[yonif]

Sure, Iraqis hate Jews. But if Bush has any intention of making them tolerant of others, he must allow others that once were hated to interact with the population in some way. What is the point of rebuilding a country if the same hate is there?

This is just like saying American Jews should not work in the US Embassy in Germany (when we still had relations with the Nazis, before we entered the war), because it would do nothing but inflame the German population who was taught to hate Jews.

And also, concerning rebuilding, what Israel would do is not provide materials, construction workers, etc. It would be probably providing services and training.

In addition, a lot of Israelis know Arabic.

[Prodigal Son]

Sure, Iraqis hate Jews. But if Bush has any intention of making them tolerant of others, he must allow others that once were hated to interact with the population in some way. What is the point of rebuilding a country if the same hate is there?

I agree. If the Israeli firms themselves are willing to take the risk more power to 'em. Jackie Robinson had to overcome similar attitudes and we are all the better for it today.

[DannyTN]

"Sure, Iraqis hate Jews. But if Bush has any intention of making them tolerant of others, he must allow others that once were hated to interact with the population in some way. What is the point of rebuilding a country if the same hate is there? "

Agreed, but now is not the time.

One, if the rationale for excluding Germany and France is that only participating members of the coalition get to bid, Bush can't include Israel or he's playing favorites.

Second, it would be better if the US leans on Iraq's new council to accept bids from Israel, rather than the US awarding contracts to Israel. That's just going to play into the extremists hands.

Third, does Israel really want to go in there and draw the terrorist fire? I mean, our troops might appreciate it, but you might as well paint a target on your back with the words, "Hey Al Quaida! Suicide this!!!". A courageous thought but not too bright.

[DannyTN]

There must be other ways we can interact Jews with Iraqi's without it being "contract" related. Goodwill things, like medical assistance, sports, etc.

I would say singing Christmas carols but that's wrong on so many counts. lol

[faithincowboys]

Do I think their hatred of Jews is pathological? Absolutely. But right now we have 130,000 of America's sons and daughters dealing with a conspiratorial minded, barbaric population. We are occupying their country and currently managing their natural resources -- the Gulf media is portraying this in an entirely dishonest and inciteful way. I am in no mood to have them say ,which they will, that America did this for Israel (which they are already saying) and for "global Jewish interests."

Sorry, but Israel getting a couple hundred million in exchange for more American body bags coming home is not a deal worth making.