Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Heather, Port Huron, MI — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:21:45 GMT

I'm sorry but why should we be in charge of arranging peace between your country and another country? If you really wanted peace you would take some initiative yourself. No one over there seems to want to bend to live together so why are we wasting all this money on your problems??

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

straight talk — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:28:51 GMT

This is between the Palestinians and Israelis. The US should not be taking sides because of their ties to Israel and the Jewish community. This is what many believe is the flawed ethics and reform in the Jewish faith. Jerusalem is sacred land that belongs to all of it's people and should be shared not controlled solely by one country.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

David Rabinovich, Mesquite, NM — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:30:23 GMT

The man on the street in Arab countries considers Barack Obama as a Muslim because of their patrilineal outlook on religion, not realizing that in the secular West, Religion is a matter of individual choice! Once Obama wins, most Muslims on the streets will consider that Islam has finally won against the west. Soon after they will reflect that Allah has allowed an apostate to win an election, thus sending a message to the faithfull which will be interpreted in so many ways as to make musslims profoundly think, that is to have doubts!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jane Doe, Seattle, Wash — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:53:12 GMT

Love how the young Palestinian man says he likes Obama because he is a Muslim, and will thus help make things better for th Palestinian cause.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:59:50 GMT

Barack Obama is the best choice for helping to solve the Isreali Palestinian problem that was caused by the clueless Brits giving the Jews Palestinian land in 1948. I've been watching BBC America and they show how hard core Jews are stealing land and buildings from innocent law abiding Palestinians solely based on the flawed premise that their flawed bible tells them it's their land. No wonder the Palestinian people hate the Jews for taking their land. We need to stop supporting Isreal carte blanche and start showing a more evenhanded approach to diplomacy by also supporting the Palestinians.

The Jews sound more and more like Hitler with their claims of Lebensraum. It hasn't worked and the Isreali's have to give back the Arab land they've stolen since 1967 or there will never be peace in the Middle East. I look forward to Obama being more evenhanded in dealing with both sides.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

L. Cook, Denver, CO — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:12:48 GMT

Why would they have any faith in America when this country is run by Israel? The U.S. government has done nothing buy lie to the Palestinians as they protect Israel even over America!!! The U.S. government cannot be trusted even by the American people!!!! After the elections America will stab them in back like they always do when Israel snaps its fingers!!!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Marine Grunt — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:18:24 GMT

Unfortunately for the Palestinians, the next US president just like the prior presidents will cowed to the pro Israel lobby even if it’s goes against the American value of justice. Although I’m still hopeful if Obama wins there’s a chance justice to the Palestinians will be realized. If McCain wins and with mini me Lieberman as advisor -not a chance!!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Kim, Bellevue, WA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:22:47 GMT

Interesting. No mention of the Palestinian's continued breaking of cease-fire agreements as a reason why a peace settlement hasn't been reached yet.

Biased much?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Chris, Denton Texas — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:37:03 GMT

Its true, there probably will be no change because Obama nor anyone else wishing to be President would speak on behalf of the Palestinians. It has become taboo in American politics to even question Israel on virtually anything. The facts on the ground are, there are endless checkpoints in the West Bank, there are further expansions of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and even questioning Israel's action is deemed as 'anti-semitism'.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Diana Owens, Tacoma, Washington — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:39:04 GMT

I think Obama will be more open and fair. I don't think McCain cares,he willnot make an effort to see both sides of the issues. He will try to do what is polically right. If Palin get to be president, she will do what ever is being told her to do. This could be her husband or the Christian Right.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Bobby, Knoxville TN — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:41:15 GMT

What I've never truly understood is, what is the reason we must support Israel? Why is it that the US continues to be so involved in this area of the world beyond the rest of the mid east having oil? I say we open as many Hydrogen cell fuel stations as possible and start utilizing cars like the ones Honda is only able to bring to California because of Hydrogen availability. Lets cut off our need for the mid east and oil totally and let them settle everything for themselves, from Pakistan all the way over to Israel. Be done with the entire region. It sure would make us a lot less necessary target for the extremists from across that region.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jeff, Alexandria, VA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:42:26 GMT

Straight Talk said: " The US should not be taking sides because of their ties to Israel and the Jewish community. This is what many believe is the flawed ethics and reform in the Jewish faith."
------------------------------------------
Bigoted nonsense. U.S. policy toward Israel is not a reflection of flaws in the ethics of Judaism- Jewish people in general do not favor a one-sided policy allowing expansion of settlements and Israeli foot-dragging on negotiations. The Jewish faith says nothing regarding Zionism and many Jews are not even Zionists. The U.S. government is hardly run by Jews, who are only 2% of the U.S. population and declining. Jewish participation in government is also paltry compared with people of other faiths. So, stop spreading false information aimed at fostering prejudice against Jews and start looking at the facts.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jim Parkevich, Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:42:46 GMT

Until the "American Ideal" of peace and cooperation is
re-defind to the ideology and history of different cultures, The US will never really be able to broker a peace settlement anywhere on this planet. Ours is a unique society unlike any in recorded history, but is does not mean we are "always right".
Future politicians MUST understand the culture and attitudes of these VERY old societies. Without this
committment, it WILL ALWAYS be a loosing situation of trying to get these centuries old societies to come together for any reason. Just ask "dubya" and his mindless, ignorant cronies

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Joe, Thibodaux, LA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:43:30 GMT

The palestinian people can blame no one but them selfs for the state they are in . President Bush went against the advise of practically the whole world and gave them a chance to Democratically elect their leaders , and who do they elect Hamas , a terriost group by anybodies standards . A group who has always preached war not peace. So they got what they wished for, more war and violence, and now they want to blame the USA. I DONT THINK SO

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Naim, Milwaukee Wi — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:43:36 GMT

Heather, the US was not involved, the UN would mandate Israel to exit Palestinian territories including East Jerusalem without the US vetoing it.
Do you realize that the US is like the only country to supports Israel cuurent occupation. Without the US Israel would be forced to go to it's 1964 boarders.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Mike — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:50:46 GMT

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jeff, Alexandria, VA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:51:20 GMT

Jewish people in the U.S. overwhelmingly support a negotiated settlement trading land for peace, preceded by a halt to settlement construction and easing of restrictions on Palestinians in general. People should stop misrepresenting the views of Jewish people in the U.S. and Israel. Many Jewish people are not even Zionists- a fact not acknowledged by the bigots. Moreover, the stereotype of the disloyal Jews controlling the U.S. government for the benefit of Israel are ridiculous - Jews make up only 2% of the population in the U.S., and, like me, the vast majority support the U.S. and its interests above Israel and its interests, as well as a fair peace agreement.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Edwin. Bethlehem, Pa — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:00:15 GMT

They have been killing each other for over 5000 years. I don't think anyone realy believes there will be a long term peace. Crushing your enemies is the tradition. Not living in peacful co-existance. I do think we need to stop sending over 1 million dallors a day to Isreal. 'We' could know peace, if we stopped supporting them.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Nathan, Chicago, Il — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:07:45 GMT

unfortunately we continue to blindly support Israel, despite the ongoing settlement building, the checkpoints and treating the palestinians like animals. Our support should be contingent upond them fullfilling their humanitarian needs and giving dignity to the Palestinians. If they won't listen, we should spend the money we give them on our own people here.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Bruce Tampa Florida — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:08:50 GMT

The concept that Obama will lead America's foreign Policy based on skin color is a little sad.Arafat walked away from his Palestinian State.I suspect he was poisoned because of it.If The Palestinians want a homeland they need to boot Hamas. I am Jewish and I am voting for Obama.On Presidential choices. A Harvard Law Graduate or a War college graduate who's family got rich selling booze is a no brainer. How does the Islamic fundamentalist movement explain the Great Satin America elects a President who may be Muslim??? Sure pops that balloon.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Teresa, Odessa, MO — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:10:08 GMT

God took Jerusalem from the Jews..it was his right, and he took it due to their lack of faith (according to the Bible). The Anglo/American world empire put itself in God's rightful place and gave it back to the Jews, and have been defending the Jews ever since, thereby putting themselves in direct conflict with God. That is why protecting Israel will never work. The Palestinians have been wronged, and the land they were living in taken from them wrongfully. There will never be peace until the Anglo/American world power takes itself out of God's rightful place of sovereignty, according to the Bible.

Of course, that all depends on whether you believe the Bible is God's word, or even believe in God's existence, for that matter. But that's the kernel of the problem in a nutshell.

I'm not an anti-semitic, btw. I care for people of ALL races, religions, creeds. But our government had NO right to take land from another country/culture, and give it to the Jews to make up for what Germany did to them. Let Germany give the Jews some of THEIR land. They did the bad deed, let them give the sacrifice. Not the Palestinians who did nothing wrong.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

John doe — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:10:37 GMT

Hey mike, no offense if those missiles were inbound any idiot would make the call to handle it thats clear cut.

I think seeking councel is wise, one man doesnt have all the answers.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

R. Scalzo — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:18:08 GMT

It's not outr county. With a 35 percent cut in our military force we won't be in a position to do or enforce anything. The world should start worrying about its own problems from now on.

We should not respond to anything outside of our own borders from now on.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Judy Stonington,CT — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:22:44 GMT

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Hoping for better days, Here, in the USA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:23:44 GMT

Mohandas Ghandi won his righteous struggle, Martin Luther King won, and we may well be on the verge of electing a President who is the heir to that righteous victory. Yasser Arafat died a failure. A righteous struggle need not be armed to succeed.

The Palestinians ought take note. If they stop calling cities "refugee camps" and switch to the term "ghetto", put down the weapons and sew big yellow crescents on the lapels of their garments they will get the attention of Americans and things will change.

There is a better way to conduct a righteous struggle, and our new President just might wind up being living proof of it.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Alex — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:25:59 GMT

Mike, responding to an ICBM attack is totally different scenario then responding to the economy. Think of it this way, deciding where your kids go to college and how much money it will cost you is a process that hopefully involves carefully research of the options from different angles. Reacting to an intruder in your home who threatens you and your family is a whole different story. I think most people understand this difference.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

James, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:29:28 GMT

To Heather, Port Huron, MI, im afraid thats probably the ignorant comment ive ever read u say we shouldnt care about Palestinians but its ultimately our government that put them in this mess in the first place and are continously supporting the Israelis in making lives of innocent Palestinians absolute hell. Its very easy for someone living in luxury like yourself to make such ignorant, unthoughtful comments, I suggest you study some politics before making such judgements!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Steven, Bronx, NY — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:30:37 GMT

For anyone who supports Israel, this is certainly a wake-up call. If the Palestinians are openly rooting for Obama, I'm voting for McCain.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Mindi, St. Louis, MO — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:34:40 GMT

It is an assumption that Obama would not know what to do in times of crisis (perhaps he would). It is a fact though that John McCain has a 45% chance of surviving his first term. Do you think Sarah Palin would know what to do in times of crisis? It is my assumption that she would not know how to handle such matters.......

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Zohar, Jerusalem, Israel — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:38:04 GMT

I am a moderate leftist, however, after living in Israel for some years, I know where I am now. There will be not peace until Israel and the Jews move out of Israel. What an Ironie; many Arabs forget that Palestina was only a strip on the map. Many Arabs came to this land illegally so why all the bombing?
I hope that the person who will consider seriously Israel's existence will be elected, be it white, black, yellow or olive skin.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Simon, Cleveland,Ohio — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:44:00 GMT

Peace - Palestinians could of had it years ago - but their leaders are corrupt - and they are surrounded by corrupt Arab countries who don't care about them or anyone else for that matter!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

prudent Jérome, nice, France — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:46:01 GMT

I have 36 years of hearing the same odd speech. How important is the jewish people in a human basis among the palestians? As long as the us adminitration continues to act hypocrically against the palestinians there will never be peace.Obama would do good in the middle east if he was not raised by the idea that irael is the sacred land and by this fact all jewish are sacred.Since 1930 they were being settled as the us oil spy- guardian for the middle east.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Sean, Saint Louis MO — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:51:15 GMT

It is so crazy to me how many people do not understand the history of Israel and Palestine - and most importantly, the U.S. relationship/interest. The reason the U.S. has a vested interest in the sucess of Israel is because it is the only middle eastern democracy - and what have we been trying to spread all these years accross the world? that's right! DEMOCRACY. I do feel that our unwavering support for Israel's decisions has got to stop. They have been slowly taking over parts of the Palestinian terrritories for years to the point of no return. There are so many Jewish settlements in the Palestinian territories that there is no way to even draw a line to separate the two states. While many in the U.S. see Palestine as nothing more than an agresser to Israel, let me remind you of a little history about Israel. Israel was CREATED through a U.N. resolution to give the Jewish people a state - and guess where that state was carved from? PALESTINE!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Rose, Savage, MN — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:09:09 GMT

Hey! Steven in the Bronx!

In case you haven't noticed, the rest of the world is rooting for Obama, not just the Palestinians. Bar none. I read the newspapers in three different languages, it's the same everywhere. There is HOPE and his name is Obama. Get used to it:)

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Tanuja, Mauritius — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:10:53 GMT

Some readers obviously have no idea about the myriad of political turmoil that the American foreign policy has engendered in the rest of the world. The U.S.A. has supported Israel unequivocally in all possible ways – finances, trade agreements and all political actions. Israel has evolved from a charity case to a highly wealthy and dangerous country threatening the Palestinian people. The U.S.A. must stop providing such support to Israel and pressurise it to reach a solution with Palestine. And yes, you should be concerned about the state of the world you live in because your country helped put it there! It’s sad that after all that has happened, many Americans still think they can keep their blinkers on, open their celebrity gossip magazines and not care what happens to the rest of the world population!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Omar, Durham, NC — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:20:48 GMT

Steven from the Bronx writes: "For anyone who supports Israel, this is certainly a wake-up call. If the Palestinians are openly rooting for Obama, I'm voting for McCain."

I'm a Palestinian, and I'm openly rooting for McCain here in NC. Thanks for your support.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

LQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:21:41 GMT

LETS HOPE PALIN DOESN'T EVEN COME CLOSE TO THE PRESIDENCY OF THE UNITED STATES.!!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Joe USMC — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:21:46 GMT

Why can't the Palestinians not have their own state?
Please read "The British White Papers".
Do we teach history in our schools? I think not.
We would't be in country now.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Ruckus — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:24:36 GMT

Dangerous - time to make a decision:

Bill Clinton at rally today: Obama called his advisers, called Hillary, called me and called my ad visors before making a decision on the economy.

If the U.S. where to come under attack on day one, Barack Obama would not have the time to call 5 or 6 advisers to talk about what to do. If ICBM’s were launched, there would only be 4 to 12 minutes to react with a decision that could mean the difference between life or death for millions of Americans. Only John McCain would have the experience to take immediate action.

Mike, no matter who the President is they will always ask for advice. That's what a great President does. A bad President (like the one McCain would be) has the mentality of shoot first and ask questions later. I'm sorry but I would rather have someone that thinks others opinions matter and not just his own.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Joe USMC — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:24:43 GMT

Simon,you don't think we have corrupt leaders?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Allison, MN — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:39:54 GMT

To Mike, Obama would make a thought out decision, in a timely manner. McCain will make an impulse decision to which will best benefit him. Now which one is the better choice?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Michael, Michigan — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:40:43 GMT

Maybe peace would have a chance if the Palestinians actually abided by the terms of a peace settlement. Palestinians have used the land they received in a "Land for Peace" deal to consolidate their military power and launch new attacks on Israel.

Why in the world would Israel continue to return "stolen" land if the end result is more attacks at closer ranges?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Boon, Windsor, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:44:38 GMT

You can be sure, Mike, that John McCain, if elected President, will also have advisors and will have to search them out in times of crisis (and otherwise). McCain has NOT had the experience being a President in times of war. He's been a prisoner of war. That is not the same thing. I have all the confidence in the world that Barack Obama will handle a crisis such as you describe. I will sleep a lot easier when he becomes President of the United States.

Obama/Biden 2008

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Justin Pettipas, Dartmouth, NS — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:53:07 GMT

The world would be a much better place without religon clouding the judgement of so many. People should be strong and wise enough to follow their own moral code...not follow that of a book from thousands of years ago. Modern times need modern thinkers.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

joe — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:57:10 GMT

Dangerous - time to make a decision:

Bill Clinton at rally today: Obama called his advisers, called Hillary, called me and called my ad visors before making a decision on the economy.

If the U.S. where to come under attack on day one, Barack Obama would not have the time to call 5 or 6 advisers to talk about what to do. If ICBM’s were launched, there would only be 4 to 12 minutes to react with a decision that could mean the difference between life or death for millions of Americans. Only John McCain would have the experience to take immediate action.

Mike (Sent Thursday, October 30, 2008 3:50 PM)

Mike,
4-12 minutes is only long enough to kiss you behind goodbye..even for McCain...In the event of such a missle launch, God forbid,..SUPPOSEDLY,.. The US is capable of responding in like matter.
Btw,.. this reminds me of the early cold war paranoia from the 60's and 70's..but what better way to control peoples mind than with unfounded fears eh?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Akber A. Kassam. Blaine, Minnesota. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:00:48 GMT

I sincerely think that United States must look the Palastian problems first. Not to take 100% side of Israel only as Bush administration has done for the past eight years. United States must deal equally with Israel and Palestine. I don't trust Sen. John McCain, if he win the election then it will be same as Bush. I have trust and faith on Sen. Barack Obama
if he win the White House, he will bring some good solution for Israel and Palestinian, Sen.Obama is a God fearing person.!!!!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Mark — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:11:50 GMT

Neither Obama or McCain has provided a real plan that will accomplish peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Ralph Nader is the only one that has a real solution for peace in the region. http://votenader2008.blogspot.com/

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

joe , Crawfordsville, In — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:12:25 GMT

This decision rightfully belongs to the Israel and Palestinian people. But whomever is the next president must never allow Israel to forget that the U.S. ALWAYS has her back. Obama does not have the skills nor the leadership necessary to keep the peace ball moving between these two
Judy Stonington,CT (

Judy,.
You mean pretty much like the Bush administration is keeping the peace ball rolling..?..
"While the Bush administration is still pursuing diplomatic efforts, Rice acknowledged at a recent speech in Washington before a Palestinian investment forum that time was running out to produce a peace plan, as proposed at the Annapolis conference in November 2007.

"I will leave no stone unturned to see if we can finally resolve this conflict," she said. But Palestinians here are now looking to the next administration to deliver on that promise.
Maybe the ball has a flat side...

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

This Country needs a hero Vancouver, Wa — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:18:39 GMT

Quite frankly, its our own fault for making Isreal the powerhouse they are now.By giving the Jews Millions of dollars and month!! FOR WHAT?? Now they use that power to push everyone around in the Middle east like the Bullies they are. Of course as soon as one of them (Iraq,Iran) starts to push back they come running to big brother(US) like the cowards they are.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Marc, Santa Barbara, California — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:24:38 GMT

It's sad how biased this article and how mislead so many of the people who have written responses don't seem to understand the issues involved in the Middle East. The United States governmen, both parties being included, don't support Israel for some wierd "Jewish conspiracy," but because Israel and the United States share so many values and ideals. The most important value being that both countries support democracy, freedom of speech, and a secular government while having a fairly religious population.
I've been to the AIPAC policy conference (the pro-Israel lobby in the U.S.). Unfortunately, some people seem to believe that this group is "a Jewish conspiracy to undermine American power for Israel" but a large number of people at the conference aren't even Jewish. This group doesn't donate or prefer any one specific candidate for public office. It's only goal is to show that Israel is a great ally which has NEVER turned it's back or gone against the United States. In fact, if anything, Israel has compromised it's security by bowing to U.S. pressure (withdrawing from Gaza, abiding by the Oslo accords, and leaving the Suez Canal in the 1950s).
Senator Obama does provide the best opportunity for peace in the Middle East because of his support for Israel and his understanding of complex issues and his governing stlye is one of intelect and not gut, like President Bush has done for 8 years. He will force both sides to make serious concessions for peace but in an appropriate manner. Both sides have violated agreements (Israel by building more settlements and not policing them and the Palestinians by not reigning in terrorists and spending humanitarian money on military good or corrupt activities). As a strong supporter of Israel I admire John McCain's support for Israel but we can't vote on any one issue. The fact is, for peace in the Middle East, it's time for the Arab countries to recognize Israel's right to exist, denounce terrorism (including Hezbollah and Hamas as "political parties") and for the United States to meddle less in internal affairs of Middle Eastern countries and for the United States and Western Europe to be energy independent so there will be no petro-dollars for anti-Western dictators in the Middle East. If you don't believe me, look at all of the reports put out by the best, more intelligent foreign policy think tanks in Washington D.C.

P.S. for the person who accused the Israelis of acting like "Nazis," it's wackos like you who undermine Western credibility. The Israelis are like Americans, we all want peace but aren't going to cave into terrorism and all peoples have a right to justified self-defense. Have fun being ignorant!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Don Edwards — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:35:05 GMT

Until you been there to see why Jimmy arter used the term "apartheid" i.e. "separation" you will understand that until the violent and oppressive Israeli ocuupation of Palestinian land ends, and a dismantlalning of all settlemetn that violate international law and a return of the boraders of Israael back to 1967, there will be no peace. The net US administration must follow its heart for justice... peace and security will then follow.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Anonymous — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:38:45 GMT

For all of you claiming that Israelis and Palestinians should solve their own problem and not involve the US, what are you thinking ? As long as the US keeps supporting Israel and providing them unilately support in the form of weapons, the US will be involved in the process. If you want them to solve their own problem, then tell your President to get out of the middle east and stop getting involved in an area solely to acquire oil and a strategic position in the area.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

toboldlygo Ottawa Ontario Canada — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:39:39 GMT

ok ,just learned somthing, if not all jews are Zionist,then what is the Differnce bettween the two, this may explain a great deal to a lot of people.Care to give a Better description thank you....

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

LC, nashville — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:40:09 GMT

people that are unwilling to compromise...and live with people of other faiths than their own...well, i dont see them as being worthy of our assistance. i agree with Bobbi from Knoxville. Once we become energy indepedent, we can let them solve their own problems.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jayzer, Porterville, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:47:21 GMT

It is simply an error to assume as many in the Middle East do that the US is dominated by Jews and/or Zionists. One of the real reasons why the US is often hostage to and uncritical of unilateral Isreali actions is the strong influence here of the Christian right whose support for Israel has to be absolute because their literal (and uncritical) interpretation of biblical prophecies which cannot be questioned or nuanced with the facts of how Isreal mistreats Palestinians or how "settlers" bulldoze Palestinian homes and olive orchards so that they can claim "their God-given heritage." Furthermore, spineless politicians of both political parties have bought into the popular myth of Isreal as the plucky defender of freedom (they're like us!) against those mindless Arab hordes or terrorists or children of the Intifada or hijackers or whatever. Like the so-called War on Drugs, in which there is no hope of ever looking at the issue fairly and dispassionately as a failure, so Americans continue to be addicted to their support for Israel.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Chuck, Mansfield Ma. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:57:07 GMT

Only when both people accept the teachings of Jesus Christ will there be peace. Only then can your enemy become your freind, when your able to forgive you will also be forgiven. It sounds simple but I dare them to try it. Otherwise it will always be an eye for an eye. So don't fool yourself people.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Donald Veach — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:03:43 GMT

Israel as sacred land is biblical mythology. Israel relies on this mythology and their (the) real brutal holocaust to impose their terrible occupation of Palestine. Shame on you Israel.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

crystal, Roebuck, SC. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:08:32 GMT

Sorry, all of you got it wrong thinking this is a political issue rather than spiritual and more so sibling fuse

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Eddie Sanjurjo Worcester, MA. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:11:14 GMT

I'm with either McCain or Obama if they would just mind their own business and the business being America. Make America right before trying fix everyone elses problems. And I don't believe America can solve the conflict in the Middle East.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Gina, Bishop, ca — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:12:24 GMT

Everything happening in the world is part of a bigger plan. People have never co-existed peacefully, not 2000 years ago or today. As long as there are different religions, different morals and different nationalities there will always be strife.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

David, New Jersey — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:51:30 GMT

It is amazing reading all these comments. When Israel gave up the Gaza strip they left fully intact factories and greenhouses for the palestinians for them to help improve there economy. the first thing they did was go and destroy everything and then blame israel for the conditions and there deteriating economy, to further add insult to the situation they go and kill each other an "elect" a terorist organization to lead them. If they really want peace theu would reject Hamas and work on rebuilding what they where handed.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Max, Denver, CO — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:09:16 GMT

i have family here and in israel and i love both countries. mccain, palin, obama, biden all support israel and want peace in that land...thank god! all your banter about stop supporting the land of israel...do you people realize that without the US as a friend to israel there would be ablsolutely no representation of "free society" in the middle east? forget allies, oil and religion for a minute...if you can...and remenber this often ignored and forgotten about tid-bit: there is NO, i repeat NO equality between a man and woman in ANY, ANY, arab nation!!!! and i'm not talking about factions or nationatilities within those nations. to paraphrase one of you from above, the US represents the evolution of world culture...nowhere in the world does a society exist like ours...not withstanding laws and taxes, we truely are free to do whatever the heck we want to do...as equals, and even today, here, it's still is an ongoing struggle. And true we are not always right about everything, but really, ladies, would you and your girlfirends stand for having to walk 5-10 paces behind your man wherever you went because you are still considered "a second class citizen?" no, you wouldn't. don't get me wrong, women's rights in arab nations have made leaps and bounds, but as it stands, today just the freedom to choose to live as equals isn't there. on the contrary, it's met with some form of punishment, dismemberment or death...look it up.

remember how the west was won? by little boys with their toys. remember how the west was tamed? with little girls and their curls. men straighten up when a woman walks through the door...alright, most men. we pull out of israel, "we" being freedom and civility...sorry if that offends anyone...it's going to turn into a "king of the hill" scenario. who can pound their chests the hardest?? all that we've fought for, here and abroad, would be a waste. yeah, it's been going on for 5000 years, but the difference is that "we" weren't around 5000 years ago, "we" have only been around just over 200 years...do the math...jews, christians, muslems...we can't stop now...wether it's land for peace, 2 states, leaders that don't advocate terriorism...we can't stop now. every candidate on the ballot understands this. black and white. woman and man. (but boy, she scares me...)

now the other issues, well...that's another story...

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Fuchsjäger, Germany — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:33:30 GMT

the land of Israel belongs to the God of the Bible: He promised it to Abraham and Isaac and to Jacob it was finally given(Israel)as an eternal inheritance -for ever. Take it or leave it, its a fact, because God is not man that he should break his promise.
There is one Jerusalem, not 2 - Jerusalem will never again be divided, whoever dares to try it will have himself to blame.
This battle over the land of Israel is a battle that can be traced back to over 3,000 years!
God bless Israel and God bless America.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Rebel Prophet, New Jersey — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:45:19 GMT

"Zohar, Jerusalem, Israel" must be nuts.

It's the Arabs who must be moved out of Israel. Okay, okay, let some stay, if they behave themselves.

The so-called Palestinian Arabs could have has a state sixty years ago. It's their own damn fault they they didn't. It is time we run out of patience. Let them go to the countries that expelled their Jews sixty years ago.

See the website for more.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Cary Mervin, Calgary, Canada — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 01:30:09 GMT

Britian thought that giving some castaways a patch of dusty land, inhabitated by goat herders, they would all just go away. Low an behold , here we are 60yrs. later dealing with a country who have nuclear capability. Isreal is out of control and thinks that they have divine right to that same scrap of dusty land that the goat herders now defend with homemade rockets and body-wrap bombs. The world should just stand up and tell Isreal that a religion is not aright to rule people and that religion is but a false bill of sale sold to people who are unable to live life with free will. Palistinens are no better in their view of life if extremism is their only hope of life.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

McG — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 01:35:24 GMT

I get a kick of hearing the far left liberals saying how Israel is an illegal country, created by displacing other people. They say this from their US homes, built on land taken from Native Americans. Hypocrites!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

eainsf, Napa, CA — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 01:55:12 GMT

Reality check time for the idiots out there. No one can question that all of Greater Israel was Jewish at one time (prior to the Babylonian and then Roman exiles). The Arabs are called that as they come from Arabia.

Fact is Jews have lived continuously in Jerusalem and are the only faith for whom Jerusalem is a significant city. The area was called Palestina by the Romans to denigrate the Jews, but that term was not used again until the British took over the area after defeating the Ottoman Turks in WWI. The British lied to the Jews when they promised the entire area would be given to them to create a state. As rulers of the area, the Brits would not allow Jews to settle the area even as the Nazi's were known by all nations in the Allied Powers to be on an extermination campaign against the Jews. The Arabs were Hitler's allies and attacked the Jews in what the Brits called Palestine in the 1920's, '30's, 40's and continue to do so today.

Another fact, there is no such thing as a Palestinian people as defined by any ethnicity (they are no different from other Arabs. The distinction is that the other Arabs who were given countries, including many that had never existed as nations before WWI(Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, etc.), would not let those they recommended flee the nascent State of Israel settle in their countries. This is why there are refugee camps.

Additional fact, why is there no talk about the Jewish communities that were destroyed in the Arab countries, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, etc. after Israel was re-born. Perhaps because the Israel took in all Jews, unlike the Arabs who put their brethern into refugee camps. This speaks to another obvious fact, that the Jews care about life and each other which is a core teaching of Judaism. The Arabs kill each other and especially enjoy killing Jews, like the Nazi's. May the day come quickly when the world stops selling military equipment to the Arabs and stops using oil. Then we may have peace as the Arabs will, once again, become irrelevant to the world and will not have the military equipment to cause real harm to anyone as they descend to where their lack of education and love of death will lead.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Not French — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 02:04:05 GMT

prudent Jérome, nice, France wrote:

I have 36 years of hearing the same odd speech. How important is the jewish people in a human basis among the palestians? As long as the us adminitration continues to act hypocrically against the palestinians there will never be peace.Obama would do good in the middle east if he was not raised by the idea that irael is the sacred land and by this fact all jewish are sacred.Since 1930 they were being settled as the us oil spy- guardian for the middle east.

*sigh*... another Anti-American talks out of his rear end.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Tyler, Dallas TX — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 02:25:35 GMT

If the Palestinians want Obama, what more evidence do you need to vote for McCain? Believe me, his skin color is not the reason Palestinians want him!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Brenda, Carrollton, Texas — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 02:25:46 GMT

Stop and think, who stands to gain by keeping unrest in the Middle East?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Speak Truthfully — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 02:35:57 GMT

Dangerous - time to make a decision:

Bill Clinton at rally today: Obama called his advisers, called Hillary, called me and called my ad visors before making a decision on the economy.

If the U.S. where to come under attack on day one, Barack Obama would not have the time to call 5 or 6 advisers to talk about what to do. If ICBM’s were launched, there would only be 4 to 12 minutes to react with a decision that could mean the difference between life or death for millions of Americans. Only John McCain would have the experience to take immediate action.
_____________________________________________________

So how long have you been using crystal meth?

John McCain has no more executive or Presidential experience than Obama. You know, I don't think the majority of SOBER America cares who you support, but the pole turtle approaches some people (like yourself) take are just nutty.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

JR, Boston, MA — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 02:39:57 GMT

Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East. Israel has become expert in many industries, including technology and medicine. Their contributions to the world are greatly disproportionate to the size of this young nation (60 years old). It is these positive things that make the US a friend to her. While the country may not always do things that are popular, her leaders make choices that they believe are in the country's best interest (sounds a lot like the US). On the current world stage, those decisions are necessary for survival.

Every time that Israelis put down their weapons, their enemies (neighbors) see it as a sign of weakness. We all talk as if the fighting that goes on there is something that we can put in terms of democracy, fairness, and justice, but those values are not necessarily universal. Golda Meir, former Prime Minister of Israel once said something to the effect of ... "when they love their children as much as they hate us, we will have a chance at peace."

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jacob Bertenthal, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:12:04 GMT

There is a lot of complicated history involved in this conflict. The fact is that since the founding of Islam in about 700 CE, the Jews and the Muslims were actually friends, brothers in suffering, as it were, standing together against the Christian Crusaders. The conflict is only a half century old, with roots in the First World War.

As for the unwavering support of Israel on the part of the United States, I'd care to remind folks that without the patriotic Jewish Americans the United States would never have came into existence and the Union would not have been the industrial strength it needed to be in order to crush the Confederacy. It is this historic connection and Israel unwavering support of the United States that gives Israel its special status.

I am sick and tired of leftists laying all the blame on Israel, and I most certainly do not care for right-wing chant of "Israel can do no wrong." I am a patriotic Jewish American, Pro-Israel, Pro-Palestine, Pro-American and Pro-Obama

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Mike From,Niceville, Florida — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:45:22 GMT

It is amazing how many people don't know that America, Britain , Canada, France, Australia Etc. Are all Brothers to Israel (Judah). Remember the 12 Tribes? Judah (the nation that calls it's self Israel today) consists of 2 of the Tribes . The Common Wealth is the Other 10 Tribes . Why wouldn't we Help and Love our Brothers ? The bad thing is we always get lost in trying to do the right thing by everybody, even those Nations that hate us. It amazes me that we do so much for so many and are hated for giving and helping .

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Bill R. Tacoma, Wa — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:46:18 GMT

U.S. always backs Israel because of a misinterpretation of Bible by the Evangelical Christians, thinking they're supposed to send all the Jews back to Irael to fulfill the end-time prophecy. They have it all wrong though. Let the Palestinians have their land back!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

farge, new haven, ct — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:54:10 GMT

To Jeff from Alexandria, esp....go educate yourself. AIPAC and corporate america have this country by the balls. If you have money power in the USA, you have THE power! Go read "The Israel Lobby and US foreign Policy" Also, read the Wolfowitz doctrine and get some copies of the magazine "Washington Report on Middle East Affairs". What has been perpetrated on the Palestinians by the Israelis is criminal, to say the least. I believe AIPAC (for the security of Israel) and big oil were the reasons W tragically and illegally invaded Iraq. So, do you think its time we stopped sending Israel billions of dollars per year? I DO!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Amir Hosseinioun, Irvine, CA — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:01:05 GMT

I'm voting for Obama but really, what will my Palestinian brothers say when he condems rocket attacks and bus bombings against Israelis? Again, it will be more of the "he is controlled by the Jews / Zionists" rhetoric. Enough already, we Moslems need to take responsibility for our role in this situation. It's a no-win situation, anytime a president expresses support for Israel, there's an outcry from Moslems, and it just becomes a vicious cycle. There's a reason America supports Israel so much and that has a lot to do with intelligence in the middle east. The U.S. also gives plenty of $$ to Moslem countries, but gets no press for that. I hope Obama wins and I hope my Palestinian brothers get their state (as Clinton offered -- and they rejected) but unfortunately I don't see how they will ever be happy unless Israel itself ceases to exist. That is not an option and the sooner we deal with present reality, the better for everyone.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Bill R. Tacoma, Wa — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:14:24 GMT

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

A.R. Davidson — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:18:13 GMT

First of all, let me go on record as a supporter of Israel---I believe in their right to existence on both a personal and spiritual level. That said, "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it." The Palestinians have bore the brunt of some of the same brutality visited upon the Jews throughout history, and this is also not right. To those of you who believe that McCain will do a better job of protecting Israel than Obama, one thought: We've had Bush in office for nearly 8 years, and the policies of that administration have done more to undermine any peaceful resolution of the Israel/Palestine conflict than any terrorist could possibly inflict. Do you honestly think McCain will do any better?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Sean (USA) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:20:51 GMT

Well, there is no shortage of the "poor Palestinian cry" among these responses. I couldn't help but notice no one mentioned that the rest of the Muslim world has used, and prolonged, the combined missery of the Israelis and the Paletinians to suit their own selfish little needs. There are Muslims whose entire identity and reason for living has been for the destruction of Israel, and Jews in general. This is a pathetic existance. Many Muslims do not want compromise, only complete victory over a people that have a presence in the land dating back approximatly 3,000 years. Islam only dates back in the land 1,460 years, and this is because they INVADED with military force. Additionally, lets be honest, this is a religious war, not one of ethnicity despite what many say. And when all the lies are stripped away and the real motivation for the Islamic worlds support of the Palestinians is exposed (purely religious) then the arguement suppoting the Palestinian claim collapses because Judaism trumps Islam by approximatly 1,500 years. If Obama wins then hopefully he can negotiate a compromise, but I'm not hopeful for that outcome because the Islamic world wont allow it. Sorry boys and girls but I'm no ones dhimmi!

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Sean (USA) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:22:34 GMT

Simon from Cleveland...you are 100% correct.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Daniel ,Salem, Oregon — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:21:51 GMT

It certainly raises a red flag when 90 percent of the world and especially our enemies support Obama for President! Hey liberals, since when does what the rest of the world thinks dictates our domestic or foreign policy? We are the leaders of the free world! A strong and free Israel is vital to our interests. The Arab world and I think Barak Hussein Obama think otherwise.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

LiLy Pierre — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:24:14 GMT

The American govt. gives 8 billion a year of your tax money to support Israel. In return...Israel buys weapons, mostly American weapons, uses them to kill Palestinians, incuding children and used the weapons to further spread their city into Palestinian territory. They move in with tanks, bulldoz and build what is theirs. IF Palestinians don't back away they are killed. This is why they call America the "Big Israel" "THE BIG SHAYTANA" and of course Israel is "the little Shaytana" or little satan.

I love this country. For the most part our govt. is the best in the world. I do however disagree with it's aiding Israel with our tax money and to kill with our weapons.

When visiting a MiddleEastern country, I brought back the English version of THEIR newspaper. It had pictures of babies, infants and toddlers sitting next to blown up homes and their dead parents bodies. The captions read, "killed with American weapons."

Could this be why so many foreign countries hate America? Why so many foreign people hate us?

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Lucy, Milburn, NJ — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:24:40 GMT

If you're voting based on who supports whom, then you should vote for Obama, since Al Qaeda supports McCain.

Vote for the best person on the issues.

As to the Israelis treating the Palestinians like animals-- this is a reflection of the one-sided news reporting. Last spring, there was a man who drove a bulldozer over Israeli cars, killing a pregnant woman. Last year, there was the Palestinian terrorist who shot up a bunch of innocent students. This happens all the time. The extremist suicide bombers and murderers are Palestinians, not Israelis. If you believe an occupation justifies their actions, then you must also believe that the suicide bombers in Iraq are justified. You can't have it both ways.

Israel did not start the 1967 war! Why should it be blamed for winning, against all the odds? You'd think Israel went out and aggressively conquered lands there, instead of just defending its own borders.

The U.S. supports Israel because it is the. only. Democracy in the region. The only one. It is not because it's the Jewish state, or that we have more cultural affinities. It is because their system of government and ours makes them a powerful ally in the regiion-- the sole bastion of a stable government, surrounded by extremist regimes. Didn't you people see the pictures of Palestinians dancing on 9/11? Many Palestinians are decent people but they are being led and influenced by extremist jihadists. Watch out.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

dfaef — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:38:46 GMT

99.9% of the world hopes that obama wins....

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Terry Sells — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:47:07 GMT

Mike, you said McCain would know what to do in a missile coming in. What will he do? Except at 72, stiff as a board, go into cardic arrest.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

ME Firsthand — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 06:37:36 GMT

As an American who lives in the M.E., I must say that the comments here show the AMAZING ignorance and full belief of propaganda over facts. The US controls the whole situation between the Palestinians and Israel, arms the Israelis, controls the veto in the UN protecting Israel. Neither party has been faithful to commitments but if you were EVER to see the situation first hand (as I have) you would understand the oppression the Palestinians live under and would be more sympathetic to helping Palestinians live a normal life. It is kind of like the school bully who constantly picks on the little guys and then complains, "he hit me first!"

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Jack — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 06:39:23 GMT

Obama and Biden will be in way over their heads and lets see them TALK their way out of it. Sorry placating never works. Carter was soft and Obama is going to be too. He will pull out of Iraq and we will be losers there as well because the Shiites will take Iraq. To pull out now is a huge mistake. I agree with Biden...Obama is going to be tested and lets see how THE MESSIAH handles that and the economy. You see, nice thing about losing an election, nobody else to blame but the winner. You better hope and pray the terrorists don't try another stab at our homeland. If they hit someting like a nuclear plant and it leaks, well you won't have to worry about taxing anybody in several states because millions will be dead and the place unlinhabitated for thousands of years. Lets see how know it all handles that, God forbid it should happen. Bad mouth Bush all you want..they never attacked us again after 9/11 now did they? You think terrorists are dangerous..try a inexperienced President.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

John Doe — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:44:28 GMT

The real problem is that ALL these problems are based on some unreal element: god. There is no god and we should NOT base our actions because of the belief in some god. We should do the right thing for man and mankind.
So problem: Jews feel that some god gave them this land, or maybe it's the land in Ethiopia, who knows and who cares. It's fiction. All of it.
Fact: Jewish Lobbyest own the US givernment: you will never hear a person say anything that isn't 100% positive about the racist state of Isreal.
There will be NO peace in Palestine because the US won't let there be pease.

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Native American — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:53:52 GMT

There will be no change.....Ever since Nixon its always been about the rich ....Obama is no diff.......U will see....Maybe Obama might start off right and give back some Indian lands that were taken from them.......The U.S.A government are bias and underhanded......

Palestinians wary of U.S. elections, but hopeful

Chris, Washington State — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:13:36 GMT

"They have been killing each other for over 5000 years. I don't think anyone realy believes there will be a long term peace. Crushing your enemies is the tradition. Not living in peacful co-existance. I do think we need to stop sending over 1 million dallors a day to Isreal. 'We' could know peace, if we stopped supporting them."

This is not true. Palestinians are of Arabian ethnicity and it was not until roughly the 7th century AD that they left the Arabian Peninsula. The Jews on the other hand were removed from Israel by Rome in around 70 AD and did not return as a people until 1946 with the creation of the modern Jewish state. So they have been fighting for about 60 years.