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Perhaps you are unfamiliar with the Biblically-mandated wars of annihilation against the Canaanites and `Amaleq, in which every man, woman, child, and even animal was to be put to the sword? Perhaps you are unaware that in the case of an `ir niddachat (a Jewish city that had strayed after idolatry) not only was it to be treated the same way but destroyed and never again rebuilt?

Well, actually no. If you keep reading, you'll find I get to that eventually.

Thank you for your insights on the fact that Israel is not a strictly "Jewish" state. How would you describe it instead? "Democratized", or what?

Assuming the same realities where God's will is concerned yet apply to the Jews, I guess I don't understand what has changed.

I agree with you, actually, that we should employ more consistency in both our criticism and support of other nations. I never understood why -- despite the bodies floating down bloody rivers like logs -- Rwanda was dismissed as some "internal conflict into which we cannot intervene" while the alleged genocide in Serbia mandated military intervention.

If it's any consolation, perhaps Israel receive more than its share of scrutiny and criticism in direct proportion to its receiving more than its share of aid and diplomatic concessions. One must admit there is no real parity on that score either, regardless whether or not one supports our special relationship with the State of Israel.

If it's any consolation, perhaps Israel receive more than its share of scrutiny and criticism in direct proportion to its receiving more than its share of aid and diplomatic concessions.

Reality-based statement, Number 5. It's an ancient and obvious maxim that if I pay your rent, I have a right to scrutinize your job hunting efforts. Completely overrides the notion that to criticize Israel is to be presumed to hate Jews.

I don't understand your reply, since your initial criticism that Israel wasn't Jewish enough implied that it was too nationalistic whereas I proved the exact opposite.

Perhaps one day you'll explain to me why Rhodesia and South Africa were supported uncritically by conservatives such as yourself who suddenly become very moral when it comes to Israel.