The Australian rounded up supporters of Israel and fired back at Bob Carr today, claiming that his accusations of excessive influence in national affairs — and particularly Julia Gillard’s prime ministerial offices — by pro-Israel lobbyists had “near uniform condemnation”.
Really?
By federal Labor backbencher and borderline zealot Michael Danby, certainly, who called Carr a “bigot” and managed to look an even bigger goose than the high-flying, pyjama-wearing former foreign minister.
And by the lobbyists themselves, of course, who unapologetically insisted to the Oz they’re just advocating for their cause.
As they’re entitled to do. But they do it forcibly. They harass MPs (and journalists) regularly. They’re well-funded, well-resourced and have a level of access to representatives some other lobbies only dream of.
The hysterical reaction from some to the simple acknowledgement of that only proves Carr’s point.
Sure they have a disproportionate influence.
And Carr didn’t slug we tax payers for the costs incurred promoting his book – like the Oz’s favourite PM?
Interesting read.
I am still bemused at the white establishment’s current strong support for Zionism since historically it has been anti Semitic indicated, for example, by its exclusion of Jews from the Melbourne Club and similar bodies. Perhaps the establishment is so desperate that willing for now to join causes with any support it can find.
Moderated, as expected. Still would like the followups whose box I forgot to tick.