In the 21st century, when threats develop over a period of years, the challenge is to keep the world from yawning. Speaking at the Saban Forum over the weekend, Israel's Prime Minister and Defense Minister emphasized ongoing threats to peace from Iran and the Palestinian Authority.

Vis-a-vis Israel, Jimmy Carter's affable affectation is a thin velvet sheath cloaking a stiletto. The fabric is soft, but the blade beneath is rigid and sharp, all the more deadly for its deceptive attire.

Over the weekend, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyau uploaded a video to Facebook. His assertion of Palestinian intent for a Jew-free state was explicit. Perhaps it was his conclusion that provoked the US State Department to respond. "Ethnic cleansing for peace is absurd," Netanyahu said. 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: American position on settlement construction is unacceptable, "We are ready at all times to hold direct negotiations without preconditions with our neighbors," he says.