Boehner used like a puppet on a string by Netanyahu who initiated the now disastrous 'invitation'

[sabrina 1]

We are learning that Boehner allowed his anger towards President Obama to be used by Bibi for his own interests.

This, imo, makes Boehner a threat to our National Security.

When someone is entrusted with the power to act on behalf of the American people but succumbs to the manipulations of a Foreign Leader, then acts on behalf of a Foreign Nation and against the interests of his own nation, shouldn't there be some kind of investigation into whether or not this person can be trusted with that kind of power?


War v Peace? The world appears to agree with those seeking a peaceful solution. Netanyahu and his Republican co-conspirators have become a threat to world peace.

Behind Obama's back: How Netanyahu's U.S. trip was cooked up

A senior Israeli official with knowledge of the contacts, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter, said that the one who had initiated the contacts with Boehner and with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and their staffs was Israeli Ambassador to the United States Ron Dermer, Netanyahu's former aide.

Dermer, the senior official said, had advanced the idea of Netanyahu addressing Congress in talks he has been having for several weeks on Iran's nuclear program with senior members of Congress. Dermer is encouraging senators and representatives to advance new legislation that would impose additional sanctions on Iran, contrary to the position of the White House, which believes that new sanctions at this time would undermine the talks and kill the chances of reaching a diplomatic solution. During his State of the Union Address Tuesday night Obama made it clear that he would veto any such legislation.

According to the senior official, Dermer approached Boehner, McConnell and other senior Republican Party figures at Netanyahu’s behest and suggested the idea of the speech. “Dermer and Boehner cooked up this whole invitation to Congress,” the official said.

Boehner and Bibi didn't just cause outrage at the WH. The backlash is coming from everywhere, including the five nations who have been working with President Obama to find a peaceful solution to the Iranian Nuclear issue.

The UK, France & Germany Co-Write WaPo Op-Ed Begging Goposaurs Not to Sabotage Iran Nuke Deal

The following appears as an op-ed in the Washington Post. It was co-written by France’s minister of foreign affairs, Britain’s foreign secretary, Germany’s federal minister for foreign affairs, and the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy:

Give Diplomacy with Iran a Chance

In November 2013, after many months of negotiations, the E3+3 (France, Germany and Britain, together with the United States, Russia and China, a partnership also referred to sometimes as the P5+1) and Iran reached an interim agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. This agreement has had three main benefits.

Does John Boehner really want to go toe-to-toe with three of the most powerful countries on Earth, not to mention China and Russia, who are also helping to negotiate the Iran deal? If yes, he is a dangerous fool. History will not remember him, nor Bibi well.

And from Israel condemnations of Netanyahu's 'recklessness' are growing including from Livni:

Livni, Lapid slam Netanyahu for 'ruining' ties with US

Leaders lambaste prime minister for imperiling relations with superpower for the sake of electioneering, 'one speech.'

With the outrage mounting against this slimy attempt to undermine the POTUS in cahoots with a foreign leader, it is more than likely that the scheme will fall apart, leaving Boehner and Bibi looking like the bad guys they are before the entire world.

But is that enough for these two and their co-conspirators?

There have been suggestions that what Boehner did might have crossed a legal line.

Several World Leaders, thankfully, along with the US have been working hard to avoid WAR with Iran.

What these two tried to do was DANGEROUS not just to the US but to the world.

So should Congress clarify the already existing laws that seem to forbid this kind of thing, but are not very clear, to make sure nothing like this happens again?

I think there definitely should be some action taken. An Independent Investigator appointed to find out how such a thing could have happened.

[world wide wally]

1. Boehner sure gets off easy for being one of the most evil assholes in the country.

[bvf]

29. Boehner has no investment

in the international community's opinion of him, so he figures, "Why the hell not?".

ISIS, ISIL, whatever you call it, is probably cheering him on.

What a stupid dick.

[ladjf]

31. I think he is lazy, disingenuous and not too bright.

That is a dangerous set of flaws for the United States.

[busterbrown]

35. Ya think he might drink a bit too much?

Just a bit too much? I think you are right by the way..

[madashelltoo]

41. Alcohol is definitely a contributor

He's not bright sober. We call Boner, "Stoned Stupid".

[busterbrown]

44. know a bit about the subject as well..

excessive alcohol almost always leads to laziness which translates into ignorance..

[RKP5637]

45. He looks like a drunk fool just from his body posture and mannerisms, and than he talks.

In short, Rum Dumb!

[onecent]

127. Yes and the trouble is he is 3rd in line for the presidency of the U>S>

Why can't we stop this man???

[ladjf]

133. Too many voters have been hoodwinked by the Republican progaganda machine. nt

[kelliekat44]

42. Remember when the RWingers and FOX criticized Obama for bowing before the Saudi Prince?

Seems like Boehner is bending over for Bibi.

[KingCharlemagne]

2. Isn't your heart warmed and your spirit comforted with the knowledge that

Boner is #3 in line for White House succession?

[Fred Sanders]

6. Where is the Koch and Netanyahu puppet lately, anyway, MIA?

[sabrina 1]

89. That is a scary thought!

The man doesn't seem to be very stable. And he's demonstrated now how vulnerable he is to nefarious foreigners with ulterior motives. We have to wonder, has he disclosed any sensitive information to anyone eg?

[aint_no_life_nowhere]

3. Any chance Netanyahu will be defeated in ths upcoming election?

Never could stand the arrogant asshole myself.

[totodeinhere]

20. As usual no party will get an absolute parliamentary majority.

The fear is that Bibi's party will get a small plurality and he will need to entice far right wing parties into a coalition and it will result in a new government that is even more to the right than the last one.

[karynnj]

48. I've been following it, but it is unbelievably complex with parties merging -- and splitting

and a system with many parties where the President, mostly a ceremonial position selects the person who gets the first shot at creating a coalition including more than half of the Knesset. The President now is Rivlin, a member of Likud, who has taken controversial positions on many things - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reuven_Rivlin In his favor he blasted Netanyahu on the Israel is a Jewish State bill and on freezing the PA from getting tax revenues.

Reading Haaretz now is weird - many parties have been accused of fraud. Somehow, there is conflict about the Likud "primary" vote that was recently done to establish their list. Apparently the place on the list determines if a person becomes a member of the Knesset. If the vote is such that n members of a party should be included - then the first n on the list get in. It also seems that some positions are reserved by a party and are then assigned to people. (As you can see I am mystified by this and it is nothing like what happens here.)

[cilla4progress]

4. Overreach.

You had to know it was coming. But so soon? How long did it take them?

[monmouth4]

5. Boehner is so white rage angry at the President for his SOTU huge success and how he made the

republicans look so stupid and reckless. The invitation went out while the mind seethed. I do believe this..

[Fred Sanders]

7. The slap to the face of protocol and Obama was under negotiations for weeks before the announcement...

[ChairmanAgnostic]

11. agreed. Also,

long before the SOTU was distributed early to house and senate leaders.

I would not call it hatred, either. Strong dislike, probably. I suspect that Boeher has some hate-based feelings for some of the bigger morons who attacked his leadership post and undermine his agreements.

[Iliyah]

22. All the moaning and groaning about Pres O, who can't anyting right in eyes of some

I'm personally is very glad he is the President.

A GOPer in the "White House", there would be boots on the ground on every and any conflict (except Africa) in the world. Iran would have been bombed already.

Mit Rmoney and Jeb Bush the leaders of the pack of warmongers frighten the hell out of me.

[vlyons]

12. POTUS didn't make them look reckless

They ARE reckless!!! Remember the gov shut down and the numerous threats of shut down? Don't hold your breath waiting for Boehner to be called on the carpet, except in public opinion. Republicans cannot be embarrassed, because they have no shame. They are sociopaths. Just goes to demonstrate a great teaching by a high Tibetan lama that anger makes you stupid.

[Adrahil]

8. I often disagree with you...

But you get a big ole rec for this one! "Bibi" is an evil man.

[sabrina 1]

15. Thank you. The President is right to try to resolve this issue peacefully.

And I am glad he is in the WH right now. We would be at war with Iran, with Bibi leading the way if Romney had been elected.

That has been made clear by this outrageous behavior on the part of Boehner.

[Tom Ripley]

9. ZOD?

the D is for Drunkard...or Dipshit...or Dirtbag

[ancianita]

10. Thanks for the research on Israeli leaders' reach.

[azurnoir]

13. Headline in Times of Israel feeds paranoia (rightwing stuff)

Iran vows to attack Israel from West Bank

Iran has threatened to attack Israel from the West Bank, in retaliation for an alleged Israeli airstrike in Syria on Sunday that left 12 Iranian and Hezbollah operatives dead. The airstrike has been attributed to Israel and though Jerusalem has not officially confirmed it, anonymous government sources have admitted as much.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-vows-to-attack-israel-from-west-bank/#ixzz3PlNbC4qg


can't make this stuff up

[Fred Sanders]

26. Cut off quotes from a person is an editorial, not a report...transparent speculation and propaganda.

[sabrina 1]

62. The fear mongers and propagandists are everywhere. Well paid I am sure. But I feel a change

in the air. So many now willing to speak out about Netanyahu, the President and Kerry making the right move in announcing they will SNUB him in March.

And it is working, standing up to bullies is the ONLY way to handle them.

Bibi's own government are now worried that he may have damaged the relationship with the US. I don't recall them worrying about that before.

[SamKnause]

14. Anyone who votes for further sanctions

against Iran wants to intentionally start World War lll.

[Spitfire of ATJ]

23. They know they're in the minority so they want to "depopulate" the area....

I remember the thrill they had when the Neutron Bomb was described.

Kills the people but leaves the Holy Sites.

Perfect.

[Cleita]

16. I couldn't agree with you more.

As far as Netanyahu is concerned, I have never considered him any better than Dick Cheney especially when it comes to never seeing a war they didn't love.

[BeanMusical]

66. Yeah, they are both psychopaths and megalomaniacs.

[LawDeeDah]

17. This kind of treachery is normal towards this President.

That is why I give President Obama a lot of slack. He seems to have an impossible job with all the daggers stuck in his back both from the GOP and some Dems, yet he plods along doing the best he is able under these extraordinary, treasonist conditions.

[certainot]

19. exactly right. this is just one visible example of the treachery

[LawDeeDah]

24. It's why I don't believe any of this 'he is a corporate stooge', and whatever etc.

crap names he gets called by the slow of mind.

If he was that, there wouldn't be need for the treacherous slugs to try to trip him up in whatever he tries to do.

Oh, wait. I forgot. It's all theater and Obama is in on it!

[Fred Sanders]

27. A corporate stooge being viciously attacked at every turn by the corporate media? Quite the paradox.

[LawDeeDah]

36. I know! It all makes perfect sense.

[BlancheSplanchnik]

43. truth. ^ n/t

[Number23]

54. + a million

[certainot]

119. and we just get to see a little of it exposed like this. bush/rove/cheney

left a lot of moles and operatives and christian college fundies all through the JD and military and probably all through govt. not easy to fix that and who to trust? when they did it to clintons and clintons tried to clean them out of the travel office, for instance, it became a huge rw radio topic.

and fort the most part none of it is factored in by the left, especially the new and young voters who actually believed the rw media meme that obama touted himself as a 'mesiah' going to change everything, etc.

[certainot]

18. the rw radio gods are coming to boehner's rescue and will be used to

keep him from backing down. it will be practically impossible to reverse this without some legal action.

the best thing will be to keep netanyahu away

[sabrina 1]

38. Well, I think there needs to be an investigation. We know now that Bibi and his right wing

buddies in Israel cooked up this whole plot, together with our right wing nut cases. But were there others involved, pulling THEIR strings?

This definitely needs to be thoroughly investigated because the American people need to know who is trying to USE this country for their own interests?

Boehner was an easy target, his own personal flaws made him very useful to those seeking to undermine this country's National Security interests.

I don't see how, knowing what is now known, would be willing to let it go any further.

I have read also that even some of the Moderate Repubs are wavering in their support for this scheme.

And it was slammed in the NYT also.

When even the Mossad is slamming Netanyahu, or 'breaking with him' on this, supporting the President's efforts for a peaceful resolution, I don't see how even Republicans can continue to support it.

Bibi has already backed down from the Feb 14 date they had intended for the 'Speech'.

Now his handlers are saying he will do it in March when he had planned to be here to address AIPAC anyhow.

So the backing away has already begun.

I wonder if that moron, Boehner had any idea of the powerful people he was ALSO slapping the face in his hurry to try to make the President look bad?

[certainot]

73. thanks for that, filled in a lot for me. things are sounding

better. and i agree, there should be an investigation. getting it may be a problem, but there may be lots of opportunities for journalists and inquiring media, besides the dominant one that will be covering for them. it would need to be a significant development. boehner sounded so nonchalant about it he may not have been as discreet as he was supposed to if he didn't recognize the implications. and maybe he was being set up as well.

[brush]

97. The sky must be falling because at least Chris Wallace and Shepard Smith of Fox . . .

came out against Boner's invite to Netanyahu.

Pigs are flying everywhere.

[certainot]

104. i wonder if boehner might have gotten set up

those two sometimes try to look sane but i wonder if boehner keeps pushing it if he'll end up losing his leadership in some way or another

and there may be enough republicans who hate meddling israelis more than black presidents

[brush]

115. "who hate meddling israelis more than black presidents"

What a line.

I love it.

[Spitfire of ATJ]

21. Surprised he didn't hand out AIPAC checks on the House Floor.

[gordianot]

25. All Republicans are tools for sale and have a price.

[sanatanadharma]

28. MoveOn.org petition to Impeach John Boehner

MoveOn.org petition to
Impeach John Boehner,House of Speaker

US Constitution Article II, Section 3
(Executive) "He shall ... he shall receive Ambassadors and other public Ministers; he shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed, and shall Commission all the Officers of the United States."

[sabrina 1]

39. Yes, that would seem like the best option. But getting support from Republicans might not be easy,

even though some of them are now 'wavering' in their support for his little treasonous scheme.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

61. Dumbest idea this week

And that's saying something.

[sabrina 1]

65. As dumb as a president being impeached for a personal matter? That's what WE said back then.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

68. Yes, that was dumb too

Do we have to lower ourselves to be as dumb as they are? Seriously, is that what our goal should be?

Boehner's invitation was an egregious breach of protocol, as was Netanyahu's acceptance. But the cold, plain truth is that the Speaker of the House gets to decide who is invited to speak. As I'm sure you've read in the news reports, protocol calls for the Speaker to notify the White House prior to issuing the invitation.

Not ask for permission, notify.

This isn't the first time, nor will it be the last, that members of Congress meet with foreign leaders, yet because Boehner was an ass about it, he should be impeached? Meeting with a leader, listening to a leader's speech, is not conducting foreign policy, and IMO, it makes us look like petty little brats when we make such a big deal over an asshole being an asshole.

[sabrina 1]

69. Boehner was merely a puppet. And yes, we do have to get down in the gutter when that is where

the enemy is. How has being 'above that' worked?

I just read some advice from a former Republican who said that Dems LOSE mainly because they don't GET that this isn't a game, it is WAR and Dems need to learn how to play this game.

I am sick to death of letting bullies win. In RL I would never allow it, yet we are stuck behind leadership that CATERS to the bullies.

This country is at stake. And if we don't learn to fight them wherever they choose to reside, in the gutter or even lower, then they will own this country.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

70. Then have at it

No laws have been broken, and nothing can or should be done about it, from a legal perspective, IMO.

[sabrina 1]

72. Really? We won't know that until there is a thorough investigation. This 'plot' to usurp American

interests was hatched by foreigners who decided to use Boehner to interfere with matters that are critical to the US's National Security.

We know who the main players are, but we don't know who was behind THEM.

I will have at it, as are millions of others now who are sick to death of these traitors selling out this country to the highest bidders, and when it comes down to it, that is always what it is about, isn't it? So, follow the money, and already there are theories out there.

An investigation is necessary to uncover who these enemies of the US really are. And cries are growing louder for answers to this.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

77. If you really believe this is some kind of plot to usurp American interests

then as I said, have at it.

Launching an investigation over an invitation to give a speech would be beyond stupid, and would make the multiple stupid investigations launched by Republicans over the last two years look sane.

Were there investigations the last two times that Netanyahu gave speeches to Congress? Is there an investigation into the invitation issued to the Pope to address Congress? Has there ever been an investigation into an invitation to speak before Congress?

If not, then the calls for an investigation this time just makes it look like people are pissed because no one told the President first. Well guess what? There is no legal obligation to do so. Sure, it makes Boehner an asshole, but is anyone surprised at that?

[sabrina 1]

117. We are having at it, across the country. Those Reps in Congress are OUR Reps not Bibi's

And they are hearing from their EMPLOYERS, the American people. Seems they need a reminder of which country they work for and that's exactly what they are being told.

Were the last visits cooked up in a foreign country and then secretly arranged without the knowledge of the President or SOS or Democrats, between foreign agents and right wing morons in Congress?

Is the President aware of the Pope's possible visit? I'm assuming he is or WE wouldn't know about it.

Undermining the POTUS in the course of his duty to the American people, simply was a step WAY too far, even for someone who tried to influence our ELECTIONS and was sent packing.

Bibi seems to underestimate the American people. I'm thinking maybe HE needs to hear from them also.

And his Ambassador, his co-conspirator, he also needs to hear from the American people.

We elected a president to what is best for the American people, and that is what he is doing re Iran.

If Netanyahu wants to go to war with Iran, he is free to do so, but not with OUR troops. I'm guessing from what I'm reading from Israel they are not anxious for war with Iran either.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

118. Blah blah blah

Like I said before, much ado about nothing.

[sabrina 1]

120. Like I said, not to the people of THIS country or the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia who

are all working for a peaceful resolution together with President Obama. So you are, thankfully, very much in the very tiny minority Bibi has left to turn to.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

125. No need for him to turn to me

I don't live in Israel - I couldn't care less who their PM. Their country, their choice.

[brush]

98. Not quite true. This is unprecedented.

Foreign leaders have spoken to Congress before but never by bypassing the State Dept. and the President.

These kinds of invitations normally go through the State Department, which is part of the executive branch.

It's never been done.

No other head of state would even consider working with the Speaker behind the President's back to pull such a stunt — leave this kind of thing to Boner and Bibi, a comedy team if I ever heard of one.

They're both being chastised by several European countries and critics in Israel for their foolish misadventure.

This speech will never come off and even now they're trying to figure a face-saving way to get out of it, as witnessed by the date being "pushed back" to March instead of February.

After this initial furor has died down it'll be quietly announced that the speech is off, probably citing scheduling conflict due to the election in Israel.

And the announcement will most likely happened purposedly in a Friday afternoon news dump when the media and most pols pay the least attention as they try to get out of Dodge for the weekend.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

102. It's unprecedented in that the White House wasn't notified first

But that's it. The State Department doesn't invite speakers to address Congress, the Speaker of the House does that. The State Department has no authority to issue such an invitation.

[sabrina 1]

122. The President and Kerry disagree with you. And both are refusing to meet with Netanyahu. A snub by

both the POTUS and his SOS might be enough to add to the already hateful image that war monger already has.

And the five countries attempting to avoid a war with Iran, have also asked that he and Boehner not interfere with these sensitive negotiations.

It was so egregious an act, that Netanyahu accomplished the impossible, he got two Fox hosts to side with Obama. Because when it comes down to it, Americans, even Faux morons, do not like their President to be slapped in the face by a foreigner.

That, is a very big deal.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

124. They disagree with me on what?

That the State Department doesn't invite people to speak to Congress? If they disagree with that, then they're wrong.

I would imagine that Israeli's didn't like their leader being slapped in the face by a foreigner either, so I guess we're all even now.

[sabrina 1]

130. It's a big deal to the WH. For you, maybe not, but I can't see where that is relevant to anything.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

134. Funny, the White House has said repeatedly that it's not a big deal

are they lying? Or is it a much bigger deal to than it is to them?

[sabrina 1]

135. Actually no, they have made a big deal over it, stating they will not meet with Netanyahu which

makes him look like an idiot in the eyes of the world. Guess he didn't realize that Obama actually is the President of the US and not some nobody he can push around. Wonder whatever gave him that idea?

[SickOfTheOnePct]

136. I guess you haven't been paying attention to what the White House has said

as to why they aren't meeting with him, nor have you apparently heard the press secretary saying that the President wasn't annoyed.

Or, you have heard it and are saying that the press secretary is lying.

And I seriously doubt whether Netanyahu cares whether he meets with President Obama or not. Its not either one of them gives a shit what the other one thinks.

[sabrina 1]

137. Yes, I have been paying attention. I also what the WH thinks of Bibi. Like most of the rest of the

world.

Seems they aren't the only ones who are not interested in meeting with him.

The man has become a pariah.

[heaven05]

30. when 'our' leaders start fighting back

Last edited Sat Jan 24, 2015, 09:42 PM - Edit history (1)

with real purpose clowns like that SOTH will be marginalized. We need to start having 'our' representatives in both houses of congress to start kicking some real ass. They have kowtowed to the right for six years=Nov 4, 2014. The weakness of left has also let the RW media cower them into a corner asking "please master, may I have more".

[m.bolden jr.]

32. Boehner's just doing what he's told

He'd better.

[zentrum]

33. Their puppets of their own

….racism. This degree of personal hatred for Obama has one source.

[zentrum]

37. Typo oops!

They're puppets of their own racism.

[MannyGoldstein]

34. As an important Republican, Boehner is in a protected class

so he's safe from any "non-bipartisan" reprisals from the Obama White House.

So he'll keep doing this stuff.

[sabrina 1]

83. You're probably right. But we can hope. How much more do they have to do before the country wakes

up and forces them to do their jobs or kicks them all out.

We don't need a war with Iran. To think these morons were plotting with foreigners to get us into one, that should enrage the American people to the point where our leaders would be more afraid of us, than of whoever pulls the strings down there.

[The Blue Flower]

40. The Confederacy of Dunces

I won't be at all surprised if this party of dumbass negativity keeps creating this sort of no-win situation for itself. I expect them to wreck their own brand by virtue of the fact that they now have the power to do so.

[karynnj]

46. Even appointing Dermer as the ambassador to the US was a spit in your face move towards Obama

An ambassador is supposed to be above politics and certainly not someone whose past would make the leader of the host country uncomfortable. Remember when the right wing started false claims that Senator Kerry was pushing Obama to name Caroline Kennedy as the ambassador to the Holy See - even though she is pro choice? The right was outraged at the thought -- though if true, the fact that she is the daughter of the only Catholic President might have made that ok.

Dermer was born in the US and he worked for Luntz to help design the Contract for America in 1994. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ron_Dermer

The last paragraph is interesting in quoting the comments of two Haaretz reporters - looks to me like Savit was a bit wrong on that "tactful" assessment!

Regional observers and Washington political analyst see Dermer's appointment as a "mixed bag" for U.S.–Israel relations. According to Ari Shavit, Dermer is one of the few people Prime Minister Netanyahu trusts enough for the job, and Dermer's understanding of the American political system gives Netanyahu a way to navigate through Washington tactfully. On the other hand, Barak Ravid said, Dermer is suspected by key White House aides Denis McDonough and Ben Rhodes of lobbying members of Congress against President Barack Obama's positions.[3]

[Number23]

56. This should be an OP. Good information

Lots more info here http://www.israelemb.org/washington/AboutTheEmbassy/Pages/The-ambassador.aspx

and he's very open about being in Bibi's pocket http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/.premium-1.633657 as well as not supporting this current administration http://www.algemeiner.com/2014/11/04/susan-rice-mocks-israeli-ambassador-ron-dermer-hes-too-busy-traveling-to-sheldon-adelsons-events/

[sabrina 1]

105. Wow, thank you for that information about this guy. He met with Kerry apparently at the Embassy

while this plot to undermine the president was being hatched and said nothing about it.

I wonder what other subversive activities he's involved in that are a threat to OUR National Security?

The State Dept and WH should begin an investigation into his activities with the eventual goal of kicking him out of this country.

Dems have to start getting tough with these bullies. And stop worrying about what the Right will do.

We know for sure, that if this was in reverse and it was a Repub in the WH, the Investigations with charges of treason, would already be underway.

For a foreign agent like Dermer to be undermining this Govt's efforts to protect THIS COUNTRY'S National Security is simply unacceptable.

And Dems need to start talking about it. I doubt many Americans would be thrilled to know we have these kinds of people controlling Congress.

Even Fox has expressed outrage over this. So I don't see what harm can be done by exposing them completely.

[karynnj]

107. Not only that -- undermining Obama as Kerry made calls to try to help Israel!

This after last summer, when Netanyahu intentionally smeared Kerry because he was working towards getting a ceasefire in Gaza (as he was obviously appalled by the killing) at a point when Netanyahu PUBLICLY was for a ceasefire, but privately was happy that there wasn't one and the Palestinians were being blamed for there not being one.

Because of the the fact that the war was between Israel and Hamas, getting a ceasefire was tricky as Israel, the US and European countries would not speak to Hamas. Quatar did - so Quatar went to Paris to represent Hamas. When the Hamas position was given to the US/Europe, it was then passed - as what it was with Quatar's knowledge- to Israel. Completely routine given the circumstances. Netanyahu and his party then submitted it to the Knesset as the US proposal - and it was not only defeated, but Obama and Kerry were bashed.

After the fight ended, the some articles explained that the reality was that Netanyahu wanted the attacks to continue - to better "mow the grass". His view was that the Europeans and Kerry were unhelpful in trying to end the fight before he wanted to end it. Obama's and Kerry's reputations were only necessary collateral damage as far as Netanyahu was concerned. Fortunately, the world trusts Obama far more than Netanyahu -- even if McCain is the opposite.

Not to mention, all the right enamored with the "strong" Netanyahu should note that it is easy to be a strong bully when standing behind the most powerful country in the world protecting you. It is lucky for Netanyahu that both Obama and Kerry are bigger better people than he and will not act emotionally out of spite - say letting a UN resolution pass by the US abstaining.

[sabrina 1]

123. I just read that Dermer was in trouble in Israel for 'campaigning' here in the US for Netanyahu

which directly violates one of their laws over there. He was called to answer the charge, made some pleas and 'explanations' but was eventually let off the hook, but not without a notice attached to his profile, airc. Had he been found guilty, there is a jail term attached to doing such a thing.

That was before this latest debacle.

I'm thinking someone, Moveon maybe, should organize a 'call the Israeli Embassy to let Dermer know how the American people feel about his disrespecting our President'. Bombarding the moron with calls from Americans, who he has totally disrespected, apparently thinks we are irrelevant, might get him more trouble in Israel.

[karynnj]

126. Interesting

I think it would be great if he was blasted by called from Americans wanting diplomacy to have a choice.

I assume that the President has the option to ask for his removal as Ambassador. I hope that Dermer is caught overtly campaigning. If you think of it, there are likely many wealthy powerful Jews that are not in favor of Netanyahu. This action has made him and his partisanship more high profile. Unless he is scrupulously obeying the law, I hope he lobbies the wrong person -- and is reported again.

As a Jew, one thing that most angers me is that this action DIRECTLY helps the CT people who argue that Jews were behind all the wars. If the negotiations - that might only have a 50% chance of succeeding anyway -- fall apart and it leads to military action down the road, Netanyahu could well be seen as the one person responsible. Iran is bigger and stronger than Iraq ever was -- and that is clearly not over.

I can help but believe that there is way too much nationalism in this country to accept that we should be led by a foreign leader. Where is our American exceptionalism on the right when we need it?

I hope that Obama takes the lead here and explains what the P5 +1 is and why they have all worked together for years to find a diplomatic solution. The right is trying to make this the supposedly brilliant Netanyahu vs the weak negotiator peaceniks (the Muslim President and the antiwar traitor) Challenging those characterizations of Obama and Kerry is important, but this is also something approved by Britain's Cameron (from Margaret Thacher's party) and Angela Merkel. What is really amazing is that Netanyahu, leading a small troubled country, has the chutzpah to throw a grenade (in the words of his own intelligence - and they admit saying them - adding only that they might not think that a bad thing) into negotiations that are the culmination of about a decade of work of the P5 + 1. This when there are calls to take Israel to the ICC!

[sabrina 1]

132. I just read your post #105 and I remember the disrespect for Kerry and Obama. I think the world does

view Netanyahu as a warmonger and that does reflect very badly on Israel. Which is why I don't understand why he keeps getting re-elected. All signs show that no one wants a war with Iran which would probably be more devastating to Israel than any other nation.

Even the NATO countries seem to understand that.

I know that Dermer was reported for violating the law, apparently he gave a speech in Brooklyn which was interpreted as a 'campaign speech' by their political opponents in violation of an Israeli law which carries up to a five year prison sentence airc.

I guess there is some protocol involved so someone would have to file another complaint. Israelis are aware of his latest attempt to use his position to campaign for Netanyahu. So maybe that will happen.

If he is using the embassy here to undermine the efforts for peace you just outlined, that should be grounds for the US to request that Israel recall him. And if he is again violating Israel's laws, they don't need much more of an excuse.

Here's a link to that story regarding him being reprimanded for campaigning for Netanyahu: Israel Ambassador in US Reprimanded For Forbidden Political Campaigning On Behalf of Netanyahu

You would think he would be more cautious than to engage in these blatant tactics after being reprimanded already for what seems to have been far less serious.

I seriously don't see how the US can let this pass without some kind of consequences.

It is a golden opportunity now to put Netanyahu in his place once and for all. It seems to me that he is doing more harm to Israel than anyone else.

As you said, it's easy to be a bully when you have the US behind you, but there are may signs lately that that might change when our OWN national security concerns are involved.

I do think people should start calling the Israeli Embassy, but it would need to be organized by someone to get the attention of the media. One or two calls from individuals isn't going to do much.

[The CCC]

47. Boehner used like a puppet on a string by Netanyahu who initiated the now disastrous 'invitation'

Treason IOKIYAR.

[Hubert Flottz]

49. Too Drunk To Govern...

Double drunk...drunk on power and drunk on rot gut.

[rurallib]

63. This is a major concern of mine. Boehner is a drunk and

He is 2 heartbeats from being president. How about a sobriety mandate and test for our government leader?

I watched my parents drink themselves into wasted lives and intelligences. I would hate to see someone like Boehner with a nuclear football or a CIA or a budget or an army or a navy or drones or - well you get the idea.
He is doing more than enough damage where he is.

[Hubert Flottz]

90. It should be a major concern for the entire country.

The man has the skin tone of a well pickled drunk with a chronic liver problem. Cries at the drop of a hat and he drops the hat. Is combative in a classic, "What are you looking at me for," style of drunken aggressiveness, seen in most delusional, dedicated, barflies, everywhere. Probably secretly longs to toss every dwarf he encounters.

I think the speaker needs his crossover rewired, ASAP/PDQ. He's not going to find the answer to America's problems, in the bottom of that bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, or the next bottle, to infinity...

He went through so many changes while sitting behind the president during the SOTU speech his face reminded me of those movies about demon possession. I think the demon that possesses The sobbing Sub woofer of the House is indeed a bottled and bonded spirit. So yellow, but not a damned bit mellow.

[hopemountain]

85. "the bourbon made me do it", he cried. nt

[Hubert Flottz]

92. He's your classic crying drunk.

Has probably cried so much during his drunken binges, that's crying has become as common to him as drinking a double or three and smoking a Fat Camel, before breakfast.(or for breakfast)

I expect him to come in to the capitol plastered some morning and beat up on a congress lady and a couple of pages.

[mountain grammy]

50. We need a strong Iran in the middle east..

the powers of the world know this. Netanyahu would be a teabagger if he was an American. Bibi and the baggers, united for never ending war.

[oldandhappy]

51. I write to Netanyahu today

to say he had shown great disrespect for our president but that he still wanted my tax money and our airplanes. Had to write since I could not get the email on his website to work. Please do something to let him know you think he is not behaving in an ethical manner. Thanks.

[sabrina 1]

121. Good for you. I think we should also call the Israeli Embassy. The Ambassador was part of this plot

against the President.

[oldandhappy]

129. yes, please do!

You are absolutely right about the ambassador. He met with John Kerry for what ?--two hours? and never mentioned the 'invitation'.

[2naSalit]

52. Can we stop funding them now??

Please??

[lark]

53. What happens at that "talk" matters! Israel is watching and not happy.

Dems can help him not get elected by all standing up and walking out together, soon as little murderer starts his blather. Hope people demonstrate as well. I'd love to see a sea of signs saying "quit lying Bibi" or "You aren't wanted here, go home and face your own folks". Even the Mossad has said Iran isn't anywhere near building a nuclear bomb. He should quit his stupid saber rattling and go home.

[DFW]

55. Looks like Dermer and Netanyahu played Bonehead like a violin

Considering some of the harsh condemnation coming from cooler heads within Israel itself, it is clear that Netanyahu does not by any stretch of the imagination speak for all Israelis.

I hope Obama and Kerry lose no opportunity to publicly suggest that Netanyahu manipulated a clueless Republican leadership into doing what he wanted them to, and that they are too stupid to have figured it out ahead of time.

[sabrina 1]

57. This is a goldnen opportunity for Democrats to permanently damage Republicans who went

along with this. It was a stupid, awful thing to do. You can imagine them plotting and planning like a bunch of schoolyard bullies for monts how they were going 'get' those who are trying so hard to avoid war.

Expose them, emphasize the threat to National Security and don't let up.

Even the Mossad supports Obama on this.

[DFW]

87. I have some ex-Mossad friends here in Europe

I'll be seeing some of them next week--I'll have to ask them what they think.

[sabrina 1]

88. That would be interesting to know. News reports say they 'broke with Netanyahu' on the Iran

sanctions'. Apparently they support the negotiations Obama has been engaged in.

No doubt any intelligent human being knows what a disaster any war with Iran would be.

If you are free to share their opinions with us, that would be interesting.

[DFW]

96. I don't know what they can and/or will tell me

But anything they say I can share, I will.

[sabrina 1]

131. Thank you n/t

[karynnj]

58. I wonder if it is better for Obama and Kerry to scrupulously only speak of Iran and

giving diplomacy a chance. Let others note that Netanyahu manipulated Boehner. It might also address whether AIPAC is too powerful and that it reflects one party in a foreign government more than any Americans.

It might bring to attention how completely Netanyahu has constantly not worked to achieve a decent relationship with Obama. He started with sending a former Republican operative as ambassador and he has gone out of his way to show that he really does believe that he can control the US.

[DFW]

59. Obama won't say anything publicly, but he doesn't need to

How he feels about it will come as no surprise to anyone. Kerry will not remain silent, but won't show any public obsession with it, either. Back channel diplomacy and cooperation with the Netanyahu government behind the scenes will be where the real repercussions will be felt, and if we hear about any of it, it will be due to leaks we didn't want to happen. The kind of message Obama will want to send is bound to be one he prefers the public not hear, because it will probably be harsher than expected.

[karynnj]

67. That is really serious and I suspect that you are correct

Not to mention, it is not just Obama/Kerry who have worked on the Iranian deal -- our allies have worked for about a decade. Their Washington Post oped was extremely good.

It is unthinkable that Netanyahu thinks he can harness the US Congress against our own best interests - because he is obsessed.

I wonder if the other big loser could be AIPAC. I remember disputing for years that they had such disproportionate influence - I would bet that for many people this is an eyeopener. Not to mention, the right has tried to make this Obama/Kerry who they claim are weak negotiators vs the brilliant strong Netanyahu - when it is the combined work of 6 nations and the EU.

What is clear is that Netanyahu is most accomplished at blowing up diplomacy and lying when he says he is behind any.

[workinclasszero]

60. This kind of shit is what happens

when brain washed teabag idiots elect drooling jackasses and put then in charge.

I mean what the hell do we expect people like Boner, Cruz and that welfare queen Ernst to do?

Be responsible adults and do whats right? LOLOLOLOLOL!

Those dumb bastards WANT to see the world burn!

[WHEN CRABS ROAR]

79. And the blood will be on their hands. n/t

[modeforjoe]

64. Dem's Unite!

Write your state Dem party and your Dem legislators: Boycott the Joint Session of Congress. Just don't go. Turn the Netanyahu and Boehner scheme into the public fiasco that we know it is. Just say NO. (I have written and hope many will).

[sabrina 1]

71. Yes, people should contact their reps, including Repubs. Because it seems both sides are 'wavering'

now regarding this visit by Netanyahu, mainly due to the backlash it has received.

Dems appear to be 'rallying around the President' now that they see they would have enormous support for doing so.

Even some Repubs are said to be 'wavering' now that they know that even the Mossad is on Obama's side in this.

So a huge negative response from the public is needed to make sure this treasonous deception is exposed and ended and Boehner should be investigated, castigated, mocked and slammed for allowing a Foreign leader to influence to work against his own country's best interests.

[whereisjustice]

74. Congress is filled with useless idiots. They're a threat to the US, incapable of Government, eom

[whereisjustice]

75. Democrats should boycott. This is 100% bullshit. The US is not a puppet state. eom

[herding cats]

76. Excellent OP

Thanks for posting this. I don't think most people get how close a call this was, and still is, even though it's looking like we have a chance still to avert another war.

When I first read how it had played out exactly, the severity of the situation slapped me in the face.

I know it is some sort of joke here to ask people to contact their Reps, but please contact your Rep and Senators and ask them not to vote for sanctions on Iran. Obama plans to veto the sanctions, but he won't have the option if they get a veto proof majority in the Senate. Which is what they thought this would help them obtain. This is a very serious issue, and we could still be screwed over by this upcoming vote.

Now back to Boehner bashing! He, McConnell and the other high level Republicans who were contacted by Ambassador Dermer regarding this need to all be exposed, and then dealt with however possible.

[sabrina 1]

82. Excellent comment, I couldn't agree more. This really is very serious and it is important now to

contact Reps. Like you, at first I thought it was a waste of time. But since then a lot has happened and the more support they have for NOT going along with this, the better.

There are now reports saying that Dems are wavering regarding supporting this and even some Repubs. So the more they hear from people the better, including Repubs.

[FourScore]

84. My own democrat senator, Chuck Schumer of NY, might vote for sanctions.

He ALWAYS votes in Isreal's interest. Always.

Thank you reminding us to call. I hadn't thought of that before.

[Stephen Retired]

78. It ain't just Boehner to blame

It's the whole damn AIPAC-owned Congress.

[MADem]

80. An absolute breach of protocol, no question. There are hard and fast traditions in that regard.

Not sure if it crossed a "legal" line--but it is plainly bad, BAD form and the sort of gaffe that everyone knows is just smack-dab in Fuckupville.

Bonehead should put down the wine glass and contemplate just how brutally he's being used. If he can't see it, well, everyone else does.

[sabrina 1]

81. It may have been more than a breach of protocol. This was planned weeks, maybe months before the

SOTU address by a small cabal of conspirators in Israel. Even the Mossad supports the negotiations for a peaceful resolution with Iran.

The small group in Israel targeted Boehner, clearly using his vulnerabilities to undermine sensitive negotiations that were underway to try to avoid a confrontation with Iran, and which involved five other countries, the UK, Germany, France China and Russia.

This seems like a rogue group in Israel using weak links over here to try to undermine the effort to avoid what would be a devastating war.

Imo, there is more to this than just Boehner and Bibi.

And the only way to find out who is trying to undermine these sensitive negotiations that will affect the whole world, is to have a thorough investigation.

Iraq was bad enough, but I remember Seymour Hersch's warnings about the intentions to start a war with Iran. Clearly whoever wants this, hasn't given up.

The president now needs every single Democrat on his side and it appears that even some Republicans are backing away from Boehner.

As someone above said, this is a very critical moment. And people need to do the right thing now, regardless of politics.

[hopemountain]

86. thank you for shedding more light on this

perilous & egregious occurance which threatens our country's and the world's efforts to not engage in ww111. i will be contacting my legislators.

[MADem]

93. Boehner's pretty much immune from any punishment. He will--if he finds he has to

back away at all-- plead ignorance if he's backed into a corner. Though some of his subordinates may step back (or pretend to, for now, while this issue is front and center), this situation solidifies his bona fides with the wingnut faction of his party.

What laws people break in Israel are the province of Israel's--they don't impact us directly. I don't think anyone in Congress will be "punished" for this protocol breach. Some will love it, some will hate it, it may motivate RW voters--as well as moderates, disgusted by the antics--in Israel to get out and vote (it would be interesting if this trip has a negative electoral effect at the end of the day)

[Voice for Peace]

91. leadership from both parties?

Netanyahu’s staff said that they had received it only on Wednesday, adding that it had come from the leadership of both parties in Congress, not just the Republicans.

That would be Harry and Nancy?

[sabrina 1]

94. Yes, but Democrats are denying they knew anything about it.

Democrats in Congress Deny Inviting Netanyahu

Fuming Democrats accused Republicans on Thursday of breaking protocol by inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak to Congress without consulting them, challenging Israel's assertion that the invitation was extended by both U.S. political parties.

Netanyahu's government issued a statement on Thursday saying the invitation had been extended by the "two-party leadership" of Congress, but congressional aides said they knew of no members of the party who had been consulted.

Nancy Pelosi, the House Democratic leader, said the invitation to Netanyahu by Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives John Boehner was "hubris."

Harry Reid says this:

Harry Reid, who leads the Democrats in the U.S. Senate, also said he was not consulted. "But you know, he's a leader of a country. He's going to come give a speech to a joint session of Congress. We'll listen to what he has to say," Reid told reporters.

Harry needs to start hearing from people. Is there ANYONE else in the world who could slap the POTUS in the face like this and get away with it?

I hope Kerry and Obama refuse to meet him and have a talk with Reid who constantly treats these monsters as if they deserved any kind of respect.

[ReRe]

95. K&R

[Sunlei]

99. a "republican political charity" in early Jan. funded a trip to Israel for 30-40? RW congress

members. I thought at the time it was odd why a 'charity' would pay for a trip for such a large group.

IMO republicans plotted against American interests, against security of Israel and the USA. Republicans disrupted the talks bigtime.
Almost looks like some RWingers want Iran to have nukes for some crazy reason!!

[sabrina 1]

100. This is why there should be an investigation. Who is funding these 'charities' that appear to be

working against our National interests in cahoots with Foreign entities?

If this were in reverse you know Republicans would have a committee set up already looking into 'possible treason'.

There are definitely those who do not want peace, that is obvious.

[SummerSnow]

101. His invitation is only to make Obama look anti-Israel and pro- Iranian.

[sabrina 1]

103. I think it's way more than that. It is to undermine the President's effort, together with several

other allied nations to resolve the issue of Iran's nuke program peacefully. The warmongers want war, clearly the President and most of the rest of the sane world, understand the horrendous devastation to millions of human beings, a war with Iran would result in.

This plot was hatched in Israel with a small group of radicals, including Netanyahu and Israel's Ambassador to the US. He, imo, should be asked to leave this country.

Not only because of his involvement in this plot, but because when Kerry visited him at the Embassy, he said nothing about what they were up to.

Boehner was an easy target for these conspirators against our President's policies. His own weaknesses made him a good choice to try to undermine the President's efforts.

I'm sure they all want to make Obama appear to be 'pro-Iran'. What he is, and thankfully many seem to agree, is anti-unnecessary wars that could turn into a World War. Which is why intelligent people, a vast majority it appears, are supporting the President on this issue.

I hope he stands by his refusal to meet with that moron, Netanyahu and snubs him in front of the world.

And Dems, like Menendez who has up to now, sided with the plotters, need to hear from us regarding what he is doing.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

106. No reason the President wouldn't snub Netanyahu

He's done it before.

[sabrina 1]

109. Good, I hope he does it again. No reason to meet with a conspirator against American's National

interests, in fact there is every reason not to.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

110. Yeah, whatever n/t

[SickOfTheOnePct]

111. I agree 100%

I'm amazed at the way people are overreacting to this. Boehner wanted to be a dick to President Obama, and we're surprised at this? It's been the case for the last six years.

[sabrina 1]

112. Really? You are amazed that people are angry that a Foreign agent plotted against our National

Security interests and used the traitors on the Right to do so?

This isn't personal or partisan, it is way beyond that. It is a revelation to Americans just how much power has been given to foreigners to the point where they appear to believe they have more rights over OUR country, than the people of this country have.

It has exposed the egregious nature of how we have given away our rights to someone like that far right war criminal Netanyahu without even a whimper. And we are told we need to worry about 'terrorists'?? No one can take our freedom, but someone sure is or are, giving it away and to a petty little right wing moran who is among the most hated people in the world.

I think you're missing a lot here.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

114. I'm amazaed that some people are able to morph

an invitation to give a speech into an international plot to go against our national interest.

I'm amazed that anyone could claim with a straight face that the outrage over this isn't partisan, when we all know that had Boehner notified the White House that this was happening, no one would have claimed this was a treasonous act.

I'm amazed that anyone could claim with a straight face that this isn't personal, when there have been repeated comments, all valid, about this being a slap in the face to President Obama.

I'm amazed that seemingly intelligent, well informed people could actually believe that allowing a head of state of a major ally to address Congress is giving over power to a foreign country.

I'm amazed that these same people can't explain why it's so horrible for Netanyahu to speak this time, but it wasn't horrible when he spoke two times previously. Or why it's horrible for Netanyahu to speak before Congress, but it isn't horrible for any other foreign leader to speak in front of Congress.

You think I'm missing a lot? Fair enough. I, on the other hand think that you're seeing things that simply aren't there. And believe it or not, your opinion on this is no more valid than mine, and mine no more valid than yours.

So if you want to call for an investigation, have at it. Want to push to impeach Boehner? Have at it. Just keep in mind that mountain-out-of-a-molehill behavior is why nearly half the country thinks Democrats are nuts.

[sulphurdunn]

108. American foreign policy

towards all things Zionist is an example of the Israeli tail wagging the American dog. It is the Israelis and their fifth columnist allies the American neocons who want war with Iran and will stop at nothing to achieve it, so long as Americans do the fighting and dying and Americans pay for it.

[Baitball Blogger]

113. Agreed that this definitely reflects poorly on Boehner's leadership abilities.

[kentuck]

116. Next thing you know....

Boehner will believe he has the authority to move troops.

In my opinion, this is a function of foreign policy and Boehner has exceeded his authority. This type of decision should be made by the Executive Branch.

[libodem]

128. hmmm?

Consorting with Bibi or Bandar? Those Re-private-tans love to foment some oil wars.

All about oil companies and pipelines. Be sure of it.

It's made into a religious war to make it seem alright to raid certain countries and displace their people.