Israel Plans More Settlements, World 'Condemns' From the Sidelines
Al Jazeera's report on Israeli municipal authorities discussing plans to advance an 'illegal settlement' in occupied East Jerusalem is indeed news, if by 'news' we mean 'the perpetually repeating status quo.' One might recall similar 'discussions' predating every U.S. presidential administration, often followed by U.S. vetoes at the UN or, more frequently, blank checks from Washington. U.S.
officials will likely issue a statement of 'concern,' perhaps even a 'strong condemnation.' Meanwhile, the congressional contingent, fresh off their latest AIPAC conference where they reaffirmed their unwavering commitment (and collected their checks, which, data from OpenSecrets.org verifies, can run into the hundreds of thousands for key policy makers), will laud Israel's 'security needs.' It’s
almost as if the entire diplomatic dance is choreographed, with the ultimate goal being fewer Palestinians and more concrete.