Covering All Views

Part of my portfolio out here is covering the rightwing parties in the Israeli Knesset. That is how I ended up at a conference in Jerusalem last Sunday, which was entitled, "Facing Jihad." The conference was sponsored by Eryah Eldad, head of the HaTikva ("The Hope") party, who focuses almost exclusively on ensuring that Jews can settle throughout what he calls "The Land of Israel" -- all the land between the Mediterranean and the Jordan River. This territory includes the West Bank, which most of the rest of the world considers occupied Palestinian territory.

The conference focused on publicizing the "threat" these individuals feel that Islam or "Radical Islam" poses for the West. The big name on the marquee for this event was Geert Wilders, a far-right Dutch parliamentarian with flowing, bleach-blonde hair who produced a film linking violence with Islam. Critics labeled the short film -- "Fitna" -- as racist, while others threatened to kill Wilders. The Dutch MP, taking the threats seriously following the 2004 assassination of fellow countryman and critic of Islam Theo Van Gogh, travels 24/7 with a team of bodyguards, several of whom surrounded him during his presentation.

The conference provided a useful insight into one segment of the Israeli polity. I would have preferred, however, if there had been more of a give and take with critics of this strain of thought.

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Kazakh National Day

The Ambassador tagged us with the honor of representing the United States at the Kazakh National Day celebrations at the Dan Panorama Hotel this evening. We didn't let him down. We represented.

We arrived to see the reception hall packed with members of the diplomatic community. We were fortunate to observe musical and dance performances by Kazakh nationals, along with a video presentation about life in Kazakhstan. We would be remiss if we did not mention the food, which was yummy. We indulged in some chicken kabob, salmon, dumplings, and a massive spread of delicious desserts.

All in all, it was a pleasant way to spend a Sunday evening.