Israel Matzav

Senior Democratic congressman critical of Obama on Israel

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Howard Berman (D-Cal) was critical of the Obama administration last week, saying that the President's demand for a 'settlement freeze' was 'mistaken.'

Congressman Berman met on August 14 with Jewish leaders in Los Angeles. The senior congressman, who is in close touch with Mitchell and is updated regularly on developments in the Middle East, said during the meeting that the disagreement between Israel and the U.S. over the settlements will be resolved by the end of August in a manner that is satisfactory to both sides.

However, Berman was highly critical of the conduct of the Obama administration, saying the demand for absolute cessation of construction in the settlements was "mistaken."

Berman blamed the stance of the administration on the settlements for having hardened the Palestinian position unjustifiably. "Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas is waiting for the U.S. to present him Israel on a platter," Berman told the Jewish leaders. The Congressional leader said that this was a mistake, adding that the PA has responsibilities too, such as countering incitement against Israel.

What could go wrong?

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 5:55 PM