Rahm Emanuel seems to think he knows Israel very well, and that the way to treat that country and its democratically-elected government is the way he treats all opponents in politics: by attacking and attacking.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
The Israelis are very smart about politics and strategy, but there are a few exceptions. One is Lebanon, the other is Gaza, where they were completely inept.
We are the greatest experts in the world in criticizing our country, but no one loves his country more than the Israelis. No one.
In Israel, generally speaking, politics is much more familiar than any other place. We all know each other.
It's not only in Israel's interest but in America's as well to stand with one of its closest and important allies.
I have absolute respect for Israel and people in Israel who are critical of their own country.
Look, I worked with American Republican presidents and Democratic presidents, all of them, and each of them has shown a deep and profound friendship to Israel, you know? I can't remember anybody who was in that sense negative as far as Israel is concerned.
Something that truly frustrates me is the impression in Israel that when you are talking about security, you are bold; you are tough: this is what we need against all the enemies that we have. And when someone is talking about peace, you know, it's the naive left wing, soft.
The ability of the president to be perceived as someone with whom all Israelis can identify depends on his ability to avoid being a party to debate.
I am often critical of Israel's policies when in the country, but then feel defensive of them when overseas.
I think Sharon is anti-Israeli because it's in the interest of Israel to understand the problems of the other side.