Israel-related stories abound in the Intermountain Jewish News and in the Jewish press in general. But there were two stories in particular that caught our eye this week – for their contrast. In Pennsylvania, a senatorial election has morphed into a “proxy war” between different pro-Israel camps, namely the more left J Street and the conservative Evangelical Christian movement. The man at the center is Rep. Joe Sestak, whose credentials on Israel are being called into question by the two sides. You can guess what’s being said: he’s not strong enough on Israel, or, he’s pro peace and security in the region for all parties. Of course these discussions are important, albeit predictable.
Meanwhile, in a local story, Gov. Bill Ritter, returning from his participation in an delgation to Israel, signed several economic agreements with Israel, including support for Israel’s Tomer natural gas field. In other words, a bilateral relationship between our state and the State of Israel has been established. And there’s no better time. Israel has a stable, fast-growing economy, with an extremely large amount of start-ups. It’s a highly innovative environment, so who wouldn’t want a piece?
We’re proud of our governor for doing smart business with Israel. It’s refreshing to read an article that offers a different perspective on US-Israel relations. Ritter is following the footsteps of Arnold Schwarnegger and Tim Pawlenty. Hopefully more governors will now follow Ritter’s.
