Mr Pipes' point is well said

Submitted by Jon, a Brit from Euroland (France), May 25, 2011 at 03:41

BHO has, for his own reasons, which are probably heartfelt, but not thought through, taken sequential positions to change the atmosphere in the Middle East. These have not resonated with Congress, and increasingly have been negatively received by the Democrats.

It seems to me that the US system of Government is unsupportive of a President taking positions which are a long way from those supported by the Public, particularly where the Public is really quite close to Congress, except, where a rapidly demonstrated advantage accrues to the US from such positions.

This condition is clearly not being met, and Netanyahu's admirable oratory is sure to have considerable PR impact. I suspect that BHO is "burning out", he has crossed a bridge too far, and his position is therefore considerably weakened. He has also given an issue to the people who already are less than happy with his presidency, an issue which while less important is the US scheme of things, can be used to point at him is the area which is essentially under his control: the foreign policy of the USA.

While Netanyahu game a highly pro American speech(s), playing to the pride of America, BHO played to a quite different piece of sheet music, and only added to the disquiet of many about his fitness for his job.

In a way BHO played a very personal role, and is painting himself into a corner. In a sense his vision thing is quite likely to strengthen Israel's position in the US as in the next 18 months people are looking for issues for November 2012.

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