Khalil Mahmoud

[missy]

David I wasn’t going to respond because you are closed minded. And clearly my posts disagreeing with the overwhelming majority here are not welcome.

But I am not a quitter and because very few others are speaking (many left due of the extreme atmosphere on PS) I will reply.


“
You clearly don’t understand how the American legal system works. Due process protections primarily apply to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, but they are not unlimited—especially when national security is involved. Mohsen Mahdawi is a Palestinian green card holder who was detained by ICE during his U.S. citizenship interview. Despite his legal residency, if credible evidence links him to terror support, the government has broad authority to detain or deport without affording him the full protections“

“He is accused of praising terrorists like Dalal Mughrabi, cozying up to Palestinian Islamic Jihad, dodging condemnation of Hamas’s October 7th butchery, and cheering “By Any Means Necessary” with Nerdeen Kiswani’s “wipe Israel off the map” crew—then it’s hard to see him as anything but a walking red flag. I hope the U.S. digs deep into the evidence and doesn’t let some liberal Vermont judge, steeped in Ben & Jerry’s-flavored Bernie Sanders idealism, sugarcoat his record with maple syrup sentimentality. After a fair hearing, if these allegations are proven true, Mahdawi deserves a one-way ticket out of the U.S.—no detours, no delays. “


“
In August, Mahdawi posted pictures to his Instagram account honoring the "martyrdom" of his "cousin," Maysara Masharqa, who served as a prominent field commander in the military wing of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade. Mahdawi praised Masharqa as a "fierce resistance fighter"

“
Months earlier, at a Jan. 24, 2024, campus protest, Mahdawi told a crowd of students that "there’s nothing, nothing more honorable than dying for a noble cause."

“Mohsen’s explicit support for terrorist activity is clear”




I could go on but I’m done for now
You can all continue crying about the poor terrorist supporters. I won’t shed a tear for those who support terrorists and agree with rape as resistance and the torture and murder of truly innocent people

**edited to remove inappropriate images, keep it family friendly**

 

[Matata]

And clearly my posts disagreeing with the overwhelming majority here are not welcome.

But I am not a quitter and because very few others are speaking (many left due of the extreme atmosphere on PS) I will reply.

Your posts aren't welcome here? Seriously? You're still posting aren't you? Debate isn't centered on agreement and debate is what is happening in these types of threads.

You've mentioned before that many left due to the extreme atmosphere on PS. I stayed away for awhile when politics was banned so I don't know what went on while I was gone. I haven't noticed anything since my return that I would define as an extreme atmosphere but I'm not here every day and I don't look at all the discussions I missed when I do check in. Since political discussions have been few and far between until recently, I don't understand what you mean by extreme atmosphere so please enlighten me because I'm puzzled. This place is milk & cookies benign compared to some I've participated in.

 

[missy]

Your posts aren't welcome here? Seriously? You're still posting aren't you? Debate isn't centered on agreement and debate is what is happening in these types of threads.

You've mentioned before that many left due to the extreme atmosphere on PS. I stayed away for awhile when politics was banned so I don't know what went on while I was gone. I haven't noticed anything since my return that I would define as an extreme atmosphere but I'm not here every day and I don't look at all the discussions I missed when I do check in. Since political discussions have been few and far between until recently, I don't understand what you mean by extreme atmosphere so please enlighten me because I'm puzzled. This place is milk & cookies benign compared to some I've participated in.

Those I’m in touch who no longer post feel the atmosphere on PS is hostile. I can’t go into details because Ella would be annoyed and I’ve already annoyed her too much unfortunately. And while compared to other sites I agree with you PS is mild. But PS is different. It is not a political site per se.

I’m still posting because I feel obligated to share a different perspective since I’m in the minority here regarding current events. I never wanted this role but I feel I have no choice

 

[Matata]

I’m still posting because I feel obligated to share a different perspective since I’m in the minority here regarding current events. I never wanted this role but I feel I have no choice

I appreciate your input, always and about anything, regardless of whether we agree. I believe that differing opinions are a factor in educating about issues even when the disagreement is strong and even when we feel that talking to the other side is like talking to a brick wall. Sometimes when a position is challenged it gets into one's brain and starts to subconsciously change the thinking process.

 

[missy]

I appreciate your input, always and about anything, regardless of whether we agree. I believe that differing opinions are a factor in educating about issues even when the disagreement is strong and even when we feel that talking to the other side is like talking to a brick wall. Sometimes when a position is challenged it gets into one's brain and starts to subconsciously change the thinking process.

Thank you.
And I feel the same about you
Even when we don’t agree I respect your opinion and appreciate your perspective

 

[Rockdiamond]

Same here @missy
Respect.
There’s no doubt many people share your perspective.
Thank you for sharing.
The only reason for me to get involved at all is the fact that this community really has a strong bond.
From my perspective, the die is cast.
The things I’ve written right here in this thread might get me in trouble with the government.
I read an interesting perspective about protest.
And I can’t remember who to attribute it to.
Basically when asked why he protested when it was unlikely to change society…. He replied that he had no illusions about changing society. He protested to preserve his own self. So he would not change.
The indifference- excuses why what’s going on is somehow ok…. Terrifying to many of us.
Peace

 

[Sunrises Sunsets]

I appreciate your input, always and about anything, regardless of whether we agree. I believe that differing opinions are a factor in educating about issues even when the disagreement is strong and even when we feel that talking to the other side is like talking to a brick wall. Sometimes when a position is challenged it gets into one's brain and starts to subconsciously change the thinking process.

I thank you for this post, I fully believed this when pointing out what we feel is important in the discussion. But when having fear mongering such as "white supremacy" is taking hold here and the KKK is to be feared in the USA more than the rising of anti-Semitism, anti-American foreigners, who don't deserve our respect, I have a very bad taste in my mouth.

Missy stated it earlier, these are not citizens that are protected by our laws. These are insurgents and more and more are here to do their dirty work, IMHO. Trying to protect and care for Jewish citizens is NOT white supremacy and the inference is disgusting. That does not elevate understanding and tolerance in any manner.

 

[missy]

I thank you for this post, I fully believed this when pointing out what we feel is important in the discussion. But when having fear mongering such as "white supremacy" is taking hold here and the KKK is to be feared in the USA more than the rising of anti-Semitism, anti-American foreigners, who don't deserve our respect, I have a very bad taste in my mouth.

Missy stated it earlier, these are not citizens that are protected by our laws. These are insurgents and more and more are here to do their dirty work, IMHO. Trying to protect and care for Jewish citizens is NOT white supremacy and the inference is disgusting. That does not elevate understanding and tolerance in any manner.

Thank you Sunrise. And I agree completely.
And the arson and murder attempt on Shapiro and his family was indeed an anti semitic act.
This is what happens when hate is allowed to go unchecked.

 

[missy]

Basically when asked why he protested when it was unlikely to change society…. He replied that he had no illusions about changing society. He protested to preserve his own self. So he would not change.

Agreed.
I do not think I'm going to change anyone's mind posting here or elsewhere.
I post to keep taking up space in the collective conversation and encourage others to do the same.

When we stop taking up that space, I don't even want to think about what happens.

We all deserve to have our voices heard

I speak because I cannot remain silent when I see the gross injustices happening.
Israel is held to a different standard. You know why and it shall remain unmentioned as we are not allowed to mention it here.
Which is sad because clearly it is an epidemic. The hate against a people who are such a TINY percent of the population

We are allowed to advocate for our people
There is definitely a double standard
Holding Israel to a different standard than other countries
The only country not allowed to defend herself against war started by others
Who could end this war right now
By releasing the hostages and surrendering

Coachella is happening right now. A huge Music Festival. Imagine if terrorists came in and raped, tortured, murdered and took people hostage at Coachella. Also imagine they went into neighborhoods and raped, tortured, murdered and took hostages including children. Then America decided to go to war to protect the American People. This is to all the people that just don't get it and are Anti Israel or silent

The only thing that makes Israel different is that there have been attempts to annihilate her and her people for a very long time and the Jewish People themselves are treated as an aberrant exception by the World itself, and are still fighting for legitimacy.

The hate against a people who have contributed so much good to the world
Look at the percentage of Jews who are Nobel prize winners for example
22% of Nobel prize winners have been Jewish
Despite them comprising less than 0.2% of the world's population
Jews have been instrumental in advancements in medicine and technology
Jews have made significant contributions across various fields, including science, culture, and politics, throughout history

And please DO NOT mistake perseverance for privilege


Supporting those who call for the death of others makes you as bad as them
Hamas and hamas supporters have contributed/are contributing to the demise of humanity
It can be seen with all the worldwide protests of those supporting terrorists and their supporters
and the collective silence of too many
That's right
Remaining silent makes you as guilty as the terrorists and their supporters


"You" (general you not specific you) sure are speaking loudly to protect those in this country as "guests" who are calling for the destruction of western values. Who are calling for the destruction of Israel and death to America.

But your silence for the hostages is deafening
Some who are/were American citizens
Absolutely deafening

Keep this in mind
Westerners have NO idea what it is like to live under the leadership of terrorists
Because if they did and spoke out like they are doing here they would be dead
That's right
Dead

 

[Rockdiamond]

Keep this in mind
Westerners have NO idea what it is like to live under the leadership of terrorists

Based on the policies already being put in place, the ones being threatened…. and the obvious lack of respect for our courts……
Many of us will argue we have every idea what it looks like. Right now.

Yesterday-in an attempt to defend disrespecting a court order, the press secretary brought out a lady whose child was murdered by an undocumented immigrant. Just terrible
But, very much like @missy post above- that was using distraction.
The numbers don’t lie. Immigrants- both documented and undocumented- commit crimes at far lower rates that US citizens.
It’s not about lowering crime rates. Not at all. It’s about power and intimidation

Antisemitism exists.
Israel is under threat.
Hamas is horrible beyond words.

And NONE of that justifies actions and policies being put in place.
I say again- if you believe the people writing these policies are concerned about antisemitism there’s a nice bridge for sale in Brooklyn

 

[Matata]

The Constitution guarantees free speech with a few exceptions even heinous speech by heinous groups with heinous or no morals or ethics. Free speech and even freedom of thought is under attack by the current administration. What's happening with Harvard and other institutions of higher learning is evidence of the assault on the Constitution.

Two things can be simultaneously true: Jewish students appear to be protected by the government's approach to quelling anti-semitism on campuses and freedom of speech is being threatened. The goal of ending anti-semitism is a ruse used by the president to achieve complete power that may also have a quelling effect on anti-semitism -- two things that are simultaneously true.

We are in the throes of a Constitutional crisis due to the quest of the president to achieve total power over the country. The goal of ending anti-semitism or any other kind of hate that persists here needs to be shaped and implemented within the constrains of the Constitution. If the Constitution is deemed an impediment to keeping the country strong, there is a method for amending it.

Due process is being ignored;
Free speech is under assault;
Members of our government are being charged with contempt of court;
The health care system is being being dismantled;
Worker's protections and rights are being dismantled;
People are dragged off the streets, out of homes and schools and places of business and incarcerated or deported with no evidence of guilt provided by masked and armed men with no ID on their clothing.
All of these things are a symptom of a country decaying into authoritarianism and worse.
There are times when evil disguises itself as good.

 

[Rockdiamond]

Below is an account my friend posted on FB.
The bolder part is what many of us are seeing.


As an attorney I’m deeply alarmed by an incident that occurred just this week and feel compelled to share it—to raise awareness of the legal and constitutional crossroads we are rapidly approaching.

A co-worker of mine (who is a judge), traveled by train from Montana to North Dakota for work this week. The train made a stop in Havre, MT, where ICE agents—armed and dressed in full military-style tactical gear—boarded the train. They walked the full length of the train and questioned every single passenger about their citizenship status. According to the conductor, who has worked nearly 40 years on that route, this was a first. In all his decades of service, federal agents have never boarded his train like this.

This is not a hypothetical. This is not a scene from a dystopian film. This happened this week to my colleague, on U.S. soil, to U.S. citizens, legal residents, and foreign tourists here on holiday, without a warrant, without probable cause—based solely on geography.

Under current law ICE has expanded authority to operate within 100 miles of any border. But HOW that authority is being interpreted and exercised has chilling implications for civil liberties, freedom of movement, and equal protection under the law.

This isn’t about politics—it’s about the erosion of rights we’ve taken for granted, and the slow normalization of military-style policing tactics in everyday spaces. Even if technically permissible, these actions reflect a disturbing shift in the balance between civil liberties and governmental authority. The normalization of militarized immigration enforcement in public spaces, without individualized suspicion, risks setting dangerous precedents that erode the freedoms we are sworn to uphold.

This is not about ideology—it is about the integrity of our legal system. I am compelled to speak up because there is no justification for circumventing the very rights and principles that define our democracy.

The question is not whether you “have something to hide.” The question is how much unchecked authority we’re willing to allow before we can no longer call this a free society.

 

[Rockdiamond]

I certainly can’t answer for Missy…. But I have experienced a current of opinion that one side of the aisle is somehow “Anti Israel”- and it’s been there for years.
It certainly seems like a means to divide us. Many democrats are Jewish. Both politicians and regular citizens.
But there’s a sharp divide as to what’s best for Israel’s best interests.
I do feel that many of the actions being taken right now remind me of the actions of Germany in the 1930’s. Boarding a train and asking for peoples “papers”
It’s clear many people share Missy’s attitudes about people who criticize Israel.
We differ sharply on the motives of those who castigate those of us who do not feel the policies of the current government of Israel are in the best interests of her.
I criticize the policies of current Israel because I love her.

But again- this thread is about US policy. I strongly disagree that these draconian policies are designed to protect Jews. Just the opposite

 

[Rebel Rebel]

David, thanks for weighing in on my question.

I can't really address much of my personal things, but I do pay close attention to what's happening. It was a large part of my career.

That said, I accept that I miss stuff, so clarity is good if allowed.

 

[Ella]

Folks, a reminder that we do not allow generalizations or vilanizing political parties. Posts have been removed that violated this policy. Please consider this your one and only warning.

 

[Rebel Rebel]

Ella, I apologize. I shouldn't have gotten into this discussion.

 

[Sunrises Sunsets]

Below is an account my friend posted on FB.
The bolder part is what many of us are seeing.


As an attorney I’m deeply alarmed by an incident that occurred just this week and feel compelled to share it—to raise awareness of the legal and constitutional crossroads we are rapidly approaching.

A co-worker of mine (who is a judge), traveled by train from Montana to North Dakota for work this week. The train made a stop in Havre, MT, where ICE agents—armed and dressed in full military-style tactical gear—boarded the train. They walked the full length of the train and questioned every single passenger about their citizenship status. According to the conductor, who has worked nearly 40 years on that route, this was a first. In all his decades of service, federal agents have never boarded his train like this.

This is not a hypothetical. This is not a scene from a dystopian film. This happened this week to my colleague, on U.S. soil, to U.S. citizens, legal residents, and foreign tourists here on holiday, without a warrant, without probable cause—based solely on geography.

Under current law ICE has expanded authority to operate within 100 miles of any border. But HOW that authority is being interpreted and exercised has chilling implications for civil liberties, freedom of movement, and equal protection under the law.

This isn’t about politics—it’s about the erosion of rights we’ve taken for granted, and the slow normalization of military-style policing tactics in everyday spaces. Even if technically permissible, these actions reflect a disturbing shift in the balance between civil liberties and governmental authority. The normalization of militarized immigration enforcement in public spaces, without individualized suspicion, risks setting dangerous precedents that erode the freedoms we are sworn to uphold.

This is not about ideology—it is about the integrity of our legal system. I am compelled to speak up because there is no justification for circumventing the very rights and principles that define our democracy.

The question is not whether you “have something to hide.” The question is how much unchecked authority we’re willing to allow before we can no longer call this a free society.

That's nothing... for years they have been stopping traffic entering and exiting the USA border and Tijuana searching for drugs, criminals, etc. You won't believe this but they wear uniforms, have weapons, do total body, vehicle, parcel, suitcase, box trucks and semi's container searches, depending on the situation.

Searching trains within 100 miles of the border to check for those entering illegally or smuggling drugs looks tame in comparison. It's naïve to belief there is no reason to be concerned about drugs entering our northern borders. The cartels are losing money.

 

[missy]

@Ella I too apologize. My intentions are not to break the rules here and when I unintentionally do I want you to know I am sorry.
In the context of answering David's question I hope it is OK to use the word anti semitic. To be clear I am NOT calling anyone here anti semitic

It’s clear many people share Missy’s attitudes about people who criticize Israel.

What is my attitude about people who criticize Israel David?

Being "anti-genocide" does not make one antisemitic.
Criticizing the Israeli government does not make one anti semitic

Calling for any of the following things

DOES make one antisemitic

• Calling for the destruction or elimination of the Jewish state
• Calling for another intifada (global or otherwise)
• Justifying or denying Oct 7th (or any terrorism which targets Jews for being Jewish)
• Denying the Holocaust
• Supporting Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Houthis or any other radical Islamist groups who've expressed their goal is to eradicate the Jews

Hope this helps clear up my point of view

Free speech is under assault;

No it isn't. The terrorist supporters are hiding behind the first amendment. Calling for violence and calling "from the river to the sea" and calling to "globalize the infitada" is NOT protected free speech. Not free speech at all when one calls for violence death and destruction

There are times when evil disguises itself as good.

Absolutely and you can probably guess what I think of those calling for the destruction of Israel and the USA and the destruction of our values and way of life



Sorry I am out of time right now.
I didn't get to read everyone's posts in full but just had a moment and read some things and wanted to respond.
Maybe (if I have not been banned) I will be back tomorrow to respond more completely

 

[Rockdiamond]

That's nothing... for years they have been stopping traffic entering and exiting the USA border

Of course!
You know you’re going to have to be subject to search and identify verification when you enter the USA. It’s always been that way as long as I have been aware.
The incident described in my post is totally different- I’m sure you can see that.
@missy people have thoughts. Bad ones. There are many racist people living among us. And in every country.
It’s a facet of human nature.
Antisemitism will never be eradicated. Nor will the hate for people of color. Never going to happen.
Deport as many as you want, there’s going to be people calling for the destruction of the state of Israel.
The way to combat this sort of evil isn’t silencing the people saying it.
Good and righteous voices need to be louder. That’s truly our only hope.
The effort to silence dissent- it’s exactly what the First Amendment is designed to prevent.
Freedom of speech includes horrible racists. They’ve free to call us Jews the worst names in the book. The “N” word is surely thrown around.
It’s is not against the law to use those words.
Also not against the law to endorse views you feel are heinous- antisemitic- calling for the destruction of Israel. As much as you and I hate it, these are protected by the first amendment.
This guy- the subject of this thread… how is he a threat to the security of the USA???
One guy.
Even if there’s hundreds or thousands more. Deporting them is not the way to combat the hate.
He’s become a martyr. This will spur more, not less antisemitism.
But it seems so clear to many of us that the policy is designed to stifle the free speech rights of others.
There are other terrifying policies attacking our freedom of speech.
Lawsuits against TV networks. Policies targeting law firms.
The Jihadists are no threat to our way of life here in America. The danger comes from within.
Open your eyes.

 

[missy]

The Jihadists are no threat to our way of life here in America. The danger comes from within.
Open your eyes.

Jihadist attacks in the USA
Not a complete list


1992 jihadist terror attack Franklin Lakes NJ

January 1993 jihadist terror attack Langley VA CIA headquarters

February 1993 truck bombing WTC

February 1997 NYC Palestinian gunmen fired at tourists in the Empire State Building

October 1999 Massachusetts intentional plane crash by Islamic copilot

September 2001 WTC three locations simultaneously over 3000 killed


JULY 2002 Los Angeles Egyptian gunmen shot and killed two Israelis injured 4 at LAX

MARCH 2006 chapel hill NC car attack on pedestrians by Islamic terrorists

July 2006 Seattle Washington Islamic gunmen at Jewish federation

June 2009 Little Rock Arkansas army private killed by Islamic terrorists

November 2009 Fort Hood Texas shooting at army base 13 dead 44 wounded

April 2013 Boston marathon bombing 5 dead 266 injured


June 2014 East Orange NJ shooting attack


September 2014 Oklahoma City knife attack


October 2014 NYC Axe attack on police officers


May 2015 Garland Texas shooting attack at art exhibit


July 2015 Chattanooga Tennessee gunmen killed 4 marines


November 2015 Merced California 2 students stabbed


December 2015 San Bernardino California 16 dead

February 2016 Columbus Ohio 4 people killed machete attack

June 2016 Orlando Florida shooting at night club 50 dead 53 injured


August 2016 Roanoke Virginia stabbing attack

September 2016 St. Cloud Minnesota stabbing attack at shopping mall


September 2016 NYC Bombs around Manhattan 29 injured


November 2016 Columbus Ohio car attack on students at Ohio State


January 2017 Fort Lauderdale Florida shooting at airport


January 2017 Denver Colorado shooting


March 2017 NYC stabbing


October 2017 NYC Vehicle attack 8 dead


December 2017 Harrisburg PA shooting attack on police officers


March 2018 palm beach Florida fatal stabbing attack

December 2019 Pensacola Florida shooting

April 2021 Washington DC automobile attack


August 2021 Plano Texas fatal shootings

October 2024 Chicago shooting

January 2025 New Orleans vehicle and shooting attack on bourbon Street 15 dead 57 injured


It’s not one or the other
Let’s address all crime

Open your eyes David


Also to answer your other question
One of the dangers is how they radicalize Americans

“
Writing for National Public Radio, Belgian-born American journalist Dina Temple-Raston argues that the "single biggest change in terrorism over the past several years has been the wave of Americans joining the fight – not just as foot soldiers but also as key members of Islamist groups and as operatives inside terrorist organizations, including al-Qaeda

There is a lack of understanding of how American radical jihadists are propagated. Islamist organizations seek Americans to radicalize and recruit because of a familiarity with the United States and the West.

According to Napolitano, the evolving extremist threat makes it "more difficult for law enforcement or the intelligence community to detect and disrupt plots

“

 

[Matata]

No it isn't. The terrorist supporters are hiding behind the first amendment. Calling for violence and calling "from the river to the sea" and calling to "globalize the infitada" is NOT protected free speech. Not free speech at all when one calls for violence death and destruction

I was speaking about free speech outside of the topic of Mahmoud/Israel such as journalists being censored, schools being told what they can and cannot teach, and today the biggest one of all -- the senator from Alaska saying she and all of her colleagues are afraid to speak out against policies due to fear of retaliation by the president. Think about that -- our elected leaders who "...do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God." are afraid to do so.

 

[Matata]

Some of us said it was only a matter of time before American citizens were detailed by ICE:

A U.S.-born American citizen was being detained at the request of immigration authorities Thursday despite an advocate showing his U.S. birth certificate in court and a county judge finding no reason for him to be considered an “illegal alien” who illegally entered Florida.

Juan Carlos Gomez-Lopez, 20, was arrested Thursday evening by Florida Highway Patrol and charged under a state immigration law that has been temporarily blocked since early this month. Details of Gomez-Lopez’s arrest and detention were first reported by the Florida Phoenix news site.

After inspecting his birth certificate, Leon County Judge LaShawn Riggans said during the hearing that “this is indeed an authentic document,” but that she did not have jurisdiction beyond finding no probable cause for the charge.

U.S.-born American citizen under ICE hold in Florida after driving from Georgia

Juan Carlos Gomez-Lopez is being held even though a county judge found his birth certificate “authentic” and said there wasn’t reason to consider him an “illegal alien.”

www.nbcnews.com

 

[Rockdiamond]

Sadly, we can find multiples of the terrible crimes Missy documented being committed for different reasons by white American males. From Timothy McCvey(sp?) to Columbine, to Sandy Hook to countless others. Tree of Life synagogue massacre- white suprematist.
Too many crazy people with guns- don’t get me started

“From the river to the sea “
As offensive it is to most of us…. It’s not illegal to say - or think it.
This whole “America First “ movement…. Clearly they could care less about any other country. Including Israel.
The heritage foundation calls for defunding Israel.

But yet again- this thread is not about Israel. It’s about America.
I can’t believe how people don’t see the danger.
Criticizing our own government…. Is that protected speech???
Apparently not any more.
Every day brings new assaults on our way of life. Not from Islamic terrorists

 

[Sunrises Sunsets]

Sadly, we can find multiples of the terrible crimes Missy documented being committed for different reasons by white American males. From Timothy McCvey(sp?) to Columbine, to Sandy Hook to countless others. Tree of Life synagogue massacre- white suprematist.
Too many crazy people with guns- don’t get me started

“From the river to the sea “
As offensive it is to most of us…. It’s not illegal to say - or think it.
This whole “America First “ movement…. Clearly they could care less about any other country. Including Israel.
The heritage foundation calls for defunding Israel.

But yet again- this thread is not about Israel. It’s about America.
I can’t believe how people don’t see the danger.
Criticizing our own government…. Is that protected speech???
Apparently not any more.
Every day brings new assaults on our way of life. Not from Islamic terrorists

Millions of people in this country and a few have gotten caught in the net for the criminals that are perhaps innocent are where all the attention is being showered.

I've listened to this crazy diatribe long enough and I'll let you win this one. Let the insurgents take their course against the targeted group they are after. I, for one, will no longer take any steps to open the door for people to see the light of the drastic intentions of the insurgents. I must accept, according to your discourse, Israel has evil intentions and the Hamas are the tortured. You have taught me and so many reading this that your faith group does not need protection and let the insurgents remain for years hiding in the court systems of this country and in the interim see how much hate they can drum up against a group of people who have suffered so much already.

I'm sorry, Missy. I will keep you in my prayers.

 

[ItsMainelyYou]

Surprising to no one.
American born immigration lawyer.

Tucson lawyer receives letter from DHS, telling her to leave the United States

In Tucson, an immigration attorney received a letter from the Department of Homeland Security, telling her she must leave the United States. She was born in Boston.

www.abc15.com

 

[Rockdiamond]

@Sunrises Sunsets
I know we are on different wavelengths. This is a unique opportunity to exchange ideas with people we might never speak to in person. No one mingles anymore. I appreciate your honesty.
All due respect- your characterizations of my positions are not accurate.
Especially in the case of The State of Israel. I guarantee you no one hates Hamas more than me.
But this thread is about policies of this country.
It’s possible to love and support a country while disagreeing with a government that implements policies that many citizens disagree with
yet are forced to endure.
Policies which seem counter-productive deserve criticism.
When extreme policies are implemented, extreme criticism is warranted.
In terms of disruptive policies , many of the recent deportations- and prolonged imprisonments of people here legally are way past anything I’ve experienced in my life.
I live in NYC. Spend time in the subway. Uptown, downtown. Immigrants galore. Everywhere you turn. Doesn’t scare me a bit. I love it.
Been to Israel over 20 times. From the furthest Northern Galilee border with Lebanon to the Sinai Desert back before Israel gave it back to Egypt .
Endured and survived a week of Hamas rocket attacks on Tel Aviv.
The policies and actions being implemented right now terrifies more far more than the rockets. And they scared the $hit out of me.

 

[missy]

I'm sorry, Missy. I will keep you in my prayers.

Dear Sunrise, there is absolutely NO need to apologize. You have been a good soul posting here trying to get through to some very closed minded individuals. Facts don't dissuade them from their position because it doesn't fit their narrative. I forget the quote...
"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity" MLK Jr Unfortunately this is the mindset of many. Ignore facts because facts are not convenient.

I enjoy reading your intelligent and extremely coherent posts. As well as your company and I hope you will hang around PS and visit the NIRDI thread. Your presence there is always welcome. Thank you for all your compassion and wise words and most of all your support. All of us who understand what is going on thank you for your support.

I was speaking about free speech outside of the topic of Mahmoud/Israel such as journalists being censored, schools being told what they can and cannot teach, and today the biggest one of all -- the senator from Alaska saying she and all of her colleagues are afraid to speak out against policies due to fear of retaliation by the president. Think about that -- our elected leaders who "...do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God." are afraid to do so.

That is, of course, unacceptable. Though from my understanding politics often works that way. As I always say, politics is dirty dirty dirty business and this administration is no exception. Are they dirtier than other administrations? I don't think so. Just different. But time will tell. And none of us can predict the future. We can worry and that is something I do well but I am not in a doom and gloom mood yet. One day at a time. One hour at a time.

characterizations of my positions are not accurate.

And same here David. Same here. I am a rational independent thinker and I cannot be brainwashed. Those who swallow social media and the news hook, line and sinker are all brainwashed. One must be very wary of what they believe. I promise you we have more to worry about with this current situation than you imagine. And I repeat. I never said ignore other crime. All crime needs to be prosecuted and justice needs to be served. Any terrorism home grown or otherwise is dangerous and must be prevented and prosecuted to th fullest. But jihadism is a huge threat and downplay the statistics of all that has occurred on US soil from jihadists if you need to but it doesn't change anything.

 

[missy]

There are times when evil disguises itself as good.

100% agree
I am going to share my thoughts on this topic even if it doesn't strictly apply to what you meant

As both Thomas Aquinas and C.S. Lewis taught, for evil to succeed it must disguise itself as good.
Apparently this is much easier to do than we imagine.

Let's look at the current situation with the war in Gaza
Who do you think is evil here?
The terrorist organizations who started the war?
Who murdered, tortured, raped and be headed innocent civilians including babies and then kidnapped some of those who survived?
Who murdered over 60 dogs that day? What did they do?
And may I add they did ALL this with GLEE
For anyone who questions this there are videos that document all of this.
ALL of it

That alone tells me all I need to know about ANYONE who supports them.
Not only are they truly evil (yes I believe in true evil) they are without any redeeming qualities. NONE
Or do you think the evil comes from the country just trying to defend itself against people who want to annihilate them?
Do they not deserve to protect themselves?
Again why would they be held to a different standard than ANY other country being attacked mercilessly?

Are there many types of evil that exist in this world? Hell yes
Should we ignore some for others? Hell no
Do I condone any evil ever? Hell no
Might we have different definitions of what constitutes evil? Maybe

"We must first convict evil in its glorified organizational form. When we idolize and refuse to hold such collective realities accountable, they usually become demonic in some way. We normally cannot see it until it is too late"

Now depending on where you stand you can interpret that in different ways. Some will think that applies to the current administration and some will think it applies to those supporting the death of Israel and our western values. Could it apply to both? Maybe. Does that mean we ignore the latter for the former? Not in my mind. No.

 

[missy]

Good and righteous voices need to be louder. That’s truly our only hope

Then all hope is dead.
Because look at ALL who have remained silent
Who continue to remain silent
If anyone wondered what they would have done during the Holocaust wonder no more
For all those remaining silent you would have let your neighbors go to the gas chambers
Sad but true
What October 7th taught me is that our world has been turned upside down. The murder, rape and mutilation that took place on that day triggered an eruption of evil that had been simmering away for decades. Just under the surface but always ready to explode
The only jewish state in the world, Israel, has been fighting for its survival, and somehow antisemitism is on the rise. Perhaps antisemitism is the worst it it has ever been since WWII.

Also October 7th proved that a two state solution can never be
The radicalization of its people proved there will never be a two state solution

It has also taught us that the Tehran government is the main sponsor and supporter of terror and violence in the world
They make ZERO secret of the fact they want to destroy the West including the United States of America
This is why we should ALL care
And all violent measures will be used to achieve its goals.
What makes them particularly dangerous is the fact they are willing to die for their goals

Israel is fighting an existential war on all fronts and they are fighting for their (and ultimately our) very survival

Look at all the "good and righteous" people who have spoken up
Oh wait, where are they?
If everyone had spoken up this war would not have gone on for as long
If everyone had demanded them to release the hostages and surrender it would be over
At least for now
Instead it drags on and on and on and on
And teaches other radical groups they can do the same
Because there are no real consequences
Do you really think they care about their own people?

And more are remaining silent about it than not
The loudest voices are not the right voices
Sad but true
And just because someone is louder does not mean they are right

In my mind the atrocities committed by Hamas were indeed evil and unimaginable but
the horrific events that happened afterwards are much much much worse. IMO

And this applies to you @Rockdiamond with all due respect
A campaign of hate and propaganda so successful it has even captured members of the group it’s aimed against.
That's right. You are helping them do the work they started. The campaign against Israel and the Jews
Seeing how the world reacted to the October 7th massacre has forever changed my view on humans and the world

The omissions and the lies the media reported and still reports
People believing all the lies
So eager to think the worst of Israel and the Jews
Rabid in their response even
And if you don't believe there is an agenda from our enemies and a biased point of view from all who agree with our enemies
I have a bridge in Brooklyn I'd like to sell you

Where was the international outrage against these race hate crimes? Instead Israeli civilians (and even non-Israeli Jews) are being conflated with the actions of the Israeli government. Which in case you were unaware is the very definition of dehumanisation.

I have so much more to say but will stop here and I hope I broke no rules. I wish as adults we could have a 24 hour thread (that disappears after the 24 hours) where we can talk freely. I am doing the best I can to follow the rules and also to educate those who want to learn. Israel and the Jews are NOT the villain here. NOT even close. And we should all PRAY that good prevails and Israel wins this war because our very survival depends on it. Maybe not in our generation but future generations. 100%

 

[missy]

Based on the policies already being put in place, the ones being threatened…. and the obvious lack of respect for our courts……
Many of us will argue we have every idea what it looks like. Right now.

Lol thanks for the laugh David. You think we are living under a terrorist regime now? Then you have absolutely NO IDEA what that would look like. Not a clue. Read my post above. Post #399. We’d all be DEAD daring to speak out against them. Dead. No second chances. And likely tortured and mutilated and worse. See what they do to their own people who dare to speak against them