Even-handed is bad enough

France says Arafat should be able to travel freely:

That's pretty outrageous.

There's a bit of a difference saying that guy A should be allowed to, in general, travel, and that you don't want guy B visiting you.

Think about it this way- two pretty despicable guys (let's say, George Bush and whoever currently owns the Yankees). However bad I may find him, George Bush is a free man and ought to be able to travel wherever he pleases. The guy who owns the Yankees, similarly, ought to be able to travel where he wants, but I don't necessarily want him at my house. Same with the other guy. Eh?

Berard

Do you have any doubt about whether Arafat would be welcome in Paris?

France supports the Palestinian cause, and opposes Israel's successful efforts to defend itself from terrorism.

And it's offended by recognition of the horrendous rise in anti-semitic attacks in France.

Boo Hoo.

I think they might be offended that the Israeli head of state discussed the rise in anti-semitic attacks in France in his trademark ham-handed asshole way.

Berard

What's the politically correct way to discuss it?

"The dramatic rise in anti-semitic attacks in France is quite stylish!" ???

I don't recall mentioning PC anywhere.

However, diplomatic correctness, while overrated, has it's uses. Especially with a state that stirs up as much controversy as Israel.

You know, it's interesting- Dyffd's very sensitive towards even the appearance of flames. And while I don't mind a sarcastic approach towards arguing, I'd find it... interesting if he doesn't rebuke his libertarian brothers-in-arms in quite the same way as he does me.

Berard

I wasn't flaming you.

I was suggesting that perhaps France's position isn't as reasonable as you tried to make it appear. It seems to me that there is no way that Sharon could call attention to what's going on in France without France getting offended.

France prides itself on its diplomacy, but it's middle east pronouncements and behaviors strike those of us who don't share its prejudices as reprehensible.

If I'm insulting anybody, I'm insulting France (as you were insulting Sharon).

Well, now, I agree with you on the flaming matter. I wasn't bothered in the least- I appreciate spice in my butter. But as I said, Dyffd is sensitive about this shit. If I posted something some of the stuff you post, I reckon that would just add another wee black stone into the gourd Dyffd keeps in his head saying "institute post moderating to shut this sucker down and make him behave". But maybe I'm just paranoid.

And I agree with, it would be hard to see Sharon figuring out a way to point that shit out in a way that wouldn't ruffle feathers that didn't need ruffling.

But I reckon Peres could.

Berard

A little bit of "spice" isn't what I mind. It's ad-hominems and questioning of motives, rather than addressing the actual arguments, which I mind.

You've generally been better about that lately though.