Comments on: Bush administration urges Carter not to meet with Hamas

By: john

john — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:18:01 +0000

Way to go Mr Carter. You were truly the gentelest president I've known in my lifetime. The actions of this neocon administration will find its place in history as the worse disaster the USA has ever suffered. What I cant figure out is the level and sheer numbers of IGNORAMUSES that live in this great country who continue to be bamboozled by their propaganda.

By: The Truth

The Truth — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:12:02 +0000

That's how Republicans have dealt with other countries they don't like. Disrespect them and not talk to them! If someone doesn't do something about the middle east we'll be fighting Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon all at the same time b/c of our relationship with Israel alone. Israel is not worth the lives of our children. Let them fight their own wars. How many Israeli soldiers are fighting in Iraq - how many fought with us in the Bush's dad's gulf war, etc... This any condition love affair with Israel has to stop.

By: ron

ron — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:06:58 +0000

There goes Clinton Forgein Relations helper

By: jp/michigan

jp/michigan — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:06:27 +0000

This is why Carter likes Obama. One of Obama foreign affairs advisors Melly like Hezbollah and Hamas .

By: John A. Nicholson

John A. Nicholson — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:05:29 +0000

The peanut farmer needs to butt out. Lets remember how much he did while occupying the White House.

By: Liz W

Liz W — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:04:58 +0000

President Carter, you are no longer our president. Do not interfer in the politics of today. You will be sending messages that may hurt our country in the long run. Please think about what you are planning to do. Things do not always seem to be what they appear. Please think long and hard on this issue.

By: Eli

Eli — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 21:04:50 +0000

HE NEEDS TO RETIRE.

By: Chili Padi

Chili Padi — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:57:20 +0000

Mr. Jimmy Carter was the President when I first arrived in the US. Through the years I still maintain respect for him, although I must admit that through the same period that respect has slowly diminished. For him to meet with Hamas leaders would be the last straw of any respect I have left for him. I guess you could say who cares whether I have any respect for him or not. You are so right, I myself don't care anymore. I have always maintained that one cannot meet or negotiate with the devil. How can Mr. Carter meet with people whose avowed goal is annihilation of Israel and, by extention, annihilation of other people who do not subscribe or subjugate themselves to their brand of Islam. I know what I am talking because I was borned and grew up in a Muslim country.

By: serena1313

serena1313 — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:55:46 +0000

I hope Carter does meet with Hamas.

While Bush was happy to see Palestinians vote, he did not like that the Palestinians voted overwhelmingly for Hamas. Immediately Bush placed heavy economic sanctions on their country in hopes of turning the citizens against Hamas. But they voted for Hamas because Hamas provides social services, food, shelter and jobs. They voted for Hamas because they were tired of the corruption.

Bush calls Hamas a terrorist group. Hamas is militia group formed during the 1980's in response to Israel's occupation of Palestine.

Humanity's Universal Laws of freedom, liberty, human dignity, equality, peace, etc. are known by every person everywhere whether experienced or not ... they know. When those laws are not adhered to people know too that repression, war, violence, chaos, etc. are the results thereof. Thus people will fight back with whatever means they have.

The ones whom oppose Carter talking to Hamas, let me ask you how many more lives must be lost? Americans need to realize that what happens in the Middle-East and elsewhere on this planet greatly affect us and right now we have an administration without a clue as to how to handle this are reckless and acting irresponsibly with people's lives and the stability of the world.

Communication is the first step to finding common ground and finding solutions. Carter knows this which is why he is willing to talk to Hamas.

Have Americans lost their sense of justice?

By: Tina

Tina — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:53:23 +0000

A good leader is the one who can honestly humble himself to GO to the enemy and diague with him with a view to making peace. When will American leaders learn to humble themselves, come down from their high horse and reach out. not for what they will gain but what they can give. Let us for once erase this notion that americans are arrogant, especially in the arab world. HUMILITY is the watchword. Go ahead Carter.

By: Emma

Emma — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:51:37 +0000

Hooray for Jimmy Carter, the elder statesman and former President. His knowledge of foreign policy exceeds any knowledge that Bush can ever hope to have.

Jimmy Carter does represent the future in his thinking, too bad his presidency was not so eloquent.

By: sophia nyc

sophia nyc — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:50:27 +0000

I have spent the last 2 months in Israel and I can tell you that even Israelis want their governemnt to talk to Hamas.

Hamas are the democratically representatives by the Palestinians. We need to live with it.

By: A True black American

A True black American — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:49:22 +0000

I think this people are now showing us what they are made of. America has lost it already .Isrealites can you see yourself i think some of you are supproting Obama can you see youself now. I know Obama wil be a very great disaster for America it is coming to be . Well i think it is your time China to take over as world power . America has missed it in every way. I CRY AND WEEP FOR AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By: Mills

Mills — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:48:54 +0000

You go right on and talk to Hamas, JC.

When you're there, make sure you go talk to all those Hamas officers who believe Israel has no right to exist. Take a tour. Go to the areas where those rocket launchers were responsible for blowing the legs off the eight-year-old Isreali boy on 2/10/2008, and have your picture taken while standing next to them just like "Hanoi" Jane Fonda did with those rocket launchers that were killing our troops in Vietnam.

Then, you can come back and claim your "patriotism".

I never thought it was possible for an ex-president to actually be worse that what he was as president. You sir, have consistently shown me that this is possible. The fact that you were such a lousy president, and what you are now, is simply mindboggling.

By: Colie Brice

Colie Brice — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:42:22 +0000

Carter has done more good as an ex president than Bush has done with both his terms..

By: Go Carter

Go Carter — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:39:32 +0000

Smart and brave president.
You represent a better American image than the last 2 presidnets...

By: Jane

Jane — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:37:12 +0000

While Israel has been right on many occasions to take certain actions, illegal settlements, occupation, use of napalm, and collective punishment remain ILLEGAL under International Law and the Geneva Conventions. These facts seem to be lost in the fray...

By: RuthieM

RuthieM — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:28:36 +0000

Why can;t Carter do what he wants to do, especially when our current president refuses to meet and greet and diplomatize....

By: Independent

Independent — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:27:52 +0000

Why is the Bush administration so afraid to talk? He must have had a lonely childhood

By: Paul

Paul — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:27:51 +0000

In all due respect to former President Carter, you did not have the backbone in 1980 to r\force the realease of the hostages in Iran.President Reagan did shortly after his ignauguration by showing spine and backbone to the Iranian leadership.

I would suggest that President Carter stay home and mind his business. Your time has gone by. Please go back to building housing for the needy.

By: Darth Vadik, CA

Darth Vadik, CA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:22:53 +0000

Let's just take them out right, like Israel has been trying to do for the past 60 years, because its working out so well for the both parties.

Evil begets evil.

Stop the circle of violence.

By: ES from Ohio

ES from Ohio — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:19:51 +0000

You can't address a problem or issue without talking.
Hurrah Mr. President. Boo to the administration.

By: Jedi Academy

Jedi Academy — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:18:02 +0000

If you want to stop a dog-fight, you have to get in the middle. Don't listen to Bush, go to Damascas. Thank you, Jimmy.

By: Lou

Lou — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:16:38 +0000

I don't know enough about all the details to think whether this is right or wrong...but if it's about foriegn policy, and Bush doesn't reccomend it, Carter is probably on the right track. I don't trust this administration as far as I could throw it.

By: Meryem/Orlando

Meryem/Orlando — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:16:10 +0000

Matt, next time you try to comment on issues using a comparative statement, try to compare APPLES TO APPLES OR ORANGES TO ORANGES. You will end up with a more educated comment. Trying to help!

By: Jason, DC

Jason, DC — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:15:47 +0000

The US forced the Palestinians to use democracy to elect their leaders, even overseeing elections, and the people chose Hamas, who is essentially a political party that has long provided government services to the Palestinians. Of course, the US now wishes they had picked hte leaders rather than the Palestinians voting on their own. That's completely dishonest - if you're going to spread democracy, then you have to accept the will of the people (though ironically, that seems to be a problem in our own domestic voting system).

Jimmy Carter is an honorable man. The US needs to be even-handed in solving Middle East peace, not favoring either side over the other. Unconditional support for Israel has become excessive - though sometimes right and sometimes wrong, much of Israel's conduct has not been much different than what has gone on in Tibet, Darfur, and South Africa. It's time to take a stand and change the way we do politics in the Middle East, rather than look the other way, if we ever want to return to our moral standing in the world community.

By: Sam- Chicago

Sam- Chicago — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:14:29 +0000

We are not wining this war, its time to try something else, anything. Just talking, does not cost the taxpayers any money, no kill anyone.

Its always been the humanly way of resolving conflicts. War is just a show of force, which always ends up with the bigger guy bullying the little one.

Thank you Mr.president.

By: Randy - Denver

Randy - Denver — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:14:28 +0000

I guess the Bush administration does not want him to go because then we will see that it is possible tot TALK with enemies as well as friends and that good can come out of talking with them. the bush administration believes you should never talk when a gun is availiable!

By: Kathleen, Omaha, NE

Kathleen, Omaha, NE — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:13:51 +0000

I totally support President Carter's move to negotiate with Hamas. Thank God Condoleezza Rice and the Bush Administration will soon be gone and America can resume the pursuit of diplomacy in the world!

By: joe

joe — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:12:45 +0000

and i thought the WORST president in History can't get any more worst

By: D.Kimbro OHIO

D.Kimbro OHIO — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:10:44 +0000

Are you people serious, our refusal to have discussions with anyone who doesn't agree with Bush is why allies are disappearing in the middle east. I believe we should open up as mant channels as possible. Whats the worst that could happen, nothing. On the other hand maybe we exchange some of the faces dying in the middle east, to the indiginous peoples. Why should sacrifice any more lives or $$ in this region??

By: Val, Atlanta, Ga

Val, Atlanta, Ga — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:10:43 +0000

And another thing, I have never ever disliked anyone like I dislike Hannity I thing is very racist and he loves bush which I think he is the worst president ever, what I would like for all the bush lovers including Hannity to do since they believe so much in this war while our children are dying YOU put on a military uniform and go and support your president and his war, let me really see how much you support him.

By: Maxine

Maxine — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:10:32 +0000

I agree with Nick from Tx; say what you want about Jimmy Carter but a peackeeper he is. What can it hurt to talk to Hamas it isn't helping by ignoring them, it only leads to more hate.

What has the present administration done.....tried to TELL them the way WE see democracy. That is what people don't get, not everyone's terminology of democracy is the same. I am not saying that terriost or the like shouldn't be punished, but if we don't start talking with different groups, they will continue to raise their children to hate Americans, because it is our way or the highway.

We spend billions with a communist country like China, but will not even talk with a smaller country to negociate peace. HMMM sounds right.

Give it a chance.

By: A REAL American

A REAL American — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:08:39 +0000

Oh my God!! I really can't believe there are actually people like James, Ben, Justin, and Nick out there, and they actually have the nerve to say everyone else is ignorant! Let me guess, they're not terrorists, they're just "misunderstood", right? Why don't you fools go live in Israel for a while, and then come back to tell us how exciting it is to live in constant fear of a mortar attack. Carter is a complete disgrace to this country, and liberals ought to be downright ashamed to claim him as one of their own!

By: terry

terry — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:08:20 +0000

Carter has totally lost touch with reality. He exhibits a complete lack of rational judgement. Go build a house Jimmy and leave politics to those with common sense and sound minds.

By: Jeff P

Jeff P — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:07:21 +0000

How do you negotiate with someone who's stated desire is to destroy (kill) you ? If he doesn't kill you then you win. If he does kill you he wins. There's no win/win here.

The basic premise of negotiation is that there must be a reasonable point that both parties are willing to get to. If that is not present then talking solves nothing more than not talking.

The problems of the Middle East have existed for 2,000 years. The problems began long before there was a US let alone a living administration (past or present) to blame.

Most of this is just spleen venting. Let Carter go. It's highly unlikely he'll solve anything but there's also little downside risk.

By: TheLeftNut

TheLeftNut — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:07:15 +0000

Carter...now there's a war monger (cough, cough)

By: IAMWMD

IAMWMD — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:05:50 +0000

It's the right thing to do to try and keep the peace. G Dubya seems to sit on his hands on every issue that's not gonna benefit his cronies.

By: Greg James

Greg James — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:05:01 +0000

Not only was Jimmy Carter the worst president in my lifetime, he continues to prove that he is the worst ex-president as well.

By: Val, Atlanta, Ga

Val, Atlanta, Ga — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:04:01 +0000

Nick, I agree with you, whats wrong with talking to try to find a solution. One thing I came to realize we will never correct Isreal even when she's wrong and that is amazing to me.

obama/08

By: MP-Pennsylvania

MP-Pennsylvania — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:03:07 +0000

Why not? At least he is trying to solve problems, where as some ex- presidents sell the country through free trade agreements, and represent / lobby for foriegn countries Dubai acquiring US port!!!!!!

By: Chris

Chris — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:02:06 +0000

Ric and Nancy,

You know, you can try learning more words so that you don't need to keep repeating the only 9 words that you know.

By: Alex H

Alex H — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:01:58 +0000

Wow, Ric... you wouldn't happen to also go by the name of Nancy, would you???

By: SMARTEN UP!

SMARTEN UP! — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:00:17 +0000

I agree with the Political Junkie. i LOVE Carter and george bush could learn alot from him.

By: KC - CANADA

KC - CANADA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:58:49 +0000

Carter is well intended I am sure – but his experience in the arena of 'diplomacy' even if only as an 'elder' is significantly lacking.
I find it interesting that he is doing this against the administration – regardless of the logic behind their request of him not to meet with Hamas – This is a game of chess – this is a dance – this is not however, a game. Now, like it or not, the only man for such a role – the only guy who proved time and again his innate ability and brilliance as a foreign policy envoy – consulted by almost all presidents on the left and right after he left office – the trusted and ingenius geo-politician – I have to say it my dear American friends – RICHARD NIXON – now there is a man who knew what the heck he was doing when it came to foreign policy!!

By: Nick from TX

Nick from TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:54:28 +0000

Thank you, Mr. President.

And shame on the Bush administration!!

By: Sarah

Sarah — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:50:40 +0000

Talking is the only way to solve problems. Thank god the decision isn't Bush's or we'd be getting in yet another war....

OBAMA 08.... YES WE CAN!

By: MD

MD — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:50:10 +0000

Oh please keep this senile man at bay. Carter is the second worst president of this country (second to Bush). I don't care that he helps build homes or whatever. It was Carter who changed the face of the Middle East by engineering the removal of the Shah of Iran in 1979. Now he is back there meddling again.

Meeting with Hamas leaders is wrong not because they are against us, but because they are against the welfare of their own people.

By: Allen in NC

Allen in NC — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:44:31 +0000

To Matt.... Please, That has to be one of the dumbest comments I've seen In a while.... Take both your republican canidates and vote for them.... The american people are sick of lies and MCbush .....

By: Ted in Chicago

Ted in Chicago — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:43:28 +0000

Carter is way off with this trip – and with his book that caused many at his OWN CARTER foundation to resign due to some of its disputed content