Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Harry, Keller,TX — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:22:45 GMT

60 Years of Isreali existence and Democracy...... Just out of vieew 700K Palestinians whose land was confiscated, and settled (or stolen) and they being forced to live in CAMPS while Isreal, Bush, Blair and the rest of the world that support the autrocities there celebrate. We want peace!!!! They proclaim this as they make their incursions into the Palestinian camps, denying them the basic dignities and rights, Geneva Conventions due them as fellow human beings, and ignore all resolutions by the World Body that outlaws their treatment of the Palestinian people. Happy Birthday, Isreal (or HITLER IN REVERSE).

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Colorado — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:37:17 GMT

The land belongs to God and He gives it to whomever He chooses. It is His Holy Land chosen out of all the earth. Obviously He wants Israel to have it because the Bible says so. It is fulfilled prophecy from the Old Testament. Ezekiel 37:21 “Then say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “Surely I will take the children of Israel from among the nations, wherever they have gone, and will gather them from every side and bring them into their own land;"

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

KR, Houston, TX — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:49:36 GMT

I have a comment. I think that it is funny that no one seems to remember how Hezbollah in Lebanon continues to bomb, threaten, and terrorize the people who live on the Israeli border adjacent to them. Or how Israel is the most hated country in the world after the United States, and how many countries have vowed their resources, time, and lives to destroying Israel. I am happy and proud that Israel has made it 60 years, and I can't wait to see it make 60 more!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Alex, MI — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:52:19 GMT

Love the article for what it says between the lines - Arab strongmen/governments use Israel as a justification for oppressing their own people and to keep the reins of power.

These hypocrites really could not care less about their own much less any other people. How else can 60 years of neglected Arab refugees from Palestine who were urged by other Arab brothers to leave their homes on the eve of the Arab world's attack on Israel be explained? The only use Arab countries seem to have for those downtrodden folks is if they are kept homeless and in poverty as a festering wound to prolong the conflict - it's simply in the Arab governments' best interests, and their poor gullible subjects are none the wiser. Hey, if the conflict suddenly went away the Arab governments might actually have to face reality in their own back yard, and why would they want that?

But what about love for your Arab brother, where is it rally?

Yes, it's still much more convenient to point the uneducated to a ready scapegoat than to force them and yourself look in the mirror, always been so and no reason to think that'll change.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dan Soskin, Westcherster, NY — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:57:23 GMT

Your reporting as those of the NY Times, Reuters and the worldwide press equally stress Al Nakba as well as Israel's joyous and determined will after 60 years. That's disgraceful. Abraham and Isaac lived in what is now the West Bank, and are Jewish forefathers well before the term Arab or Palestinian was introduced. In those days, Arabs were tribal and highly migrant traveling the entire Middle East. Israel or Judea as it was called in biblical days was the Jewish Promised Land to which Joshua was called upon by Moses to lead the Jewish Exodus. Thousands of years later, many major cultures laid claim to the land and the Crusaders in three efforts tried to conquer it for Jesus and the Catholics. The Balfour Declaration of 1917 declaired it the Jewish Homeland, including all the West Bank, giving the Arabs TransJordan. The UN declared it the Jewish Homeland in 1948, with the Arabs in Jordan. Hundreds of thousands of Arabs and Jews were displaced. Now we hear only of four million displaced Arabs who want return and obviously Israeli control. In 1948, the Arabs would not accept partition and attacked the Jews. Six huge Arab armies were defeated by Israel. There were three other wars in 1958 and 1967, in which Israel took preventive action to survive or sought to eliminate blockades against it. Then, in the Yom Kipper War, the Arabs used the holiest day of the Jewish Year to surprise attack the Jews and almost succeeded. What the Arabs could not and cannot get on the battlefield, they get at the diplomatic tables of countries only to happy to appease them because of their resources. It is said Israeli Arabs are very unhappy. Is there unhappiness for Jews in Jordan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the Trucial and Gulf States, ad nausem? Of course not! The Jews have been forced out of Arabs lands. There can be Arabs states, but not a Jewish state. Yet, this world, which shunnned the Holocaust from 1933-1944, limited Jewish emigration of Holocaust victims, and in some cases still deny the existence of the Holocaust, express their sympathies for what are pathetic Israeli Arabs and 60-year-old Middle East Arab refugees. Have you ever heard of second and third generation refugees. They are refugess because no other Arab nation would permanentally settle them, and their squalor and troubles are their own doing. Israeli Arabs do better than any other Arabs except for the affluent Arabs in the oil kingdoms. Have Israeli Arabs, or their neighboring allies, appreciated what Israel has done for them despite the fact the Arabs consider themselves enemies of Israel and are, in fact, a Fifth Column within Israel. WNBC, the press, the UN, Tony Blair,and even Jimmy Carter, know all this and should be shamed for what they say and do with regard to Israel's existence as a Jewish State. The Israeli's have as much a right to be any kind of state they choose as do Moslem, Catholic and Budhist states. If the international pressure on Israel and this emphasis on Al Nakba and press sympathy for an Arab people who are intent on destroying themselves is not stopped, Israel as a democracy will surely be destroyed, its potential medical and scientific contributions and humanitarianism eliminated, and the UN and the West can continue to count on their oil-rich $120 a barrel-plus Arab buddies. Very serious and very bitter.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Colorado — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:59:14 GMT

This is God's Holy Land. It belongs to Him and He can give it to whomever He chooses. Obviously He wants Israel to have it because the Bible says so. It is fulfilled prophecy from the Old Testament.

Ezekiel 37:21 Then say to them, Thus says the Lord GOD: Surely I will take the children of Israel from among the nations, wherever they have gone, and will gather them from every side and bring them into their own land;"

God gave us prophecy because He knows we are an obstinate people and so we would know Him and believe Him.

Isaiah 48:3-4 I have declared the former things from the beginning; They went forth from My mouth, and I caused them to hear it. Suddenly I did them, and they came to pass. Because I knew that you were obstinate, And your neck was an iron sinew, And your brow bronze "

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Y. Lock, Lakewood, NJ — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:10:31 GMT

Cynicism? Is that what you call hatred and the blatant desire to destroy an entire people? This article is nothing but yellow, propagandist writing.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

david,baltimore,md. — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:12:11 GMT

This article merely reinforces the central geopolitical reality which controls the actions of the entire Middle East.The Arab world can neither live with Israel nor live without it.It is the one concept that unites all Arabs and prevents them from making any progress in any field of human endeavor notwithstanding all of the petro dollars pouring into their coffers.DOES anyone seriously believe that without the existence of israel to unite behind that the Arab countries would be at each others throats more tha they already are? That there would not be a huge civil war between th eforces of fanatical islam and moderat eislam;between the forces of Arab nationalism and Mullah dominated theocracies? It i sless important ot the interests of tHE USA that ISRAEL continue to exist than it is to the Arab WORLD.While a peace agreement with the Palestinians had proved incredibly diffcult,it pales in comparison to the problems which will be created by an independent Palestinian state which will be independent in name only as all of its Arab neighbors prop up their puppets to control its politics much like what has happened in Lebanon except to a much greater degree since in lebanon it is only Syria that interferes while in Palestine it will be Egypt ,Syria,Iran thru Hezbolla,Jordan and Saudia Arabia all with their own agenda.In fact the only country that guarantee the indpendent integrity of a palestinian state is Israel which has a far greater political and economic stake in seeing a Palestinian state indepndent than any any of its Arab brethren .Why would anyone believe that a Palestinian state can come into existence when those who broker its cause like Egypt,SAUDI aRABIA,AND sYRIA have their own agendas to fulfill in the negotiations.If th ePalestinians dont fulfill those agendas ,then the are branded as betrayers of the Muslim destiny,ie,reclaiming JERUSALEM as a holy Muslim cith without any rights to Jews in the same city.
Is it any shock that the Israelis treat the Palestinians the same as their Muslim brothers?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Al, searching for my Habeas Corpus in the Holy land — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:12:34 GMT

What specific problems have Egypt, and Jordan had with israel? None that I can think of that weren't started by some failed attack on them.
How many billion dollars have been given to the palestinians in the last 40 years? And where has it gone? Not to build educational institutions, not to rebuild roads, not to start an economy. It's used to fight Israel.
I can see why the Arabs feel impotent, for my life, they have been. They hide like cowards among the populace, then whine and cry when they are actually pursued into ma neighborhood and innocent civilians are killed. Easy solution, fight like men and don't hide among the innocents.
I see the Palestinians as a failed people. Every answer to anything that happens there is Israel. Their own government has done essentially zero to help the people grow and prosper.
It might seem manly or corageous all the tough talk they spew against israel, but in the end, you have no economy, live amidst garbage, and for all yopur bombs and bluster and whining, have zero to show for it.
Why not take 10 years to try and grow the economy. You might find that using the historical Arab ingenuity and knowledge that instead of fighting for the land, you might be able to simply buy it.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

dyinglikeflies — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:20:23 GMT

Syria is the key. It is the only state still technically at war with Israel, and the issues between them are easy enough to resolve. The problem is that Syria acts as a regional proxy for Iran, whose geopolitical ambitions are vast. If Syria disengaged from Iran and did not facilitate the continued arming of Hezbollah and Hamas, there would be peace rather quickly. but of course, Assad rules Syria, a majority Sunni nation, as a non-Sunni himself and has his own reasons to stay under the Iranian protective umbrella.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Eli — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:20:31 GMT

In response to "Al Nakba," TOUGh. Get over it!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Marty, NJ — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:27:49 GMT

Could you please tell me which countries in the Arab world are so anxious for peace? Is it Syria (oops that was the making of a nuclea arms program that was recently eliminated, and the ones that support Hezbollah, and killed the Lebanes president) or maybe Lebanon (oops that Hezbollah out of Lebanon that fired thousands of rockets down on Israel and captured its soldiers) oh, matbe it is Saudi Arabia (no, cant be them, they are the ones that finance all of the anti west and anti Israel Madressas. Perhaps it is the Paelstinians (oops sorry, they are the ones that have fired over 8000 kassam rockets into the city of S'derot).---I know it must be Iran---you know thae one that continually volunteeers to wipe 0iasral and all of its Jewish inhasbitants off the map. Thanks for your isitefull writing.----Marty

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Levi in NYC — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:29:57 GMT

I as an american hate Isreal because it causes the rest of the world to hate us. We have no real strategic interest in Isreal. The have no resources we need. We would be better supporting the Arabs with the oil. I can not think of one good reason to support them over the arabs

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

marcG — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:34:12 GMT

Israel is not the threat, the arabs still cant accept Israel, but they need to realize Israel is here to stay. The palestinians need to realize they lost, accept it and move on. They will never ever get the land back.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Haakon Dahl, Yokohama, Japan — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:36:57 GMT

Wow. Your blanket assertions and just-so statements certainly show where you come down on the issue. I'm beyond anger. It's just sad.
An interesting project for some enterprising reporter might be to compare a day of Israeli TV with a day of Palestinian TV.
Think about that the next time a rocket falls on Sderot--which won't be long from now, of course--it never is.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Mark, Sonoma, CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:38:34 GMT

Right. The only true democracy in the region that has given the world immeasurable aid in the fields of medicine and technology, Israel should continue to be shunned.

Whatever.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

alan g., Amelia Island, fl. — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:39:10 GMT

What a pile of arab brotherhood propaganda crap. The arabs who reside in the former British colonial territory of Palestine have been repeatedly offered a peaceful 2 state solution since 1920, always rejected. When they begin to love their children more than they hate the jews, perhaps there will be a meaningful peace.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Aaron New York — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:48:22 GMT

Surprising how there is no mention of Arafat's rejection of Israel's peace offer. One thing the author did get right is that the Arab world has found in Israel a convenient scapegoat for all their woes. In order for there to be peace with Israel, there first has to be a revolution in the Arab world. When Arabs prefer peace and prosperity (as opposed to their current obsession, which is to deny the Jewish people their right to the land of Israel), there will be peace and prosperity.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

john haskell san diego ca — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:50:14 GMT

May God bless Isreal forever.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Roy, Washington DC — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:55:08 GMT

Apparently Israel is the cause of ALL of the problems of the Arab world.

Israelis have endured suffering, conflict and trauma for at least the past 60 years. Why have they not resorted to suicide killings, extremism, terror, and succumbing to dictatorships?

Israelis are a peace-loving people that are surrounded by a hostile enemy, which continually threatens and invades them. The 1948 War, the Six Day War, the Yom Kippur War - all initiated by foreign Arab countries. You say Syria spends a majority of its budget on defense? It sounds more like offense..

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Jamie, Washington DC — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:57:04 GMT

It's a shame that we are celebrating a land conquered by force from its own people. Those Zionists who left Europe because everybody hated them, commited the same atrocities done to them by killing, raping, torturing the Palestinians. Then, after their Palastenian genocide, they put the rest of them in refeguee camps. Yet, we Americans are not only watching and laughing but we are helping them commit more atrocities by giving them our hard-earned money. Billions of our dollars are being poured in Israel every year. That's why they have the most advanced nuclear capabilities. That's why they earn more than us Americans and they live better life.

When are we going to stop encourging genocide and terrosim by those zionists and start concentrating on our own people? Thanks to the US, Israelis are well off to do now, they live a luxurious life way better than the Americans. We helped them way more than enough. Israel is now becoming a liability for us, it is costing us wars, trillions of our dollars, and more importantly innocent lives.

Let's put our priorities straight for once. No more pouring money for genocide and terrorism. Enough Israel!!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Paul, Ohio — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:58:51 GMT

Someone should remind the Lebanese people that the reason Israel routinely flies over their country and keeps an eye on things is due to the presence of Iran's little helper - Hezbollah. Syria, in the past and today, does not make matters any better (i.e. the Mughniyeh incident), so for them to complain about Israel's policies is a bit contradictory. Especially when their own policies (75% defense budget spending) reflect a position of opposition and military posturing towards Israel. If America is so bad, then why do we pour millions of our taxpayers' dollars into Palestine? Why does Israel supply them with electricity? What is Egypt doing for its' Arab brothers and sisters? Not much, because rational thinking and actions lead to little when you have groups like Hamas and Hezbollah (baby Iran)engaged in continuing the cycle of destruction. Without Iran's agenda fueling what is happening in Syria and Lebanon, Israel would have little military interest there at all. Syria choses to put itself in this position, at least its leaders do, as well as any Lebanese people who support Hezbollah. They make their own beds, and they can lay in them too! Its like "trickle down stupidity", and anyone who blames Israel for its military strength must not be paying much attention. Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria (to a lesser extent) are like puppets on strings being jockeyed by the Iranians. As for Jordan and the Saudis, I commend them for at least being rational about the whole situation. All this mess over soil and religion? Hey, Arabs over there, the World is tired of hearing you complain with your mouths about problems you create with your actions. Wake up, shut up, and start contributing something to the world other than radical militancy and whining about Israel.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

kelly nyack, ny — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:00:39 GMT

i'm afraid i have to disagree. the torture and murder of the palestinians came mostly at the hands of other palestianians, namely yasser arafat, who stole billions of dollars in aid from his own people.the palestinians are their owm worst enemies. when israel gave them gaza, they turned it into a wasteland. they embrace terrorists like hamas. if they want their own state they have to look at themselves as to how to how to make it work. unfortunately as is usually in the arab world, they are taught to believe that america and israel are to blame for their troubles and not the despotic leaders that keep their people downtrodden. israel is the only country that is asked to give it's own land away. why don't other arab countries take up the plight of the palestinians?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Joujou Madbak — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:01:30 GMT

The creation of Israel is the cause of most of the world's (at least the middle east) problems. Israel was created illegally as a "Jewish" state, which by its defination automaitically excludes the Arab inhabitans (both Christian and Muslim). Israels creation was at the expense of the Palestinians and continue to undermine any attempts at peace by building settlements and breaking un resolutions.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Rahim Richardson — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:04:32 GMT

Of course the Arabs aren't celebrating Israel's anniversary, it's not their country. To use a parallel, the U.S. doesn't celebrate Eritrea's birthday!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Bessy Chicago,IL — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:05:10 GMT

Israel can thank the United States !

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Jim, Denver, Colorado — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:06:55 GMT

They have little reason to celebrate. Israel has become as reactionary and rigid as any other dictatorship. Its leaders believe that only by crushing their neighbors will they be popular. When Hamas was elected the US and Israel had a chance to finally end the problems with Palestine and the "camps" which are cities now. If they have given the new DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED hamas government all the aid we give Israel, then the Palestinians would have had the ability to build infrastructure, power and water facilities and started enough business to employ their chronically and massively unemployed youth (ages 16 to 40). People who have jobs, a nice place to live, money in their pocket and a satellite dish on the roof do not blow themselves or their fellows up. But no, after demanding that Palenstine democratically elect a government, the US then immediately insulted the people by saying, "well, you didn't elect OUR choice, so your election doesn't count." That Bush's brand of democracy (all facists feel that way) but its not America's. Treat the Palestinians with respect and shut down the abuse (for God's sake Israel can cut off electric power, water and natural gas in Palenstine whenever it wants to, and which it does frequently as punishment), give them something to live for, and the violence will become as unpopular as it has become in Northern Ireland. But then Bush has never read a history book either.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Muhammed Abdullah, Dearborn, Michigan — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:07:30 GMT

Much much happiness for glorious Israel! If it's such a big deal for the Palestinians to have some land then why don't the Arab countries give them some of theirs? Israel earned their land in blood by winning several wars. To the victors go the spoils.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

SKIUM609 - Boston - Massachusetts — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:09:40 GMT

There are many places and lands on earth that were lost in a war. The crux of today's problem is the arab world's failure to accept responsibility for their huge role in losing Palestine fo the Palestinians. Lets face it: Palestine never existed as a country until it was created at the same time Israel was. They'd be celbrating their 60th birthday as well if they hadn't tried to destroy Israel and ended up destroying Palestine instead. If Lebanon doesn't want to be attacked maybe they need to disarm the private army of Hezbollah which attacked Israel and caused the last invasion.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

A S — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:12:07 GMT

The birth of Israel....A terrorist state is born...

Haha at the comment that millions of dollars have been sent to palestine. Learn your history peeps...

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Arthur Elbling Seattle WA — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:12:40 GMT

Those Arabs living in Paslestine during 1946 -1948 were not forced to leave. The major Arab countries ; Egypt , Syria , Saudi Arabia ; Trans Jordan advised Arabs to leave Palestine so that the Jews living there would be pushed into the Mediterranian. This fact is not related in text books nor does the biased media inform its readers or listeners of this fact.
Nakba(naqba) means catastrophe in Arabic was created prior to 1938 by a Christian Lebanese - Egyptian. The word was created to support the creation of a Palestian state. He was not successfull and when 90% of Israel was offered to Arafat this was also refused. The only fact this proves is that the Arabs wish the destruction and annihalation of the Jewish People. Once this is accomplished radical Arabs under the guse of the Koran can then begin the annihalation of the world. Do as I say or goodbye.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Jim, Denver, Colorado — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:14:56 GMT

Man, will the religious nuts please go to another site, such as "the world is ending, let's all hate somebody". For those who think, please note that the US funds Israel. Without US aid that country would be a wasteland and desert. However, US aid is not tied to any logical policy of insisting that ISrael be part of the solution and quit being the cause of the problem, it is tied SOLEY AND ABOSLUTELY TO US CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS BY JEWS IN THE US TO US POLITICIANS. So the tail wags the dog and idiots like Bush toady to their contributors, while nobody works on a economic solution to the middle east issues. Instead we perpetuate the issues becuase that's good politics, and keeps the contributions arriving at campaign headquarters.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Alex Kaplansky, Hillsborough, New Jersey — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:20:49 GMT

The main obstacle to implementing a two state solution to the problem remains the Palestinian position that all Palestinians (and their decendents) that fled Israel in 1948 be allowed to go back to their previous homes. But it's far too late for that. In 1948 there were 700,000 Jews in Israel, now there are 6 million. What the Palestinians need is a leader who would be willing to say that obvious truth out loud, so they could move on to accept a two state solution, which is still possible. Hamas, for one, will never do that.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Sam, MI — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:21:13 GMT

The Creation of Israel for the last 60 yrs was made on the killing of civilians as they forget that they once where a victims. How this nation can sleep when there are a daily killing of kids booming homes and making a life of millions of civilians even worth than what Hutler did? Isreal needs another 60 yrs before they can talk about Democracy that they claim it.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dean — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:22:15 GMT

The Arab side needs to share their responsibility for the history that has unfolded.Their words and academic approach is that they are innocent.You cannot always make excuses. Israel takes a significant risk by leaving the West Bank, as the Gaza experience PROVES. Israel would be 8 miles wide. No light consideration. It would help tremendously if Arab educational institutions, journalists and TV took a critical look at their own past actions to help chart a future that is guided by wisdom. Arab rejected compromise in 37 (Peel Commission), 1948 partition, the 3 No's of Khartoum in 67,Yasser Arafats's embrace of Intifada vs. negotiation, election of Hamas after Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. These are significant errors in judgment! And the blanket statement that Palestinians are experiencing Holocaust/Genocide is just irresposible, inflamatory, and deceptive. I don't see the Arab people truly embracing 2 states for 2 peoples despite the Arab Peace Initiative with this kind of distorted rhetoric. The number of high government officials in Arab governments who truly believe that the Jews should go back to Europe (Bashar Assad, Shekh Nasrallah, Ismail Haniyah, Khaled Meshaal) is problematic. Israel has made tangible compromises (return of Sinai, return of territory to Jordan in 94, Gaza withdrawal) and its time the Arabs made a minimal move in their universities, TV, and in speeches by Muslim clerics. The Arab interpretation of what happened in 48, 67 etc clouds their judgment to this day and precudes any advances for peace. If you do not change the mindset of the Arab public then Israeli concessions will be a waste and will diametrically lead to war!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Archie Haase Maine — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:25:44 GMT

Israel has as much to be ashamed of as it has to be proud of. Taking land/water from people by violence and then calling them terrorist when they fight back is nothing to be proud of.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Simon, Cleveland,Ohio — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:27:19 GMT

Israel is the only country in the region to take in refugees from other countries - the Palestinian refugee thing is so bogus. Please, Arabs, get on with your life - you don't have one country that is half as normal as Israel - what a waste all your hatred has been.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Nurit Amichai, Zichron Ya'akov, Israel — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:29:43 GMT

I have to believe that the author of this article is an intelligent person - her name seems to indicate she may be an American married to an Arab from the neighborhood. Those outside the situation are often much more vocal about what goes on - could be how they're educated.
So, the Arabs want peace?? Someone needs to help me see how that is evidenced. Every time an Israeli or American dies, they all stand up and cheer and yell "Allah Akbar". And they want peace?
700,000 "forced" to flee? How about the fact that all the so-called neighbors of Israel, on the day of the UN announcement, mounted an all out attack against the State.
And the Palestinians have been denied a state? Maybe you should conjure up Arafat and ask him why he said no to 90% of everything he demanded. That wasn't good enough and then, the next day he smiled as he waved his magic wand for the the intifada - killing Jewish civilians wholesale.
Exile? The leaders of the Arabs told them to leave and expect to come back shortly because they were going to drive all the Jews into the sea and everything the Jews had done to create "wealth" in the land would be theirs. Surprise, we didn't die and you didn't get what your leaders told you was in the offing. Believe me, we know what weak leadership looks like.
Killing Gazans? Targeted killing of known Hamas murderers is what we do. More Gazans are killed by Hamas and each other than israel - do the math.
And, economic prosperity - according to the Arabs and Palestinians, will come on the backs of the Jews. Last I checked, more Nobel Prizes are given to us than any other group. I guess we've rigged that too. By the way, maybe you can tell me what the Palestinians were thinking when they destroyed all the farming and supplies left behind by the Israelis when they were removed (by our own army, mind you). Was that because they were interested in economic progress?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Praying for Peace in Utah — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:33:54 GMT

Whereas I support Israel's right to exist. I have a dear friend who's father-in-law still has the key to the house he was forced out of in 1948 by gunpoint. Arabs and Jews are cousins. If the Jews begin to respect the common Palestinian and recognizes that its their homeland too, then perhaps things will improve. Cutting the power off to Gaza doesn't weaken Hamas, it strengthens them. The more brutal they are in their "defense" the more Palestinian babies die of disease and hunger and the more ammunition the Arabs have to incite young men to the suicide squads. If Israel wants to end this, they should pump millions into improving the lives of their neighbors and building hospitals, schools and clean water initiatives. Recognize the Palestinian right to have homes in East Jerusalem and force settlers to respect Palestinian territory. There are blatant land grabs and oppressions happening. I expect the Israelis to be better simply because of the suffering the Children of Israel have suffered for 2000+ years. I would think their suffering would have taught them compassion and sharing. Frankly, I think they have been blinded by foreign rhetoric. Never will the suffering of anyone bring Peace. Lets Pray the insanity ends, that with Arafat's passing the Palestinian leadership in Ramallah continues to work for the 2 state solution and that compassion overtakes hardline Israelis and they sympathize with the Palestinian mother and her poverty and fear.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Terri B, Blackwood, NJ — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:36:27 GMT

Sadly, it all comes down to man wanting more than they have. This region will fight forever because they are unwilling to agree on anything. You throw radical muslims in the mix and things get even worse. Every single human being on this planet has rights and if we ordinary humans from every corner of the earth were to stand up and say no more, the powers that be would have no choice but to sit down and discuss peace. Disgusting that in 2008 we are not human yet.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dena — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:39:20 GMT

I dont understand why this reference:
- BIRTH OF ISRAEL in 1948, when the truth is ISRAEL has been there for thousands of years.

Why 'birth' ? in 1948 when it's true birth is far over 5000 years ago?

I dont understand. It is the same as if saying...China or India 'birth' in 1948 ?
Ridiculous! I dont understand.

I just ask God bless to Bless forever ISRAEL and the City of DAVID, Jerusalem! shall never again Fall.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Paul friedman — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:40:41 GMT

With your obvious bias towards the Arab world and the response you have gotten don't you think it is time for you and the rest of out of synch media to get real? Israel is a shining examole of democracy and fredom surrounded by petty dictatorships and oppression. Naturally the dictators want to blame the Israelis so they can continue to hoard the wealth of their nations while their people simmer in poverty and ignorance. You are a stooge for the "lords."

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Bessy Chicago,IL — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:40:51 GMT

Why is Israel more important than Egypt, Jordan, or other Arab countries that want peace? It is Israel that refuses Peace, by not accepting a ceasefire in the Gaza strip.

MarcG..You are not very clear on Peace. You must be for McSame.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

James, New York — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:42:12 GMT

This blog makes it seem as though all Arabs want peace. I hardly find that to be the case, especially when most Arab groups are clearly against ever finding peace with Israel. Arab anger over a zionist movement in the 1920's/30's that led to violence against Jewish settlers way before the creation of Israel is partly responsible for seeding the situation they have today. The "catastophe" is not some single even that happened when UN partitioned the land but is a prolonged condition, a disease that is only spreading, one that teaches young children to hate with all their heart their neighbor. I am certain many want peace, but at least be real and admit that the problem of unattainable peace stems from BOTH sides, Israeli AND Palestinian, and both of their voilent actions.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Josh Sandeigo CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:44:49 GMT

We as Americans should be happy with ISRAEL! They are our only REAL friends in the middle east!!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

MJM, Washington, DC — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:46:27 GMT

Another one-sided article from the biased Western media that seems to eat up Arab and Palestinian propaganda without question. Again, the media provides no comment from Israeli citizens or leaders.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Nadia Elmasri, Omaha Nebraska — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:47:20 GMT

It is truly a Catastrophe.

The Jews won't take the peace offer being handed to them by the Arabs, denying them to live a free life without war.

And yet, here we are celebrating how the Jews stole Palelstine. And yes, they stole with it with the help of the United States, Britian, and other world powers. And why?

Because, we didn't want to deal with them.

You can yell about it all you want, or say they are ones being murdered for no good reason. But, thats all lies.

My father is from Palestine, he calls himself a man without a country. Its sad for me to hear that, and when he heard that there might be a Palestinian State, he was soo happy. But, he's 53. I don't think there will be one before he dies, with the way things are going now.

The battle between the Arabs and the Jews are not only political, but mostly if not all based in our different faiths, and how got the land they were banished from by God.

I don't care what you guys say or think after you read this.. Just only that you read it.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

RG Nashville, TN — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:49:49 GMT

Thank g-d that many on this board see through the same old tired rants against Israel. It is unbelievable that so many people focus time, energy, resources etc. on hatred of Israel. Perhaps one day, the arab world will wake up and realize that if it redirected its energies inward, helping its own and creating self-sustaining economies not based solely on oil, how much more positive and influential in the world it will be.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

george — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:50:21 GMT

you know the biggest problem here is none of you people see it how it really is past all that political b.s and all the other moronic b.s everyone thinks just put it like this in your head for one second lets just say you are a resident of the detroit area and all of a sudden the germans and the russians decided to give michigan to the canadians how long and how hard would you fight to get back the land you were born in if you were ever deprived of your heritage your religion your everything would you fight for what is yours before you go and talk more political b.s and slander another arab ask yourself what would you do

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dave Reece, Barstow, Ca — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:51:42 GMT

The "fact" that all Arabs living in Palestine were not forced to leave is not related in text books because it is not true. Thousand of Palestinians were in fact expelled from their villages by zionists. The fact is that Israel occupied the Palestinian land and Jeruslem in 1967 and has defied U.N. resolutions and international law by continuing to occupy these areas and by building settlements in the occupied land. We, The United States has been very hypocritical regarding Israel, we demand that Arab countries adhere to U.N. resolutions and international law while allowing Israel to defy them. And to say that the land there is Israels because "God gave it to them" doesn't really hold up legally. After all, the Old Testament was written by Jews. It would be kinda like me writing a book that said God wants me to have California, so it is legally mine.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Sally Brown, Hong Kong, China — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:53:50 GMT

Posted: Thursday, May 08, 2008 8:34 AM
Filed Under: Cairo, Egypt
By Charlene Gubash, NBC News Producer

HOW IN THE WORLD DOES NBC ALLOWS IN IT'S WEBSITE SUCH A BIASED ARTICLE ! i cant believe it.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dennis K Corona del Mar, CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:54:58 GMT

"60 Years of Isreali existence and Democracy...... Just out of vieew 700K Palestinians whose land was confiscated, and settled (or stolen) and they being forced to live in CAMPS while Isreal, Bush, Blair and the rest of the world that support the autrocities there celebrate. We want peace!!!! They proclaim this as they make their incursions into the Palestinian camps, denying them the basic dignities and rights, Geneva Conventions due them as fellow human beings, and ignore all resolutions by the World Body that outlaws their treatment of the Palestinian people. Happy Birthday, Isreal (or HITLER IN REVERSE).
Harry, Keller,TX (Sent Thursday, May 08, 2008 9:22 AM)"
This comment is so ignorant, it could only come from a real bigot. It is not Israel which keeps these people in camps, it is the Arab countries surrounding Israel, and Saudi Arabia's billions of petrodollars which could easily be used for humanitarian purposes, but is instead spent on royal families castles and yachts on the Riviera, and the private jets to transport them. When the Jews were kicked out of Arab countries in 1948(850,000 of them) they went to Israel and blended in with the population. Today there are no refugee camps for Jews. By contrast, the Arab states would not allow the Palestinians to mix with their own populations, but kept them separated in camps to use as a flashpoint to cover over their own domestic inadequacies. Hitler murdered 60 million people in WWII, 6million Jews of which 1.5million were children. To date, a few thousand Palestinians have lost their lives, mostly because they were attacking civilian targets within Israel. Israel as a modern military power could have wiped away millions of Arabs around the middle east, but has shown enormous restraint in protecting its citizens. How dare you compare that to Hitler's planned extermination. You as a red blooded Texan would be the first to call for US Army help if the Mexican drug lords formed an army and invaded Texas and your family was threatened. Don't be blaming Israel for protecting its citizens.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Bessy Chicago,IL — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:56:05 GMT

I think some of you NEED to listen to Jimmy Carter. He knows both sides of the situation, and is the only President that ever listened to the other side.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Aaron, Boston — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:56:55 GMT

Has anyone here ever looked at google maps and seen the disparity in the color of the land in the middle east. While the Jewish state of Israel is nearly all green save some mountains, the nearby arab countries are all barren? I've been to Iraq and seen with my own eyes the land in the middle east. What Israel has done with its land is unbelievable. I honestly believe most Arab countries are just jealous of Israel for how they cultivated the land when Arab leaders thought it was all garbage. What most Arabs don't know is that it was their leaders that sold this garbage land to Jewish settlers for their "Jew Gold". Basically, your arab ancestors sold Israel to the Jews for money to buy more sheep... Congrats!!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

larry smith — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:59:50 GMT

I'll never understand why someone like Gubash or is it garbage will write an article like this when she knows it's all lies and B.S.
When has Israel ever attacked another country when not having been provoked first by attack on itself.
The real problem in the debate is not confronting the Arabs and so-called Palestintians with what their rela goal is, which is the dismantling and destructiion of the State of Israel.
The one tiny little country that jews can call their own surrounded by numerous enemies on tracts of Land often many times larger than Israel.
It's like people who left Delaware voluntarily screaming that they have nowhere else to live in the United States.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Saline Silvester — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:00:08 GMT

CONGRATULATION ISRAEL ! I much admire and salute you! your people! your strengh! your goodwill! your efforts!
God bless you all!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Ricci, San Diego California — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:01:14 GMT

I just hope one day American's arent forced out of their homes in the name of some mythology. We helped steal homes and land from people who had been living there for YEARS and justify it with a myth and protect it with weapons. BUT then again, there are a few hundred thousand, perhaps even a million, indigenous American's who pretty much suffered the same fate at our hands so, oh well.. YAY

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

ROSIE EASTLAND TEXAS — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:01:36 GMT

THANK GOD! THANK YOU JESUS! THE JEWS ARE HOME AND THE BIBLE SAYS THEY WOULD BE AFTER GOD SCATTERED THEM AMOUNG OTHER NATIONS TO BE OPRESSED, HE KEPT HIS PROMISE TO MAKE THEM A NATION AGAIN , HALALUYAH 60 YEARS AGO GOD KEPT HIS PROMISE

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Robert, Santa Clara, CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:04:56 GMT

Looking at all of the comments here, I see a number of references to the true root of the problems in the middle east, a divine being, call it God, Alla or whatever you want. The ritualistic brainwashing of people into believing in the existence of a divine being, with no tolerance of others, is the basis for uncountable deaths. The Arabs find fault with a 'Jewish' state; the Zionsist are the cause of the world's problems.

Remove religion from the equation and you take a huge step in the direction of peace. Others have correctly noted in previous posts that the Arab leaders are using Israel as a convenient excuse to oppress their own people.

Much like 'racial' descrimination, unless we stop factoring religion into decisions, there will not be peace. Others in the post also make reference to the Bible. Please note that King David, an historically real figure, took great pains and utilized not-so-friendly methods to separate religion and politics. This was accomplished millenia ago, in a different time when religion was a part of every human life,yet the world today still refuses to follow suit.

I know that this will never happen, as institutionalized theology has been so far ingrained into the fabric of most human thinking, that to simply change your thinking in order to save lives and live in a world where we can concentrate on ending hunger and disease would be a 'sin'. Therefore, the murder of civilians, women and children will continue in the name of a being that, should it be real, would shun the behavior and action committed in its name.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Larry, Paducah KY — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:05:32 GMT

Hey Jim in Denver, have you checked the prices at the pumps lately? Let the Arabs states that are getting rich off of us give the aid to Palestinians. Why does it always have to be the Americans passing out the bucks?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Michael Montreal — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:09:20 GMT

G-D blesses those that bless Israel and curses those who curse Israel. It is said in the Old Testament. Look at all those who hate Israel they are a bitter lot, they live with hatred in their hearts for something they will never understand. All the countries that teach hatred of Israel in thier schools are cursed by thier own accord thier own hatred destroys them and thier national pride. No country that outwardly or inwardly hates Israel has economical prosperity or happy citizens. Look at the nations that bless Israel they are prosperous and thier citizens are happy. Bless and you are blessed, curse and you are cursed. Arab misery lies within. To curse Israel is to curse G-D, for Israel means literally G-Ds warriors. Change your attitudes towards Israel and you will find G-D in your hearts.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Sam Wukawski — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:09:33 GMT

As usual MSNBC bias agains Israel, 700,000 arabs "forced to flee". Wow how quickly we forget our history and the details of this "Nakba". If you recall in 1948, hardly anyone actually fled, the arabs "fled" in 1967 when Jordan, Egypt and Syria asked their Arab brothers to leave to they would not get hurt while they finish off the last remaining Jew and then they can come back, unfortunately Israel handed the arabs their A$$ and the rest is history. Enough crying and bellyaching, Israel has made countless attempts at making peace with the Palestinians only to get their face spit on. The problem is, the leadership of the Arabs, they benefit from the suffering of their people, so they are more than happy continuing their so called "struggle".

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Anna R. Seattle, WA — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:11:08 GMT

These people who teach their children to strap on a belt with bombs and blow themselves up will never have peace because they choose hatred and death. We've all seen how muslim parents teach their children hatred towards the Jews (and Christians), it's time to put political correctness aside and look at the facts.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Barbara, Harrisburg PA — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:13:13 GMT

It's a huge shame that so many people buy into the media's propoganda on "poor afflicted Isreal." Wake up people. Better yet, go over there, sit on a Human Rights volunteer watch and see for YOURSELVES how the IDF really operates, how the Palestinians have to live.

All this celebrating over stolen land, acting as if it's THEIR RIGHT to have it, is sickening.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

AMBER — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:13:55 GMT

How can the world celebrate theft ?!! Isreal stole the land from the Arabs and pushed them out of their land , homes schools and destroyed dreams and yet Isreal is celebrating , my question to the whole world is WHERE IS PALASTINE ,WHAT HAPPENED TO THE PALASTINIAN? my answer to this is again , Palastine was raped ans broken and the Palastinians are lost in their own land , it is supposed to be the Holly Land , sadly Isreal took the holly out of the land .

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Georgia — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:14:33 GMT

All I can say about this article is that it is a joke. For one thing Israel is surrounded by all these Arab countries and all these Arab countries are saying is that they are afraid of small little Israel. Give me a break. These Arab countries want Israel's land because of it is hatred toward them. These Arab people act like they are a peaceful people and Israel is always out for war. Well if this were true Israel could just go out and conquer all the Arab countries or does no remember when all these Arab countries ganged up on Israel and Israel beat them all in just a few short days. The person who wrote this article is blind to the truth and wrote this article one sidely in favor of the Arabs. Through out history the Jews are the ones that have been picked on. Throughout history it is the Arabs that have conquered and destroyed and now that they can't do it to poor little old Israel they get their panties in a wad. If the Arabs living in Israel cry so much about their problems then why can't they just go to another Arab country.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Joe Anthony — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:14:46 GMT

While the anniversary of the birth of the Israel represents the fulfillment of a dream for Jewish people, for many Arabs it is a day of remembrance for the estimated 700,000 Palestinians who were forced to flee their homeland as a result of the Arab loss.

The Palestineans left freely. They were told to leave so that the Jews could be exterminated and the new country of Israel destroyed. But the Israeli's won and didn't allow the Palestineans to return. So what.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Mike O'Malley, Elgin, IL — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:15:24 GMT

Let’s see…The original 13 colonies were requisitioned from the Native Americans living there. We relocated them west of the Allegany’s. We kicked the Spanish out of Florida. We kicked the French out of Illinois and Indiana. We kicked the Mexicans out of Texas. We maintain our own West Bank settlements in the South Dakota and Southwest reservations where we store the Indians. We even kicked the Canadians out of Oregon in 1818. Exactly which states should we return to justify our existence? Here’s an idea…let the Palestinians build casinos on land that they used to own. It worked for our Indians!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Any non-Arab or Jew — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:17:47 GMT

How long must the world be held hostage, i.e. chronic instability & terrorism, to the mutual hatred of the Israelis and Arabs?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Armonde, toronto — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:17:50 GMT

Hey guys!!! Why arem't the Israelis resorting to suicide bonbings and extremism or terrorism??? why have they contributed to so many fields of science?? The only fact the everyone overlooks is the fact that since israel's conception america had given it a total of 1.3 Trillion dollars in aid. thats trillion with a T. Israel might as well be an oil producing nation, just to put that inperspective, the marshall plan thatr ebuild europe (hundreds of millions of people by the way)was, inflation adjusted, over 100 billion. so pouring 1.3 trillion dollars to less than 6 million people and you should expect much more than what israel is now. these zionists claimin to have made all these contribution reinforces the fact of what they really are. facsists who think they are superior. israel is a failed state that will become an underdeveloped country by mid-century and is still not economically independent without US aid. i just hope iran gets the Bomb and take care of these Lying pigs. happy anniversary

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

John St. Paul, Augustus, Wisconsin — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:20:06 GMT

Israel is not perfect. No country is. Let me ask you, would you rather be a Palestinean living under Israeli rule or a Jew living under Arab control? Ah yes, someone will say, Jews flourished under Arab control. True, to an extent. But they also didn't conduct regular terror raids against the Arabs they lived amongst. Find me another country that would be at war with som many people and not treat them as an enemy within. Find me another country that would treat an internal threat even half as well as Israel treats its own Arabs, and the Palestinians. And find me Israeli Arabs who, in true honesty and total confidence, really want to live under a Palestinian government...

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Robert Treat Paine, Boston, MA — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:21:58 GMT

Jim in Denver,
There is little wonder why Denver, Co. is getting what it deserves in August: The DNC. Pass the kool-aid.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

rachterry, Los Angeles — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:22:01 GMT

This article is biased, and does not reflect the fact about the Jews, who lived in the newly formed Arab Countries for centuries were chased away, expelled, slaughtered, their properties confiscated etc. by the Arabs leadership in 1948. In fact, Jewish refugees from Arab countries outweigh the losses (in 1948) of Arab (“Palestinian”) refugees. Please, read this:
http://www.libertypost.org/cgi-bin/readart.cgi?ArtNum=222048

But the Jews did not wallow in the horror they suffered as a result of the hatred emanating from the Arab/Muslim world but moved on and made a life for themselves. There were 100,000,000 refugees after WWII, all moved on and made a life but the Arab 'refugees' are still there. Why? Because it is more important for them to keep this statues of ‘refugee’ and blame Israel and everyone else for the misery (Naqba, Nakba) brought upon them by their own action in spite of billions of dollars given to them to rehabilitate their life; they used this billions of dollars to build an infrastructure of terrorist and that is with the help of UNRWA. Please read this: http://www.gloriacenter.org/index.asp?pname=submenus/articles/2008/rubin/5_8.asp

It is time the Arab World takes responsibility for their own 'refugee' and for the Jews who lived in Arab countries and became refugees after the Arab world instigated the war against the newly born Israel.

Palestine was never a sovereign power nor that there were or are a distinct people called Palestinian with any specific culture other than suicide bomber, terrorist organizations etc. The 'Palestinian' entity was and is a political movement with one goal in mind to destroy Israel as the Jewish Home land.

Israel has excelled in spite of the horror and terror she has endured by the Arab world. But what the 21 Arabs states who were also newly created by the same mandate after the fall of the Ottoman Empire has achieved? Not much, just more terror, hatred and backwardness of their own society, and that is despite their vast land and resources. Shame on the Arab World!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Khalid — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:22:25 GMT

The Arab world sees it in a slightly different way. We, as Saudis, think Israel has no right to occuby a country that they don't own. Israel has been terrorizing the region for decades and using excessive power to kill whoever gets in their way, whether it was a soldier or just kid with a stone in his hand.
We all know that Israel is committing criminal acts against Palstinians and the rest of world can't say a word because they fear the US reaction nothing more.

Bottom line: There is nothing called peace between Arabs and Israel. The Israelis NEVER respected an agreement. Israel can't exist forever in this extremely dangerous region surrounded by these enemies. Whenever the US says hands off, and someday it will, Israel will be a piece history, and fortunately they realize this fact.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Bo Banks, Maui, HI — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:22:27 GMT

I'm still interested and surprised with the comment above by Muhammed Abdullah, Dearborn, Michigan. Very impressive.....

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Sarah — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:22:48 GMT

I just wish people would stop associating the acts of Hezbollah with those of Lebanese people. Not all Lebanese people are Terrorists or are in the group Hezbollah. They are a small group that seems to want to run everything and the mindset of the true Lebanese people in Lebanon are nothing like those of Hezbollah. Lebanese people just get caught in the middle.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

rachterry, Los Angeles — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:26:39 GMT

This article is biased, and does not reflect the fact about the Jews, who lived in the newly formed Arab Countries for centuries who were chased away, expelled, slaughtered, their properties confiscated etc. by the Arabs leadership in 1948. In fact, Jewish refugees from Arab countries outweigh the losses (in 1948) of Arab (“Palestinian”) refugees. Please, read this:
http://www.libertypost.org/cgi-bin/readart.cgi?ArtNum=222048

But the Jews did not wallow in the horror they suffered as a result of the hatred emanating from the Arab/Muslim world but moved on and made a life for themselves. There were 100,000,000 refugees after WWII, all moved on and made a life but the Arab 'refugees' are still there. Why? Because it is more important for them to keep this statues of ‘refugee’ and blame Israel and everyone else for the misery (Naqba, Nakba) brought upon them by their own action in spite of billions of dollars given to them to rehabilitate their life; they used this billions of dollars to build an infrastructure of terrorist and that is with the help of UNRWA. Please read this: http://www.gloriacenter.org/index.asp?pname=submenus/articles/2008/rubin/5_8.asp

It is time the Arab World takes responsibility for their own 'refugee' and for the Jews who lived in Arab countries and became refugees after the Arab world instigated the war against the newly born Israel.

Palestine was never a sovereign power nor that there were or are a distinct people called Palestinian with any specific culture other than suicide bomber, terrorist organizations etc. The 'Palestinian' entity was and is a political movement with one goal in mind to destroy Israel as the Jewish Home land.

Israel has excelled in spite of the horror and terror she has endured by the Arab world. But what the 21 Arabs states who were also newly created by the same mandate after the fall of the Ottoman Empire has achieved? Not much, just more terror, hatred and backwardness of their own society, and that is despite their vast land and resources. Shame on the Arab World!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Ernest Copley, Cumberland, Maine — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:27:07 GMT

NBC News Producer Ms. Gubash quotes a Syrian source who indicated how offended Syrians are about Israel's 60th birthday. But she neglected to mention that the Syrian media is state-controlled by a murderous dictatorship that feels entitled to assassinate political leaders in neighboring Lebanon at will. Syrian journalists do not speak for "Syrians". They speak only for the Assad dictatorship. And that dictatorship has no right to cast stones at anyone, least of all a democracy like Israel.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

New York — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:27:17 GMT

It is already known that the bible is a plagerised anthology of previous religious tales, philosophy and is not about theology but rather morality. We also know that it is an account of the Israeli peoples history. I find it extremely frustrating the fact that Americans have to pay the bulk of Jewish taxes to support their genocide on Palestine even though I'm not even Jewish. They speak about the Holocaust as if it gives them the right to do exactly the same thing to others. Shame on them for using God to pursue their agenda of hate and degredation. They control American politicians and it's sad that America has been hijack by these crazy loonies. The Abrahmaic religions have been responsible for the demise of this world and an end should be put to them all. Why should I have to buy into this rubbish as fact when all the evidence regarding these books points to exactly the opposite. I can't wait for 2012!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

ray,NY — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:27:18 GMT

people stop complaining about ""china's worst human rights record".isreal can top them all in that regard.genocide,rape, torture,throwing people in jails for the rest of their lives and the list goes on for "the most wonderfull & only democracy of the middleast".way to go bush, blair and isreal.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Joseph Brownsville, texas — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:29:58 GMT

i think we should all pray for peace instead of argue. we all know when politics are involved it is the minds of men. I am happy that Israel has made it to 60 and i think they will make it to the end of time. They will allways have problems with the rest of the world because that is what we were chosen for. No matter who gets involved or what bombs are used ,we will always exist. G-d said he would choose Israel for himself and he never did mention every detail except that we would be chosen. The only one that can end all these problems is G-d himself. We should just be contious that people suffer on both sides because no matter what , there is bad people in the Israel govt just like there is in any govt. WE should just pray fot the safety of the innocent people. And i mean everyone not just the jews or the arabs. That is what the messiah would want.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

TE Northampton, MA — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:30:34 GMT

You "religious" types who keep saying that "God meant the land for the Jewish people" have to understand that you are making a choice to believe that. It's a choice to believe this and that is all it is. There is no concrete proof of this whatsoever and not everyone chooses to believe that self serving ideology. Last I knew, the Bible was written by mere mortal men who had their own views of things. It is also a choice, with no proof whatsoever, to believe that these men had some kind of direct communication with "God".

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

justthinking ... — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:31:42 GMT

How interesting that the writer says that "Arabs want peace", but then later quotes them saying that they don't recognize Israel's right to exist. Question, which is true? I live in Israel, and we are daily being on the receiving end of rockets that are launched without regard into civilian areas. To try to stop these, Israel targets only the militants that launch them. Of course, there are sometimes civilian casualties as Islamic militants routinely hide among their own civilians to draw fire in hopes that their own people will be killed to further their PR campaign. Let's see now ... Israel only responds when attacked (all the wars since 1948 ... check your history to confirm it), and the Islamics launch daily attacks and deny the Holocaust and refuse to acknowledge that Israel has a right to exist. Now ... who wants peace? Hopefully someone can answer this without resorting to childish name calling, etc. Oh, and please remember to stay on subject. :)

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

david,baltimore — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:32:00 GMT

All of the balthering,posturing in the world is not going to change a simple fact....the people of Israel will sacrifice their lives to defend their homeland.As long as that remains the case,the anti-semitic fulminations of the rest of the world only serve to reinforce what every Israeli knows to be the case....trust only in yourself to insure your continued existence and survival.Those who criticize ISRAEL are the same ones who had no "idea" that Hitler was exterminating the Jewish people right under their noses without a peep of criticism or complaint.their silence then cost them any right to have any affect on the actions of th egovernment of ISRAEL.Pwerhaps they should rely on the assurances of th eFRENCH GOVERNMENT that they will gaurantee Isarel's safety if only they retreat to th epre-67 borders.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Al, Canada — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:32:35 GMT

Most people on this comment page are spewing racist, orientalist zealotism. Granted the Middle East's problems are far greater than simply Israel, but if you deny that Israel oppresses Palestinians you are just plain ignorant. In response to Paul from Ohio, let me say that your comment about Arabs contributing something productive to this world other than 'militancy' is incredibly racist and stupid. Lets see, what have Arabs contributed to the world other than militancy? Our numbers are derived from Arabic(1,2,3,4), literature, architecture, science, the quantative of zero, math, astronomy, just to name a few. Its funny how it only takes a few othered individuals to suddenly speak for their entire population to you people; does Timothy McVeighs actions speak for all white people? No thats preposterous, you are saying to yourself. Similarly terrorist cells and militants do not speak for all Arabs; thats called the myth of collective mentality.
But of coarse, America is infaliable; they are the moral author and police of the world, and thus its their duty to correct and punish any peoples they see as 'militant' or 'threatening.' Too bad those people they punish don't include Saudi Arabia who beheads people in public, China who has a long list of abuses, or the various Latin American regimes they propped up in the 70's who murdered everyone in a fit of hysterical paranoia.
Hypocrits.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

dontevenask,pa — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:32:37 GMT

america stop pouring dollars on Isreal,soon they will show you thier true colors.

isreal a modren terrorist state who has no regards for humanity.no wonder this is the most hated state in the whole world.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Ralph Umana, Seguin, Texas — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:34:37 GMT

It is unfortunate that there are so many Bible illiterates in this country that God has blessed so bountifully. Look around. We have freedom, food, clothes, anything we want. You know why? Because we have supported Israel.
God promised all, I repeat, ALL that land to Abraham, then to Isaac, then to Jacob (Israel). It was then Moses' job to get the people there. God told the Jewish leaders He would bless them and give them every peace of land their foot trod upon! God also said, "I will bless them that bless you (Israel)and curse them that curse you." Every nation that hates Israel is nothing but a dust mound. They have NOTHING! The U.S. is a very young country. God has blessed us both materially and militarily to fight with and for Israel. If we EVER turn our backs on Israel, we will become like the rest of those who fight against Israel. Ethopia was once an enemy of Israel. Look at that place... The Arab lands, all rich, live in a giant sandbox! God's word is true and Israel will continue to stand-with or without our help! But for us, it will be much better if we stand with our ONLY TRUE allies in that region. Otherwise, break out the little pails and shovels!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Christian, Nativeland — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:35:06 GMT

China, Russia, and India were able to pass a UN Security Council resolution that declares the US State of Oregon shall be set aside as a homeland for all "Native Peoples" of the Western Hemisphere and such homeland shall become the new nation of Nativeland. This action compensates the Natives for the vast injustice caused to them over centuries. It also validates the fact that God originally placed them in this land.

As a million "native Americans" arrived in Oregon from Canada, the US, and Mexico, combat broke out between the new arrivals and the Oregonians who had lived there for generations and thought they owned the land and wanted to preserve their culture.

Russia, China, and India poured arms and other aid into Nativeland to support the new arrivals against the terrorism caused by the Oregonians and aid they received from other US States. The new Natives established a government and was quickly recognized by the UN, with the support of Russia, China, and India.

The Oregonians refused to give up claim to what was taken from them, and to this day, will not settle for the barren section of eastern Oregon they were left with and which is occupied and controlled by the powerful Native army.

Some have remarked that the creation of Nativeland bears some resemblance to the creation of Israel by England, France, and the USA. So what? That's what world powers can do. The victims should get over it.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Carmelo, Brooklyn NY — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:38:13 GMT

To those espouse the Jewish myth that Palestinians were not forced to leave their villages or cities here are some facts:

In 1922 Palestine population was made up of 78% Muslims, 11% Jews and 9.6% Christians;
Subsequently Zionist Jews immigrated to Palestine tfor the purpose of creating the state of Israel un be known to the Arabs thus by 1945 Jews made up 31%

Jews in Palestine destroyed villages in 14 Palestinian Districts, including Gaza, Jerusalem, Haifa, Jaffa, Nazareth and Hebron. One was Deir Yassin in the Jerusalem District. On April 9, 1948, it was the site of an infamous Nakba massacre. Israeli soldiers entered the village, machine-gunned houses randomly and killed many inside them. The remaining villagers were assembled and murdered in cold blood. Included were children, infants, the elderly and women who were first raped. The total number killed is uncertain but best estimates place it between 93 and 120. In addition, dozens more were killed in the fighting that ensued, and many other villages met the same fate in the systematic cleansing plan - to seize as much Palestinian land as possible leaving the fewest number of Arabs on it.

In December 1947, Jews in Palestine numbered 600,000 compared to 1.3 million Palestinians. Ben-Gurion ordered them removed with commands like: "Every attack has to end with occupation, destruction and expulsion." He meant depopulation; obliteration; homes blown up, burned or bulldozed; their inhabitants inside killed; shooting anything that moved, especially fighting-age men and boys who might pose a combat or resistance threat; and leaving behind rubble, a forgotten landscape and a proud history erased.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

TC — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:45:28 GMT

1967 Israel let the Arabs retain control of the most sacred of places. The dome of the rock. When it might have been better to destroy it. Prior to this Jordan did not give Jews access to the Western Wall. On top of all this, any prosperity brought to the region has been because of Israel, even in Gaza and the West Bank. Palestinians only want the land now because it's worth something.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

M.Powell — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:46:27 GMT

The bottom line is this,if the arabs did not try to kill the people of Israel the people of Israel would be a great,peaceful friend to all around them.They are the way they are because of constant attack and threat of attack.This silly argument that the poor arabs are a mess due to the Jewish state is their own downfall.They hate and that is evil,and sooner or later the whole world will see this for themselfs.We in the U.S. have seen it first hand on 9-11 and Israel has seen it daily for 60 years.God bless Israel and I pray she stays strong and defends herself to the utmost.Israel knows they have a stronger power on their side then the enemy and they will not falter.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Sidney, Austin, TX — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:47:08 GMT

I have a question: If Israel has one of the strongest economies and currencies in the world than why are my American tax dollars going to them each year to the tune of $5 BILLION dollars???

Answer: AIPAC and the fact that a Jew anywhere in the world is an Israeli first than a citizen of his/her country therefore that is why American Jews push Congressional leaders to make sure that this money gravy train does not stop. Hence, this also leads to the fact that the greatest spies against America have been Jews spying for Israel & also that Israel was the only nation in modern history to attack an American warship (with no reason) and kill American soldiers and never have had to pay for it in any manner, monetary or otherwise (USS Liberty).

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Delmar Fairchild, Barron, WI — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:53:29 GMT

Most of the Radical Arab states want to "wipe Isreal off the face of the Earth". Some are attempting to gain nuclear weapons to do so. I think that it would be foolish to use a nuclear weapon on Isreal when the fallout and blast could destroy Isreal's neighboring countries. For the Arabs thinking of it, it would be tantamount to cutting off your nose to spite your face.
Isreal will be there for a long time so their neighbors should be putting a lot of pressure on Syria and Iran to back off and let everyone in the Middle East live in peace.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Robert Treat Paine, Boston, MA — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:54:38 GMT

To Levi in NYC:
1) If you have the deep seeded need to be loved, talk to your wife or mother. You need suckling, then weaning. Grow up.

2) As to why we need Israel:
As of Jan of 2006, Cisco and Microsoft had their only outside the U.S. research facilities. Why? Because Israel has one of the highest ratios of world class colleges and engineering labs per capita.

Israelis working in Motorola’s largest research and development center came up with the basic elements of the modern cell phone.

Israel has the highest concentration of hi-tech companies in the world.

Israel developed the HUD (Heads Up Display) used in the U.S. Military.

Israel turned a desert into a forest. What have their neighbors done?

To quote an article by Dershowitz: Israel has created a legal system that is the envy of the world, with a Supreme Court that is open to all with few, if any, restrictions on its jurisdiction. As America's most liberal Supreme Court Justice William Brennan observed when he visited Israel in 1988:

Last year, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) contracted with an Israeli company, Solel, to build in California’s Mojave Desert the world’s largest solar energy park. The total output of the above facilities equals that of a coal-fired power plant burning around three million tons of coal annually, or an oil-fired plant burning over ten million barrels of oil annually.

There is plenty more. Now aside from pulling oil out of the ground and sending money to the Wahabe nation with technology we gave them and money we gave them... Please tell me what the hell they've done. Oh, yeah, the "0" doesn't count because the Greeks and Romans used it first, along with several other peoples.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Frank Howell, NJ — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:55:48 GMT

Israel has been an albatross on the American people and treasury. Emough of giving billions of our tax money to terrorist state of Israel so that they can continue the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians from their land.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

AA, KL, Malaysia — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:56:57 GMT

Concept of Holy Land and to whom God has given is misunderstood by the current Zionist administration of Israel. God has promised the Holy Land to the righteous (i.e people who believe in True God, Jewish people since they rejected prophet Jesus, they are automatically considered as the deviants. And since Christians took up Jesus as the Son of God, they too became deviants. So the true owners of the Holy Land are the Muslims!)

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

K., Pasco, Wa. — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:01:17 GMT

It is incredible how so much of the world has bought into the arab bald faced lying. Russia, China, and other communist states have right from the beinning resorted to outright lies for so many years that it became fashionable to start buying into their senseless crap.
Now the arab world is doing it. But, you know, it's all the latest rage to support the Muslim terrorists.
European fashion is now pushing terrorist fashions. It's an absolutely lunatic world and I'm afraid there are so few anymore who know or even care to know the truth. The media has just absolutely flipped and prints anything that sells papers to the liberal population.
I don't think Israel has any chance from a secular viewpoint. Unless you know the eventual outcome which God himself will bring about, there is no hope.
The world is into "fashion" and whatever is the current rage. It will pay an enormous price eventually, as will all who support radical Islam and liberalism. There fashionable support is going to turn around and bite itself in the butt once Islam has the power that is being handed to them on a silver platter.
It is mind boggling what the general population is buying into and how uninformed it is to reality.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Randy, Hartford CT — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:06:00 GMT

Hey Jim in Denver!

I think your comment ommits how the democratically elected Palestinian gov., namely Hamas has repeatedly stated since taking power that there can be no peace until Israel is destroyed. Wake up Buddy, your suggestions would only bring more genocide.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Truth — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:09:44 GMT

Israel will bring on the end of the world.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

David, Mobile,Al — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:11:21 GMT

God Bless The Jews and Israel!!!!!!!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

geoff reid ottawa canada — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:12:04 GMT

good going you pro jewish yanks - when gas hits 200+ per barrel dont cry - just get your oil from israel-no luck they wont help - then suffer because this is what your pro israeli policies has created -I hope you all go bust.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Ariel, New Hyde Park, NY — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:12:22 GMT

Happy 60th birthday Israel! 60 years and still going strong! Do I feel pity for this supposed "Nakba"? Hell no! The more they rally together to end the supposed "occupation" (I wish people would stop referring to the creation of Israel, a jewish state, as an occupation already), the stronger Israel becomes. When will the people of the world realize that Israel is here to stay? Never I suppose, considering that most of the people on this planet, and like 99.9% of Arabs, are so stupid and crazy, and are unable to see the world and humanity as it truely is. I feel sorry for all people like this, especially there children. Wake up people, it's 2008! Stop whining already! Oh, poor me, if it wasn't for the jews, if it wasn't for Israel, everything would be fine. I guess it's up to Israel and the jews to teach you a lesson!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Rob Los angeles ca. — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:14:16 GMT

without the support of the u.s. they would be destroyed in matter of days. our politicians like jewish money.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Maria,San Francisco,Ca — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:15:27 GMT

I cannot be more prouder for the State of Israel.Happy 60th Anniversary.
Jewish people suffer long enough through the Centuries
of killings,prosecutions,burnings and plane hate of Jews for not particular reason other then they are Jews.If you are religious and read your Bible even in New Testament it said that G-d give Israel this land ,and it was land of Israel even before arabs called themselves arabs.Why don't these Countries who scream for Israel to give up land and so worry for their arab brothers stop expelling them from their Countries and embrace them and give them part of their land and treat them humanly.They have a lot of land,unlike small State of Israel.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

susie, south bend, indiana — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:15:56 GMT

Even IF Israel has a religious legitamate claim over the land ( which it doesn't), I have never heard of a religion that advocates murder. They claim that they want peace, but peace to them apparently means genocide- because that is exactly what they are doing, killing off an entire race of people- and what's worse, they're getting away with it.

Furtermore alot of jews nowadays are against Zionism and against the state of Israel because they believe that there should not be a Jewish state until their Messiah comes- which he hasn't yet according to them.
So this makes their religious claims for the land invalid, and it is more transparent to see what is going on - the Israelis are not a religious people, the Israeli jews ( notice the difference here, the ISRAELI jews and not all jews) have been inflicted with suffering and have been prosecuted all their lives ( Holocaust), yet they themselves are doing the exact same thing if not worse to the Palestinians- but who cares about those worthless arab lives right? they're all terrorists right? WRONG, there are mothers and children and brothers and sisters and fathers who are all dying at the hand of the Israelis, and the most tragic thing about all of this, is that nothing is being done to stop them, quite the opposite in fact, this genocide is being supported from all angles.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dana Lee SanDiego CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:17:46 GMT

What Israel has done and still does to the Palstinians is criminal, the US suppport is criminal.
It seems to be the abused turned into the abuser. People need to demand a compassionate solution from the US and Israel. It is important for Americans to think clearly about what they are supporting, we are ignorant to many of the facts.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Sanity — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:17:54 GMT

Lord, no wonder that entire region is a nightmare zone. First we have the too pro-Arab article. And then (predictably) we have the Zionists coming out in full force. Pave the entire area over and make a parking lot out of it man. Both the Arabs and Israel. Because you guys can't play along nice the rest of the world gets screwed.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dan'l - Encinitas, Ca — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:21:50 GMT

I agree with the statements that the Arabs need to have Israel in their crosshairs, just like they have us. The palestineans are pawns in all this and are kept "down" under the thumb of Hezbollah to keep them there. Israel will be faced with severe democratic issues based on population numbers as the non-Jewish populations become the majority as is the United States with the latest round of immigrants and non-Christians. In both situations the controlling political powers today are playing Russian roulette by keeping these exploding populations down, because as they do eclipse their numbers their mentality will be much more aggressive. A perfect example is what's happening in Lebanon and Central and South America. It;s scary but a reality.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

mitch, suwanee, georgia — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:27:45 GMT

What should happen is, the arabs should empower the american Indians with education and arm them and let them take back lands with in the USA and see how people in those areas feel. I want to see how people would react to that. Of course many other countries should be involved. Annd then, when the people of the USA retaliate, the American Indians should simply say that we are being picked on, obviously we need a state of our own. Sounds ridiculous doesn't it!!!!!!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

chris, ks — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:31:32 GMT

wow all this negativity toward isreal...but guess what, the land BELONGS to isreal not the arabs, never has never will. so the best thing the arabs can do is suck it up and face the facts the land of isreal was given to the jews and that they will never ever ever..let me say it again NEVEREVER own that land if this hurts anyones feeling..well the truth can hurt. but just so the arabs remember the score with the 3 wars fought is Isreal W/L 3-0 arabs 0-3.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

ejaz, louisiana — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:35:51 GMT

I wish our government would stop sending billions in foreign aid to both Isreal and Egypt, there are better uses for that money stateside.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Allen Drescher, Ashland, Oregon — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:39:26 GMT

If the Arab nations surrounding Israel had accepted the UN partition of the British Mandate in 1947, the Palestinians would also be celebrating their 60th anniversary. Instead, they repeatedly attacked Israel unsuccessfully, refused to help the Palestinians, supported terrorism and taught hate and martyrdom and jihad to prevent the Palestinians from making peace with Israel and having a state of their own.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

celebrating what??? — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:46:19 GMT

isreal,SHAME ON YOU FOR WHAT YOU ARE AND CELEBRATING ON OTHER PEOPLE'S MISERIES,"biggest HUMAN RIGHT VOILATOR of the new world".no wonder people want to blow themselves on you after loosing everything they ever had in their lives to you.
peace be with all those who lost their loved ones and lives..

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Irwin, Thousand Oaks, CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:50:35 GMT

So the Arabs should celebrate this wonderful day??? The confiscation and colonization of another country's land - all with the complicity and acquiescence of the West, especially the U.S. It's a shame the EU, UN and Russia won't stand up to the U.S. on this, but won't call Israel what it is - a major violator of international law in colonizing occupied territory.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Judith, New York City — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:52:55 GMT

When will anyone understand that when you remove the name and massive implication that God decreed Israel to the Jews, you will have land. That's right - LAND. Formed just like all other lands on this planet - volcanic eruption and magma. This land was here before countries were formed and the first peoples were nomads and it is here to this day. That being said, EVERYONE (ISRAELIS, PALENTINIANS, ARABS, JEWS, EVERYONE) DROP THE CLINGING TO THE BELIEF OF GOD WHEN DEALING WITH POLITICS AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT REGARDLESS OF WHO YOU THINK BESTOWED THIS LAND TO YOU, THE LAND COULD CARE LESS ABOUT YOU. IT WAS HERE BEFORE MAN WAS HERE AND IT WILL BE HERE AFTER MAN HAS DESTROYED ITSELF DUE TO ARROGANCE AND GREED. Before it was called Israel, Palestine or Judea it was just land. There is no reason to bring God into this!!! He is not the Real Estate agent to end all Real Estate agents. What does the Old Testament say - Catholics, Christians you all know this one, too - "From dust you are, to dust you shall return". None of you probably gave that any thought when you've heard it. Well then, allow me to explain what it means - This life we're living is just a spec in time of who we really are. To waste it on just fighting over something as trivial as this is just stupid. A home is where your heart, family and joy resides. That is all it is. Dammit, you can make a cave your home if you want to. But, to get the help of another country and force a generation of people who had absolutely nothing to do with why you lost your homes years and years ago is such an affront that I would go after you with everything I had as well. To take my home from me, put my children and spouse on the street and have the audacity to tell me that it is the will of God and I just have to except it is to try to make a fool out of me. It's human nature where if a person is humiliated they seek revenge. Chew on that. No one has the right to hide behind their faith as an excuse for doing things that anyone other person who actually uses common sense knows is just dead wrong.

This mess has been going on for centuries with no signs of stopping. Who are the Israelis to say that they are the chosen people and therefore are in the right for doing what they did? If they could have turned back the hands of time and forcibly remove from their homes the actual people who forced them out, then that's another story. Remember Kristallnacht? If those memories were so horrible for those who lived through that and all that followed it, how the hell can the Israeli's impart so much humiliation and suffering on other peoples. You and the Palestinians are all the same. You are flesh and blood, you came to be through sexual intercourse and that's that - leave your religious beliefs behind closed doors in your homes and houses of worship where they belong. Once both sides learn to do that, it will be the day when Israelis and Palestinians can actually earn the praise when they call themselves "good people".

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

the truth — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:57:22 GMT

lets stop talking and comparing jews/muslims and isrealis and arabs. we are all human beings
yes the holocaust was horrid, but doing the same to other humans is just as wrong.

no one here can deny that the "holy land" was stolen from the people who lived their prior to the holocaust.
how can anyone justify stealing land from someone else?

what if the american indians tried to take back parts of the US because it is their "God given right" to have their land back. would the UN or the USA willingly give back their land? heck i would be pissed off if someone took my land that my family owned for centuries. wouldnt you be mad? wouldnt you get up and fight back?

of course the arabs will fight back to regain the land, it was THEIRS to begin with. what is so hard to understand?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Mike, USA — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:59:01 GMT

Who cares either way

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

GRUNT — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:59:27 GMT

Mohammed, from Michigan........................
"WELL SAID SIR" !!!!!!! GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ISRAEL!!!!
SEMPER FI
ONE HARD CHARGIN MARINE
OOH-RAH

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Alicia, Norfolk Virginia — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:01:12 GMT

jews are one of the oldest races and have been persecuted since the time of the ancient egyptians. i say congrats to isreal and may it celebrate another 60 years. to the haters: get over it! stop trying to hold the jewish people down with nazi-like fears that they might have nuclear weapons. wha wha about SOME palestinens being kicked out. palestine still exists? were were all the jews that were displaced because of worldwar 2 supposed to go? send them back? or are you really saying that you would just prefer the jews not to exist at all. if you didnt have them as a whipping post, who knows it could be your people, baptists, protistants, catholics etc. that are being harrased by people who think they know everything!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

morris schwartz brooklyn, new york — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:02:01 GMT

There has been a continuous jewish presence in Israel for over 3,000 years. Jews don't need arab permission to live there. Most of the land was arid, dusty waste until the jewish settlers decided to change things. When the arabs saw the landscape turning lush productive and green, they decided to try and claim it (even though most of it was owned by absentee landlords living in Turkey and Lebanon). It's at this point that arabs (later claiming to be the non-existant palestinians), decided to reap the fruits of jewish sweat and toil.
Realistically, I doubt very highly if there ever will be peace in the region. You (the arab governments) can't claim you want peace on one hand and instigate your people against your supposed future peace partner on the other. Pick up a newspaper in any arab city and the vitriol directed against Israel is hair raising. Childrens tv shows ingrain their viewers with hate towards jews and Israel (and usually America too). Major newspapers blame Israel for their country's ills whether its poverty, crime, AIDS, or a hangnail. Arab governments use Israel as a distraction from their intenal headaches and the masses fall for it every time because it so easy. If I was arab, I might also be jealous of what Israel has accomplished in it's short life. Scientific, medical, miltary, educational and business advances are flowing from this little land that has, despite its troubles, continue to take care of it's people and absorb hundreds of thousands of others (who, by the way were expelled from arab lands where they had lived for thousands of years).
Its time for arabs to suck it up and face reality. Your problems are your own of your own doing. Give your people a better life and forget about Israel and the region might...just might have a chance.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Judith, New York City — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:04:58 GMT

To all those who say to pray for peace - in the words of legendary icon of free speech Bill Maher, "Prayer is almost as good as hoping it were so". Yes, by all means pray. I am a former Roman Catholic who has embraced the practices of the Lotus Sutra. What I love about it is that we know from the get-go that chanting "Namyo Ho Renge Kyo" and doing our liturgy daily is to reinforce strength, courage and common sense in ourselves to go out and do our best every day to be good people. That actually means to get out there and DO SOMETHING. Why on earth would you leave something as fragile and of urgent necessity in the hands of God?! He's got over 300 million other things to handle on a daily basis! He does not have time for this. God is not the 365 Day per year, 24/7 Santa Claus for the world. He created us with free will and freedom of choice - USE IT! Prayer is to reinforce and strengthen and that's it. Life is a gift. Start treating it as such for every day that you are here and then progress for world peace will happen. That way it won't be the same dumb answer given at beauty pagents.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Joe , Killeen TX — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:08:23 GMT

Happy Birthday Israel:I recently visited Israel and as a miltary person love the fact that this tiny nation who wants peace will not surrender land to thugs that are bent on their destruction.While Iwas there in February and March Hamas shot missiles into southern Israel Killing innocent civilians.2 days after visiting Jerusalem a Palestinian walked into a Jewish seminary and shot and killed 8 seminary students.Lets not paint the palestinians as victims.Some Palestinians are true terrorists and get great joy in killing Israelis.The Israelis have every right to defend themselves.God Bless Israel

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Me, USA — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:10:57 GMT

Hey Khalid. Just remember who props up your country. Yes, the USA punk. We invaded the wrong country. We should have invaded Saudi Arabia. They support wiping out a whole group of people. Remember what happened to those countries that tried to do that before. They were destroyed. Those that go after the Jews will be destroyed. Read your history, if they do that in Saudi Arabia. I have my doubts. They are there. Deal with it. Come to peace terms and the fighting will stop. Muslims have been a pain in the patoot for almost half a centry now. The reason why the USA protect Israel is because of the history of what countries that tried to kill them all. Like I said.Rome tried to kill them off. Spain tried to kill them off. Hitler and his nutcase cronies tried to and now the Arabs/ muslims are trying to. I'm not Jewish. But heck, I wouldn't want to mess with their history. If the Arabs in that part of the world really wanted peace they would be willing to sit down and figure something out. Time for the Arab/ Muslims to come out of the 7th Century. They really are behind the times. I'm tired of my money going to defend Israel and would rather it go to helping out here at home. I would even send money to Palestine but why? They will just use it to build bombs over school, homes, getting food and starting their economy. Wake up fool. Your religion is not working very well. They are teaching you to hate without reason.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Joe Gelman — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:10:58 GMT

I Congratulate the State of Israel on its sixtieth anniversary. Against impossible odds, through incredible trials and tribulations, Israel lives, while those who oppose her increasingly find themselves lurking in the darkest corners of the human mind. While Israel represents progress, hope, light, freedom and life itself... her enemies increasingly represent hate, resentment, slander, jealousy...and a culture of death. And so, while the haters of Israel wallow in dark corners, contributing nothing to humanity, other than "innovations" like the suicide bomber and the IED... Israel continues to build, thrive and contribute to the rest of humanity through science, technology and culture....

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Joel, Sarasota, Florida — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:12:17 GMT

I have seen it written in this and other reports, as it has been so many times in the past, that the Arabs were forced from their homes and lands when Israel declared itself in 1948. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Israelis practically begged their neighbors to stay and live side by side, just as they had always done. It was the Arabs own leadership who forced them to flee into exile, threatening them with harm if they elected to remain on friendly terms with their neighbors. The existence in Israel today of a substantial Arab minority population, who enjoy all of the same freedoms and rights as Jewish citizens, and who even have elected representatives in the Knesset is living testimony to the great lie that continues to be circulated about the origins of the Palestinian's plight.
And why isn't it asked more openly and frequently how it came to pass that these people were left to suffer in poverty and squalor by their own Arab Brethren? When Israel came into existence it was a poor land, absorbing an immigrant population that was almost entirely destitute. But Jews from all over the world rallied and supported their people and helped to build the foundations of the modern country that now exists. Where was the support from the surrounding Arab countries for their own people? Why didn't they build the infrastructure to feed, house, clothe and educate their own people, and lift them up from their misery? The Palestinian people certainly are victims, but more so of their own brethren than of Israel.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

David, Tyre, Lebanon — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:17:00 GMT

Well, as an American who has worked in Israel, Jordan, the West Bank, Gaza and now southern Lebanon, all I can say is there is quite a bit of ignorant dogma among many of the comments here. The NBC journalist, Charlene Gubash, has done a fair job of capturing the thoughts of people in the region.

I've been to Auschwitz before, and I've experienced racism in Central Europe firsthand, so I understand the reasons for the existence of Israel. That said, there's no denying that the establishment of a country with only one religion, in what is historically a multi-religious land (Christian, Muslim, Druze, Jewish), is completely artificial and unsustainable in the long run. The resentments caused by the displacement of the people who used to live there (there are 500,000 Palestinians in Lebanon alone) will continue to resonate. All the strength in the world cannot change this.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Wes Durham, N.C. — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:17:21 GMT

Israel has a right to exist just as Palestine does. Arab states use Israel to deny their own people any form of democracy. Neither side is blameless. Israel has given back land captured from Egypt and Jordan; for peace. The Palestinians can not defeat Israel militarily. The terrorist rockets aimed at civilians in Israel will not give them a country. I am surprised the fuel, electricity and water continue into Gaza. Israel has left Gaza; why won't the Gazans leave Israel alone?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Dena — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:22:03 GMT

Isn't it possible for you people to understand that ISRAEL exists for over 5000 years?

THAT in all their long history they have been expelled from their HOMELAND by many different powers...forcing Jews into exile spreaded all over the middle east and the rest of the world...

BUT, which in fact many Jews never leaft their HOME LAND...this story of 1948...was simply: JEWS taking back that what was, is and forever will be RIGHTFULLY THEIRS: ISRAEL. Their true homeland.

Not Palestine homeland. Palestine never existed.

Palestine was and is an Arab invention to create political chaos in the world to cover-up for their inabilities, weaknessess and so on.

YES, there was there then once upon a time a TRIBE of people in SAMARIA, JUDEA regiao called Philistines.

There still could be some of their DNA around, why not? very possible...very probable, but as a Nation, as a Country Palestine never existed.

So, I dont undertand why you people talk talk talk so much about this so called Palestine Country! it never existed. How can something be stolen if it never existed?

I think it will be very kind of the Israelis if they indeed let a Palestine State be formed,created on their door-steps.

We shall see.

If these so-called arab-palestines, not the Philistines! behave they may have a State in their future. If they dont behave, stop with their terrorism i doubt Israel will ever agree to have such a horrible neighbour.

Who wants that ? Who?

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Mike M — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:28:10 GMT

Let's get this straight. Israel's existence is directly due to U.S. aid in the billions of dollars each year. Per capita, the average Israeli receives more US taxpayer money than the average U.S. citizen. Then, Israel is the only "US ally" I know of that spies on the US (Pollard and the guy a couple weeks ago, the name escapes me. Go ahead and tell me every country does that, just give me names and examples. And no, China is not an ally) and shoots at our ship and kills American sailors because they "claim" we were in "their" territorial waters (the Liberty), though the US ship, like every other was flying the American flag. Is that old news? Sorry, so are the Arab invasions.

Speaking of invasions, the US did not keep Japan after WWII, nor Germany, nor did any other "Allied" country. In fact, the "Allied" nations helped rebuild and guide both countries into important, strategic allies that do not spy on us (ok give me the "they all do it" story, just name names please) or try to sink our ships. We did not force millions of people in Japan and Germany to live in camps, control their people's movement around their own country and beyond, shut off their power and water when we felt it appropriate for decades on end. If Israel demonstrated some goodwill rather than contempt for the Palestinians/Arabs they "might" sway public opinion, albeit slowly. Thousands of years of fighting isn't going to end next week.

Lastly, while Israel is armed to the teeth for "self defense" the comments that the "terrorists" should come out and fight like men away from women and children is stupid. Are you proposing to arm the "terrorists" like the US has armed the Israeli army? That would make it a fair fight.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Islam Hoxha, New York — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:42:03 GMT

Israel and jewish people would not be here if it wasnt for the mercy of arabs who have been in power for hundreds of years. Question: Why didnt they eliminate the jews if the jews were their number one enemy as the israelis claim? Because they did not think of jews as nothing more but humans. Now the israeli jews ( not all jews , mind you!) spin the whole story around as if they were there in the holy land forever, and as if they deserve to be there. The truth is they occupied the land by force and deception. They were helped by the super powers of the time and now they use holocaust as an exchange token as if they suffered from germans therefore lets steal from palestinians.
As for those who cite bible , please shut up! You dont know God's plans ; noone knows.
As far as the "attacks" on Israel; how come they dont hit noone , not a victim yet. Meanwhile from January of this year israelis with their regular army ( abiding thus by international laws of conduct) have killed innocent people at a rate of about ten a week, as reported in internet news. Most of palestinian victims were kids, eating breakfast . the latest , aged 18 months to 6 years . I hope you remember that when you give food to your own children.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Andrea, Brooklyn, NY — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:50:59 GMT

"And yet, here we are celebrating how the Jews stole Palelstine. And yes, they stole with it with the help of the United States, Britian, and other world powers. And why?"

Nadia Elmasri, Omaha Nebraska (Sent Thursday, May 08, 2008 11:47 AM)

In 1948 it was illegal for Americans to to buy and send weapons to the Jews in Israel. The US did not help the zionists and in fact the laws prohibited it.

How can you say they stole Palestine? From who, England? Israel WON their independence after fighting 6 Arab (not Palestinian) armies. These armies whose weapons were gotten from England and France whose territories they had been until they won their independence not too long before 1948.These armies didn't care about forming a Palestinian state but wanted to annex the land for themselves.

"King Abdullah I of Jordan was the commander of the Arab Legion, the strongest Arab army involved in the war. The Arab Legion had about 10,000 soldiers which were trained and commanded by British officers.

In 1946-1947, Abdullah said that he had no intention to "resist or impede the partition of Palestine and creation of a Jewish state." It was said that Abdullah supported the partition with the intention that the areas of the British Mandate allocated for Palestine would be annexed to Jordan. It is said that Abdullah had secret meetings with the Jewish Agency (at which the future Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir was among the delegates) that agreed to a partition plan independently of the United Nations, and that the plan had the approval of British authorities.

If their true motives were for a Palestinian state, they would not have rejected numerous offers of land for a Palestinian state. They put their hatred of Israel before the needs of their fellow Arabs.

So don't argue that Israel was stolen from the Arab Palestinians when there were just as many Jews in Palestine---a land governed by England prior to their withdrawal of the region.

The Arab countries who fought the Jews and lost, did not lose any of their land nor did they offer the Palestinians some of their land to make a Palestinian state. So they say they support the formation of a Palestinian state but are not willing to give anything up for it---only the lives of their people. This is true to this day.

Their fight against Israel has nothing to do with Palestine but only their desire for the destruction of Israel.

As for the US protecting Israel etc, Israel does not need the US for that and in fact a lot of the time the US holds Israel back. In fact, if the US did not hold Israel back during the first Gulf War---there might not be an Iraq for us to be at war with now.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Karen Dillard, Canton, Ohio — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:51:09 GMT

God chooses who to give land to? I thought Great Brittain and the US chose to give that land to Israel? Without our help and support, they (Israel)would have lost it again a long time ago. I wonder if they include any appreciation for our efforts in their celebrations? Why hasn't more been done to establish a state for Palestine? They can't even consider maintaining or buying land without the legality of being a state of their own. Why can't we try living in the current century? I find it hard to get on board the kind of disagreements that area has been fighting about over the centuries. It is not our problem to fix.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Rob Los angeles — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:51:36 GMT

the only reason the country exits is because wealthy jews here in the u.s. pay politicians and lobby congress. why doesnt anyone care about giving native american their homeland back. or the Assyrians. because they dont have people in washington. please stop sending our tax dollars to Israel.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Israel, Arlington VA — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:56:37 GMT

I'm amazed at the level of delusion people supporting arabs exhibit on this post. These people should be ashamed of themselves. Israelis don't go yelling through the streets "Allah Akbar" when a Palestinian dies. Israelis have no interest in fighting and would rather pursue life then death. So instead of blaming Israel for the "iron fisted" Arab governments that oppress their people, blame yourselves for falling for the "Israel is the real enemy" trick. Monarchies have used that lame excuse to rile populations for years, but this is the 21st century! Shame on intelligent people who don't live in those countries that buy into that! You want to talk about torture? Israeli soldiers that are kidnapped are never heard from again, while Palestinians are treated well in Israeli prisons for legitimate terrorist activities. If Palestinians wanted peace, all they would have to do is stop attacking Israel. Israelis, unlike Palestinians, don't go shouting hate slogans or feel joy at other peoples deaths. All Israelis want is peace and to live their lives. Unfortunately all the Palestinians and the rest of the Arab world want is the destruction of Israel and their own glorified deaths. There's no glory in death. When Palestinians stop diverting money from the international community that is meant for public infrastructure and stop buying weapons, when Iran stops feeding Hezbollah money to fling rockets across the border, and when they FINALLY decide that peace is the better alternative to war, then things will change. Until then, Israel will keep responding to rocket attacks and protecting its borders like any sovereign nation does.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Chris, Portland OR — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:02:52 GMT

Dana in San Diego,

"What Isreal has done and still does to the Palestinians is criminal" ... Interesting. Being attacked from day one by its Arab neighbors is criminal? Being attacked multiple times, in successive decades is criminal? Defending yourself from foriegn aggression is criminal? People have hated and maltreated the Jewish people for centuries, for several milliniums in fact. Some of the anti-Jewish ranting going on in here is anti-semitism at its worst. It is no wonder the holocaust happend. Reasonable people ask how millions of Jews could have been incinerated by such hateful people. All they need to do is look at their neighbors or people that talk as you do.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Solomon, Toronto, Ontario — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:04:28 GMT

Surely, on May 8 while Europe, Russia and America celebrate VE Day, there must be some resentful Nazis everywhere who call it "the Catastrophe." Too bad: they initiated the hostilities, they murdered mllions but they were eventually vanquished.

If the so-called Palestinians (whose late appearance in the world scene was the creation of the surrounding Arab states) call the establishment of Israel a "catastrophe", they should rather vent their anger to their Arab brethren who did everything in their power to violate the internationally accepted provisions of the Mandate for Palestine in 1922; to indulge in wanton murders of civilians; to start several wars of "total annihilation of the Jews" by the Mufti, Nasser, Arafat, and others; and to perpetuate the tragedy of the "Palestinian refugees."

In their relentless effort to destroy Israel, the Arabs created a multi-faceted monster (PLO, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, etc.) which is now threatening not only Israel but the Arab states as well, as is patently clear today in Lebanon, as it was earlier in Jordan and Kuwait. He who creates a monster should exorcise it.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Israel, Arlington VA — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:10:37 GMT

To the insanely absurd posts. Israel is a terrorist state? Israel is an abuser of human rights? Israeli soldiers rape and pillage? Where do you get your information? From the "Palestinian Post"? First of all Israel goes above and beyond in treating prisoners well for just the very reason there are people out there that come up with these absurd claims. Israel has a justice system which has curtailed the army a number of times. Israel treats women better then Arabs ever will in society. Israel tries its best to take out terrorist without hurting civilians, but everyone knows that Arabs and Palestinians just love the concept of "Human Shields". Only Arabs can come up with this stuff! This is an entire society with no regard to human life, no regard to human dignity or justice, no regard to civilian well being and democracy. The only economy any of them can survive on is oil. Do something productive with your lives, stop blaming Israel for all the ills in your society, and value life more then death. Then we'll talk...

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Ben P Fall River MA — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:26:25 GMT

Well if you look at it strictly in terms of lets say social Darwinism. Currently Isreal does deserve its country. They control it, they defend it succefully and they are fruitfull both population wise and economicly.

The Arabs who had been living there on the other hand looking at it in the most macavilen terms dont deserve it currently. They werent able to defend it, I dont care what you say about the fact they were against impossible odds they still lost it just like the jews so many years ago.
Now sixty years later what have they really done? they have little or no infastructer, they dont cultivate the land in any real way and they have yet to raise a real army or central government. The best they have done is harrass the jews with rockets. It really hurts them more then it helps them if you think about it. When ever they start doing it the jewish people just ride into their town and level it cause the cowards just hide in with the civilians. If they seriously want to start building their own country they should first start acting like a real one and policing themselves. If their own people took down those loonies who were launching rockets from their bedroom windows then the jews wouldnt have to do it.
Think of it in deferent terms if say in Canada in a border town some crazy people started launching rockets across into an American town mounties would be all over them. Which is excactly why the over reacting Americans wouldnt go and demolish the Canadian town.
So in order to ever start building your own country or ever have a hope of militarly taking back their homeland they should police themselves like a normal human society.
Then once their villages are no longer being leveled they can improve themselves and become fruitfull like their enemies. They can farm their land build up an economy and form a real standing army. This is what makes a country.
With this new power base after a few generations or so they could pose an actual threat to the jews rather then a hinderance.
Then all they require would be the backing of their fellow Arabs to keep the US busy while they try and take their homeland back. whether not their attack would be succefull is for the future to decide.
But you see the people there are unitied and cant really plan to any real extent for that far in the future. Instead they will do what they have been doing. And as time goes by slowly wipe themselves out through fighting, starvation diesease and a good deal of infighting.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Victor — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:31:35 GMT

Comments about Israelis "stealing" Palestinian land are based on the false premise that there were no Jews in Palestine before Israel was created. This is simply not the case. In fact, the population was almost 40% Jewish and 60% Arad in the time of WWI (that's right -- one, not two).

And the impetus to divide the land between Jews and Arabs started at the end of WWI and the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Britain was then given The Palestine Mandate until a resolution could be made so that the land could be evenly divided. At this point, by the way, we're talking of "Palestine" at c.1920, which included both modern-day Israel, the West Bank, Gaze, AND the whole country of JORDAN! However, to reward Emir Abdullah for the efforts and assistance of his Bedouin Army in helping to combat the Ottomans, Britain illegally and without legal right, since it was only serving as a UN mandatory and not a post-war conqueror, simply "gave" Jordan to the Emir c.1922.

Following this, the Jews were asked to divide the "remaining land," which at that point was already <50% of what the old Palestine was. In three successive UN plans recommended by The Peel Commission, beginning in 1937, each of which gradually allocated a lesser amount of land for the Jews, the UN attempted to partition the land. The Jews accepted each of such 3 proposals, the last of which gave them the least amount of land (and, for the last proposal, over half which was in the desert -- the Negev) and was to serve as Israel's borders once the British Mandate ended (i.e., when Britain removed their troops). That day was May 14, 1948.

Within 8 hours, the new state of Israel was invaded by 8 aggressor Arab armies, but miraculously fought and ultimately won (without any US involvement by the way) in that an armistice was signed in 1949. Armistice does not mean "recognized borders," only that the "fighting will end." The Arabs lost but wanted the land back anyway, even though they started the war.

Anyone who says that the Jews "stole" the land is simply misinformed and buys into the propoganda spewed by linking the Holocaust to Israel's connection. The Holocaust only created the *political will* to end the Mandate. Their was a huge Jewish population dating back decades before even WWI, and the new Jewish population emigrated to lands that had been allocated to Jews. It is worth noting that the Jews were and still are the ones who were always willing to share the land, in that they accepted each of the 3 proposals for partition of the UN's Peel Commission, attempted to negotiate land return in exchange for peace after 1949, 1967, and 1973. The only country that bit, Egypt, signed a peace accord where in Israel returned land it occupied after the war that consituted over 91% of the land that constitutes Israel today. It is the Arabs that have serially refused to share the land in the past, and now call for "peace negotiations" when they are unwilling to end the violence but expect land to be handed over anyway in pursuit of "peace." No country in the world would do that.

Don't believe me? Google it. Search for "Balfour Declaration," "Sykes-Picot Agreement," "Palestine Mandate," "Peel Commission," etc.

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Carmelo NJ — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:35:50 GMT

Dave Reece - Bravo I have been saying the same for the past 40 years. In June 5, while I and 500 thousands American were fighting in Nam, American Jews were flocking to their favorate country Israel to fight against the Arabs. Let's not forget the USS Liberty!!

Arabs not celebrating Israel's 60th birthday

Susan Danbury, CT — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:42:20 GMT

Does anyone remember that 950,000 Jews were expelled from Arab countries, forced to leave everything behind? Do you know where they are today? In Israel where they were absorbed and resettled. Does anyone remember that Jordan took the land that was supposed to be the Palestinian state in the UN Partition? No, and does anyone remember that Jordan promised free access to holy sites in Jerusalem, and then did not allow Jews or Christians in until 1968 when the Jews did recapture Jerusalem. Look at a map. Israel is a tiny country surrounded by much larger Arab countries. If Israel can absorb 950,000 refugees, why can't some of the Arab nations take the so-called Palestinian refugees and resettle them? Why, because it is so convenient to have Israel to deflect the responsiblity for all the problems that the Arab nations have caused themselves.