choose.
Christy, I as not aware that spirited debate on this site was unwelcome. While you are always welcome to call me, you are also welcome to make your case in this or another public forum in case it is thought provoking for others. If you are not aware of how Congress has decided to "fix" the "problem" of pro-Palestinian rights protests on campus by making federal dollars contingent on cracking down on "hate" on campus, you should learn about the Antisemitism Awareness Act. UCSB Chanclor Yang justified his repressive dismantling of the Palestine encampment in part due to their banner that said "From the River to the Sea." How is this different from cancel culture and leftist tyranny? Why did Republicans support this? Do you stand with those like Marjorie Taylor Greene, Thomas Massie and Matt Gaetz, and who voted against this? https://www.aclu.org/documents/aclu-urges-congress-to-oppose-anti-semitism-awareness-acthttps://www.thefire.org/news/fire-urges-senate-oppose-antisemitism-awareness-act The price of freedom is eternal vigilance and we cannot allow the powerful pro-Israel lobby chip away at our constitutional rights. I will try to find you more materials to learn about this and state level infringements on free speech for Israel. Two content creators that have been following this issue over the years are Glenn Greenwald (journalist involved with releasing Snowden info about mass warrantless spying by our government) and Christian rapper An0maly on the right.
Spirited debate is one thing and that’s not what you were doing when you responded to my comment. You used criticism, disrespect, and judgement when you don’t have the first clue what you are talking about in regards to me. You are combative and mean spirited and I won’t have these types of interactions with you.
Well, that is your assertion about my intent, but it doesn't take away your responsibility to deal with the issues as you are asking us to trust you to have what it takes to be effective in the political sphere. If you can't handle some sincere and important questions if you suspect "mean spirit", then maybe you should step back and leave it to those who are capable of taking on the task. But if you want to get into what is "mean spirited", what about "standing with Israel" when Israel persecutes Christians and Muslims, was founded on theft and ethnic cleansing and is currently bombarding and starving 2.2 million civilians with an estimated death toll over 200,000 after a year of blocking aid and destroying their infrastructure. In fact, I will do you one better than "mean spirited." It is freaking EVIL to support the genocidal Zionist project of an ethnosuprmacy state for Jews in Palestine. Whether you do so out of ignorance, having been duped by the Satanic heresy of Christian Zionism promoted by the psyop Scofield reference bible, or out of political opportunism, you are facilitating evil. As a Christian and a Catholic, I do love the person even as I hate the sin. I raise sincere and honest questions since the person may just be completely brainwashed and actually mean well, but your "muh feelings" leftist type of excuse to evade my question can only be described as pathetic. I am not out to get you personally. We are talking about serious issues of war and peace and war crimes and bankrupting our country and damaging our moral authority in the eyes of the world and deception through propaganda. Aaron Bushnell, your fellow member of the US military, burned himself to death to protest being deployed to support this war crime called Israel. Maybe you should do a little research and find out why he was so passionate about resisting having to render support to a criminal operation. https://youtu.be/BJpWOikX9jU Maybe you should find out what "kill Amalek" means to right wing Jewish fanatics. Maybe you should find out who Rabbi Schneerson was, what he said about non-Jews and why Trump visited his grave today. Maybe you should read Israel Shahak's book "Jewish fundamentalism in Israel." https://www.wrmea.org/2000-march/book-review-jewish-fundamentalism-in-israel.html The less you know about Israel, the better it looks.
Also, if you would, please watch the ad at the beginning of this video to understand why I found Lou Segal's article and your praise of it dehumanizing and degrading to us all. https://www.youtube.com/live/dN1wIzFzcfc
This isn't about you personally, this is about having taken the time to research the history of this issue and the current reality and the US role in all of it and being revolted by ignorant and/or mendacious people lying and telling the world to look away and to ad insult to injurry, smearing those who do have the integrity to look and speak the truth as "antisemitic." Demons are real. St. Michael the Archangel, pray for us.
Aimee, I don't remember this incident involving Christy. Can you tell me about it? I find Christy a defender of the first amendment so this surprises me. Christy and I don't always agree, but I find her very easy and worthwhile to disagree with. Which is why I'm voting for her for County Board of Education. I remember you snapping at me here because even though I praised much of what you wrote, I explained I'm not a Christian, and left the Catholic faith when I was 12. Freedom of Speech is important to me and so is Freedom of Religion, you can't have one without the other.
Polly, Aimee is pulling this conversation out of thin air and this is mean spirited behavior. I didn’t have any conversation, at any point, with regards to the story she brings up. Why she is interacting like this on the thread is beyond me. It seems she wants to stir things up.
I snapped at you for not being a Catholic or I simply made the case for why I think our society needs to return to Catholicism? Did I ever say Catholicism should be mandated? And please provide the quotes b/c I do not think you are accurately representing my statements, hopefully inadvertently on your part.
“Hopefully inadvertently” ? Aimee, you are way too combative for me to bother trying to get along with. I don't get paid to comment here. I've been doing it during this election period to show support for SB Current because I think it's important for Santa Barbara to have a genuinely alternative publication, which it didn't. But it's either fun and informative for me or it's not. And you are neither. Your information is always stuff I already know or have read like E Michael Jones. And you're about as much fun as root canal.
I don't retract anything, Aimee. I just find it pointless to discuss anything with you. I wish you well, but this is the end of any response you'll get from me.
The highly influential so-called pro-Israel Neocons have used 9/11, a false flag event, to drag the US into wars in the Middle East for the purpose of strengthening Israel against all regional competitors. The US has spent trillions, lost thousands of service personnel and killed MILLIONS of civilians in these unnecessary wars. Those deaths are on our hands. See what Architects and Engineers for 9/11 Truth have to say about the physical impossibility of the “official” government story about what took place on 9/11 if you have not researched this already. In short, we Americans were attacked and then conned into vanquishing Israel's enemies. The countries that have been fully or at least partially destroyed by the US and whatever “coalition of the willing” could be assembled include Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. The Neocons and their “Project for a New American Century” were reported by Gen. Wesley Clark to have a list of seven countries they wanted to use the US to go to war with: Iraq, and then Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and, finishing off, Iran.” So only Iran remains. Like on 9/11, there have been a lot of unanswered questions about Oct. 7 in Israel. Why was the border uncharacteristically not protected? Why so long for the IDF to respond? It is a very small country. How many of its own people did the IDF kill as per their Hannibal Directive to kill hostages rather than let them be used as political bargaining chips? Reports are that there was advance knowledge of the attack as well. Then, in the aftermath, an Israeli agent working inside the New York Times was getting stories published about babies in ovens and sexual assaults that later had to be retracted because they were not based on evidence. Oct. 7 was then used as a pretext to wage wholesale slaughter on the civilian population of Gaza, including the Christians. The US has been bringing in forces to the region and increasing arms and financial aid to Israel to carry out this slaughter on an imprisoned people. It is infuriating most of the rest of the world. One US service member, Aaron Bushnell, livestreamed immolating himself in front of the Israeli embassy rather than face serving as part of this genocidal project of innocent civilians. You should search out the statement he gave before engaging in this extreme protest. And now, Israel has invaded Lebanon and has attacked Iran several times in an attempt to provoke war with the last country on the list Gen. Clark reported. Israel wants to once again have use the US's blood and treasure to attack a regional competitor and bomb them back to the stone age. Iran is a much more powerful country, may have nuclear capability and clearly has alliances with nuclear powers Russia and China. Iran can send the world economy into chaos by closing the Strait of Homuz. Israel is talking about bombing Iran's oil infrastructure, which would also send shockwaves throughout the world economy. People recently devastated by Helene report being told FEMA is tapped out due to sending materials to Ukraine and supporting all the migrants flooding across our open border. People across the US are facing economic difficulty due to inflation, increased energy costs and having to compete with huge unregulated conglomerates like Blackrock in the housing market. The first part of WEF's Klaus Schwab's statement, “you will own nothing and be happy” seems to be being implemented. Printing money to wage wars of choice for Israel is bankrupting the US and straining relations with most of the world. And with Iran, the potential for nuclear and direct war between the largest world powers is a serious risk that must be considered. It would be disastrous for most of the world, and deadly for many Israelis. So, if you actually care about the Jews in Israel and all the people of America, you will do all you can to prevent Israel's unhinged government from provoking nuclear WW III. Simplistic ideas about "good guys" and "evil guys" work well in a movie script, but we are dealing with the real world and we can't afford to be naive, childish or simplistic when considering all that is at stake. Love everyone, pray for peace, and speak up against lies, distortions, oversimplifications, name-calling and manipulative propaganda.
well said Aimee, all valid points…unfortunately most people are still asleep, following the narratives…they cannot yet understand the false realities created by the power players making moves on behalf of old bloodlines pulling the strings from behind the curtain. Israel is near the center of gravity.
Aimee, Are you so sure this protracted Middle East tension was not all about oil and not Israel? The irony of the 21st century. Nuclear power becomes the instrument for global peace, shedding its current spectre for global destruction.
Neo-cons support the US military industrial complex. That is as far as their ideology goes. Not sure why you label them as highly influential. Follow Eisenhower's sage advice. Politically, put them on the run.
I am afraid it goes beyond just the resource industries and the military industrial complex. There is an effort to undermine the United States including our most basic rights. Cynthia McKinney and others have reported on ho the neocon movement goes back to the clean break document written for the Netanyahu administration back in 1996. I am not on the inside, but people like Ray McGovern and John Mersheimer claim that when push comes to shove, the Neocons win out over the America first interests. Actually, George H Bush and many others said the same about the pro-Israel lobby before the neocons became ascendant. Consider looking into Paul Findley, James Traficant, Cynthia McKinney, Earl Hilliard and look at Alison Weir's book "Against our Better Judgement." And of course John Mersheimer and Steven Walt's book, "The Israel Lobby and US Foreign Policy." In California, we are not allowed to get any state contracts if we boycott Israel. How was that pulled off? Epstein style black mail operations? Just buying politicians? Th power to slander anyone in the media ho won't play ball? Why does Netanyahu get treated like he is our king when he comes to the US Congress? Why does the ADL decide who can and can't be on youtube? ADL was founded to defend convicted pedophile murderer Leo Frank and has a history of taking Jewish mafia money. And many many more questions...
Yes, but I believe it is in our national interest for regime change and to overthrow the criminal government in Iran and if we can get the Israelis to do it for us…so much the better!
The reason they have an anti-American regime is because we already overthrew their elected government (Mossaddegh), armed the Iraqis against them, shot down one of their civilian airliners (from the USS Vincennes), cyber attacked them, tried to stoke a color revolution there, and assassinated Solemaini on his way to a peace meeting. In addition am Israel and allow them to assassinate Iranian officials as well. So, instead of trying to get along with other countries, "we" should just keep attacking them? What could go wrong?
Good question. I was a sincere believer in moving away from fossil fuels and even did my PhD on photovoltaic processing, but I am now convinced that the shift to electric (that can still be powered with fossil fuels) is being done to make sure our vehicles and homes can be controlled remotely so that when they want to punish us for saying the wrong thing or our "social credit score" dips down, they can flip a switch and remove our heating or stop our car from going. I know, this sounds crazy and I pray I am wrong, but we did witness the COVID operation which involved a global coordinated shutting down of the economy and coercing everyone to get a novel gene therapy product that was never shown to work. Look at the environmental footprint of lithium ion batteries. Their increase of weight to vehicles. I am not sure they are better for their environment. Then you have these top climate advocates having nothing to say about averting war. What is the climate impact of a war? Pretty high, I can assure you. So, I suspect the impact of human activity on climate is not proven and not our biggest problem. I am still an environmentalist, but I think we should focus on reducing the use of plastics and nanoparticles and we should be much more careful about rolling out novel materials and new radiation sources. (My background is in materials.) I think biomaterials and genetic engineering are way under regulated and the interests for making sure the risks are low for these materials just are not there. So, I am conservative about new technologies. Still don't have a cellphone because I don't want to be tracked and constantly spied on. I don't think governments, at least in the West, are working for their people. That is why the border is wide open, wholesale surveillance isn't even questioned, and there is no war not worth further indebting future generations for. I think those behind these agendas are trying to take down our countries that have a rights framework because they envision a post human rights technocracy along the lines of what China already has. I would, of course, love to be wrong. And I ill vote for Jill Stein with all her many bad positions and past failings b/c at least she is a clear voice against war in Ukraine and Iran. I think it is unwise to think that our leaders that are ok with slaughtering millions in other countries can be trusted to care about our well being or health, but our communities are so fractured and people are so jaded and emotionally fragile, it is hard to build a movement that can push any of this back. That is why after 25 years of working against wars, I feel we have to start on the spiritual level. Without a solid moral framework, we can't have any hope of holding this back. And I believe without tradition (guidance from our forebears) and a shared faith in God, we can't get anywhere. So I think we need a movement of Catholic Nationalism in the West. But that probably sounds crazy to most. I do agree energy independence is a good idea for every county as well as food independence. And I am no expert on that or any of this, but just trying to figure out what is real and where we are being manipulated in order to be a responsible citizen and protect my family from things like experimental injections and unnecessary debt. What is your take on the green economy? What do you think about the possibilities for citizens to have any say in our future? How can our rights to privacy be restored? Our votes accurately and credibly counted? Our freedom of speech restored? Faith in the medical field restored? The degradation of human sexuality and the sexualization of children be stopped? The epidemic of despair in young people be countered? There are many more questions, but this is already too long. Answer only those that interest you, if any.
After reading your opening line, Lou, I knew there would be many impassioned views on your article. There are arguments both for and against intervention in the conflict with much emotion attached to both sides; each one pointing out atrocities . The defense of Israel is backed here in the U.S not only by a massive Jewish lobby with tremendous power but a good portion of Christian churches inspired by biblical prophecies. But when one reads of the formation of Israel in 1948 which displaced and continues to displace the original inhabitants , one has to take a harder look at the Zionist movement. I compare Netanyahu to Biden in that both men are not out to protect their countries but are in power for themselves. I see that a good portion of the readers are prepared to continue sending in more money, weapons, and perhaps foot soldiers to protect Israel at all costs, even if it means war with Russia. I am not. So, while you , Lou, are backing Trump, not because you like him but think he will save Israel, I am backing Trump hoping that he will keep his promises on bettering America's economy, closing the border, and end our constant wars while I pray that when he does get in he will try to put Americas interests first and not Israels. Thank you for writing the article, Lou, because discussion is always a good thing.
I wrote a fourteen-page paper titled, 'JEWISH ENGINEERS/MANAGERS, AND A DOCTOR, ARE THE BEST!" Back when I was starting out as an engineer, Jewish engineers were well sought out and the newly digital system startup companies of the 50's and 60's recognized Jewish engineers as early founders of digital engineering technology. From Jewish bosses and fellow engineers, I learned to write technical reports, the work level required in seeking information, developing a level of curiosity about everything and the purpose behind doing the best work possible. I wrote this about a year ago to honor those that made me a better person at the work I performed. A Jewish office mate involved with very early digital system development, his son later became an astronaut, namely Scott "Doc" Horowitz. Sy Horowitz, Scott's dad, I recalled both worked hard at attempting to get Scott into an academy through political connections but failed. However, Scott went the traditional way of attaining his ambitions, hard work! Anyone interested in the paper I wrote; I'll send you a copy (analogdesign@aol.com).
Lou, this is a moving and eloquent column about Israel. However, I have to say I'm dismayed that SB Current is running a column about the need for us to support Israel - which I assume would be sending troops and money - and not once in the last week has there been anything about supporting North Carolina. What is happening in NC is happening to citizens of this country. The Biden administration has spent so much of FEMA's money on sending to Ukraine and on the illegals invading this country that they don't have adequate funds to help American citizens. This is a disgrace of such magnitude that I would be on the side of the people of North Carolina if they declared civil war.
Trump has been amazing during this, supporting and getting aid to North Carolina. So has a member of his team, Elon Musk.
I support Trump more than ever based on this patriotic loyalty he is showing to citizens of America. My heart goes out to Israel. But my vote is for America and Americans. First and foremost.
The perfect comment. Your ability to see the big picture Polly.
We must pay attention to our country needs too.
I thought the Army had a bunch of trucks with big fat tires and soldiers trained to slog through the mud. I see a good use for that capability and it is already paid for.
file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/87/07/FB5452A1-E9F0-4D75-B923-719EE7C0F10A/Facebook.heic
Link not working, this one should
https://x.com/CynicalPublius/status/1841563457839108333
Amen. We have to defend our allies but unfortunately we have spent so much on Ukraine and now Israel that our resources are limited. I’m in shock that they see FEMA is broke. How can this happen? Sleepy Joe must have been in a coma
The Biden Administration is more concerned about the comfort of illegals (not migrants as they are training you to call them) than American citizens and those here legally.
The ILLEGALS receive more money and services than anyone on social security. Let that sink in!
The "Biden" administration is antiwhite. For a ten thousandths proof of this, see the picture at https://voxday.net/2024/10/06/anyone-but-americans/ . The sociopathic alien "elite" in charge of our country HATE the founding stock of this country. But they apparently love "Israel".
I applaud your support for Trump no matter how you feel about him personally. It seems that though you never understood one issue voters, you acknowledge that Trump has Israel's interest at heart and "for this reason alone I will vote for Trump". But surely it is not this issue alone but that you agree with most or all of his policy. So why can't you support Trump without reservation? I have never understood voters who support a candidate with less than unreserved committment.
Thank you, Lou. I, too, fly the flag of Israel solidarity, and have for nearly a year since the aftermath of the October 7 genocide of innocents. For those who don't know this fact about the slaughter, their Palestinian neighbors came out of their homes and joyfully participated in the killing. Old men. Youth. They turned on their Jewish neighbors. The Democrat Party lost its moral compass long ago, but no more than on the issue of Israel and the open embrace of Anti-Semitism domestically. Worse, those silent Americans who stand aside, bystanders to what Jews worldwide are enduring -- yet again -- and permit the Left to bully them into appeasement policies.
Your flag is awesome (just saw it). I wish I knew you were doing this because I would have copied you a long time ago. It never dawned on me until a few weeks ago. You're the best, Celeste.
I will always stand with Israel, Lou, a righteous nation. Thank you for writing this important and necessary article.
Well Lou your well - intentioned comments have certainly stirred up a stew of mixed reactions. A bit like a recipe for an indigestible diet.
Lol, Derek, and I cook while writing my comments here. A long habit of mine for writing anything.
I will vote for free speech, common sense, protect my children from sexualization and utter madness, and no wars next month. IOW, I will be voting for Trump/Vance.
I am also Jewish, and have friends and relatives in Israel, and I have watched this movie play out my entire life. Time and again, Israel is attacked by savages from all sides, expends blood and treasure to repel the attack, then right as they are about to deliver the death blow and secure their future for their children, Western powers swoop in and force them to pull back for "humanitarian reasons". Rather than being humane, this, of course, only prolongs the suffering of both peoples indefinitely. So the suffering continues for over 80 years now under the guise of "humane and proportionate response".
I think about how we as Americans have "proportionately responded" to similar events in our history such as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 which killed about 2400 US citizens. Our "proportionate" response was to round up and incarcerate all Japanese Americans in "internment camps", a 4-year massive all hands on deck military campaign that killed over 2 million Japanese soldiers, (10% of the Japanese population) culminating in dropping two nuclear bombs on civilian targets (Hiroshima and Nagasaki) that killed an additional 1 million civilians in a single week. Then we occupied their land, hunted down and killed every Japanese who had anything to do with the Imperial Japanese incursion...and we still occupy their land today.
That was what WE called a "proportionate" response to an attack on our military base in a territory thousands of miles away from our Western mainland border.
Or maybe we should see what our proportionate response was to an attack that killed 3000 US civilians on 9/11/01?? Does anybody want to do a body count on that?
My point is that we should let Israel do what they consider a "proportionate" response to the existential threats that encircle them. I am also fully against the USA sending money and arms to Israel anymore. They are perfectly capable of defending themselves and know exactly what to do when there is a family of wolves at your door...threatening your very existence and every couple of years they swarm into your backyard and rape and kill your children...
I think I know what our "proportionate" response would be. Don't you?
As far as putting their lives (or our own) in the hands of weak, dithering, absurd incompetents like a Harris or a Biden...
Enough already. End this. Vote out the Democrats next month. And take their power from them kicking and screaming. Dont let them have it back for at least 40 years. That would be a "proportionate" response in my book. Its time to be Americans again.
Your retelling of WWII history in Asia is odd, Eric. You left out many chapters.
yes, was just an abridged version of our "proportionate" response. I didn't want to go into the weeds on the subject, but would gladly do so in a separate conversation. :)
In all my historical readings of the time period, I dont recall any other countries telling us to "be proportionate" in our response...
Sadly earthquakes, fires and tsunamis have also wreaked similar devastation and numbers in this vulnerable area. Intentional versus triggered versus natural caprice has created a very different psyche on the ground. No easy conclusions, is all I am offering.
Sorry, J., I have no idea what you are getting at there. I dont understand how natural disasters killing people have anything to do with "proportionate response" comparisons.
Let's go at this a different way, on October 7th, 2023, there were 6 American citizens taken hostage along with hundreds of Israelis. Biden/Harris did nothing and said nothing to the terrorists who captured and tortured (possibly raped) our citizens abroad.
If this had happened under a different presidency, say Eisenhower or Truman or Reagan, or Trump, one can imagine a single phone call being made to alert Iran that at least 2 carrier battleship groups were heading their way, an entire squadron of B-52 bombers, and the marines were enroute, they would have about 24 hours to extract our citizens safely from this scenario or face total annihilation.
If anyone asked those presidents if they thought such a response was "proportionate" they would answer that such a question is a waste of time and that the nation of Iran now has 23 hours left..."next question, please" ;)
I read this article by Lou Segal titled "If You Support Israel, You Must Vote for Trump"
and I quote "Antisemitism Raises its Ugly Head ..... I should state I am not a religious Jew or one who necessarily identifies with my religion. I have always considered myself a quintessential American. I feel extremely fortunate to have been born and to have spent my entire life in the greatest country in the world. I can also say I have never been the victim of antisemitism, a situation that I attribute to the fair-mindedness and decency of most Americans."
I am going to repeat Mr. Segal's statement "I have never been the victim of antisemitism a situation that I attribute to the fair-mindedness and decency of most Americans."
Well if that is your experience than I wonder where you have been. My best friend and my Mentor in High School, a Jew, was regularly discriminated against which I saw first-hand. He went off to fight for Israel in the 1970's. That discrimination against Jews I saw over the next forty years in the US and right
here again in Santa Barbara. One of my good friends in SB, a Jew, has been badly discriminated right here in SB by the So-Called-Leaders. I have posted about Hate-Crimes here before and those against
the Jews are some of the worse as here >>> https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-65748629
"It was, put simply, the deadliest antisemitic attack in US history."
"After a Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, can a community heal?"
I suggest that EVERYONE here go down to the Jewish Federation of Greater SB.
Go to their Holocaust Museum and LISTEN to their tapes of the Holocaust Survivors.
Howard Walther, member of a Military Family
PS - From the above Article "This is the most horrific antisemitic act that's ever happened
in the United States. It's a mass murderer. There were people who were killed
who were especially vulnerable, and it was all done in a house of worship."
Most people do not know that the Biden admin withheld ammunition for Israel’s Iron Dime trying to prevent Israel from defending itself.
The Biden admin went direct to Hamas in Gaza and negotiated a cease fire without Israel at the meeting. Then Biden coerced Israel to agree to the terms Blinken negotiated on behalf of Israel by withholding ammunition.
The Biden admin charged US Citizens for evacuation costs a year ago. That’s right, if you were trying to flee the war zone the US charged you. Thanks Democrats.
Democrat leaders are not only anti Israel, they are anti American.
You can’t blame the puppet Dimentia Joe. Someone above him is calling the shots.
What did the US do after 9/11. Did we negotiated peacefully. No, we went in blew up a bunch of people overseas, including civilians. And how about Obama secret drone strikes that killed hundreds of civilians.
No one protested us killing innocent civilians. But once again the kabuki theater and actions of the Uni Party have not been peaceful, ever? Until Trump that is.
Why does the Jewish community always vote D? Especially after watching Democrat donors fund and bail out Pro Hamas protesters.
Have you noticed how pro Hamas rallies are a bunch of non middle easterners, mostly white people, probably aetheists. While pro Israel rallies are actual Jews pleading for their friends who are hostages. Just an observation.
Iron Dome is easily defeated. Please look at the work of MIT Prof. Ted Postol to understand why he has warned that missile defense is a false sense of security and actually just a tax payer rip off. This is why Iran was able to demonstrate twice now that they can hit targets of their choosing despite Iron Dome and the other missile defense systems in Israel. The military in Israel no know that they can't protect their population if thy insist on provoking war with Iran. Th best protection for Israelis is to get an actual peace agreement that considers the rights and safety of all human beings in the region. That will require Israel to stop assassinating the negotiators from the other parties, however.
Iron dome seems to be working in fact; regardless of claims it does not work in theory.
How many peace agreements have already been in place so far, starting after the formal post WWII creation of the nation of Israel?
Key to Lou’ s sincerely presented article is the current blind rage rise of antisemitism right here in America. What turned America into such a sinister breeding ground for this blind hate?
Thank you for your conscientious words of support for Israel, especially thoughtfully reasoning out your choice.
Clearly, the US should and must support our friend and ally, Israel in its time of need. The horrid events of last year are unacceptable by any standard and is contrary to decent behavior by civilized societies. Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran all guilty of crimes against humanity and should be denounced, sanctioned and punished by the civilized world. Israel certainly has a right to defend itself by any means necessary, that much is clear. We must at the same time, denounce antisemitism in all its forms.
Conservatives can defend our friends in Israel, while at the same time have major concerns, disappointment and grievance with American Jewry. Why is it then that the vast majority of American Jews in the media seem to express contempt and hatred for Trump, Republicans and white, conservative Christians in general? Yes, Jews which have substantial influence over American media outlets such as the NYT, NBC, ABC, New Yorker, WAPO, CNN, The Atlantic, ALL display major negative sentiment and non-stop hatred directed at Mr. Trump, and his supporters. Why is this? Why have liberal Jews gone after conservative Christians and especially those in the right to life movement so vehemently? How can ANY Jew claim Trump has not supported Israel? It would seem some liberal Jewish groups support Palestinian “liberation “ more than they support their own country. While making up only 2.4% of the American population, Jews are in positions of enormous authority in virtually every single industry and commerce. Yes, banking, finance, entertainment, investing, to name but a few. This is a fact of life and any notion to the contrary is a fairytale. With this power and influence comes enormous responsibility to support with loyalty, our American way of life. American Jews need to ask themselves who supports Israel without hesitation, who moved their capital to Jerusalem, whose family members are Jews? American Jews must also remember who has stood by them unconditionally, since 1948 and which county put an end to the criminal events of WWII.
Those on the left, we all know the vile, disgusting and criminal acts they have perpetrated in the form of antisemitism.
The upcoming choices for this election has never been clearer for the wellbeing of State of Israel.
"I have never understood people who cast their votes based on a single issue. Obviously, we have seen this primarily on the issue of abortion, pro or con. To me, whatever you felt about abortion, there are so many other issues that deserve equal or greater consideration"
So we should instead continue to allow more innocent children to die, what a moral solution. This is what happens when people embrace moral relativism, they care not for right and wrong, only for what is convenient and affects their finances or their life in some personal way, forget about the poor and vunerable, it's all about non important issues. Israel has no theological basis for its founding, it never should have existed and so to clambor for support a secular state which doesn't even care for America (not thag I do either) while also throwing unborn chilsren undee the bus is asinine.
Geopolitical issues are not that simple. Iran, Russia and China do a lot of business together and are part of the BRICS consortium. Israel and Iran do not see eye to eye and thus Iran supports Palestine and Hezbollah. It was Russia that warned Iran to not take the bait while Israel was hammering Lebanon.
The best way to maintain peace is through economic growth where each country depends on the other for its prosperity. Do you think Russia will attack Europe when they are the biggest customer for Russian oil and gas? You don't bomb your customers.
The US has it's neocons and so does Russia, China, Iran and EU. It's the innocent civilians who pay a price with their lives and the lives of their children. If we keep killing each other because we are convinced the other is our enemy, do you realize there will be no countries left to war with? No people left to kill eventually.
Who really wins? The neocons who then plunder each country's wealth and resources. It is essentially a conquest of nations.
Who loses? All the innocent civilians in all countries globally
DIVIDE and RULE has always been the game.
US needs to mind it's own business. Our country is diverse and we have people from all over the world here in this melting pot. Families that are of mixed origins. I do not want to send my teenage children to fight in the middle east or any place else especially after congress now has declared automatic draft for all boys ages 18 and above. That is the question we all need to ask ourselves: What is the price you are willing to pay for all those wars??
Nature abhors a vacuum. Who becomes the fragile global peacekeeper when the US retreats from this post WWII unsought role?
The UN is an unmitigated failure. How does this role get farmed out, or its torch passed? Does even China really want it? Evil does exist in this world. Sifting through Greek mythology for answers to human nature may be the best course of action today.
I love your article Lou! We need more people in Santa Barbara (and California) to stand with Israel and stand for America. They go hand in hand because we are both God fearing nations. The one true God. And while Trump definitely has his personality issues, it is his policies that people need to focus on. He is pro Israel and he is pro America and ultimately he is pro-people. He is not into selling people into slavery like the leftist elites.
For you, Christy. Beautiful gospel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2qEt8vfGck
Very beautiful!!
Ray and I were in Kansas City some years ago and read there was a gospel service at a church so we drove over. When we got to the parking lot, everyone walking in was in their best suit or dress and hat. We looked at each other and at our jeans and said “Now that is love they're showing for Jesus.” We didn't go in, but back in NYC went to a number of Harlem gospel concerts - and dressed for the occasion. They were amazing concerts.
But when Israel demands Congress violate the first amendment to silence speech on college campuses, Lozano is silent about it. Someone otherworldly wise once said you can't serve two masters. So which is it, Christy, America First or Israel First?
Aimee, How brave of you to accuse me on a thread. I remember a while back when you said something and instead of responding on a thread, I called you. That's a more fruitful and respectful way to be.
But since we are here, I am not sure what you speak of and I would only be silent for handful of reasons, one of which would be not knowing about it. You condemn me before you ask my stance. Not very fair of you. Free Speech is free speech. If we want free speech, which I do, then it is free speech for all to speak. America and Israel walk hand in hand. I don't have to choose.
Christy, I as not aware that spirited debate on this site was unwelcome. While you are always welcome to call me, you are also welcome to make your case in this or another public forum in case it is thought provoking for others. If you are not aware of how Congress has decided to "fix" the "problem" of pro-Palestinian rights protests on campus by making federal dollars contingent on cracking down on "hate" on campus, you should learn about the Antisemitism Awareness Act. UCSB Chanclor Yang justified his repressive dismantling of the Palestine encampment in part due to their banner that said "From the River to the Sea." How is this different from cancel culture and leftist tyranny? Why did Republicans support this? Do you stand with those like Marjorie Taylor Greene, Thomas Massie and Matt Gaetz, and who voted against this? https://www.aclu.org/documents/aclu-urges-congress-to-oppose-anti-semitism-awareness-act https://www.thefire.org/news/fire-urges-senate-oppose-antisemitism-awareness-act The price of freedom is eternal vigilance and we cannot allow the powerful pro-Israel lobby chip away at our constitutional rights. I will try to find you more materials to learn about this and state level infringements on free speech for Israel. Two content creators that have been following this issue over the years are Glenn Greenwald (journalist involved with releasing Snowden info about mass warrantless spying by our government) and Christian rapper An0maly on the right.
Spirited debate is one thing and that’s not what you were doing when you responded to my comment. You used criticism, disrespect, and judgement when you don’t have the first clue what you are talking about in regards to me. You are combative and mean spirited and I won’t have these types of interactions with you.
Well, that is your assertion about my intent, but it doesn't take away your responsibility to deal with the issues as you are asking us to trust you to have what it takes to be effective in the political sphere. If you can't handle some sincere and important questions if you suspect "mean spirit", then maybe you should step back and leave it to those who are capable of taking on the task. But if you want to get into what is "mean spirited", what about "standing with Israel" when Israel persecutes Christians and Muslims, was founded on theft and ethnic cleansing and is currently bombarding and starving 2.2 million civilians with an estimated death toll over 200,000 after a year of blocking aid and destroying their infrastructure. In fact, I will do you one better than "mean spirited." It is freaking EVIL to support the genocidal Zionist project of an ethnosuprmacy state for Jews in Palestine. Whether you do so out of ignorance, having been duped by the Satanic heresy of Christian Zionism promoted by the psyop Scofield reference bible, or out of political opportunism, you are facilitating evil. As a Christian and a Catholic, I do love the person even as I hate the sin. I raise sincere and honest questions since the person may just be completely brainwashed and actually mean well, but your "muh feelings" leftist type of excuse to evade my question can only be described as pathetic. I am not out to get you personally. We are talking about serious issues of war and peace and war crimes and bankrupting our country and damaging our moral authority in the eyes of the world and deception through propaganda. Aaron Bushnell, your fellow member of the US military, burned himself to death to protest being deployed to support this war crime called Israel. Maybe you should do a little research and find out why he was so passionate about resisting having to render support to a criminal operation. https://youtu.be/BJpWOikX9jU Maybe you should find out what "kill Amalek" means to right wing Jewish fanatics. Maybe you should find out who Rabbi Schneerson was, what he said about non-Jews and why Trump visited his grave today. Maybe you should read Israel Shahak's book "Jewish fundamentalism in Israel." https://www.wrmea.org/2000-march/book-review-jewish-fundamentalism-in-israel.html The less you know about Israel, the better it looks.
Looks like Candace read Israel Shahak's book: https://x.com/CensoredMen/status/1831419255105143192
Also, if you would, please watch the ad at the beginning of this video to understand why I found Lou Segal's article and your praise of it dehumanizing and degrading to us all. https://www.youtube.com/live/dN1wIzFzcfc
This isn't about you personally, this is about having taken the time to research the history of this issue and the current reality and the US role in all of it and being revolted by ignorant and/or mendacious people lying and telling the world to look away and to ad insult to injurry, smearing those who do have the integrity to look and speak the truth as "antisemitic." Demons are real. St. Michael the Archangel, pray for us.
Glenn Greenwald reports: https://youtu.be/aBz5UwrL8YE
Aimee, I don't remember this incident involving Christy. Can you tell me about it? I find Christy a defender of the first amendment so this surprises me. Christy and I don't always agree, but I find her very easy and worthwhile to disagree with. Which is why I'm voting for her for County Board of Education. I remember you snapping at me here because even though I praised much of what you wrote, I explained I'm not a Christian, and left the Catholic faith when I was 12. Freedom of Speech is important to me and so is Freedom of Religion, you can't have one without the other.
Polly, Aimee is pulling this conversation out of thin air and this is mean spirited behavior. I didn’t have any conversation, at any point, with regards to the story she brings up. Why she is interacting like this on the thread is beyond me. It seems she wants to stir things up.
Thanks Christy, my experience with her, too. Pointless to try so I'm not having any more interactions with her. On another note, DeSantis is acting beautifully with the impending hurricane. I love it that he refused to take phone calls from Kamala. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13934465/Ron-DeSantis-Hurricane-Helene-Kamala-Harris-call.html
This week is going to be a major show of just how corrupt and inept the Kamala team is.
I snapped at you for not being a Catholic or I simply made the case for why I think our society needs to return to Catholicism? Did I ever say Catholicism should be mandated? And please provide the quotes b/c I do not think you are accurately representing my statements, hopefully inadvertently on your part.
“Hopefully inadvertently” ? Aimee, you are way too combative for me to bother trying to get along with. I don't get paid to comment here. I've been doing it during this election period to show support for SB Current because I think it's important for Santa Barbara to have a genuinely alternative publication, which it didn't. But it's either fun and informative for me or it's not. And you are neither. Your information is always stuff I already know or have read like E Michael Jones. And you're about as much fun as root canal.
so you retract the statement you incorrectly attributed to me?
I don't retract anything, Aimee. I just find it pointless to discuss anything with you. I wish you well, but this is the end of any response you'll get from me.
The highly influential so-called pro-Israel Neocons have used 9/11, a false flag event, to drag the US into wars in the Middle East for the purpose of strengthening Israel against all regional competitors. The US has spent trillions, lost thousands of service personnel and killed MILLIONS of civilians in these unnecessary wars. Those deaths are on our hands. See what Architects and Engineers for 9/11 Truth have to say about the physical impossibility of the “official” government story about what took place on 9/11 if you have not researched this already. In short, we Americans were attacked and then conned into vanquishing Israel's enemies. The countries that have been fully or at least partially destroyed by the US and whatever “coalition of the willing” could be assembled include Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. The Neocons and their “Project for a New American Century” were reported by Gen. Wesley Clark to have a list of seven countries they wanted to use the US to go to war with: Iraq, and then Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and, finishing off, Iran.” So only Iran remains. Like on 9/11, there have been a lot of unanswered questions about Oct. 7 in Israel. Why was the border uncharacteristically not protected? Why so long for the IDF to respond? It is a very small country. How many of its own people did the IDF kill as per their Hannibal Directive to kill hostages rather than let them be used as political bargaining chips? Reports are that there was advance knowledge of the attack as well. Then, in the aftermath, an Israeli agent working inside the New York Times was getting stories published about babies in ovens and sexual assaults that later had to be retracted because they were not based on evidence. Oct. 7 was then used as a pretext to wage wholesale slaughter on the civilian population of Gaza, including the Christians. The US has been bringing in forces to the region and increasing arms and financial aid to Israel to carry out this slaughter on an imprisoned people. It is infuriating most of the rest of the world. One US service member, Aaron Bushnell, livestreamed immolating himself in front of the Israeli embassy rather than face serving as part of this genocidal project of innocent civilians. You should search out the statement he gave before engaging in this extreme protest. And now, Israel has invaded Lebanon and has attacked Iran several times in an attempt to provoke war with the last country on the list Gen. Clark reported. Israel wants to once again have use the US's blood and treasure to attack a regional competitor and bomb them back to the stone age. Iran is a much more powerful country, may have nuclear capability and clearly has alliances with nuclear powers Russia and China. Iran can send the world economy into chaos by closing the Strait of Homuz. Israel is talking about bombing Iran's oil infrastructure, which would also send shockwaves throughout the world economy. People recently devastated by Helene report being told FEMA is tapped out due to sending materials to Ukraine and supporting all the migrants flooding across our open border. People across the US are facing economic difficulty due to inflation, increased energy costs and having to compete with huge unregulated conglomerates like Blackrock in the housing market. The first part of WEF's Klaus Schwab's statement, “you will own nothing and be happy” seems to be being implemented. Printing money to wage wars of choice for Israel is bankrupting the US and straining relations with most of the world. And with Iran, the potential for nuclear and direct war between the largest world powers is a serious risk that must be considered. It would be disastrous for most of the world, and deadly for many Israelis. So, if you actually care about the Jews in Israel and all the people of America, you will do all you can to prevent Israel's unhinged government from provoking nuclear WW III. Simplistic ideas about "good guys" and "evil guys" work well in a movie script, but we are dealing with the real world and we can't afford to be naive, childish or simplistic when considering all that is at stake. Love everyone, pray for peace, and speak up against lies, distortions, oversimplifications, name-calling and manipulative propaganda.
well said Aimee, all valid points…unfortunately most people are still asleep, following the narratives…they cannot yet understand the false realities created by the power players making moves on behalf of old bloodlines pulling the strings from behind the curtain. Israel is near the center of gravity.
Aimee, Are you so sure this protracted Middle East tension was not all about oil and not Israel? The irony of the 21st century. Nuclear power becomes the instrument for global peace, shedding its current spectre for global destruction.
Neo-cons support the US military industrial complex. That is as far as their ideology goes. Not sure why you label them as highly influential. Follow Eisenhower's sage advice. Politically, put them on the run.
Ron Paul also thinks its the neocons: https://alethonews.com/2024/10/07/american-neocons-get-their-iran-war-as-congress-sleeps/
I am afraid it goes beyond just the resource industries and the military industrial complex. There is an effort to undermine the United States including our most basic rights. Cynthia McKinney and others have reported on ho the neocon movement goes back to the clean break document written for the Netanyahu administration back in 1996. I am not on the inside, but people like Ray McGovern and John Mersheimer claim that when push comes to shove, the Neocons win out over the America first interests. Actually, George H Bush and many others said the same about the pro-Israel lobby before the neocons became ascendant. Consider looking into Paul Findley, James Traficant, Cynthia McKinney, Earl Hilliard and look at Alison Weir's book "Against our Better Judgement." And of course John Mersheimer and Steven Walt's book, "The Israel Lobby and US Foreign Policy." In California, we are not allowed to get any state contracts if we boycott Israel. How was that pulled off? Epstein style black mail operations? Just buying politicians? Th power to slander anyone in the media ho won't play ball? Why does Netanyahu get treated like he is our king when he comes to the US Congress? Why does the ADL decide who can and can't be on youtube? ADL was founded to defend convicted pedophile murderer Leo Frank and has a history of taking Jewish mafia money. And many many more questions...
Yes, but I believe it is in our national interest for regime change and to overthrow the criminal government in Iran and if we can get the Israelis to do it for us…so much the better!
The reason they have an anti-American regime is because we already overthrew their elected government (Mossaddegh), armed the Iraqis against them, shot down one of their civilian airliners (from the USS Vincennes), cyber attacked them, tried to stoke a color revolution there, and assassinated Solemaini on his way to a peace meeting. In addition am Israel and allow them to assassinate Iranian officials as well. So, instead of trying to get along with other countries, "we" should just keep attacking them? What could go wrong?
Aimee, what are your thoughts about the “green agenda” as a means to disentangle our current US support for Israel?
Good question. I was a sincere believer in moving away from fossil fuels and even did my PhD on photovoltaic processing, but I am now convinced that the shift to electric (that can still be powered with fossil fuels) is being done to make sure our vehicles and homes can be controlled remotely so that when they want to punish us for saying the wrong thing or our "social credit score" dips down, they can flip a switch and remove our heating or stop our car from going. I know, this sounds crazy and I pray I am wrong, but we did witness the COVID operation which involved a global coordinated shutting down of the economy and coercing everyone to get a novel gene therapy product that was never shown to work. Look at the environmental footprint of lithium ion batteries. Their increase of weight to vehicles. I am not sure they are better for their environment. Then you have these top climate advocates having nothing to say about averting war. What is the climate impact of a war? Pretty high, I can assure you. So, I suspect the impact of human activity on climate is not proven and not our biggest problem. I am still an environmentalist, but I think we should focus on reducing the use of plastics and nanoparticles and we should be much more careful about rolling out novel materials and new radiation sources. (My background is in materials.) I think biomaterials and genetic engineering are way under regulated and the interests for making sure the risks are low for these materials just are not there. So, I am conservative about new technologies. Still don't have a cellphone because I don't want to be tracked and constantly spied on. I don't think governments, at least in the West, are working for their people. That is why the border is wide open, wholesale surveillance isn't even questioned, and there is no war not worth further indebting future generations for. I think those behind these agendas are trying to take down our countries that have a rights framework because they envision a post human rights technocracy along the lines of what China already has. I would, of course, love to be wrong. And I ill vote for Jill Stein with all her many bad positions and past failings b/c at least she is a clear voice against war in Ukraine and Iran. I think it is unwise to think that our leaders that are ok with slaughtering millions in other countries can be trusted to care about our well being or health, but our communities are so fractured and people are so jaded and emotionally fragile, it is hard to build a movement that can push any of this back. That is why after 25 years of working against wars, I feel we have to start on the spiritual level. Without a solid moral framework, we can't have any hope of holding this back. And I believe without tradition (guidance from our forebears) and a shared faith in God, we can't get anywhere. So I think we need a movement of Catholic Nationalism in the West. But that probably sounds crazy to most. I do agree energy independence is a good idea for every county as well as food independence. And I am no expert on that or any of this, but just trying to figure out what is real and where we are being manipulated in order to be a responsible citizen and protect my family from things like experimental injections and unnecessary debt. What is your take on the green economy? What do you think about the possibilities for citizens to have any say in our future? How can our rights to privacy be restored? Our votes accurately and credibly counted? Our freedom of speech restored? Faith in the medical field restored? The degradation of human sexuality and the sexualization of children be stopped? The epidemic of despair in young people be countered? There are many more questions, but this is already too long. Answer only those that interest you, if any.
After reading your opening line, Lou, I knew there would be many impassioned views on your article. There are arguments both for and against intervention in the conflict with much emotion attached to both sides; each one pointing out atrocities . The defense of Israel is backed here in the U.S not only by a massive Jewish lobby with tremendous power but a good portion of Christian churches inspired by biblical prophecies. But when one reads of the formation of Israel in 1948 which displaced and continues to displace the original inhabitants , one has to take a harder look at the Zionist movement. I compare Netanyahu to Biden in that both men are not out to protect their countries but are in power for themselves. I see that a good portion of the readers are prepared to continue sending in more money, weapons, and perhaps foot soldiers to protect Israel at all costs, even if it means war with Russia. I am not. So, while you , Lou, are backing Trump, not because you like him but think he will save Israel, I am backing Trump hoping that he will keep his promises on bettering America's economy, closing the border, and end our constant wars while I pray that when he does get in he will try to put Americas interests first and not Israels. Thank you for writing the article, Lou, because discussion is always a good thing.
I wrote a fourteen-page paper titled, 'JEWISH ENGINEERS/MANAGERS, AND A DOCTOR, ARE THE BEST!" Back when I was starting out as an engineer, Jewish engineers were well sought out and the newly digital system startup companies of the 50's and 60's recognized Jewish engineers as early founders of digital engineering technology. From Jewish bosses and fellow engineers, I learned to write technical reports, the work level required in seeking information, developing a level of curiosity about everything and the purpose behind doing the best work possible. I wrote this about a year ago to honor those that made me a better person at the work I performed. A Jewish office mate involved with very early digital system development, his son later became an astronaut, namely Scott "Doc" Horowitz. Sy Horowitz, Scott's dad, I recalled both worked hard at attempting to get Scott into an academy through political connections but failed. However, Scott went the traditional way of attaining his ambitions, hard work! Anyone interested in the paper I wrote; I'll send you a copy (analogdesign@aol.com).