In direct contravention of my wife's explicit instructions, herewith I inaugurate my first blog. Long may it prosper.

For some reason, I think I have something to say to you. You think you have something to say to me? Email me at: gideonsblogger -at- yahoo -dot- com

 
Interesting article by Amir Oren in Ha'aretz arguing that the reason Rumsfeld's Pentagon supports Israel is strategic, not merely ideological. Rummy's new military will depend less on fixed basing, which means less dependence on the Gulf States. That knocks one leg out from the strategic logic of even-handedness; it's one reason we previously needed Arab support that will be less important in the future. Afghanistan is the first test of the new strategic posture, and was, so far, a great success. The new relationship with Russia knocks out the oil leg to a great extent. Meanwhile, Israel's technological and intelligence assets are of increasing value in the new strategic posture. All these are non-ideological reasons why the Pentagon is strongly in Israel's court. Quite persuasive.
posted by Noah at 3:02 PM