Showing posts with label the Middle East. Show all posts
Showing posts with label the Middle East. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

President Barack Obama and the “White Revolution”


A Leading White Supremacist Discusses the President and How the Economy and Racial Issues Have Increased Group Membership

The following is an excerpt from the National Socialist Movement's (NSM) website:

"The NSM, America's National Socialist Party, is the largest and most active National Socialist party in America.

The NSM's core beliefs include: defending the rights of white people everywhere, preservation of our European culture and heritage, strengthening family values, economic self-sufficiency, and reform of illegal immigration policies, immediate withdrawal of our national military from an illegal Middle Eastern occupation and promotion of white separation. 

The National Socialist Movement was founded in 1974 and saw membership surge under the leadership of the charismatic Jeff Schoep. Schoep has worked to implement a new direction for the Party, which includes focusing on a truly American National Socialist Movement; a movement that will give Americans the choice of electing a Party to power that will take the best of both Socialism and Capitalism in order to create a system that will stop the decay while bringing innovation, prosperity and security to our American Patriots!” 

Like the interview with "The Insurgent's" Tom Metzger, From The G-Man contacted Schoep and offered him an opportunity to discuss his organization in greater detail, in addition to a host of issues that are having a significant impact on the country.

The comments and images provided by Schoep may be viewed as extremely offensive by many readers, but in negotiating the terms of this interview, the NSM leader was assured his First Amendment rights would be respected. 

The purpose of this interview is not to fan the flames of hatred, but to initiate a national dialogue on the dire economic, social and political state of the country, our elected officials, and the future of race relations.

G-Man: I’d like to begin by asking you a very direct question. What was your gut reaction when the major news networks announced that Senator Barack Obama had been elected the 44th President of the United States of America?

Schoep: This is a question I have been asked countless times by various news media since the election, and my answer usually surprises people. Many people seem to be hung up on the fact that the President is Black, or that many believe him to be Muslim, but I do not see the issue in such simple terms. For decades, we have had presidents whom we believe did not serve the American people's best interests or desires. It matters not what color his skin is. What matters is if he is another tool of the Zionists. That question has already been answered when you consider the fact that Obama has continued the George Bush war-mongering in Afghanistan and elsewhere in the world.

G-Man: Was it the fact that someone with little legislative experience had been elected that upset you most?

Schoep: As I mentioned in the previous question, his race was not a major factor for me and neither was his lack of experience. My concern was, and still is, who would be pulling the puppet strings. The Zionist lobby, and its allies in the halls of government, is what concerns me more than anything. Obama is simply a tool of a much more powerful hidden hand. If the strings controlling the puppet were severed, then we could speak about Obama's skills or lack thereof.

G-Man: Many within the white nationalist movement believe that the election of President Obama has spawned a “white revolution” in America. The Huffington Post recently reported that Ku Klux Klan membership has dramatically increased in the state of Colorado and could spread to other states. As far as the NSM is concerned, could you explain the term and note why this so-called revolution should be taken seriously?

Schoep: I cannot speak about specifics regarding the Klan, or other White Nationalist groups, but in regards to the NSM, we have experienced a steady growth in the United States. The reflection of this growth is, in my opinion, not due to the election of Obama at all. Sure, maybe a small number of people joined when a Black man was elected, but that is not the key reason based on what we hear from our ranks. 

Most people that join us are doing so because of the serious problems in America, such as the sinking economy, the lack of jobs, low wages, and the illegal alien problem. If we took a poll next week asking what factor contributed to each person joining our cause, I would wager that less than five percent joined because of the President's race. Perhaps, that number might drop to as low as one percent. That is why his race is not really an issue for us. 

We have much more serious problems in this nation than President Obama's skin color. The White Revolution is coming, and its strength will increase as the racial demographics continue to change. For the first time in American history, the current generation, and those to come after, will have it worse than the one before them, and the levy is going to break at some point!  


G-Man: Unlike the New Black Panther Party, Ku Klux Klan or Skinheads, the NSM stresses that non-violence is key to accomplishing the organization’s objectives. With reports of racial attacks on the rise throughout the country, do you believe the NSM will be able to adhere to this policy in the future?
 
Schoep: We have stood by our non-violent policy and will continue to do so. If our people are all locked up for engaging in illegal activity, we will not be able to accomplish anything of value for our future generations. The National Socialist Movement is a legal party in the United States, and as long as we are allowed our rights as American citizens and the freedoms to pursue our goals within the law, there is no reason for us to reach outside of the law. If the system were to ban us from the political process, or deny us our rights as American citizens, then one could consider other less savory options. Until that day comes, we shall remain law-abiding.

G-Man: According to a 2003 report on the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) website, you were selected one of the "40 to Watch" in America and the NSM was cited as one of the fastest-growing neo-Nazi groups in the U.S.

On occasion, you’ve proclaimed that the NSM is gaining political power.

You’ve also made it abundantly clear that – or you could say: Blacks have contributed to the country’s downfall and that President Obama must not be re-elected.

Having said that, which GOP candidate best reflects the views of the NSM and would most likely earn the NSM’s support in the 2012 election, if they obtained the nomination?

Schoep: The SPLC is a fundraising boogeyman that is worth millions of dollars, or perhaps well beyond that. In my opinion, they offer nothing of value to anyone other than to fill their own pocketbooks with funds raised from people who fear anything that does not fit within their extreme far left agenda. We are considered the largest white civil rights group in America, by both friends and foes, so I suppose that counts for something. 

Many Black people have contributed to the downfall of America, which can be proven via crime statistics, the number of Black men in prison, and by visiting any inner city in America. This is not to say all Black people are bad. I know of many that work hard and provide for their families. However, a large percentage are not doing that and their ought to be some accountability in the Black community for it. Racial separation is the best course of action. I will not endorse any of the GOP candidates publicly. They are not our concern.

G-Man: President Barack Obama played a major role in ending the reign of the most notorious terrorist in the world, Osama bin Laden. First Lady Michelle Obama has done what many consider to be exceptional work in aiding and honoring military veterans and their families. Even though they’re Black, would you and the NSM be willing to admit that the President and the First Lady deserve to be praised for these accomplishments?

Schoep: Regarding the demise of Bin Laden, this is a very complicated matter. We are not Bin Laden fans, by any means. However, his war against the U.S. was due to U.S. policy in support of occupied Palestine -- known to some as Israel. Bin Laden made a critical mistake in attacking the U.S., and the NSM does support the U.S. military and our troops, many of whom also support the NSM. That said, we do not agree with the policy of sending U.S. troops to be the world's police force like an occupational Roman Army. 

Truth be told, this question would be better suited for a debate. I am not able to discuss the issue at greater length due to my time constraints. Trust me; I would be able to write a book on this touchy subject. I am not aware of much that Mrs. Obama does, as I do not pay attention to it. Therefore, I cannot really comment on her efforts. If she is helping military veterans, then that is a good thing. Again, the Bin Laden matter is very complicated: from the intrusion into Pakistan, to the dumping of his body at sea, to the whole war with Afghanistan. There are so many complications that I would rather not elaborate at this time.

G-Man: "The Turner Diaries" , written by Andrew MacDonald, a pseudo-name used by William L. Pierce, is considered to be the Holy Grail of the Ku Klux Klan, Neo-Nazis and other militia groups. The book was published in 1978 by the National Alliance, a Nazi faction led by Pierce. Members of these groups interpret the book as a blueprint for the complete elimination of the federal government and every nigger, "wop", "gook", "Jew bastard", and “race-mixer”. It also outlines the methods of extermination, and how the members of these groups were going to infiltrate some of the highest levels of government to launch a national attack. Has Pierce’s work been misinterpreted in any way?

Schoep: Dr. Pierce has passed away. Therefore, neither you nor I would know if he had been misinterpreted. I will say that I have the book, and it is very entertaining from start to finish.


G-Man:
Provide a brief and uncensored assessment of the following: the Middle East, Rush Limbaugh, Alex Jones, Rachel Maddow, Jews, same-sex marriage, the current state of Black leadership in America, and interracial dating.

Schoep: The Middle East is a mess for the Zionists, being surrounded by neighbors that despise them on every side. I do believe the Jews deserve a homeland. However, occupied Palestine is not a good place for them. A wise man once stated the island of Madagascar would be better for the Jews, and I tend to agree with that.

Limbaugh? I do not listen to his Republican radio show. Many years ago, he bragged about his support of Israel, and that was enough for me. Never listened to him again. Alex Jones? I do not listen to his show, either. Rachel Maddow? Who is she?

I think I have already covered my opinion of Jews, but I would like to mention one more thing. One of our Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, stated in 1789, in the Pinckney  papers, and I'm paraphrasing here, "If we do not remove the Jew from America within 200 years our children will curse us." I believe he also referred to them as vampires. 

The Jews have been thrown out of nearly every nation they ever inhabited in the past, from England, to Germany, to Spain, to Ethiopia, and the list goes on. Either the Jews have done some horrible things in each and every nation to all races, or they are just eternal victims. I, for one, have a hard time swallowing the fact that everyone hates Jews just for the sake of hating Jews. They have done evil things throughout history. This is why it is critical that they have their own homeland. If they did, they couldn't persecute anyone and no one could persecute them.

Same sex-marriage is anti-life, pro-death, and is an abomination in the eyes of anyone with a moral compass. Homosexuality is a mental illness, and allowing them to marry is not something that should be tolerated in a healthy society.

As far as the current state of Black leadership in America, let me repeat what I said previously. I feel the black community should take responsibility for its youth, high crime rates, and other problems. I do believe there are some positive Black leaders that are doing their part in turning things around. Some of them urge a return to Africa, and the Black Muslims, along with Minister Louis Farrakhan, have set many Black youth on a more productive path.

Interracial dating is an abomination leading to the downfall and destruction of both cultures involved. No culture benefits from racial mixing, and most people are not accepting of this practice, despite popular media claims. It viewed as  destructive for both cultures. People are so concerned with pure-bred dogs, horses, and other animals, but some would like us to believe that it is not as important among humans. 

Just as you cannot give away a mixed breed dog, because no one wants it, you can sell a pure bred for a much greater amount. The same level of care and concern should be expressed when it comes to our own bloodlines. Everyone has the right to be proud of their bloodline and where they come from. 

If you mix the races, you create a mongrel, and that child's bloodline is destroyed to the point where and he or she cannot really identify with either race. It is a selfish and horrible thing for any parent to consider doing to a child. The call to preserve one's bloodline echoes throughout time, history, and it reinforces our cultural identity. Anyone who would seek to rob one of that destiny is a sick and selfish individual.

G-Man: What lead to the formation of the Viking Youth Corp (VYC) and what are some of its future goals?

Schoep: The VYC is a very small division of the NSM that primarily consists of teenagers of NSM members. Other youth can join it, but they can only do so with the written permission of their parents. The division is simply a starting point for young people to enter the adult division of the NSM when they are of age to do so. NSM membership is limited to those 18 and older.

G-Man:
A number of people I’ve spoken to, from high-ranking politicians to hard-working Americans, have stated their number one concern for President Obama is that he could suffer the same fate as brothers John and Robert F. Kennedy. Would Jeff Schoep have any remorse if an assassin’s bullet ended the life of America’s first Black president? 

Schoep: I do not wish for the death of the President, nor would I ever advocate such a thing!
  
To obtain more detailed information on the National Socialist Movement, click here: The National Socialist Movement

Photos courtesy of the National Socialist Movement. 

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

President to Meet with Denmark's Prime Minister

Helle Thorning-Schmidt, Prime Minister of Denmark 

Statement from the Press Secretary

President Obama will host Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt of Denmark for a meeting in the Oval Office on Friday, February 24. Denmark and the United States are close NATO allies and the President looks forward to thanking the Prime Minister for Denmark’s important contribution to the NATO mission in Libya and for its continuing commitment to the ISAF operation in Afghanistan.  

The two leaders will discuss preparations for the upcoming NATO Summit in Chicago, including proposals for supporting the transition in Afghanistan, increasing Alliance defense capabilities, and advancing NATO’s relationships with key partners.

With Denmark currently holding the European Union presidency, the President and Prime Minister will talk about the recent European summit and the latest steps that Europe is taking to address its sovereign debt crisis.

The President and the Prime Minister will also discuss common efforts on counterterrorism, counterpiracy, green growth, economic development, Arctic cooperation and support for the democratic transitions in North Africa and the Middle East.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Erdogan Tours Middle East: Is Israel On Their Own?

Israel finds itself increasing isolated in the region and struggling to maintain a relationship with Turkey.



By Orkide Izci
Anchor: Zach Toombs
Link provided by Newsy.com

Thursday, August 18, 2011

'The United States Opposes the Use of Violence Against Peaceful Protesters in Syria'


Flag of Syria

Statement by President Obama on the Situation in Syria

The United States has been inspired by the Syrian peoples’ pursuit of a peaceful transition to democracy. They have braved ferocious brutality at the hands of their government. They have spoken with their peaceful marches, their silent shaming of the Syrian regime, and their courageous persistence in the face of brutality – day after day, week after week.


The Syrian government has responded with a sustained onslaught. I strongly condemn this brutality, including the disgraceful attacks on Syrian civilians in cities like Hama and Deir al Zour, and the arrests of opposition figures who have been denied justice and subjected to torture at the hands of the regime.


These violations of the universal rights of the Syrian people have revealed to Syria, the region, and the world the Assad government’s flagrant disrespect for the dignity of the Syrian people.

The United States opposes the use of violence against peaceful protesters in Syria, and we support the universal rights of the Syrian people. We have imposed sanctions on President Assad and his government. The European Union has imposed sanctions as well.

We helped lead an effort at the UN Security Council to condemn Syria’s actions. We have coordinated closely with allies and partners from the region and around the world. The Assad government has now been condemned by countries in all parts of the globe, and can look only to Iran for support for its brutal and unjust crackdown.

The future of Syria must be determined by its people, but President Bashar al-Assad is standing in their way. His calls for dialogue and reform have rung hollow while he is imprisoning, torturing, and slaughtering his own people. We have consistently said that President Assad must lead a democratic transition or get out of the way. He has not led. For the sake of the Syrian people, the time has come for President Assad to step aside.

The United States cannot and will not impose this transition upon Syria. It is up to the Syrian people to choose their own leaders, and we have heard their strong desire that there not be foreign intervention in their movement.


What the United States will support is an effort to bring about a Syria that is democratic, just, and inclusive for all Syrians. We will support this outcome by pressuring President Assad to get out of the way of this transition, and standing up for the universal rights of the Syrian people along with others in the international community.

As a part of that effort, my Administration is announcing unprecedented sanctions to deepen the financial isolation of the Assad regime and further disrupt its ability to finance a campaign of violence against the Syrian people.


I have signed a new Executive Order requiring the immediate freeze of all assets of the Government of Syria subject to U.S. jurisdiction and prohibiting U.S. persons from engaging in any transaction involving the Government of Syria.


This E.O. also bans U.S. imports of Syrian-origin petroleum or petroleum products; prohibits U.S. persons from having any dealings in or related to Syria’s petroleum or petroleum products; and prohibits U.S. persons from operating or investing in Syria. We expect today’s actions to be amplified by others.

We recognize that it will take time for the Syrian people to achieve the justice they deserve. There will be more struggle and sacrifice. It is clear that President Assad believes that he can silence the voices of his people by resorting to the repressive tactics of the past. But he is wrong.


As we have learned these last several months, sometimes the way things have been is not the way that they will be. It is time for the Syrian people to determine their own destiny, and we will continue to stand firmly on their side.

Image source: Wikipedia

Permission: Public Domain

Thursday, June 23, 2011

"Intifada" App Removed by Apple

An Anti-Hate Group Asked Apple to Remove 'The Third Intifada', an App Available in the Company's App Store

Apple removed an application from its App Store on Wednesday after a Jewish human rights group and a top Israeli official said it contained anti-Semitic content and promoted violence against Israel.

The app, “The Third Intifada,” notified people of upcoming protests against Israel and also highlighted anti-Israel news and opinion from around the Web.

“We removed this app from the App Store because it violates the developer guidelines by being offensive to large groups of people,” an Apple spokesman said Wednesday evening.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center, a group dedicated to stopping anti-Semitism, put out a statement on Tuesday asking the company to “immediately withdraw its approval” of the application. The center said that its researchers had found that the app “contains anti-Israel content — articles, photographs of ‘martyrs’ and stories — and updates its users on further incitements to protest and violence.”

According to Haaretz, an Israeli newspaper, Yuli Edelstein, an Israeli minister of public affairs, also sent a letter to Apple asking for the “immediate removal” of the application from the App Store.

Apple states in its App Store policy, under section 19, which pertains to religion, culture, and ethnicity that “Apps containing references or commentary about a religious, cultural or ethnic group that are defamatory, offensive, mean-spirited or likely to expose the targeted group to harm or violence will be rejected.”

In March, Facebook removed a group, “3rd Intifada,” that was said to be promoting violence against Israel. A Facebook representative told The Jerusalem Post that the group’s page was taken down after Facebook “received repeated warnings about posts that violated our policies.

Friday, May 20, 2011

West Wing Week: 5/13/19 - 5/19/11


Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. This week the President visited flood victims in Memphis,TN before speaking at the Booker T. Washington High School graduation, celebrated the Situation Room's 50th birthday, and gave a speech on the change sweeping across the Middle East and North Africa.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Moment of Opportunity: American Diplomacy in the Middle East & North Africa


President Obama lays out his vision for a new chapter in American diplomacy as calls for reform and democracy spread across the Middle East and North Africa, and in light of the death of Osama bin Laden.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

President Obama Holds Meeting with King Abdullah II of Jordan


REMARKS BY PRESIDENT OBAMA

AND HIS MAJESTY KING ABDULLAH II OF JORDAN

AFTER BILATERAL MEETING

Oval Office

12:17 P.M. EDT

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, it is a great pleasure to welcome once again my good friend King Abdullah to the White House. The United States and Jordan have had a longstanding friendship, an extraordinary relationship of cooperation on a wide range of fronts. I have valued His Majesty’s advice on numerous occasions, and obviously this meeting was an opportunity for us to share our views on the extraordinary changes that are taking place throughout the Middle East, throughout the region.

We discussed the situation in Libya, and are grateful for the support of a wide range of Arab countries in our efforts to make sure that humanitarian assistance and humanitarian protection occurs inside of Libya. We discussed the rapid transformation that’s taking place in places like Egypt and Tunisia, and we both agreed that it’s critical that not only does political reform proceed, but economic reform accompanies those changes there, because so much of what’s taking place has to do with the aspirations of young people throughout the Arab world for their ability to determine their own fate, to get an education, to get a job, to be able to support a family. And that means some of the old structures that were inhibiting their ability to progress have to be reworked.

His Majesty discussed the reform efforts that are taking place inside Jordan as well, and we welcome the initiatives that His Majesty has already embarked on, and feel confident that, to the extent that he’s able to move these reforms forward, this will be good for the security and stability of Jordan, but also will be good for the economic prosperity of the people of Jordan. And so we’re very pleased to support him on that front.


Along those lines, one of the things we discussed is how the United States can continue to be supportive of these economic efforts that His Majesty has embarked on, and so I’m pleased to announce that we have mobilized several hundreds of millions of dollars through OPIC, and that will leverage ultimately about $1 billion for economic development inside of Jordan. In addition, because of the huge spike in commodity prices throughout the world, we are going to be providing 50,000 metric tons of wheat to Jordan. All of this will help to stabilize the cost of living and day-to-day situation of Jordanians and will provide a foundation so that these economic reforms can move forward and long-term development can take place. So we’re very happy to be partnering with His Majesty on that issue.


We also discussed the situation with respect to Israel and the Palestinian conflict. And we both share the view that despite the many changes, or perhaps because of the many changes that are taking place in the region, it’s more vital than ever that both Israelis and Palestinians find a way to get back to the table and begin negotiating a process whereby they can create two states that are living side by side in peace and security.

Jordan, obviously, with its own peace with Israel, has an enormous stake in this. The United States has an enormous stake in this. We will continue to partner to try to encourage an equitable and just solution to a problem that has been nagging the region for many, many years.

Finally, I just want to say that we continue to appreciate all the security and counterterrorism cooperation that we receive from the Jordanians. It is very important in terms of our own security, and that partnership we expect to continue.

So Your Majesty, you are always welcome here. The American people feel great affection for the Jordanian people. And we trust that during this remarkable time of transition in the region that Jordan will be at the forefront in being able to move a process forward that creates greater opportunity and ensures that Jordan is a model of a prosperous, modern, and successful Arab state under your leadership.

So thank you very much.

HIS MAJESTY KING ABDULLAH: Thank you. Mr. President, I’m delighted to be back here and again take this opportunity to thank you and your government for the tremendous support that you’re showing Jordan economically and the support of the United States and a lot of our friends internationally on really being able to push reform in an aggressive manner in our country, and again your continued interest and support on the core issue of the Middle East, which is the Israeli and Palestinian peace.

We are very, very grateful to the President’s role in all these issues. I’m delighted to be back here. And I will continue to be a strong partner with you, sir, on all the challenges that we face. Thank you.

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Good. All right, thank you very much, everyone.

END 12:23 P.M. EDT

Monday, May 16, 2011

Friday, May 13, 2011

Middle East Envoy Mitchell Resigns!

George J. Mitchell, Jr. - Former United States Special Envoy for Middle East Peace

Statement by the President and Madam Secretary Clinton on the Resignation of Middle East Envoy George Mitchell

Over the past two and a half years, George Mitchell has worked as a tireless advocate for peace as the U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East. His deep commitment to resolving conflict and advancing democracy has contributed immeasurably to the goal of two states living side by side in peace and security.

George told me when he took this job that he would put in a couple of years, and I’m so glad he did. He is – by any measure – one of the finest public servants that our nation has ever had. Even though he already had an extraordinary legacy – serving the people of Maine, leading the Senate, and bringing peace to Northern Ireland – he took on the toughest job imaginable and worked grueling hours to advance the interests of the United States and the cause of peace.

As he returns to his family, George leaves behind a proud legacy of dedicated public service and the country owes him a debt of gratitude for his extraordinary commitment.

As a nation, we remain committed to peace in the Middle East and to building on George’s hard work and progress toward achieving this goal. Secretary Clinton has asked the Deputy Middle East Envoy, David Hale to serve as the Acting Envoy and I have every confidence in David’s ability to continue to make progress in this important effort.

Statement by Secretary Clinton on the Resignation of Middle East Envoy George Mitchell

It has been an honor to work alongside Senator Mitchell over the past two years. He represents the best traditions of American diplomacy. Throughout George’s distinguished career he has taken on the hardest challenges with determination, talent and old fashioned Maine common sense. From the Senate to Northern Ireland to the State Department, his work has brought peace and increasing prosperity to millions of people around the world and made our own country stronger and more secure.

As well as anyone in his generation, George understands the slow, hard work of diplomacy, the art of compromise and the indispensable role of American leadership in the world. All of us at the State Department will miss his steady leadership and wise counsel, and we will carry forward his commitment to pursue a comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

** NOTE: The following is the full text of Middle East Envoy George Mitchell’s resignation letter to the President.

“Dear Mr. President:

When I accepted your request to serve as U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Peace my intention was to serve for two years. More than two years having passed I hereby resign, effective May 20, 2011. I trust this will provide sufficient time for an effective transition.


I strongly support your vision of comprehensive peace in the Middle East and thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of your administration. It has been an honor for me to again serve our country.

With my gratitude and best wishes.”


Photo source: Wikipedia
Author: U.S. State Department
Permission: Public Domain

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Obama to Meet with Netanyahu

Statement on the Visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

On May 20, the President will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a meeting at the White House. The leaders look forward to discussing the full range of issues of mutual interest to the United States and Israel.

Photo source: Benjamin Netanyahu
Author: Benjamin Netanyahu
Permission: Public Domain

Monday, April 18, 2011

I Hear You Now, Mr. President.


Readout of the President's Call with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu

The President called Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu today to convey his best wishes before the start of Passover. Noting that he would host a seder at the White House, the President recalled that the story of Passover is one of liberation and freedom, and expressed his hope that the Israeli people would be able to celebrate in peace.

The two leaders also discussed U.S.-Israeli cooperation on counter-terrorism, how best to move forward in efforts to advance Middle East peace, and the recent violence near the Gaza strip.

Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed his deep appreciation for U.S. funding for the Iron Dome rocket and mortar defense system, which he noted has successfully intercepted several rockets aimed at Israeli communities.

The President congratulated the Prime Minister on this impressive Israeli technological achievement and expressed his pride that Israeli-American cooperation made it possible.

With the signing of the fiscal year 2011 budget appropriation, the President approved $205 million in U.S. funding for Iron Dome, which is above the annual package of Foreign Military Financing for Israel.

The President and the Prime Minister agreed to stay in close touch on the range of issues facing the United States and Israel.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

NSA Donilon Meets with Saudi Leaders

Coat of Arms of Saudi Arabia

Statement from NSC Spokesman Tommy Vietor on Donilon's Visit to Saudi Arabia and UAE

Today, National Security Advisor Tom Donilon concluded a positive and productive two-day visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

On April 12, Mr. Donilon met with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al Saud in Riyadh to discuss the broad range of shared strategic interests between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. King Abdullah and Mr. Donilon held comprehensive discussions on political, security, and economic issues. The discussions highlighted the importance of the U.S.-Saudi partnership rooted in strong historical ties and shared interests. On the subject of Yemen, Mr. Donilon commended the GCC’s efforts to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power.

On April 13, Mr. Donilon met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi for a wide-ranging discussion. They addressed U.S. and UAE common strategic interests in the region, and the ongoing importance of the broad partnership between their two countries. They also discussed the UAE’s important role as a member of the coalition enforcing UN Security Council Resolution 1973 in Libya. Mr. Donilon conveyed an invitation from President Obama for the Crown Prince to meet in Washington later this month, which the Crown Prince accepted.

In his meetings in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Mr. Donilon and his hosts agreed upon the importance of continued frequent consultations between our countries.


Photo source: Own work
Author:
Anuskafm
Permission: Public Domain

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Carney Responds to Crisis in Syria

Statement by the Press Secretary on Syria

"We are deeply concerned by reports that Syrians who have been wounded by their government are being denied access to medical care. The escalating repression by the Syrian government is outrageous, and the United States strongly condemns the continued efforts to suppress peaceful protesters. President Assad and the Syrian government must respect the universal rights of the Syrian people, who are rightly demanding the basic freedoms that they have been denied."

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Obama Moves Foward with Addressing Middle East Issues

Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani

President to Welcome Amir of Qatar to the White House


President Obama will welcome to the White House the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, on Thursday, April 14, 2011. Qatar is an important partner of the United States, and the President looks forward to discussing a range of issues with the Amir, including the recent developments in the Middle East and Qatar's leadership in the international effort to protect Libyan civilians.


Photo source: President of the Russian Federation
http://medvedev.kremlin.ru/photoalbum


Author: Пресс-служба Президента России

Permission: Creative Commons 3.0

NSA Donilon to Travel to Saudi Arabia

National Security Advisor Tom Donilon

Visit Underscores Importance of U.S./Saudi Partnership


From April 11 to 13, National Security Advisor Tom Donilon will travel to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to meet with key leaders in each country and discuss regional issues. In Riyadh, Donilon will meet with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz; in Abu Dhabi he will meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The National Security Advisor’s visit underscores the importance of U.S. relations with these two key partners.


Photo source: P072810PS-0078
Author:
The White House
Permission:
Public Domain


Thursday, March 31, 2011

Shimon Peres Coming to America!

President Obama to Welcome Israeli President to the White House

The President will welcome Israeli President Shimon Peres to the White House for a working lunch on April 5, 2011. The President looks forward to discussing with President Peres the full range of issues of common concern, including U.S.-Israeli security cooperation, recent developments across the Middle East, and the pursuit of peace between Israel and its neighbors. The President last received President Peres at the White House in May 2009.


Photo source: Michael Thaidigsmann
Author:
Michael Thaidigsmann

Permission:
Public Domain