A reader writes:
I assume that you will publish something dissenting from Jennifer Rubin's latest segment, but I felt compelled to comment in some fashion. It was breathtaking. She argued, with a straight face, that the interests of the US and Israel diverge because we can't agree on which of us wants to own the glory for an attack on Iran. That the act of going to war with Iran is a prize to be sought. I wondered how she'd answer the question, and I was absolutely dumbfounded.
Another writes:
I will take Rubin's long-winded answer as a no.
Another:
Isn't it fascinating that, when asked if US interests ever diverge from Israel's, Ms Rubin says yes … but immediately notes that it is "interesting" that the question is asked about Israel, but not about Great Britain or Australia. Can she really be so clueless? Australia and Great Britain doubtless lobby the US government for their interests. But only Israel has both a huge, successful lobby and an entire political party dedicated to the proposition that it is always in America's interest to support Israel everywhere and under all circumstances, no matter what Israel may decide to do. Is it really possible to not see that difference? Or does she see it, but just refuse to acknowledge it?
Another:
It's interesting that Rubin ends by saying that she sees Israel taking action against Iran because the Obama administration is disinclined to act forcefully on foreign policy (almost exactly her words). How quickly the administration's actions in Libya or against Osama bin Laden are forgotten. The Obama administration has certainly shown they are willing to act forcefully. They've also shown they're willing to take a more measured approach, as with the review in Afghanistan, before sending in more troops. It's certainly possible to take different view points on situations, but it's amazing how Obama's critics continue to paint him with broad brush strokes that are easily refuted.
By the way, thanks for opening up the Ask Andrew series to other writers and pundits. It's been fascinating to see other viewpoints I might not have otherwise seen, especially the current run with Rubin. Given reader feedback to her answers, it might be interesting to have her do a follow-up series where she responds to readers.
I've extended an invitation for her to respond on her blog to which we would very happily link.
The Dish 