Bibi supposedly is telling ministers to remain shtum on Egypt, off the record one minister told Time Magazine that the Netanyahu government is placing its bets on Mubarak, and now we have the first on-the-record comment from someone to whom you could attach the title "Jewish."
Rep. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.), the ranking member of the foreign operations subcommittee of the Appropriations Committee, just put out this statement:
Ever since the historic Camp David peace accords more than 30 years ago, Egypt and the United States have been partners in seeking a just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
During that time, the United States has encouraged the Egyptian government to move toward a more open society respecting individual freedom of expression and human rights. All parties must refrain from violence and the Egyptian government must restore access to the internet and social media.
It is in the interest of the United States and regional stability that this period of turmoil and uncertainty be resolved peacefully and that Egypt remain a strong ally.
Okay, first, what’s more important is that Lowey is a) a Democrat b) the highest ranking Democrat dealing with foreign money.
But she is Jewish and makes no secret of it, and has close ties with the pro-Israel community.
So, all that in mind, let’s tease this out:
–It’s significant that this comes out just after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak made a show of strength in a semi-defiant appearance on Egyptian TV. It is a subtle message of support, after a day in which President Obama dared not show support, and it would have looked stupid had Mubarak ended up in a Swiss chalet.
–The White House said it would "review assistance" for Egypt. Lowey is an appropriator. Consider it reviewed.
–First thing Lowey mentions is: The Camp David accords: i.e., we’re backing this autocrat because of the alliance with Israel.
–Second thing: This and preceding administrations, and Congress, have been after this bastard to clean his act up. And so the spin begins.
–Third thing: But let’s conclude with what’s important: Stability and Egypt’s closeness to the West.
Thing is, I’m not at all sure Mubarak pulls this out. (Lowey, I acknowledge, would usually have much better information than I do, but both of us have probably been watching the same footage on Al Jazeera English.)
And if Mubarak doesn’t pull this out, this statement ain’t gonna look pretty in retrospect.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
