Criticism of Bush's Speech

Predictably, the fallout from Bush's speech last night fills the commentary spots in major newspapers and online media around the world. While I feel his remarks are good in what they promise long term, they seem to be short on activity in the short term. As Palestinian cabinet minister Ghassan Khatib noted, "Unfortunately, the immediate and practical impact of this speech is zero."

In addition, the onus for action and "reform" is placed nearly completely on the Palestinians. Ali Abunimah observes, "George Bush's much-anticipated speech on how to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, weighed in at 1,867 words. By my count, more than one thousand words were devoted to criticizing and making demands of the Palestinians, while just 137 words dealt with what Israel should do. And if you look for any criticism at all of Israel, you will not find it."

So the extrajudicial assassinations are bound to continue and Sharon's rampage will go on as he sees fit. BTW, did you know that 400,000 Palestinians are under what amounts to a house arrest? If that isn't a most egregious form of "collective punishment," I don't know what is...

For further criticism, see why the speech ignores the bloody reality, why it is a one-sided offer that will change nothing, and how it all adds up to a victory for Sharon.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out. At least there is some kind of plan on the table. I worry, though, that it may be structured to fail, perhaps purposefully.